RV Today Issue 12 | July / Aug 2023

For generations, campers have lived out their travel dreams with Keystone Cougar. Explore the award-winning 2023 floorplans featuring Amy Gray Signature Series interiors, iN-Command control systems, SMART TVs, on-demand hot water, SolarFlex Solar power, and now shipping with Dragonfly Energy Lithium-ion batteries.

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A Magazine For RVers By RVers

RV TODAY Magazine

Volume 2 I Issue 12 I July/August 2023

Publisher Demian Ross

Chief Editor Nikki Kirk

Managing Editor Jess Stiles

Editorial Assistant L. Merredith

Art Director Gayle Schadendorf

Operations Manager Jamie May

Copy Editor Kristin Skaggs

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Disclaimer: One of the great things about digital publications is the ability to link you directly to the products or services you want to hear more about. Some of the links in this issue are a liate links where we earn commissions on goods or services you buy. These commissions help us to continue to publish the magazine. RV Today is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an a liate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@rvtoday.com Copyright ©2023

FROM THE Publisher

We have big news to share! Have you heard?

RV Camping Magazine has o cially become a part of RV Today!

We’re expanding our family of magazines and giving a warm welcome to all RV Camping Magazine subscribers this month. You now have access to RV Today, and all RV Today subscribers now have access to RV Camping Magazine. BONUS!

A big shoutout goes to Mike and Susan Scarpignato of RV Blogger for their outstanding work with RV Camping Magazine. Mike and Susan, you’ve built something extraordinary, and we’re honored to be trusted with your legacy and pick up the baton.

As they’ll attest to, starting and running an actual magazine is a hard business, but it’s one that brings me and our entire team so much joy. As a truly independent lifestyle publication, our only goal is to help promote, educate, and inspire all who want to RV.

We’re committed to bringing you the best RV content about people, places, and products, plus firsthand advice from real RVers. We are only a magazine and have no mission or business other than the magazine you read here.

I want to extend my sincere appreciation for your readership, support, partnerships, and contributions. We have big goals here at RV Today. One of them is to hit 1,000,000 readers and one day be the most circulated RV owner publication. The acquisition of RV Camping Magazine gets us even closer to that goal.

Help us take RV Today magazine into the future by sharing this publication with family and friends. It’s a big help in getting the word out! issue, stay safe on the road this summer--

GO ON, TAKE A HIKE.

Contributors

Shannon Murray

Lacey Esposita

Lisa Warfle

Carol Forwood

Veronika Mike

Kristin Calzon

Amanda Boles

Gretchen Watson

Cory and Shea Smith

Roque Corona

Jeremy Crawford

Brenda Huynh

Patty Gill

Deepa Grover

Nancy Walters

Nicoll Davis

Trey and Angela Schmeckpeper

Kelley and Jared Welch

Olivia de Soria

Brooklyn Durell

Lindsey Chambers

Tawnie and Wayne

Christine and Kevin Skelton

Mark Hertzler

Alex Rice

Evan Lanier

Contributor Spotlight

Joseph Testa – 10 Safety Tips for New RVers

Joe is an avid RVer, a mentor to those new to RVing, a Certified RV Inspector, and an all-around helper to those who need assistance while learning the ins and outs of RVing. He is a full-time IT geek in the cybersecurity world and works remotely, which gives him the luxury of working while traveling in his RV and seeing the great outdoors. Contact him anytime and check out the first four chapters of his book for free at rvfn.net.

Rebecca Blackwell @littleandalot

Level Up Your Outdoor Kitchen

Rebecca is a baker, recipe developer, and food photographer who travels full time with her husband, Steve. She shares her original recipes and inspiration for cooking in a small space on her websites, alittleandalot.com and o atteranddough.com.

Katelyn and Howard Newstate @newstatenomads

National Parks Tour

Part One: Saguaro National Park

Katelyn travels with her husband, Howard, and their three pups: Piper, Ella and Scout. They have been all over the world and love sharing their passion for travel and adventure through their YouTube channel, Newstate Nomads, and on their website at newstatenomads.com.

Kathryn Frazer @adventuresofaplusk

Visiting the Largest U.S. National Park: Wrangell-St. Elias

Contribute to RV Today

Do you have a story idea, product you love or campground to highlight? Reach out to us at collab@rvtoday.com

Adam, Kathryn, and Kona are an adventurous married couple and their pup living on the road in their selfconverted Sprinter van! Find them driving all over, scoping out the best co ee shops, eating tacos and ice cream, and enjoying nature. For their detailed travel guides, check out adventuresofaplusk.com and their YouTube channel, adventuresofaplusk.

Our readers share what they love about RVing!

Changing scenery from the comfort of my home”

@collettaandco

Nature, waterfalls, mountains, canyons, wildlife—seeing the country without having to pack or fly”

@whatlaceyloves

@roamwithlisa

“I

@snorkelsandsnowpants

remotely, be myself on my own time, and travel with my dog!”

TAKE A RIDE ON THE RETRO SIDE WITH THIS VINTAGE RV

After purchasing Biscuit in March 2020, Kristin and her boyfriend, Brett Ripp, have enjoyed traveling in it with their son on weekends. They fell in love with the RV’s style and build. “It’s old-school craftsmanship,” Kristin said. “The saying, ‘They don’t make ’em like they used to’ is absolutely true! More than 50 years later, we’re still rocking the original engine and two-barrel carburetor.”

It’s sometimes easier to work on vintage vehicles than modern ones, which is why they chose to tackle the mechanics themselves. “Turning wrenches on an old truck is fun and rewarding. There is an abundance of parts available—just about any parts store will have what you need sitting on the shelf.” This means they not only save money being their own mechanics, but they save time so they can adventure more.

The RV’s iconic split windshield led to its nickname, “the Eyebrow Winnebago,” and that windshield gives Kristin and her family unique views as they journey down open roads. Inside are features including wood paneling, an avocado-green interior, orange shag carpet, and a buddy seat with original bright orange leather upholstery. Kristin said stepping into the RV is like entering a groovy 1970s time machine. “There’s a unique feeling when you’re riding along thinking of all the laughs, meals, and great memories that were shared over the years. She’s solid as a rock with looks that kill—she’s the whole package! We wouldn’t trade her for a new rig even if you gave it to us.” ■

For more vintage vibes, follow Kristin and her retro RV on Instagram @kristinkellie30.

The biggest challenge is being overprotective because we know she’s irreplaceable.”

–Kristin Calzon said about her 1972 Winnebago Brave, named Biscuit

10 Safety Tips

By Joseph Testa

As a practiced RVer who’s passionate about helping others get started on their RVing journey, I wrote a book called “RVing for Newbies: The Manual.” Here, I’m sharing some quick tips to make your RVing adventures safer. In addition to this list, always keep in mind that RVs are rolling earthquakes—things shake, rattle, roll, and come loose as you travel.

ELECTRICITY Become familiar with 12-volt DC (battery power) and 120-volt AC (shore power, generator power, and/or inverter output power). So many things in your RV rely on electricity, and it helps to know which things are running on battery (12V DC) and which are running on “commercial” (120V AC) power.

PROPANE Learn how your propane furnace and water heater work. A furnace is a propane-only device—don’t mistake it for a heat pump/heat

strip, which are 120V-only items. Water heaters are normally propane and electric, though it depends on the RV year/make/model.

CAMPGROUND ETIQUETTE There are commonlyaccepted rules you should adhere to that will make the camping experience better for you and others around you. One example is to never, ever dump your black water tank on the ground; only dump in legally-approved dump sites. It is raw sewage and a biohazard.

WATER SYSTEM Not everyone wants to drink the water out of the freshwater (onboard) tank, and some people refuse to drink water from campgrounds. Either way, you’ll want to sanitize your water system to kill any bacteria that might be hanging around in it. You wouldn’t want to wash your dishes with bacteria-laden water.

SANITATION SYSTEM When dumping your black tank, be sure to flush it completely to ensure everything drains. Don’t leave the black tank open during your stay at a full-hookup campsite—your waste will fill up your tank instead of going into the sewage system at the campground, and you risk creating a poo-pyramid in the black tank.

for New RVers

LIGHTS Check your running lights—the amber and red lights on the outside of your RV—to make sure they’re all working before traveling, every single time.

TIRES Check your tire pressure, treads, and sidewalls before traveling. Know the DOT code (also known as the “born-on date”) for each tire. Five years is about the maximum amount of time you want to ride on them before they should be replaced, regardless of mileage.

SAFETY DEVICES

Emergency Windows Check your emergency escape windows at least annually to make sure they can be opened. Some RVs—mostly Airstream types—have a one-time-use emergency window, where you pull a rubber strip/cord and the window/ glass falls out to the ground. If you have that kind, don’t test it! Most emergency windows have a lever or part that you can push to open it, and these are usually safe to test.

Fire Extinguishers Usually, the dial on the top will tell you if a fire extinguisher is still good. Consider getting a fire blanket to keep in the kitchen area.

Carbon Monoxide, Propane Detectors and Smoke Detectors Test them using the test button to ensure they still work, and change the batteries if needed.

They typically last 5 to 7 years from their born-on date, which can usually be found on the back side of the device.

AIR CONDITIONERS There are filters that need to be removed and cleaned on a regular basis so air can flow and cool properly.

