RV Camping Mag. | Oct. 2022

COOLEST

By Michael Scarpignato

IN EVERY CATEGORY FOR 2023

The new model year RVs are out, and the innovations are fantastic! So we’re flipping the script and devoting this month’s issue to the 2023 model year!

Our feature article explores the Coolest Floor Plans in Every RV Category. We found current and new RV layouts that go against the grain but offer the combination of amenities you want.

It’s the Fall Festival and Halloween season, and we found 5 RV Park Festivals to Visit This Year. They’re incredible examples of what you can experience before packing up the RV for winter.

The 4x4 Super C is trending this year in the Drivable Motorhome category. But you’ll be amazed at Fleetwood and Newmar’s designs.

Overlanders, boondockers, and smaller towable trailers are still popular, but have you ever seen a toy hauler that can hold a Jeep Wrangler? See it in our Towable Trailers Department.

WEBSITE CHANNEL

One truck camper company reignited a legacy model because a single customer wanted a modern version of his original unit. Airstream now has a pop-top ProMaster Touring Coach. Learn about them in our Van & Truck Campers Department.

Need to unplug and get outdoors. Gain some inspiration by sea, trail, motor, and air in our RV Gear Department. Just don’t tell your mother what you’re doing!

The NRVTA stops by our Nuts & Bolts Department, giving us 5 Tips for Choosing an RV.

The RV Boom may be slowing down, but RVshare’s September survey shows that owners continue to benefit from the strong RV rental market. See what they’ve found in our News and Noteworthy Department.

The world admired Queen Elizabeth II, but did you know she was an outdoors enthusiast? As an outdoorswoman, we give you another reason why people treasured Her Royal Majesty.

We hope you enjoy this Special Edition of RV Camping Magazine, and thank you for subscribing.

Mike and Susan AT RVBLOGGER

OCTOBER 2022 VOL.2, ISSUE 10

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF Mike Scarpignato

BRAND MANAGER Susan Scarpignato

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brian Newman

DESIGN

SR. ART DIRECTOR Kelly Y. Lee

CONTRIBUTORS NRVTA

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING SALES Mike Scarpignato mike@rvblogger.com 443-699-6556

EDITORIAL mike@rvblogger.com

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SHIFT, CONTROL & ESCAPE TO RV LIFE

5 TIPS FOR CHOOSING AN RV

BY THE NRVTA

There are 5 things you need to consider before purchasing your first RV. Before you start your search, you need to know that the jig is up; there’s no such thing as the perfect RV. That being said, here are a few important considerations to decide before purchasing.

1. TOWABLE VS. MOTORIZED

Most people first try to determine whether they want a travel trailer or motorhome. Instead, ask yourself where you see yourself camping the most:

• Up in the Mountains?

• Down by the beach?

• Out in the desert?

• Among the forests?

• Visiting the most popular tourist destinations?

If you have a 40,000-pound diesel Class A motorhome, you can power up the mountains, but how will it perform on the loose sand at the beach?

National Parks are expanding their campsite lengths, but size still matters. The public parks are ideal

Let FMCA Help You Get Back To You

There’s a lot to learn – and love – about RV life, and the best resource for information, discounts, on-the-go assistance and more is the FMCA RV Club. FMCA is your ally to navigating the RV world with confidence. Here are a few of the great benefits that come with being a member of FMCA.

FMCAssist Medical Emergency & Travel Assistance Program All members receive emergency medical evacuation coverage included with the membership. (over a $200 value).

Roadside Rescue®

FMCA members can purchase roadside assistance at FMCA’s discounted group rate.

FMCA’s Tire Savings Program Save hundreds of dollars on name-brand RV, light truck, and passenger tires.

for mid-length travel trailers, camper vans, and shorter motorhomes.

2. TO PLUG OR UNPLUG; THAT IS THE QUESTION

Next, how do you see yourself living the RV lifestyle? Do you prefer an RV park with full utility hookups, or do you want to go completely dry?

Larger RVs have to ask about campsite dimensions and hookups when making a reservation to ensure the sites available can accommodate the RV and tow vehicle.

Dry camping, known as boondocking, is when you’re relying on everything within your RV. In today’s world, you can add components to boondock longer, but usually, smaller RVs have an easier time camping dry.

3. CHOOSE THE BEST FLOOR PLAN

At this point, first-timers are most concerned with “what’s the best brand.” Most of the time, the

brand doesn’t matter. Each brand has the same components from the same vendors: Dometic, Suburban, Lippert, and the list goes on.

The most important thing is the functionality of the floorplan for you and your family. If you don’t like the RV, you will not likely be RVing very long.

4. CHOOSING YOUR RV LIFESTYLE

Now you need to decide

“The public parks are ideal for mid-length travel trailers, camper vans, and shorter motorhomes.”

what kind of RVer you will be. Is this just for vacation purposes, or will you be selling your bricks-andsticks residential house and making this RV your new home? Will you choose something in-between?

Certain RVs are designed for long-term living, while others focus on short-term vacations.

5. NARROWING THE CATEGORIES

The last consideration is finding the right RV category and its effects. If you decide to go with the

“Certain RVs are designed for longterm living, while others focus on short-term vacations.”

theto

towable side of RVing, do you have the proper tow vehicle to pull it?

On the motorized side, you must tow a passenger car if you want to stay hooked up, but everyone has plenty of room to relax while traveling.

THE NEXT STEP

If you can answer these 5 questions, you’ll be able to narrow down your options significantly. New motorhomes can be more expensive than towables, but there are many quality used ones with plenty of life.

The National RV Training Academy

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!

4

ADVENTURE TOYS TO GET OUTSIDE & UNPLUGGED

BY RVCM STAFF

There are many ways you can live the RV lifestyle.

If you’re looking to add some adrenalinepumping excitement or enhance your calm, adventure toys can make you fall in love with the outdoors all over again. Here are some exciting adventure toys to get outside and unplug.

1. BY SEA: OCEAN KAYAK CAPER

If you’re looking for a multipurpose kayak that can take some bumps and bruises, add the Ocean Kayak Caper to your shortlist. This 11-foot personal watercraft is made from polyethylene and includes a skid plate.

The 51-pound (that’s the dry weight in RV-ese) kayak has a Total Weight Capacity (GVWR) of 325 pounds. According to the manufacturer, that means you have a Usable Weight Capacity (CCC) of 274 pounds for you, your gear, a dog, and a lead-acid battery if needed.

What’s great about the Caper is the additional real-world features Ocean Kayak includes. They adjusted their molds, so

2. BY TRAIL:

BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL BACK TREKKING POLES

Black Diamond is a leading brand in the hiking, climbing, and biking communities. If you’re looking for quality hiking poles that fit well into your backpack and are friendly to your wallet, look at the Trail Back Trekking Poles.

Hiking poles are useful for even the healthiest hiker. Even if it’s a flat trail, they help keep your back aligned and involve your upper body in the exercise.

The EVA foam rubber grips are ergonomic for your hands to maintain control. The adjustable locks and basket interchangeability are versatile for hiking up dirt, rock, snow, or ice. The aluminum shafts are strong yet light to avoid arm fatigue.

Some reviews favor carbon fiber and cork grips for better weight and absorption of sweat. However, if you’re just starting into trails that score above 75, the Trail Back Trekking Poles are the right balance of cost, features, and quality.

there are cup holders, two fishing pole mounts, waterproof storage in the bow, and a screw-in drain plug. The designers even included a paddle holder on the right side with an easy-to-release pull tab.

You can order the Ocean Kayak in Lemongrass Camo on Amazon for a great deal!

3. BY MOTOR:

HONDA PIONEER

1000-5 SXS UTV

Do you have that camping spot that’s only reachable by a UTV?

Honda’s Pioneer 1000-5 side-by-side (SXS) UTVs are a great choice to get you away from the things of humankind. Use the rear cargo section for gear, or flip it up for extra seating.

You’ll find the electric power steering, upgraded

tires, instrument panel, and other features so much better than their previous UTV series. With multiple models to choose from and plenty of accessories to enhance your SXS, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

The best part about the Pioneer 1000-5 Series is that it can pull the new Go Sun Camp365 popup trailer. Simply adjust the wheelbase to ATV/

UTV mode, hitch it up the Pioneer, and head down the trail. With a 2,500-pound towing capacity, now you can camp in your secret camping spot with all the amenities.

HONDA PIONEER

CAMP365

4. BY AIR: SWIFT4 WINGSUIT FOR BASE JUMPING

If your RV is your base camp for your highflying adventures, the Squirrel Swift4 Wingsuit is a great starter suit for base jumping. For your first 100 jumps, this well-rounded suit gives you the flying speed you want with a very low stall point. It’s easy to transition to back flying, and the chute pulls are well placed.

Squirrel helps you customize your wingsuit to your measurements and suit colors. Choose colors for the front, back, zipper, stitching, and embroidery. You can also choose accents for the tips and legs. If you have a unique logo, pattern, or artwork you want to display on your wingsuit, you can upload it.

We recommend renting the equipment and learning from a certified instructor before base jumping unsupervised.

TireMinder i10 RV TPMS

Experience peace of mind with the industry’s most award winning tire monitoring solution.System includes built in pressure and temperature monitoring to warn you of tire leaks, low pressures, high pressures, faulty or dragging breaks, and sudden blowouts.