REFRIGERATORS There are multiple kinds—12V DC only, 120V AC only, and absorption fridges. If it will run on propane, then it’s an absorption fridge. If you have an absorption fridge, you want to be mostly level when you are parked for it to run e ciently. If you don’t have a leveling system, get yourself an electronic level, put it in the freezer, and check it front to back and left to right. If you’re less than 3 degrees o level, you are good to go. These refrigerators do not cool quickly, so turn them on 24 to 72 hours before traveling to give them time to chill. ■

Find more tips from Joseph and information about his book at rvingfornewbies.com.

BE IN YOUR ELEMENT, OUT IN THE ELEMENTS.

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One PROJECT at a Time

Patience Pays O With Beautiful Boho Reno

By Amanda Boles

When we were shopping for our motorhome, we knew exactly what we wanted based on our previous RV experience. We knew how to look past the ugly valances, worn carpet, dated beveled mirrors, and orange cabinets. We saw the potential in our 40-foot 2005 Ti n Phaeton, and we knew exactly how we would turn it into a home as we continued to travel the country full time. Most important was that it had good bones—a good layout from a quality, trusted RV brand and dual opposing slides, which were at the top of our list of requirements.

We knew the renovation would be a process, especially while continuing to travel, so we took our time and did projects in steps over a few years.

First up was removing all the bulky window valances and honeycomb blinds. We replaced them with a natural fiber roller blind that is super easy to pull down and roll back up. I cut and

sewed custom blackout curtains for our bedroom so that we always have a dark room to sleep in, even if we find ourselves in a parking lot or at a rest stop for the night.

Painting every single cabinet and wall in the RV was our next major project. Before painting the walls, I removed the wallpaper with a heat gun to make sure we had a smooth, non-peeling surface to work with. The wallpaper was peeling in a lot of places, so this step had to be done. We went with mostly white paint with a hint of gray and black, and a terracotta color in the kitchen. We also replaced the cabinet pulls with a variety of stylish pulls that add a creative, beautiful touch.

The next and biggest project we tackled was completely replacing the flooring. We ripped out the old carpet, and removed all of the tile, except for in the bathroom, where we used tile stickers. We replaced all of the floors with vinyl plank flooring. During this process, we also removed the entire

benched dinette seating area and one couch. We replaced the seating with a rattan peacock chair and a bench seat to achieve the natural boho look I was going for. I mod-podged a laminated map onto the dinette table, which makes for an easy way to map out our travel plans, but is also a great backdrop for photos of food and products.

We also replaced one of the big couches with a comfortable green velvet swivel chair, along with a storage ottoman and electric fireplace that puts out a ton of heat, and is a favorite of our little chihuahua, Bailey.

We did keep one of our leather flexsteel jackknife couches because we felt it provided plenty of seating for our lifestyle. It can also double as a bed for extra-cozy TV watching or for when we have guests that sleep over. We also added macrame curtains to block o the cockpit area to make it feel less like a motorhome.

In the kitchen, we removed the ridiculously huge microwave we never use, and put in an open shelf. We use our gas cooktop and oven / air fryer for cooking. We also replaced the shallow split-basin sink with a huge farmhouse sink and a beautiful kitchen faucet. Of all the renovation projects we’ve done, the big sink is something I’m so thankful for! We also added a reverse osmosis water dispenser next to the sink, and installed the filter in the cabinet underneath so we always have the cleanest drinking water.

In addition, we removed all the heavy, dated beveled mirror backsplashes and replaced them with lightweight stickers in the kitchen and bedroom. We also removed the carpet on the entry stairs and replaced it with the same pattern stair riser sticker so there’s some cohesion across the whole RV.

We also removed the original “nevercold” fridge and replaced it with a smaller electric fridge that does a much better

job of keeping our food cool, and I had David build custom shelving on the right side for perfectly-sized baskets to store miscellaneous things like parchment paper, kitchen towels, protein bars, and more.

We completely removed the bulky upper cabinet in the bathroom to make it feel more spacious. We replaced the countertop with wood and an above-basin waterfall sink and faucet. We added some open shelving for toilet paper, towels, and black tank treatment. We also added a rattan mirror and amethyst drawer pulls, and I mod-podged an entire map wall on the left side.

In the bedroom, we installed romantic beaded chandelier lighting and a black wood headboard, created a collage wall of our favorite RV adventures, and replaced the vanity counter and sink to match the bathroom. We also painted the nightstands black to match the darker, moodier vibe I was going for.

With all of these renovations making our RV look so beautiful on the inside, it didn’t take long before I knew I wanted to have the outside professionally painted. After a good bit of research, we decided to drive down to Puerto Peñasco and have our RV painted. It took about 11 guys two-plus weeks of sanding, priming, and painting to complete the job, but it looks absolutely fantastic and I love the uniqueness of our all-white motorhome. We get asked about it all the time, and anyone who knows our white motorhome can recognize us immediately!

We absolutely love our home on wheels and all the renovations have truly made it feel like ours. It has exactly what we need in a rolling home—nothing more and nothing less! The only other renovation project left on our list is to tackle the shower and transform it into a combination bathtub and shower, because the one thing I miss is having a hot bath to soak in! ■

For videos and a full RV tour, visit Amanda and David’s Instagram @therollinboles.

It’s hard to determine what makes Sedona, Arizona, so magical. The majestic red rocks surrounded by evergreen trees, along with sculpted canyons, sweeping mesas, and natural arches, are certainly unique. Many visitors also tout the inspirational e ect of the Sedona Vortex. Whatever the reason, it’s a beautiful place to visit with so much to o er, especially if you love hiking, biking, and being outdoors. We visited Sedona for the hikes and the historical locations. With more than 200 trails, it’s easy to find a hike that will suit you. Did you know that Sedona wasn’t always called Sedona? It was originally called Indian Gardens or

By Gretchen Watson

Camp Garden until it was later renamed Sedona. This land was inhibited by several Native American tribes, such as the Yavapai, the Tonto Apaches, the Hopi, the Navajo, and the Sinagua. The area is filled with ancient artifacts and landscapes that show the life these tribes once lived in the Verde Valley.

The city has made some changes in recent years when it comes to parking at trailheads and other popular attractions, so always research what is required before you go. Depending on where you’re going and when, you may need to purchase a Red Rocks Pass or use the Sedona Shuttle.

Soldier Pass Trail

We recently visited Sedona in the fall and explored the Soldier Pass Trail, which led to some epic views. This 4.5-mile loop is moderate, but doable even with children—it took three hours for our family of seven. This hike is very popular and can be crowded. The weather was perfect when we visited in the fall, starting o cool and warming up during the day. On this hike, you will pass several iconic landscapes.

The first thing you will come to is Devil’s Kitchen, a large sinkhole that has formed from a collapsed cavern. After this landmark, you’ll see the Seven Sacred Pools, named by a hotel owner who marketed them as a tourist attraction. The seven pools are formed in rock and are even bigger after a decent rain. Continuing the trail, you’ll turn o to Soldier Pass Cave and Soldier Arch. This area was great for the kids to boulder hop, and a perfect backdrop for a picnic lunch. The cave is narrow and requires a bit of a climb, and can be di cult for children and those with a short stature. The views from the cave are impressive, with windows overlooking the valley. I recommend giving this hike a try due to the beautiful and iconic landmarks, which feel like little rewards along the way.

Subway Cave

Subway Cave is growing in popularity, but still a bit of a hidden gem because it’s harder to locate. You’ve probably seen plenty of photos across social media of the epic opening between two rocks overlooking Boynton Canyon. This cave is located around the 2-mile point of the Boynton Canyon Trail look for markings and worn paths to find the actual cave. It does require hiking up some rocky, uphill terrain, and again, can be a challenge for smaller people. When we went, it was pretty busy, and everyone was

Soldier Pass Cave

Soldier Pass Trail

Soldier Pass Arch

Seven Sacred Pools

encouraged to take turns getting the epic photos overlooking the canyon. There are also ancient cli dwellings, if you dare to venture that high. As always when visiting these ancient ruins, please be courteous and respectful and leave things as you find them.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument allows you to visit remains of a castle left by the Sinagua people from as early as 1100 A.D. The cli dwellings are made with natural resources such as wood, stone, and mud mortar in multiple layers. The pueblo was excavated in 1933, revealing a wealth of artifacts, and later became a national monument preserved for generations to come. If you have extra time, be sure to visit Montezuma Well, which is just a little ways from the castle. This well is a sinkhole from a collapsed underground limestone cavern filled with water.

Tuzigoot National Monument

Along these same ancient remnants, you can also visit Tuzigoot National Monument to see more dwellings that have been excavated from the same era. This national monument allows you to walk in and through the 1,000-year-old, 110-room hilltop pueblo. This place is filled with ceramics, textiles, and tools. Both of these monuments o er the Junior Ranger Program and allow free entrance when using the America the Beautiful pass. This national monument protects the southern Sinagua dwellings, and you can see the northern Sinagua dwellings by visiting Walnut Canyon National Monument, located outside of Flagsta , Arizona.