Terrific TRAVEL TRAILERS FOR 2023

BY RVCM STAFF

For any of you who thought the 2023 RV model year would be ho-hum, think again. A quick glance at any RV manufacturer’s website will show you a lot of innovative thinking and designs. Here are 4 terrific travel trailers for 2023 to whet your whistle!

1. JAYCO VOLARE Forward thinkers like Jayco are looking ahead when RVers are transitioning between Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) to Electric Vehicles (EV). The Volare may remind you of the inTech Sol Horizon, but it’s so much more.

The Volare’s aerodynamic shape, mid-level GVWR, and other features make it relatively lightweight. Those that favor the interior living experience will enjoy the 150RQ with the short queen bed.

Outdoor enthusiasts with longer storage items will love the 150SS. The dual jackknife sofas and rear utility door let you store your

equipment inside. Enjoy that aerodynamic benefit without dealing with windresistant roof racks.

The Volare doesn’t use a splinter of wood in the structure of the travel trailer. The prototype at the Jayco Open House showed mostly open storage, but in the production model, we expect netting or cabinet doors to keep your gear in place; after all, we’re talking about the wisdom of Jayco.

2. LIVING

VEHICLE LV 2023

Living Vehicle’s LV 2023 changed the comfort level of RV off-grid living. This all-aluminum mid-size RV gives you the durability of a top-end towable with a living space of a luxury tiny house. Best of all, you can customize it to your desired level of dry camping.

Start by choosing the Core, Max, Pro, or ProEV model. Each has a different capacity for solar panel wattage, energy storage, and other quality features. The air conditioner can run with its own solar feature or the Pro-EV’s 3,400W and 57.6 kWh solar energy system.

Remote working nomads will love the optional convertible master bed office space. Living Vehicle partnered with Watergen, making it an optional feature. See the RV Gear article in our February 22 Edition to learn more about how you can collect gallons of water from the air.

3. ROCKWOOD SIGNATURE

2892WS

The Rockwood Signature 2892WS (a.k.a. Flagstaff Classic 529RWS) is one of two new floor plans for 2023. The new bunkhouse layout shouldn’t be simply categorized as a familyfriendly fifth wheel.

Remote workers should factor in a little sweat equity to swap the bunkhouse sofa and dining space for desks. Of course, both spaces are dog-tastic for big fur babies too.

With long countertops, 2-way or 12v fridge choices, and a large pantry, this versatile floor plan is great for almost anyone. Many would agree that the outdoor kitchen is worth the sacrifice of a king bed.

FIFTH WHEEL

The Aluminum Trailer Company (ATC) released the next evolution of their toy haulers. The PL 500 and 700 comes in a contemporary white interior with a more home-like feel and many furniture options.

The 500 and 700 come in either a travel trailer or a fifth wheel. The 700 keeps the garage furniture movable, while the 500 mounts everything in place. The rear drop-down HappiJac bed is optional in the 700 but standard in the 500.

The fact that the fifth wheel ATC Pl toy hauler can load a Jeep Wrangler inside gave us a jawdropping goose pimple reaction!

2023 WILL SEE A STAGGERED NEW MODEL YEAR RELEASE

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) approved a voluntary best practice in June 2020. They recommended that July and August should be the new RV model year window, similar to the auto industry.

It’s a great idea, and we’ll see this happen in the future. Yet, that supply backlog is rearing its ugly head once again. The RV manufacturers now have the opposite problem: they received all the raw materials needed for the 2021 and 2022 models. They can’t just throw all this surplus out and take a 6-figure financial hit. They have to use it.

As a result, we’ll see some staggered 2023 model releases, partial releases, and creative solutions as the various RV brands get back on track. Rockwood is a great example.

For the 2023 model year, Rockwood will now use two layers of Azdel in its sidewalls, sandwiching the rigid foam insulation. Yet their supply of lauan is still

barn-busting.

So, until they run out, the Mini Lite Series will continue to use lauan. Once it’s used up, this series will switch to the dual Azdel.

This lauan/Azdel issue doesn’t make the Mini Lite Series less superior than the Signature or Geo Pro rigs; it just makes it different and has a better price tag.

Other RV manufacturers have their way of solving their supply issues. Most importantly, you can feel good about the building quality and new designs this year.

COOLEST FLOORPLANS EVERY CATEGORY

BY MICHAEL SCARPIGNATO

re you looking for an RV floor plan that fits your needs but doesn’t look like all the others? They’re not easy to find, but they do exist.

We preview the coolest RV floorplans in every major category for 2023!

1. Teardrop Camper for 4 Colorado Teardrop’s Mt. Massive is a lighter version of the Summit model. You can still hit the backcountry trails and national parks with this 4 sleeper teardrop camper.