V Bar V Heritage Site

Out in the hills and fields of Rimrock, Arizona, is V Bar V Heritage Site, which has 1,032 petroglyphs in 13 panels. This is a bit of a drive, but totally worth it in our opinion. You’ll park in what looks like a vacant parking lot, walk up to a welcome center, and from there take a short walk to a designated area with the wall of petroglyphs. They have someone onsite giving lectures, explaining the history and meaning of the drawings. This is the largest petroglyph site in the Verde Valley, and one of the best preserved. This park also accepts the America the Beautiful pass.

The next time you’re planning a trip to Arizona, don’t forget to plan ahead and do your research so you can experience the secrets of Sedona. You won’t regret it! ■

Gretchen and her family share their adventures on Instagram @themindfulnomadic.

Tuzigoot National Monument

V Bar V Heritage Site

LevelYourUp Outdoor Kitchen

By Rebecca Blackwell

Plus: 2 Crowd-Pleasing Reci pe s

Our Heartland Cyclone fifth wheel came with a standard outdoor kitchen that included a sliding metal countertop, a sink with no drain, a two-burner gas stovetop, a tiny refrigerator, and a television.

Here’s how we transformed this space into something much more useful for us:

■ Replaced the metal countertop and sink with a butcher block for more counter space

■ Removed the two-burner gas stove and replaced it with a 22-inch Blackstone Tabletop Griddle

■ Removed the tiny refrigerator and added a slide-out shelf as a permanent platform for our Traeger Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

■ Replaced the television with a peel-and-stick tile backsplash

The new setup is perfect for the kind of outdoor cooking we like to do and a great complement to our indoor oven and stovetop. It also means we can travel with a Traeger smoker and Blackstone griddle without having to constantly break them down and store them. They are ready for us whenever we want to use them!

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TRAEGER TAILGATER

Portable Grill and Smoker

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BLACKSTONE GRIDDLE

22-inch Heavy Duty Cooktop This griddle is popular for a reason—with a large cooking area and even heat across the whole surface, it’s easy to cook for a crowd. Portability and cooking ability at 24,000 BTUs are this unit’s most impressive features.

Smoked Pork Tacos

If I had to commit to serving the same meal every time we entertained for the rest of my life, I would probably choose these tacos. I can’t think of a more crowdpleasing meal than chili and citrus-flavored pork roast smoked until it’s so tender that it’s falling apart and served family-style with warm tortillas, orange slices, queso fresco, and fresh pico de gallo. This recipe is easy to scale up for a large group, but be warned that you’ll want to plan on a lot of pork per person, because no one is going to turn down seconds—or thirds.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup vegetable oil or olive oil

1 large yellow onion, chopped

5 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped

1 jalapeño, seeds removed and chopped

3 tablespoons kosher salt

10 ounces red chili sauce, enchilada sauce, or adobo sauce

2 cups orange juice

3/4 cup lime juice

6 pounds pork shoulder or butt roast, bone-in

1/4 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons chili powder

2 tablespoons cumin

2 tablespoons onion powder

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 lime

For serving: warm corn tortillas, orange slices, crumbled queso fresco, and fresh pico de gallo.

Instructions:

■ Add the oil, chopped onion, garlic, jalapeño, salt, red chili sauce, orange juice, and lime juice to a large bowl and stir to combine. Add the pork roast fat side up, cover, and let the meat soak for 12 to 24 hours.

■ Heat the smoker to 225 degrees. Remove the meat from the marinade. Reserve the marinade in the refrigerator.

■ Add the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder to a small bowl and stir to combine. Rub the spices over the meat to coat it completely, massaging the dry rub into the meat.

■ Place the pork roast onto the smoker grates, close the lid, and smoke for about 6 hours, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165 degrees.

■ Remove the meat from the smoker and set it inside an aluminum roasting pan. Pour the reserved marinade into the pan and cover the pan with aluminum foil.

■ Return the pork to the smoker and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is extremely tender and the internal temperature reaches 200 degrees.

■ Remove the meat from the pan and shred it. Drizzle a bit of the cooking liquid over the meat. Cut the lime in half and squeeze the juice over the shredded meat.

■ Serve family style with warm corn tortillas, orange slices, crumbled queso fresco, and pico de gallo.

Tips: For soft and pliable corn tortillas, brush both sides with vegetable oil and heat in a very hot skillet for about 5 seconds on each side. Place warm tortillas in a tortilla warmer or wrap them in aluminum foil.

■ Plan on 1 orange per person.

■ To make pico de gallo, combine in a large bowl: diced red onion, diced roma or cherry tomatoes, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, minced jalapeno, fresh lime juice, about 1 teaspoon of sugar, and salt to taste.

Grilled Coconut Chicken A d o b o

This is one of the easiest recipes to make when you’re cooking for a group. Cook the chicken 24 hours before you want to serve it, then let it rest in the refrigerator in a coconut marinade to soak up all the flavor. Right before serving, let the marinade simmer down into a rich sauce, sear the chicken on a griddle or grill, and dig in.

Ingredients:

1 cup soy sauce or tamari

1/2 cup white wine vinegar

1 heaping tablespoon roughly chopped garlic (about 6 cloves)

1 tablespoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup coconut milk

1 cup coconut cream

1 cup water

4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces

1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste

1 tablespoon cornstarch

For serving: toasted shredded coconut, chopped fresh cilantro, and thin-sliced scallions.

Instructions:

■ Add the soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, thyme, pepper, coconut milk, coconut cream, and water to a large saucepan. Add the chicken. Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover the pan, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook for 20 minutes.

■ Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Refrigerate the chicken in the cooking liquid for 12 to 24 hours.

■ Remove the chicken from the liquid. Stir 1 tablespoon of brown sugar into the liquid and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally until the sauce reduces to about 3 cups. Add the cornstarch to a small bowl and slowly stir in about 1/4 cup of the sauce. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the rest of the sauce and cook, stirring, until it thickens slightly. Taste and add more brown sugar if you’d like.

■ Right before you’re ready to eat, sear the chicken on a very hot griddle or grill. The chicken is fully cooked, so just sear the outside of the pieces until golden.

■ Serve the chicken with the sauce. I like to serve this with rice and veggies that have also been seared quickly, over high heat, on a griddle or grill. Sprinkle with toasted coconut, fresh cilantro, and sliced scallions.

Both of these crowd-pleasing recipes are perfect for summer cookouts and scale up or down with ease. ■

See more recipes from Rebecca on Instagram @littleandalot.

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Pacific

GUM WALL

1428 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

You’ll want to stop in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, of course, but the main attraction is down the alleyway outside of the business, where the vibrant color of Seattle’s Gum Wall will both delight and disgust. Surely one of America’s grossest attractions, it was started in the 1990s, when a band and their fans stuck their chewed gum on the wall, and it’s only been cleaned o once, in 2015. Feel free to add your own gum to the wall, contributing to the vivid, unique art exhibit! The display of colorful gum definitely warrants a second look.

Photos contributed by Roque Corona @roqeleon

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KAMP KLAMATH RV PARK AND CAMPGROUND

1661 Klamath Beach Road, Klamath, CA 95548

Kamp Klamath is a peaceful campground with camping for all. Our favorite things about the campground are the spacioaus meadow and numerous trails to walk with our dogs. The campground has multiple access points to the Klamath River, and is just a short walk from the beach. It’s secluded by massive redwoods and teeming with birds and other wildlife. Tent campers, vanlifers, and RVers can all find a spacious site at Kamp Klamath. They also have bathrooms/showers, a laundry facility, and a huge deck that can be used to host family meals with a fire in the fire pit and stargazing!

Contributed by Cory and Shea Smith @comfortable_freedom

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

Teton County, WY

Visit Grand Teton National Park for stunning mountains, a picture-perfect lake and river, and incredible wildlife. The national park o ers more than 200 miles of hiking and backpacking trails, along with boating, kayaking, and wildlife and horseback tours. You can rent kayaks at Jackson Lake in Colter Bay for a fun adventure with great views of the Teton Range. Even a simple drive in the park can inspire—you could

come across any number of animals, including grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, bison, and more.

Yellowstone is only a few hours away, so you might want to consider visiting both of these beautiful national parks in one trip.

Photos contributed by Brenda Huynh @rv_lifestyle_asianfamily

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RAINBOW LAKE CABIN AND RV RESORT

806 Carrizo Canyon Road, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Rainbow Lake gets its name from its rainbow trout pond. This quiet campground is a few miles outside of town in the Sierra Blanca mountain range, which is part of the Sacramento Mountains that border Lincoln National Forest.

The campground o ers full hookups, and it has cozy cabins perfect for friends or family who want to join you. We saw plenty of wildlife right outside our RV. We also enjoyed the trails that were connected to the campground for easy hiking.

ROWLEY’S RED BARN

Santaquin, UT

Rowley’s Red Barn is the ultimate stop for farm fresh foods and country fun. It’s located right o the freeway in Santaquin, Utah.

The iconic red barn provides homemade ice creams and pastries, home-grown produce, and world-class dried cherries—along with all the character of a family-owned, working farm!

This is a very popular Harvest Hosts location that o ers plenty of space for large rigs with 15 available spaces. The location is pet-friendly and familyfriendly, and regularly hosts events. Members say that the desserts, especially the ice cream, are not to be missed!