The Mount Massive is light enough for minivans, crossover SUVs, or Electric vehicles with a 3,500 towing max. It’s even tough enough for off-road adventures!

2. Pop-Up Camper for Toys

The Flagstaff Sports Enthusiast Package 23SCSE gives you travel trailer toy hauler features at an ultra-lite towable weight. Use the front rack for dirt bikes, the wet bath to freshen up, and it can sleep up to 6.

Those not into extreme sports can use the 650 lbs. cargo deck for a generator or additional storage off the beaten path.

Truck Camper

camper die-hards can

Host Mammoth. Do

all

want a king

and even

and dryer?

350/3500

dually,

best of them

can

even back in easier.

4. Couples Trailer with a Real Desk

If you want a real desk, most RV manufacturers offer them in “long, long trailers.” Cruiser RV had the idea of placing a rear desk in a 25-footer with their Sliding King Bed.

Hitch the new Shadow Cruiser 215RBS up to a standard tow package, half-ton truck, or full-size SUV. Then remote work at your favorite destination.

Use the U-shaped dinette with the big picture window on Zoom meetings. Let nature be your backdrop while watching the meeting on the LED TV of your choice.

5. Family Travel Trailer for Everyone

Venture has a reputation for unique floor plans. Their fifth-wheel style 333VIK SportTrek travel trailer is no exception. The bunkhouse gives the kids a desk and table for road schooling. The half bath acts as a mudroom too.

What does this mean for mom and dad? A front suite and deluxe living room to enjoy some time for themselves.

Enjoy the outdoor living space with a pet tie-out and a complete outdoor kitchen with two tall dorm-size fridges.

“When you think of toy haulers, most think of the garage in the back. However, Keystone RV had a different idea: a multi-functional front garage that fits your hog.”

6. The Most Versatile Toy Hauler

When you think of toy haulers, most think of the garage in the back. However, Keystone RV had a different idea: a multifunctional front garage that fits your hog.

The Outback 342CG has a camp side ramp and front cargo space to store your motorcycle!

The garage is multi-functional with two twin bunks. The flat floor and wide aisles are accessible for mobility equipment. The rear king bed even has Outback’s built-in kennel for pets.

7. Customer-Made Fifth Wheel

While the bumper-pull categories are trending small, fiver fans are reaching for residential size and feel. Alliance RV’s entry-level Avenue Series gave family customers what they wanted: the 36BRM.

The bunkhouse has fullsize beds, a half bath, massive storage, and space for a TV in the low bunk.

RV dealers are ordering this Avenue with the optional king master bed since it’s so popular.

Alliance adds shut-off valves on the plumbing and a removable access panel in the main storage bay. Owners may enjoy upgrades and repairs.

“Alliance RV’s entry-level Avenue Series gave family customers what they wanted: the 36BRM.”

8. Best Pocket Camper Van for the Money

Winnebago launched the Solis Pocket 36A at the height of the RV Boom and the Parts Backlog.

Winnie surprised everyone with a 5-way configuration front seating space, a murphy bed, more insulation, and an impressive storage design.

Even with these fantastic features, the Solis Pocket stays competitive against similar-sized camper vans. But, hey, that’s how incredible Winnebago was, is, and shall always be!

9. Two Living Room Class C Motorhome

The Sprinter chassis gives you superb mpg with Jayco’s Melbourne Prestige 24NP. The rear second living room provides an L-shaped sofa with an entertainment center and a queen murphy bed.

Up front, the multifunctional 2-seater dinette provides passenger seating and an extra bed for a fifth sleeper. But when you swivel the pilot chairs around, 4 people can eat at the pedestal table.

If you don’t need the loft, a B plus cap option is available for better aerodynamics.

10. Mid-Sized Super C

For 2023, the new 32KD Europa floor plan has a midship all-in-one bath floor plan with a dream dinette on the camp side. This new layout adds 5 inches to the overall length compared to the rear corner bath 31SS layout.

The best part about the Europa is that you have the power of a Super C but the length of a mid-size Standard Class C.

The king-size bed and air horn (c’mon, you know you’ve always wanted one) are two examples of why Super C motorhomes are trending.

11. Class A with an Outdoor Kitchen

The Coachmen Mirada 29FW gained its reputation as the Class A with the outdoor kitchen that tailgaters continue to enjoy.

Don’t discount the interior. The camp side dinette, galley kitchen, drop-down bunk, and king bed are just a few more features this 30-footer has in store for you.

12. Get the FRED Class A Motorhome 3 Ways

The Newmar Canyon Star has undergone many radical changes in the past 5 years, yet one floor plan has been consistently popular: the toy hauler.

So, for 2023, Newmar turned the entire series into 3 different FRED (Front-Engine Diesel) Class A motorhomes. Which one would we choose? Yes, to All!