This campground stuck out to us because it’s close to Grindstone Lake, where you can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and fishing. Management is super friendly and takes care of the guests.

Contributed by Jeremy Crawford @countryside_ rving

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LAKE OSPREY RV RESORT

12054 Gateway Drive, Elberta, AL 36530

Located on the border of Alabama and Florida beaches, this is a true luxury RV resort! This is one of the nicest and most manicured campgrounds we have ever seen. The campground is wrapped around two lakes that are perfect for fishing, and the lakeside spots have a ton of room, with a huge grassy area behind your RV. There are also two sandy beach areas for lounging.

Most of the sites on the water are pull-in spots, which are perfect for Class As, but they have plenty of back-in and pull-through spots for fifth wheels and travel trailers as well. They also have some of the best amenities we’ve ever seen—three pickleball courts, a fitness center, a putting green, a heated pool, a hot tub, a trash valet, and free laundry! The sites here are for purchase, so some people own them and stay, and some rent them out while they travel. Each site is large enough to build a small house on the property, and a lot of people have! Overall, it’s a great campground, whether you’re just there for a visit or want to buy a lot and stay forever.

Contributed by Patty Gill @gills_on_wheels

LEANING TOWER OF NILES

6300 W. Touhy Ave., Niles, IL 60714

Find an Italian classic close to Chicago! The Leaning Tower of Niles is a replica of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, except this roadside stop is much shorter.

Standing at 94 feet tall, the tower’s main purpose was to hide a water tower. In the 1920s, Robert Ilg built a park that had two large pools. There was no way to get water into the pools without a water tower, which took away from the park’s natural beauty, so Ilg got creative and built the Leaning Tower of Niles

The tower has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The bells in the tower, which have also been restored through the years, bring a musical melody to those in the area.

Photos contributed by Deepa Grover @deeps.vision

QUECHEE GORGE Along Route 4, Quechee, VT

As you travel through Vermont, you will quickly become familiar with its iconic symbols, such as Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, craft beer, and cheddar cheese. However, one of the state’s biggest attractions is actually a 165 -foot-deep chasm that cuts through the earth and forms the deepest gorge in the state, a ectionately known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”

The Quechee Gorge is a deep, narrow gorge that dates back 13,000 years and provides amazing views of the Ottauquechee River below. A bridge spanning the gorge is a great viewing platform, and thus is often lined with onlookers marveling at the natural wonder. If you have time, hike the short trail down to the bottom and walk along the riverbed for a di erent perspective where you can really feel the magnitude and depth of the gorge.

BOOTHBAY CRAFT BREWERY, TAPHOUSE, AND RV

Boothbay, ME

Boothbay Craft Brewery, Taphouse, and RV is one of the most unique craft beer destinations in the Harvest Hosts network. Not only are they a full brewery and taphouse, but RVers can opt to stay overnight (without a Harvest Hosts membership) for a fee on their website, because this site is a full resort!

They also o er an extensive food menu, and we hear the cheese fries and pizza are the way to go. There’s a beer garden, Wi-Fi, a speakeasy, and ample parking.

Contributed by Nancy Walters @rvagogo

DELAWARE SEASHORE STATE PARK

39415 Inlet Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

If you love being surrounded by water, check out Delaware Seashore State Park. This campground is located on the Indian River Inlet and is a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean and the beach.

The park has two campgrounds, which are located on the north and south side of the inlet and connect via a bridge with a walking and biking path. Both campgrounds can accommodate a variety of camping units, from tents to large RVs. Most campsites are pullthroughs with 30- and 50-amp electric, water, and sewer, and each section has its own bathhouses and laundry facilities. There is a small camp store on the south side, which has gifts, RV accessories, and souvenirs

THE MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILWAY

Mount Washington, NH

This is the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, powered by custom-built biodiesel and vintage steam locomotives.

Here’s an excerpt from their website: “The Second Greatest Show on Earth!” That’s what showman P. T. Barnum proclaimed in 1869 as he stepped down o the train and marveled at the view from Mount Washington’s rocky summit. High praise indeed from the man whose grand circus occupied the primary spot.

Today, more than 150 years later, the Mount Washington Cog Railway continues to thrill passengers from all over the world with its dramatic ascent to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast.

Harvest Hosts members rave about the railway and say it should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s a snowy spot, but well worth the adventure ■

We stayed in the south campground in the spring. Campsites are in the open with no shade and your patio is basically sand. Roads and campsites are paved and level, and each site has a picnic table. While there are no individual fire pits, there is a community fire as you enter the campground.

Contributed by Nancy Walters @rvagogo

AND U nplugged Loving It

NOMADS SHARE TIPS FOR BOONDOCKING SUCCESS

By Nicoll Davis

Boondocking is a popular activity for RVers who enjoy exploring remote, o -grid areas, as well as those who want to save some money! Boondockers camp without hookups or campground amenities, relying on their own self-su ciency and resourcefulness to enjoy a natural,

authentic camping experience. It can present some real challenges, though— especially for those who are new to the lifestyle. We spoke with some full-time nomads and gathered valuable insights on boondocking, including their tips and strategies for finding the best spots.

Trey and Angela travel full time in their RV and enjoy boondocking in beautiful and remote locations across the United States. They choose to boondock in order to enjoy the freedom and independence of o -grid living while exploring the country

When Trey and Angela decided they wanted to hit the road full time, they knew they wanted to be able to do so o -grid. “We didn’t want the restrictions or costs of RV parks,” they said. “Therefore, being self-su cient and being able to camp for free in beautiful places, with privacy when we wanted it, was a must. We also work full time in our camper, so we prefer peace and quiet on work days.”

Now experienced boondockers, Trey and Angela have developed a keen sense of what makes a good boondocking spot and how to find the best locations. They use resources including Campendium, iOverlander, and Google Maps to identify potential sites. They also have a set of criteria they consider when selecting a spot, including access to water, clear sky views for solar power, and a location that’s easy to get to with their o -road Altima. They also prioritize their 9 to 5 work schedule, preferring “areas that aren’t going to have o -highway vehicles zipping around 24/7.”

The couple brings essential items with them to extend their boondocking capabilities. They have a 40-gallon water tank in their truck that they can transfer to their camper’s onboard 40-gallon fresh tank when it gets empty, giving them about 80 gallons to work with. Their setup also includes a 12-volt water pump and portable gray tank. They use propane from two 30-pound tanks, with a third for when things get low. To keep the power flowing, they have solar panels, a lithium battery bank, and a

generator. This setup allows them to be self-su cient and comfortable in remote areas for up to a week.

Trey and Angela have gone to great lengths to adapt their lifestyle to boondocking, and one of their biggest game-changers is a composting toilet. “It lets us combine our black and gray tanks into one bigger gray tank,” they said. By avoiding the need for chemicals or sewage in the black tank, they can easily haul away used gray water. “Cleaning the waste out of the composting toilet every couple of weeks is a straightforward process that takes 30 minutes to an hour.”

Prioritizing safety when boondocking is important. “We’ve never been in a situation where we felt unsafe,” they said. “The nice thing about this lifestyle is, if you feel unsafe, you can pick up and move.”

Their biggest tip is to go in prepared, but stay flexible. “Don’t get too upset if things don’t go as planned,” they said. They suggest being willing to change plans based on circumstances and not being too rigid with the itinerary. And lastly, they o er a humorous but important reminder: “Keep your composting toilet’s pee canister from getting too full.”

Trey and Angela’s experience with boondocking has had a significant impact on their perspective on travel and living. They realized they don’t need much stu or indoor space to live comfortably, and they’ve found that being outdoors is much more enjoyable. They’re all about self-su ciency, consuming consciously, and not relying on anyone else. Plus, they can visit awesome places without breaking the bank. “We know we can travel and not have to spend an outrageous amount of money to visit some really cool places.”

Trey and Angela Schmeckpeper @schmecks_treks

Kelley and Jared Welch @roxysdopelife

Kelley and Jared have been boondocking for two years, and they love the freedom it provides. As Kelley puts it, “there is nothing like waking up in the middle of nowhere to the sounds of nature and birds chirping.” For her, boondocking o ers the chance to experience peace and serenity. Jared echoes her sentiments, saying he can’t imagine ever returning to a “normal” life, and plans on being nomadic forever.

They rely on Campendium to find great campsites and appreciate the peace of mind that comes with reading reviews. “All of the sites are reviewed, and you can find any important information you need to know,” Kelley said. They prioritize finding sites that can accommodate their big rig and are mindful of not damaging the site or getting stuck. One of the biggest challenges they face is finding a place to dispose of trash, which they noted as being a pain point. They used to prioritize cell service, but after switching to Starlink, that’s no longer a concern.

Kelley and Jared emphasize the importance of having enough water while boondocking. Kelley said, “I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve run out of water in the middle of a shower and had to say, ‘Okay, I guess I don’t need to wash my hair next time since there’s definitely still shampoo in there!’” Before heading out to a remote spot, Kelley said, “I make sure we have groceries and gas for the generator, and I find the closest store in case it’s needed.”

Kelley has some insights on managing power while

boondocking. She said, “We don’t have a lot of solar power, so we rely on running a generator about 2 to 3 hours a day.” She further emphasized that it’s important to determine your power needs to avoid running out in the middle of the night, and added that figuring out the right amount of power can take some trial and error, which sometimes means sacrificing heat.

Kelley takes safety very seriously while boondocking, and after a scary experience in Tucson, Arizona, where the couple had their generator stolen, they’ve learned to be even more cautious. Thanks to an Apple AirTag, they were able to track down and retrieve their stolen property! “Tag everything—your rig, your valuables, your wife,” she joked. They also make sure to arrive at campsites during the day and familiarize themselves with the area before settling in for the night.

Kelley’s love for boondocking is evident. “Boondocking puts life into living,” she said. “Before RV life, I had never even been camping before! Boondocking has helped me gain so much confidence in myself and my abilities. It makes me feel self-su cient, and the beauty I’m surrounded by every day is overwhelming. Being hooked up to power and close to civilization is fun, but boondocking really takes this lifestyle to the next level.” ■

Nicoll travels with her husband, Jake, and shares more of their travels on Instagram @livingtinywithawolf.

BOONDOCKING

Dos & Don’ts

By Olivia de Soria

So, what’s the big deal with boondocking? In exchange for a free campsite in isolation, you’re sacrificing water, electricity, and help from park o cials or camp hosts. If you’re like me—a cautious adventurer and mother of two young children—you prefer being around people. If you’re like my husband, on the other hand, you thrive o isolation, where silence is essential and wildlife is ever-present.

As much as we gravitate toward safety and reliability in our travels, the ultimate truth is that we aren’t in this for comfort, are we? If you’re willing to take some chances, boondocking o ers a rich opportunity to satiate your appetite for adventure, free of charge.

DO USE A COMPOSTING TOILET

This topic is dearest to my heart. It’s funny how shifty fellow RVers get when we try to sway them to the composting side. I hate to be the bearer of bad news here, but as Taro Gomi tells us in my favorite children’s book: “Everyone Poops.” In an RV, you are given the merry task of hauling your poop around in a sloshing tank. Not only does it add immense weight and undeniable stench to your RV, but you also have to spend valuable time finding dump stations, and even more time doing the dumping. We love our Nature’s Head toilet. With four of us, we change the compost once or twice a month. Imagine the freedom! Just remember, if you plan to go this route, this isn’t the time to save a dollar—there’s too much at stake.

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK FOR BUGS

My husband brought us a visitor hitchhiking on his shorts one evening—a brown recluse spider, bigger and scarier than anything I’d ever seen. It moved with unfettered confidence. My husband, holding our one-year-old, gave me a look that told me it had to be me. I picked up a flip-flop and saved our family in one fortuitous blow, but that bug sent me into an existential frenzy for the rest of the night. Avoid this if you can. Keep your doors and screens shut, and check yourself for spiders and ticks after you spend time outside.

DO BRING AUXILIARY POWER SOURCES

We always carry a 2,200watt generator in conjunction with an AC Soft-Start, which lowers the initial power draw used by the compressor to start up. In addition, a versatile little powerhouse like a Jackery Portable Power Station that charges with solar, your car, or an AC plug can come in handy and fill in all the power gaps. Sometimes you don’t want to fire up your generator just to grind your co ee in the morning.

DO LIGHT UP CAMP

Luci lights are solar powered, waterproof, inflatable lanterns that we scatter around camp at night for safety. They recharge themselves during the day and are a low-cost option for some peace of mind.

DO USE USPS GENERAL DELIVERY

USPS General Delivery is a delivery service for those without a permanent address. We fixed the awning in two days after shipping the necessary parts to a participating post o ce via General Delivery. You can find more information at faq.usps.com/s/article/ What-is-General-Delivery.

DON’T IGNORE LOCAL ALERTS

It’s important to be informed on a local level. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been stranded because of avalanches, floods, blasting, and rockslides. Check the local road and weather conditions for your destination before you lose cell service. Call the local ranger station, police department, or gear shop to find out what’s going on in the area.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR AWNING OUT

If you’re not using it, put your awning away! We were happily relaxing in Moab, Utah, one night when a microburst rolled over the Colorado River and smacked us with a hurricane gust, destroying our awning in less than three seconds. ■

For more boondocking adventures, follow Olivia on Instagram @theboatnotes.

FMCA Connections

Save Even More with FMCA Commercial Members!

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.

To learn more about FMCA Connections and FMCA’s other amazing benefits, visit join.fmca.com/rvtoday/

BOONDOCKING Etiquette & Tips

Plus the Leave No Trace Seven Principles

Etiquette

GIVE OTHERS THEIR SPACE

Just because there’s an open site right next to someone doesn’t mean you should take it without looking for a farther one first. Many campers boondock for the sole purpose of solitude and privacy, so leaving more space is always best.

DRIVE SLOWLY

Many o -grid camping spots are on dusty dirt roads. It’s courteous to slow down when driving by your neighbors.

MIND STAY LIMITS

Many public lands have limits on how long you are allowed to boondock. It’s important not to overstay these limits, both to give others a chance to enjoy them and to help prevent these areas from being closed down.

KEEP YOUR PETS IN YOUR CAMP

Reduce conflict with neighboring pets by keeping your own within your campsite. This also helps minimize impacts to wildlife in the area.

DON’T DISTURB OTHERS

Be respectful of others when it comes to the volume of your music, generators, and o -road vehicles. If you like to party, try to find a site all to yourself.

Tips and Tricks

GO FOR A DRY RUN

Before your first boondocking trip, try staying at a campground without using the hookups in order to get a feel for how much water, propane, and electricity you use. Then you can adjust your usage habits accordingly. This will also help you determine whether you need to modify your rig to make boondocking easier.

CREATE A CHECKLIST

Since boondocking requires a bit more preparation than camping at a campground, go through a checklist before you leave. Make sure it covers everything, including emptying black and gray tanks, filling fresh water tanks, checking batteries, and making sure you have trash bags and leveling blocks.

READ REVIEWS

There are many resources—such as iOverlander, Campendium, and freecampsites.net—that have user-populated information about boondocking sites. From cell service to campsite sizes, read about your destination before you go so you know what to expect.

HAVE AN EMERGENCY PLAN

Know your exit route and the way to the nearest town for assistance, and have a list of emergency contacts in your RV in case something goes wrong. ■

LEAVE NO TRACE

Follow these guidelines to enhance our public lands and our future camping experiences.

Leave No Trace

Seven Principles:

■ Plan Ahead and Prepare

■ Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

■ Dispose of Waste Properly

■ Leave What You Find

■ Minimize Campfire Impacts

■ Respect Wildlife

■ Be Considerate of Others

© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org

Photos provided by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics

@leavenotraceorg

BOONDOCKING

Sites

– from Rootless Living M ag azi ne

We feature epic boondocking spots in every issue of RV Today’s sister publication, Rootless Living. Since boondocking is the theme of this issue, we wanted to share a few of our favorite boondocking spots for you here as well. Check out Rootless Living if you’re interested in more!

Hurricane Cli s, UT

GPS: 37.20057, -113.23166

Hurricane Cli s dispersed camping, a Bureau of Land Management site located in Virgin, Utah, is just 25 minutes from Zion National Park. We had a beautiful cli side spot overlooking the Virgin River. We recommend our spot at the top for high-clearance vehicles with fourwheel drive. The roads have ruts and potholes, but we were able to make it with our 42-foot fifth wheel. There are plenty of dirt campsites at the bottom of the mountain with amazing views as well. The spots are all spaced out, so you’ll have plenty of privacy.

We stayed in early October and had no problems with wind, but we saw a lot of reviews saying it was very windy and dusty at times, so your mileage may vary. The sunsets and stargazing were absolutely gorgeous! My kids really loved all the mountain bike trails, and we saw a lot of dirt bikes and four wheelers. Day trips to Zion National Park are really convenient, and we felt safe leaving our rig behind. Camping here is free, with a 14-day limit. There are no amenities, but there is a dump station and water fill at the local convenience store. We had decent cell service with Verizon. All in all, I highly recommend camping at this spot when visiting Zion National Park!

Contributed by Brooklyn Durell @durellsdownsize

Shrine Pass Road, Red Cli , CO

GPS: 39.52252, -106.33676

We loved staying here! The road up to this spot is dirt with some washboards, and some of the side roads are a bit washed out, but we made it slowly over potholes to some of the primo spots. During our two-week stay, we moved around three di erent times and had no problem at all in our 25-foot Winnebago Class C motorhome. We work from the road and had great connectivity with Verizon due to cell towers at the top of the pass.

Shrine Pass Road is busy during the day, with ATVs and vehicles driving up to the trailhead, but it’s a small price to pay for gorgeous free views! It’s also in such a convenient location, being just 25 minutes to Vail, Frisco, or Silverthorne. We highly recommend this spot.

Contributed by Katelyn and Howard Newstate @newstatenomads

Co ee Pot Road, Gypsum, CO

GPS: 39.66746, -107.11259

Getting to this BLM camping spot with breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains requires traversing a rocky washboard dirt road that’s more than 6 miles long, with many switchbacks and a steep cli drop o to one side. There’s a small parking lot where we were able to drop our trailer o before driving up to scope out a spot with just the truck. You will want to have the appropriate power setup and plenty of water and tank storage, as it’s quite a drive to get back into town once you’re up there.