Of course, the ever-popular 3737 still exists, but in the new 3957, Newmar moved the dinette to the camp side, giving you a view of your campsite.

The 3947 sacrifices the flat patio ramp but gives you 10 ft. in the garage, instead of 8 ft., for your Harley, Honda Gold Wing, or Indian.

Towing with My Tesla

According to a July 2022 Consumer Reports Survey, 2% of Americans own an Electric Vehicle (EV), and 36% are seriously planning on buying one. Yet MotorTrend learned in the same month that the Ford F-150 didn’t do so well towing travel trailers between 3,000- 7,300 pounds (about 100 miles on a single charge).

So that “Elephant in the Room” question is, can you tow an RV with an EV? Here’s what we know:

80% of all RVers camp within 200 miles of home, so with the current technology, they’re about halfway there. However, RV manufacturers (big brands and independents) are working on EV-friendly RVs with fantastic floorplans.

Industry leaders continue exploring innovations in energy storage and solar panel efficiency. In addition, Uncle Sam continues to roll out infrastructure projects for fast-charging stations across the country.

Regardless of the outcome, we can’t wait to see the fabulous floor plans that come out in the next few years!

Protect your RV from dangerous voltage levels!

Camco’s Power Grip RV Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection helps protect your RV and appliances from high (>132 VAC) or low (<102 VAC) voltage levels and power surges. If dangerous conditions are detected, it will automatically disconnect; reconnecting only after the normal operating conditions have been restored.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for tips & more cool products!

4

MOMENTOUS MOTORHOMES FOR 2023

BY RVCM STAFF

The 2023 drivable motorhome models have innovations beyond the imagination. The Class C is trending both on and off-road. One Class A brand created new floorplans in a new series. The number 1 selling diesel received a facelift and more features. Here are some momentous motorhomes for the 2023 model year!

1. GULF STREAM YELLOWSTONE

Take a Yellowstone to Yellowstone! Gulf Stream stopped production of the Yellowstone Class C in 2011, but for their 30th Anniversary, the Class C Series is Back!

Gulf Stream released the 6280LE Yellowstone Limited Edition that stretches 30 feet, making it easily fit national park campsite lengths. This nonslideout Class C sits on the Ford E-350 with an XL loft.

The Yellowstone 6280LE offers a pass-through bath in front of a north/south short queen bed. The standard dinette gives the driver seat adjustment space, and the full-size sofa still has aisle space when jackknifed out.

If Yellowstone’s water geysers remind you about your holding tanks, don’t panic. The 38-gallon fresh, 37-gallon gray, and 31-gallon black tanks are more than enough for a week-long trip.

2. JAYCO

SENECA XT

Jayco introduced a Class C motorhome this year. The new Seneca XT is a 4x4 Super C that gets its power and strength from the Ford F-550 and F-600. In addition, Jayco’s J-Ride suspension reduces the wild ride as you blaze a trail through parts unknown.

Choose from 5 “edgy backwoods” exterior designs complimenting the luxury resort cabin inside. The first floorplan released by Jayco is the 35L that rides on the F-600 chassis.

You’ll find features like a huge camp side televator, road side theater seat or sofa, and a king bed. The pass-through bath isolates the shower on the camp side, so you have the space to relax.

“Jayco introduced a Class C motorhome this year. The new Seneca XT is a 4x4 Super C that gets its power and strength from the Ford F-550 and F-600.”

3. FLEETWOOD

FRONTIER

Fleetwood has had great success with its Frontier entry-level diesel Class A motorhome. So how did they improve it? They made a “hotrod you can live in” with the Frontier GTX.

The new Rear Engine Diesel (RED) Class A has two floor plans, the 37RT, and the 39TA. Fleetwood has hotrodded many features by upgrading amenities and standardizing some optional components.

Remote workers will love the rear corner office with a view in the 37 RT. It has a wall-mounted monitor, a nice-sized window, massive storage, and plenty of power outlets.

The 39TA is excellent for those that need access in road mode. Lay flat in the north/south short queen bed, use the full midship bath, open the fridge door completely, and use the Adap-Table dinette while closed up. When opened up, the rear half-bath gives you privacy in the privy.

4. NEWMAR DUTCH STAR

Newmar added a lot of updates on their motorhomes, especially to the Dutch Star since it's the most popular RED (Rear Engine Diesel) Class A motorhome.

The Dutch Star received a facelift with a new front cap. In addition, Newmar added three new floor plans: the 4071, 4325, and 4370. New standard features include a Eurodinette and a MobileEye lane departure system.

There are two new major optional features many Newmar fans will enjoy. The first is the new beverage center with a stemware rack and bottle cooler. The other is the Lithionics 320-amp lithium-ion battery system that’ll run an A/C through the inverter.