That said, it’s so worth it! While camping here, we experienced some outrageous sunsets and shared them with a herd of sheep bleating all around us. You can see every color and shape of the mountains from here, and you’re even high enough to have service from a local cell tower. This was one of our favorite secluded and peaceful boondocking spots we found in Colorado, and it really had us in touch with nature.

Contributed by Tawnie and Wayne @lifeoutsideboundaries

City of Rocks State Park, NM

GPS: 32.59185, -107.97589

City of Rocks State Park is a dry camper’s desert paradise, o ering a breathtaking mirage of sculptured volcanic rock formations in the shape of boulders and pinnacles, rising as high as 40 feet. Located in southwest New Mexico, about four hours south of Albuquerque and four hours east of Tucson, this state park o ers all the perks of boondocking—distance from neighbors, budget-friendly at only $10 a night, and epic, expansive views—as well as the amenities of a campground—picnic tables, fire rings, vaulted toilets, and clean showers at the welcome center.

The ideal time of year to stay here is early spring or fall, with the best spots being the sites without hookups, which provide panoramic sunsets, incredible stargazing, and quick access to scrambling the rocks and hiking or biking the surrounding trails. There are 41 dry camping sites, many nestled among the rocks, and there are four sites that o er 30-amp electrical hookups. We highly recommend site 30A, especially if your rig is more than 27 feet and you require a cell signal in order to work. At this site, you can get a few bars of AT&T and T-Mobile Plus, being on the west side of the park, you get the best sunset views.

Contributed by Lindsey Chambers @wandering.america

Wedge Overlook, UT

GPS 39.09310, -110.75890

The Wedge Overlook sits right on top of the Little Grand Canyon of the San Rafael River in Utah. Words do not do this place justice—the scenery is just stunning. We felt like we had our own little slice of one of the great Utah National Parks, right here on BLM land. All of the dirt roads leading in are nicely maintained.

The campsites are all numbered, but there are plenty of them and they’re quite large—each numbered campsite could potentially fit several rigs. Site 9 is a very popular large camping area right at the canyon overlook. Site 1 is the farthest down the road and also sits right on the edge of the canyon, but access is better suited to smaller RVs. We stayed at Site 5 with our 41-foot fifth wheel. Cell service was strong with both AT&T and T-Mobile, and we were able to work during our stay here.

Most of the campsites are also right along the Goodwater Trail. This is a 21-mile single-track mountain bike loop that also makes for easy, flat hiking to see even more of the spectacular views of the canyons. If you get tired of the fantastic canyon views from here, a scenic drive through Buckhorn Wash and the Buckhorn Pictograph Panel are not far away. ■

Contributed by Christine & Kevin Skelton @_neverstopadventuring

SOLAR POWER

LIFESTYLE. YOUR POWER. YOUR BUDGET. YOUR SOLUTION. YOUR

TRUCK CHARGING

LITHIUM BATTERY BANK

Road Trip

Games

Many RVers live by the 3-3-3 rule: Never drive more than 3 hours or 300 miles in a day, and stay at least 3 nights in a spot. Whether you follow this rule or not, long drive days come up sometimes, and road trip games can be a welcome distraction. These great games don’t require any extra equipment—just your imagination and a playful attitude!

I’m Going on a Picnic: Working your way through the alphabet, each person says what they’re bringing to a picnic, while also having to remember and list what everyone else is bringing. As you get further into the alphabet, it gets harder to keep track of the list of items.

Name That Tune: Turn down the radio and hum your own songs to see if others in the car can guess what you’re humming! It’s fun to think of obscure songs and stump your travel buddies.

Who Am I?: Think of a celebrity or person known to everyone in the vehicle. Each player gets a turn to ask questions about the person you’re thinking of. Winner goes next!

License Plates: This classic road trip game is fun for the whole family. As you drive, see if you can spot license plates from every state in the United States. Bonus points go to players who find international plates!

I Spy: Spot something in the vehicle and name a characteristic of that item to get the game going. For example, “I spy something blue.” Players then take turns guessing items in the car that fit the mentioned characteristic.

20 Questions: Start this game by thinking of a person, place, or thing. Other players take turns asking only yes-orno questions to try to figure out what you’re thinking. This game is perfect for long car rides because it isn’t limited to things you see inside or outside of the vehicle, which means it can go on for hours!

The Sign Game: As you drive, spot signs, billboards, or brands along the way. Someone in the car names which sign to spot next, and the person who sees it first wins! The winner starts the next round.

Road Trip Olympics: Since little bodies tend to get restless on long drives, this game is great for rest stops. At each stop, do a series of exercises, like jumping jacks, cartwheels, running in place, and any others that your kids enjoy. At the end of the trip, give out medals for the Olympic Games!

Triple Threat: Similar to Mad Libs, but without the booklet, this game is great for those with big imaginations. One person names three words and the rest of the players have to construct a story with those three words in it.

Name the Most: Start with a specific category, like candy bars, national parks, or dog breeds, and give a point to each person who can name one. The person who names the most items in the category wins that round and gets to start the next one.

Fortunately,

Unfortunately: Similar to Triple Threat, this game is really fun for creative storytelling. Players take turns building on the same storyline, but have to begin or end each sentence with “fortunately” or “unfortunately.” There’s no way to keep score and it’s a great way to get everyone in the car involved with their own plot twists!

Room to live.

You’re ready to live. To see all the places and do all the things on your “maybe someday” list. For that kind of freedom, you need a fifth wheel that’ll keep you safe, comfortable and worry-free — from rocky vistas to quiet lakes, from summer to winter, again and again. At DRV Luxury Suites, we build each fifth wheel the same way we’d build our own home. Then we load it with luxurious amenities and back it with the best customer service on the road. All so you can focus on the things that truly matter, like taking in the view.

DRVSuites.com

Destination freedom.

I love introducing people to new places, but writing this article makes me feel like a miner spilling the secret location of his lucrative vein of gold. Northwest Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest is a gold mine for lovers of the outdoors, and it’s a bit o the beaten path, which is probably why it’s not very well known outside of the region.

Bankhead National Forest also contains the Sipsey Wilderness, which protects parts of the wild and scenic Sipsey River. The forest sits at the conjunction of the Coastal Plain and the Cumberland Plateau. This leads to diverse plant and animal life and beautiful rock formations. Lush green ferns, dense forests, and emerald green streams litter the landscape. Bankhead covers more than 180,000 acres, so there are many, many miles to explore.

The area has little to no cell service, and many of the trails are not well-maintained, so planning ahead is a must—be sure to download your Google Maps, AllTrails routes, and anything else you might need before setting out. There are only a few marked trails in the area, and most of them are just well-worn paths leading to some of the most beautiful spots in Alabama. While the National Forest website has maps and designated trails marked, many of the falls and features are accessed via lesser-maintained trails deep in the forest.

One of the best times to visit is in the spring, when the creeks are full and the waterfalls are flowing. Plan on getting wet, as many of the trails require you to pass through water. Some trails will zigzag back and forth across the stream, bouncing between the canyon walls on either side. Sometimes the easiest walk is in the water, as the banks are steep and slippery. Most of the streams are clear and easily followed, and you can also walk up to, around, and behind many of the falls.

HIKES TO CHECK OUT

The Deer Skull Falls and Wolfpen Falls Loop is one of my favorite trails. It’s approximately 7 miles, and leads downhill toward Eagle Creek, which it then follows for much of the path. This dual waterfall nestled in a small canyon has a very peaceful feeling. You can park at a small pull o , and you’ll pass many small waterfalls along the way.

Bankhead National Forest

By Evan Lanier

Deer Skull Falls

White Creek Falls

Eagle Creek Falls

Other places I love

■ White Falls

■ Sipsey Big Tree (the largest known tree in Alabama, with a base that’s approximately 21 feet in diameter)

■ Kinlock Falls and Kinlock Shelter

■ Shangri-La Falls

■ Holmes Chapel Falls

■ Sougahoagdee Falls

■ Turkey Foot Falls

■ Mize Mill Falls

■ Caney Creek Falls

■ You’ll find many more options as you research and make your own plans—the list seems endless!

Holmes Chapel Falls

Turkey Creek Falls

Shangri La Falls

Mize

WHERE TO STAY

This rural region of north Alabama is limited on amenities and developed campgrounds, but dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest. Corinth Recreation Area, which has 52 full-hookup sites, is on the shores of Smith Lake, and reservations can be made via recreation.gov. The less-improved Brushy Lake Campground features a typical fire ring, picnic table, and charcoal grill at each site, and can host smaller rigs for dry camping.

Another option is to stay in one of the larger towns and make the drive in for day trips. Jasper, Cullman, and Birmingham are all within an hour drive of parts of the forest, and Tuscaloosa is only a little farther.

OTHER THINGS TO DO

There are many other things to see while exploring this region in addition to the waterfalls and hiking trails. Natural Bridge Park is home to the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies. At 60 feet high and 148 feet across, it’s an impressive sight and just a short drive from Bankhead.

Dismals Canyon, a lush canyon with beautiful hikes, is a national natural landmark. An especially unique feature of Dismals Canyon is the abundance of glow worms that live in the canyon. You can take a guided night hike that lets you experience the natural bioluminescent grubs that glow on the walls of the canyon.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, located in Decatur, is a wintering host for migratory birds like ducks, geese, and the endangered whooping crane.

In my opinion, the Chevron in Double Springs is one of the best places to get gas station food. It’s always my first stop after a day of hiking. I recommend the patty melt!

Alabama is ranked fifth in the country for biodiversity, and is the most diverse state east of the Mississippi River. Thousands of miles of freshwater streams give life to the lush forests, which host species of freshwater fish, snails, amphibians, crayfish, reptiles, mussels, turtles, and mammals. As a native of this great state, I know it’s not typically on the adventure seeker’s radar, and I think this is a huge mistake. Alabama is loaded with hidden gems, and their lack of popularity is a huge part of what makes them so great. Take a few days to unplug in Bankhead National Forest and experience a quiet retreat in one of Alabama’s natural crown jewels. ■

Evan posts his photos on Instagram @evanlanier and on his website, livemorecollective.com/blog.

Hemlock Falls

Upper White Creek Valentine

M A N R V 1 0 1

f e a t u r e s a n i n l e t 4 f u n c t i o n ( 4 p o s i t i o n )

l o w l e a d b r a s s v a l v e t h a t i s u s e d f o r

f i l l i n g t h e h o l d i n g t a n k , p r e s s u r i z i n g

t h e f i x t u r e s w h e n y o u h a v e a w a t e r

s u p p l y , p u m p f r o m t h e t a n k d u r i n g d r y c a m p i n g a n d h e l p y o u w i t h

w i n t e r i z i n g a n d s a n i t i z i n g y o u r u n i t .

M A N R V 1 0 2

f e a t u r e s a n i n l e t 4 f u n c t i o n ( 4 p o s i t i o n ) l o w l e a d b r a s s v a l v e t h a t i s u s e d f o r f i l l i n g t h e h o l d i n g t a n k , p r e s s u r i z i n g t h e f i x t u r e s w h e n y o u h a v e a w a t e r s u p p l y , p u m p f r o m t h e t a n k d u r i n g d r y c a m p i n g a n d h e l p y o u w i t h w i n t e r i z i n g a n d s a n i t i z i n g y o u r u n i t . T h e

M A N R V 1 0 2 a l s o i n c l u d e s a 3 f u n c t i o n ( 3 p o s i t i o n ) l o w l e a d b r a s s w a t e r h e a t e r b y p a s s v a l v e . N o r m a l p o s i t i o n w h e n t h e u n i t n e e d s h o t w a t e r t o f i x t u r e s . B y p a s s p o s i t i o n f o r m a i n t e n a n c e o n h o t w a t e r h e a t e r a n d t h i r d

p o s i t i o n f o r s a n i t i z i n g y o u r f r e s h w a t e r t a n k

Boundaries

By Jess Stiles

Crazy

The Story Behind the Crazy Cripple Couple

Crazy Cripple is our ethos. To us, the term represents breaking boundaries, and pushing ourselves to the limit, despite our chronic illnesses.

Cripple is the intersection between chronic illness and adventure.”

They were both active kids, playing soccer, skateboarding, and hiking. Their relationship grew through time spent carpooling and chatting about Hobbits, as well as through their mutual love of silliness and adventure. Early on, Mark’s health took a serious nosedive, and he needed a feeding tube to survive. Not long after, Alex developed a major joint condition.

Despite these sudden health conditions upending their lives, Mark and Alex grew stronger together, along with their fur baby, Shadow. Then, an unlikely solution to helping them get back outdoors presented itself—a minivan. It was easy to drive and didn’t require setting up camp, and once they added a few belongings, it quickly felt like home. What started with occasional camping trips in 2016 spiraled into a full-time lifestyle they never imagined. Alex said, “Without getting sick, who knows where we would be? We hope to build a community of cripples and non-cripples alike to get outside no matter what.”

Living in a van has enabled Mark and Alex to focus on living simply and connecting with nature. Taking their chronic illnesses into account, they plan their days based on how they feel. Energetic days are filled with hiking, climbing trees, and playing with Shadow, while restful days consist of reading, watching ’80s movies, and eating pastries.

When asked about their sources of inspiration, Mark and Alex are quick to credit their own passion for adventure and nature. Without their intrinsic drive to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, one could argue that none of this would be possible. They also praise Bob Wells, founder of Cheap RV Living.

“He reinforced our ideology of just getting out there in unconventional ways if it’s your dream. You don’t need all the bells and whistles; all you need to get started is a vehicle and a bed,” Mark said. “His advice is always low budget, DIY ideas that even cripples can do.” Mark and Alex are also grateful to have had help from their families for some of the harder aspects of converting their minivan.

Managing a chronic illness can be challenging, to say the least, and Mark and Alex partially credit their drive to overcome obstacles to being naturally active and neurodivergent. “Chronic illness itself is an obstacle that has amped up our problem-solving skills,” Mark added. When they experience issues, like when Mark’s feeding tube was broken and even the ER couldn’t fix it, they find solutions themselves. “You find new ways,” Mark said.

For others with chronic health conditions, Mark and Alex’s advice is to “be flexible and keep an open mind about how you can engage in travel. You may have to force it into existence, even when conditions may not

be ideal. And lastly, you have to be determined and persistent.”

Mark explained, “It’s easy to tell ourselves that certain things are not worth doing simply because we can’t do them in the way we would ideally want to.” For example, Mark can’t go backpacking or engage in endurance hiking like he used to, and even regular tent camping would be di cult for him. So when he first started experiencing chronic illness, he completely stopped camping and skateboarding.

“It wasn’t until I met Alex and she was so adamant about going on her family camping trip that we started to figure out solutions,” he said. They stayed at Airbnbs for a few trips, but they preferred longer road trips with multiple stops and discovered that packing and unpacking everything Mark needed at each place was hard on his body.

When they bought their minivan, the duo had no idea how to do a campervan conversion. “All we knew was we needed a power source and a mattress, so we got a fancy car battery and a fold-out mattress and went to the local state park to test it out. We just went for it, but in a way that was very manageable since we were only half an hour from home.”

For others who may be facing a similar situation, Mark and Alex said, “Just start somewhere—anywhere. Realize that any progress toward your goal—even a very small baby step, a side step, or even a back step because you tried something and it failed—is still getting you closer to your goal. Just getting out there and doing it is progress.”

They never imagined that their first camping trip would lead them to traveling full time, they said, “but we had a dream. We stayed flexible, open-minded, and persistent. Even now we are constantly going through trial and error to modify our setup and strategy to be optimal for our lives and health.”

When asked if they have a personal mantra, Mark and Alex said, “Crazy Cripple is our ethos. To us, the term represents breaking boundaries, and pushing ourselves to the limit, despite our chronic illnesses. Crazy Cripple is the intersection between chronic illness and adventure.” Ultimately, Mark and Alex felt they had no other choice. “We weren’t going to give up being wild and active just because our bodies were breaking down,” they said.

“We owe it to ourselves to live life to the fullest. We also want to show the world, including others su ering from chronic illness as well as healthy people, that there are ways you can overcome your limitations and accomplish your dreams. Maybe it won’t be in the exact way you wanted, but there are ways to live life to the fullest.” ■

Mark and Alex share their journey on Instagram @crazycripplecouple.

Mark and Alex grew up 10 minutes from each other in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but didn’t meet until they were in college at San Jose State University.

Apps for Planning Your Road Trip

If you aren’t using a trip-planning app while RVing, you’re missing out! You can easily follow your mapping app from Point A to Point B, but trip-planning apps o er a ton of features to optimize your trip, including showing you fun attractions and things to do along the way. Some trip-planning apps even allow you to enter your RV’s length, width, and height to help ensure you stick with roads that are big enough for your rig! Other apps show you campground options and amenities along your route.

While the free version of this app (The Dyrt) shares campground information and availability, the PRO upgrade gets you a ton of helpful features, like RV-specific routes and things to do along the way. Simply enter your starting point and your destination, and it will make recommendations for your whole trip! It’s quick and easy to use, and you can even download o ine maps for areas where you might not have service.

https://thedyrt.com/pro

The free version of this app allows you to plan trips with up to five stops, so you can give it a try before upgrading to the paid version. You enter a start and end point, then tell the app how far out of the way you’re willing to go. It will suggest a range of options for camping, popular attractions, scenic stops, and restaurants. You can also turn on layers for gas stations, rest stops, and RV mechanics when needed. Roadtrippers helps with logistics by calculating your estimated gas costs, mileage, and travel time. The paid version also provides live tra c updates, discounts with travel partners, and other helpful features.

https://roadtrippers.com/plus/

Although this program is not an app, you can build out a hugely comprehensive trip on the web-based platform. Since the platform has been around for a while, it is possibly the most feature-rich road trip planning tool available. In addition to the features mentioned above, the RV LIFE program is part of the RV LIFE Pro suite, which includes RV Safe GPS, Maintenance Tracker, and Campground Reviews. Plus, they’re always adding more features!

https://tripwizard.rvlife.com

National Parks Tour Part One : Saguaro N ational Par k

By Howard and Katelyn Newstate

In each of our five years of full-time RVing, we’ve set goals in an attempt to motivate ourselves and inspire others. This year, our goal is to visit 51 national parks in 52 weeks—that’s a lot of ground to cover, a lot of hiking to do, and a lot of incredible stories to tell! Throughout the year, we’ll be sharing adventures in RV Today from parks across the United States, along with recommendations to help you plan your own national park trip. We’re kicking o the series with Saguaro National Park.