“Newmar added a lot of updates on their motorhomes, especially to the Dutch Star since it's the most popular RED Class A motorhome.”

4 OTHER EXCITING 2023 CHANGES

There are so many other exciting changes in the drivable motorhome categories, we don’t have the room to feature them. But here are some highlights:

1. JAYCO HAS A CLASS C CHASSIS FOR EVERYONE

Each of Jayco’s Class C models uses a different chassis.

• Redhawk SEChevrolet Express 4500

• Redhawk- Ford E-450

• Greyhawk- Ford E-450

• Melbourne SeriesMercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

2. DYNAMAX OFFERS A MIDSIZE CLASS C WITH SUPER C POWER    Dynamax Europa’s 32 KD is a new floor plan that gives you a spacious midship bathroom in a Super C under 34 feet.

3. FOREST RIVER HAS A DUAL OFFICE CLASS A GASSER Remote workers will still love the Forest River Georgetown 32J7 with

a bedroom and copilot workstation. It’s been a popular model since it won the RV New 2021 Best New Model.

4. NEWMAR GIVES YOU CHOICES FOR A TOY HAULER CLASS A

The Newmar Canyon Star now only offers 3 models, and they’re all toy haulers. The FRED chassis offers a powerful Cummins engine, a luxury living space, and a garage space of different lengths.

Due to the chip shortage, you may have to wait for your dream motorhome to come off the factory floor, but with these innovations, it’ll be worth the wait!

PARK HALLOWEEN

BY RVCM STAFF

It’s that time of year again! The leaves are changing color; the weather’s cooling down, and RVers across the country are getting ready to enjoy fall. If you’re looking for a fun-filled Halloween adventure, look no further than these campgrounds hosting October fall festivals.

1. HALLOWEEN PARTY AT CLUB NAPLES RV RESORT

NAPLES, FL

Club Naples RV Resort, a Sun Outdoors affiliate, is the perfect getaway for families looking to enjoy time together while surrounded by beautiful Florida nature preserves. The resort offers spacious accommodations and

many activities, including its annual Halloween party.

The night begins with a hot dog and baked bean dinner supplied by the RV Park. It’s followed by trick-or-treating at designated “candy homes.” These candy homes are volunteer RVers that sit outside their rigs handing out the treats.

After trick-or-treating, the evening continues at the RV Park community hall for an evening of dancing, music, and fun. They cap the party off with a costume contest with prizes awarded to children and adults.

CLUB NAPLES

2. OCTOBER WEEKENDS AT JELLYSTONE PARK GARDINER, NY

Jellystone Park in Gardiner, NY, is going all out for October. Tucked away along the winding Wallkill River with a breathtaking view of the Shawangunk Ridge, the campground turns into a Halloween lover’s dream come true every October weekend.

Activities include a pumpkin carving contest, hayrides, teens-only “glow-in-the-dark” mini-

golf, scary movies, and a haunted trail. On Saturday nights, the campground comes alive with a DJ

dance party with Yogi and his friends.

JELLYSTONE PARK

3. THE PHANTOM FALL FEST AT LAKE COMPOUNCE

BRISTOL, CT

Welcome to the Phantom Fall Fest at Lake Compounce every October weekend.

Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut, is the oldest continuously operating amusement park in North America, entertaining guests since 1846! This year the park is screaming Halloween with two unique experiences.

Bring the kiddos during the day for familyfriendly fun with pumpkin painting, a hay maze, and trick-or-treating. Then, return at night for a truly spine-chilling experience with four haunted houses and three scare zones if you dare.

There’s an RV park on the property with electric and water hookups that can accommodate any size RV. There’s also an on-site free dump station.

LAKE COMPOUNCE CAMPGROUND

THERE

4. CHERRY HILL PARK HALLOWEEN WEEKEND

COLLEGE PARK, MD Are you looking for a fun-filled Halloween weekend getaway? Cherry Hill Park, just minutes from Washington, D.C., transforms into a Halloween extravaganza

October 21-23.

The park hosts a variety of activities, including trickor-treating, tractor rides, and a pumpkin carving contest. There’s also an RV site decorating contest with a grand prize for a free night’s stay!

Whether you’re looking for some spooky fun for all ages or just want to enjoy the fall foliage, Cherry Hill Park is the perfect place to spend your Halloween weekend.

CHERRY HILL PARK

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5. FALL FESTIVAL AT CROSS CREEK RV PARK ELDON, MO

Cross Creek RV Park & Campground, in the heart of the Ozarks, is sponsoring a Fall Festival on October 22. The event includes seasonal activities, including wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, trickor-treating, and games.  There’s also a fun RV decorating contest to display your Fall or Halloween spirit, with an award for the best site. And, of course, no Fall Festival would be complete without a bonfire to end the night with hot chocolate and s’mores.

The park is on a private lake with fishing, boating, a swimming pool, and a playground. There are also plenty of hiking trails for those who want to enjoy the autumn leaves. Full hookups are available, and each site has a fire pit and picnic table.

CROSS CREEK RV PARK AND CAMPGROUND

PLANNING TO RV IN OCTOBER?

RV camping during October can be a lot of fun, but planning is essential. Reserve your site early, especially in the popular leaf-peeping areas.

Pack your Halloween costumes and decorations, and be prepared for cooler temperatures at night. Of course, don’t forget the candy. Trick-or-treaters will be sure to find your campsite if you’re handing out goodies.

October is a beautiful time of year to explore the countryside. With so many events happening nationwide at RV parks and campgrounds, there’s no excuse not to have a spooktacular time!

4 AWESOME

VAN AND TRUCK CAMPERS FOR 2023

BY RVCM STAFF

The Van and Truck Camper Lifestyle is full of new innovations in 2023. You’ll find many innovations that make your camper life more convenient. Also, new all-electric technologies lighten your load by eliminating the generator and propane. Take a look at these new and updated camper vans and truck campers for 2023.

1. SCOUT CAMPERS

In May 2022, Scout Campers announced 13 updates and 6 new options for all 2023 models. These improvements are separate from their 2022 improvements.

Many of these changes involve making storage and add-on features easier. It could be as simple as improved adjustable shelving in the wardrobe, better accessibility to wiring for installing powered components, or other things.

Scout also increased the LP tanks, added a quick disconnect, and improved the tank supports. You’ll also find other comfort and utility features that have been stepped up. The manufacturer even found a way to improve the composite shell, so it’s just as durable but lighter.

2. HALLMARK VICTOR

A man who owned a 1990s Hallmark truck camper loved the layout, but it was time to let the RV retire after so many years. He approached Hallmark and asked if they could build him a new one. Hallmark hasn’t built the Victor model since 1997. So what do you think the company said?

The customer did such a great job upgrading the camper; even the designers had to take a look. So, with a little more thought, Hallmark is bringing back the Victor for 2023. How’s that for listening to customer feedback?

This rear entry pop-top half-ton camper will be comfortable in a standard bed using today's technology. Below the east/west-facing cabover queen bed is a 4-seater convertible dinette. The rear campside closet is versatile. You can option in a portable, cassette, or built-in toilet. The sink is on the campside, while the range and fridge balance the RV on the roadside.

“For

Leisure Vans has made some excellent changes that you’ll find appealing.”

3. LEISURE VANS UNITY & WONDER

Even though Mike and Jennifer Wendland of RV Lifestyle have a fifth wheel, fans know they loved their B Plus Leisure Van Wonder on the Ford Transit. Guess what RV Lifestyle Fans; they just bought the other version, the Unity, that rides on the Sprinter chassis.

For 2023, Leisure Vans has made some excellent changes that you’ll find appealing. First, they flattened the floor, so there’s no longer a step from the cab to the coach floor. A Multiplex Wiring Control System gives owners a touch screen and smart device app to operate the various components, including the new LED lighting with dimming.

Next, the company is exploring the Oak Trend with White Oak, Rift Oak, and Mocha. Also, the ultraleather upholstery comes in Dove, Sand, and Clay, which are neutral enough to pair up well with the new woods.

Finally, The Wonder will come with Ford’s new generation SYNC 4 infotainment system on the dashboard. The 12-inch screen gives you everything you need for your RV travels. The steering wheel controls on both sides make it even easier to navigate through the essentials.

4. AIRSTREAM RANGELINE AND E1 PACKAGE

The Airstream Touring Coaches continue to appear on the bestselling Class B diesel motorhomes lists. Of course, if Airstream makes it, you know it’s backed by an almost century-long history of high-quality construction.

If you are a fan of the front-wheel-drive Dodge Ram ProMaster, Airstream released the family-friendly Rangeline. The floorplan has the typical second-row seating, midship wet bath, and rear master bed, but many differences exist.

The rear bed is a halfand-half murphy bed. The table between the first and second row scissors out so you can have one or two surfaces. Above the bench seats is the pop-top roof where the kids can stargaze at night while they drift off to sleep.

AIRSTREAM’S E1 PACKAGE

The E1 package includes a 12.1-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, a hydronic heater, a second alternator, two 30-amp

converters, a Victron 10020 Solar Charge Controller, and two external solar ports to increase the existing solar panel system. Some of these systems are already included in the Rangeline.

Each Sprinter Touring Coach comes with 250 to 400 watts of solar panels, but the second alternator charges your batteries within 2 hours while traveling. Also, one of the designated converters will keep the 12v fridge cold as long as it's powered on.

14 TRUCK CAMPER MANUFACTURERS MAKE THE ALL-ELECTRIC PLEDGE

At the beginning of April 2022, 14 truck camper manufacturers signed the All-Electric Pledge. The agreement states that all of their 12-volt and 110-volt features and appliances will run

on AC or DC power. The agreement was born as a direct response to the popularity of EV trucks.

Propane features will still exist but will be minimized when applicable. Truck camper customers can expect more all-electric refrigerators instead of 3-way versions. Another component impacted will be the absence of onboard

generators or generatorprep bays. Furnaces and water heaters will still operate on LP and electricity.

The RV manufacturers also promised to use the sponsored Pledge MultiSurface Cleaner during production when removing manufacturing dust and other by-products in an eco-friendly manner.

NEW SURVEY SHOWS RV SHARING CONTINUES TO PAY OFF IN 2022

BY RVCM STAFF

In a recent study performed by RVshare, motorhome and travel trailer rental bookings are up around 40% in 2022. So while new RV sale estimates are adjusting lower than expected, RVshare and other rental companies are still seeing increased numbers.

The study, released at the beginning of September 2022,

revealed some amazing facts. It shows that the RV rental giant increased its inventory with over 100,000 new RV owners signing up starting from March 2020 (the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic). That’s a 64% increase.

When RVshare’s researchers looked into the progress of these RV owners, here’s what they discovered:

• Almost 30% used the rental fees to help pay the RV’s monthly finance payments.

• Over half of those who

used that strategy (60%) paid down over half of the RV’s total financed amount.

• Around 17% paid off their RV entirely!

• Overall, RV rental bookings are still up over 40% in 2022.

• While some are retired,

80% use their RV rental as a second income.

BOOMING DOWN WHILE RENTING UP

RV sales experts started in 2022, believing the year would end with 550,000 new unit sales. As we head into the home stretch, that number has changed to slightly below 500,000. Towable RV dealership lots are full of inventory, and drivable motorhomes aren’t rolling off the floor too fast. So is the RV Boom over?

We can say this: RV manufacturers are now dealing with surplus issues instead of backlogs. However, since the microchip shortage is slowing automotive chassis production, motorhome brands continue to have some production delays.

Many people who enjoy the part-time or weekender RV lifestyle have found renting an RV more advantageous than committing to ownership.

Instead of letting an RV

sit and decay from lack of use, the peer-to-peer RV rental sector has proven itself. It’s a way for occasional RVers to enjoy the lifestyle and lets owners savor the RV experience by easing some financial burdens.

To rent your RV for the most money and to rent it as often as possible, we recommend listing your RV for rent on all four of the major peer-to-peer rental platforms: Outdoorsy, RVshare, RVezy, and RVnGo!

REMEMBERING

QUEEN ELIZABETH II: THE OUTDOORS ENTHUSIAST

BY RVCM STAFF

Her Majesty Elizabeth II, by the Grace of G-D, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of her other realms and territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the faith, became the longest reigning monarch in British History, the Sixth Ruling Queen, worked with 15 Prime Ministers, and 13 U.S. Presidents (She met Truman before her Coronation).

Growing up in the north, she spent her summers in Balmoral Castle in Scotland. As a teenager, she was a member of the Girl Guides (the British Girl Scouts). At that time, the Girl Guides were camping in tents and learning wilderness skills like the boys.

Princess Elizabeth spent her free time at home with her racehorses and corgies. Throughout her life, she had over 30 Corgies. Prince Andrew and his former wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, are stepping up to care for the current pack.

Her Girl Guide skills were valuable during WWII as an honorary Colonel. While her soon-to-be husband, Prince Philip, served in the Royal Navy, Princess Elizabeth did her part

with the 500 Grenadier Guards Regiment of the Royal Army.

GETTING OUTDOORS AS QUEEN ELIZABETH II

Once Princess “Lilibet” became Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on June 2, 1953, enjoying the outdoors became complicated. Of course, she spent her summers in Balmoral Castle, taking the Corgies out to chase rabbits when she could, but she was

no stranger to travel.

She would visit 116 countries, becoming the most traveled British Monarch. Some of those trips included a tent or RV accommodations.

In 2012, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip toured British RV manufacturer Baily of Bristol’s facility. The Royal Couple rode in the company’s Approach SE 760 motorhome. Of course, it wasn’t at the luxury level of the royal train or yacht, but

unlike her great-greatgrandmother, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth was amused.

Our relationship with the British Monarchy has been up and down, but Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was the most popular British Monarch in U.S. History and the World. Now that you know she was a camper, you have one more reason to love her.

G-D Save the Queen, May She Rest In Peace.