Valley View Overlook Trail

Get Out There

We’ve teamed up with Winnebago for this special tour, and we’re traveling in a 2023 Winnebago Vista Limited Edition RV. This upgraded Class A RV was inspired by our national parks and designed with exploring in mind. At 30 feet in length, it fits into more than 80% of national park campgrounds and has a number of special features to help you “get out there.” For example, since many of the campgrounds inside the parks only o er dry camping, this RV is equipped with a lithium battery, advanced power management, and additional solar panels.

SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK Saguaro National Park has about 2 million saguaro cacti, which are among Katelyn’s very favorite plants. The park is divided into two districts that are about an hour apart, with the city of Tucson, Arizona, right in the middle. The west side, Tucson Mountain District, has a higher concentration of saguaro cacti and is the smaller of the two sides. The east side, Rincon Mountain District, is mostly wilderness framed by the Rincon and Santa Catalina mountain ranges. There are great trails and driving loops on both sides, and we highly recommend planning enough time to visit both.

WHERE TO STAY Saguaro National Park o ers only

backcountry tent camping, available by permit. For those of us traveling by RV, the Gilbert Ray Campground is a great option—it’s located inside of Tucson Mountain Park and is very close to the southern entrance of the Tucson Mountain District. It’s one of our favorite campgrounds in the country. There are 130 RV sites with 30-amp electric, water spigots throughout each loop, two dump stations, and fresh water fill. There is one small loop that is first come, first served, but you’ll need to make online reservations ahead of time for the rest of the sites. And beware, this campground does book up quickly! Our favorite section is the A Loop because of the incredible views of the mountains and the abundance of saguaros you’ll have in your backyard.

Gilbert Ray Campground

Gilbert Ray Campground

Gilbert Ray Campground

@newstatenomads

At each park, we’re filming a YouTube episode to help you plan your own trip, including tips on where to stay and things to do. We take you behind the scenes to meet people who are doing incredible work and making a di erence at each park.

WHAT TO DO

Since the park is divided into two areas, our recommendations are divided into two categories. There is a visitor center in each district, and we suggest stopping at each one to talk with the rangers about their recommendations and grab a map. You can also get your passport stamp if you have the National Park Passport book.

WEST—Tucson Mountain District This area of the park is more condensed, and you’ll see hundreds of thousands of saguaro cacti dotting the hills. There’s a great lookout right behind the Red Hills Visitor Center where you can snap a picture and check out beautiful views of the namesake Red Hills.

For a great day hike, the King Canyon Trail gets our vote. You can hike this trail either as a shorter loop trail, a larger loop with more elevation gain, or for an even more challenging hike, you can take the trail to the top of Wasson Peak. This will take several hours, but you’re rewarded with incredible views from the top!

Driving the scenic Bajada Loop Drive is a great way to fit in several shorter hikes. This is a 6-mile, unpaved but graded dirt road that will take you through the foothills of Saguaro’s Tucson Mountain District. The Valley View Overlook Trail is a relatively easy hike that takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete. You hike past thousands of saguaro cacti and up to a great overlook area. Another can’t-miss stop along this route is the Signal Hill Picnic

Area. It’s a great place to stop for lunch, but the incredible petroglyphs are the real showstoppers! There are dozens carved into the rocks above the picnic area, and you get great views of them only a short distance from the parking lot. Take either of the two trails down across the wash and keep your eyes peeled as you reach the rocks for close-up views of several impressive petroglyphs.

EAST—Rincon Mountain District Before visiting a new park, we like to check out the calendar of events listed on the park’s website. They list all the scheduled ranger-led programs, which we always enjoy. During our Saguaro trip, most of the scheduled activities were happening on the east side of the park, and these are

typically o ered in the peak months of park operations. We opted for a two-hour ranger-led cactus forest caravan tour on the park’s paved loop drive. We had the pleasure of meeting NextGen Ranger Malana Starr, who did an amazing job explaining the unique elements of the Sonoran Desert. The Next Generation Ranger Corps program is unique to Saguaro National Park and is funded through a partnership between the Friends of Saguaro National Park, the National Park Foundation, and the National Park Service. Established in 2015, the program is aimed at recruiting young people from the Southern Arizona area who have an interest in working with the National Park Service.

The paid internship program gives participants a

King Canyon Hike

hands-on opportunity to get their foot in the door with duties including conservation, education, administration, and facilities management. As of this writing, 92 NextGen Rangers have completed the program, with 72% being women and 68% from minority communities. The National Park Service now employs 36 graduates from the program, with 17 of them still working in Saguaro. Malana said she hopes to continue her career at the park, especially since she grew up in Tucson and loves sharing the magic of the area with visitors. We loved learning all about the desert and the nearby mountains from her.

Malana also taught us about the unique “sky islands” found here in the Tucson area. As you climb the Rincon Mountains, the desert landscape gives way to lush pine

forests. Each sky island has a distinct ecosystem, and while the trails in Saguaro National Park that best showcase this are all backcountry wilderness hiking, there is an easily accessible area outside the park where you can see a great display of a sky island. Just north of the park, Mount Lemmon Highway will take you up into the mountains, where you may even see feet of snow at certain times of the year! Be sure to search online and install the free “Mt. Lemmon Science Tour” app on your phone. Featuring music by Tucson band Calexico, the app provides perfectlytimed info as you rise above the city, passing saguaro cacti and eventually entering a juniper and pine tree forest. Another excellent ranger-led program we recommend is “Night Comes Alive.” This sunset hike took us out into

Signal Hill Petroglyphs

Signal Hill Petroglyphs

Mt Lemmon Mt Lemmon

the desert as we searched for the wildlife that calls this incredible place home. With an array of tools like night vision goggles, thermal vision, and bat echolocation detection, we tried to catch a glimpse of the elusive animals that come out at night. Saguaro National Park isn’t designated as an International Dark Sky Park given its close proximity to the city, but there is still a great chance for stargazing, and our ranger gave us a quick astronomy lesson, too!

With a convenient urban location, Saguaro National Park is an approachable destination that can be visited for an afternoon or several days while still having all the amenities of Tucson close

at hand. There are activities from driving tours to strenuous hikes, making it ideal to choose an experience that matches your time and ability. We hope you can visit and spend some time with all our cactus friends! ■

Howard and Katelyn share more information on Saguaro National Park and the 51 Parks in 52 Weeks Tour on their website newstatenomads. com/nationalparks and on Instagram @newstatenomads. Keep an eye out for Part Two of their National Parks Tour covering Death Valley National Park in the next issue of RV Today.

Wrangell-St. Elias VISITING

THE LARGEST U.S. NATIONAL PARK

By Kathryn Frazer

After spending a breathtaking two and a half months road tripping around Alaska, we ended our time in The Last Frontier with a grand finale—Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which, at 13.2 million acres, is the largest national park in the United States!

From the road to get to the park to exploring old mining buildings and walking on a glacier, visiting Wrangell-St. Elias is an exciting addition to any Alaskan adventure. In this article, we’re sharing everything you need to know to experience it for yourself.

Bonanza Mine Trail

About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

In addition to being the largest U.S. national park, Wrangell-St. Elias is home to nine of the 16 highest peaks in the U.S., and has one of the greatest concentrations of glaciers in North America.

It is also a World Heritage Site, along with Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park and two Canadian parks— Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park and Kluane National Park. Together, the four parks make up the largest international protected wilderness.

Wrangell-St. Elias has some interesting copper mining history, too! Back in the early 1900s, copper was discovered in the Kennecott (sometimes spelled Kennicott) area of the park, and a large mining operation was started. From 1911 to 1938, nearly $200 million worth of copper was processed. But by the late 1920s, the supply of high-grade ore was diminishing, and the operation closed by 1938.

Over the past few decades, the park and the local community have been working to preserve the mining buildings, and you can experience many of them while in the park today.

DID YOU KNOW?

■ Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the U.S.

■ The park was home to copper mining in the 1900s

■ Nine of the 16 highest peaks in the U.S. are in this park

■ The park rises from sea level to 18,008 feet

McCarthy Road

Walking to Kennecott

Bonanza Mine Trail

How to get There

Wrangell-St. Elias is located in Southcentral Alaska in a remote area east of Anchorage, along the Canadian border. Although it’s one of the few national parks in Alaska that you can drive to, the majority of the park requires a plane to access. Two areas are reachable by car— Kennecott (6.5 hours from Anchorage) and Nabesna Road (4.5 hours from Anchorage). Because of the di culty and time commitment to get to the park, it receives fewer visitors than Denali or Kenai Fjords, which is one of the reasons we loved it!

Nabesna Road

Nabesna Road is a 42-mile (one way) unpaved road that takes you to the northern area of Wrangell-St. Elias, with various campgrounds and trails, but limited services. This area is less visited than the Kennecott area of the park, but if you’re seeking a remote national park experience, it’s a great area to explore.

McCarthy Road

Kennecott is the most popular area to visit and

requires a 60-mile (one way) drive down the scenic, unpaved McCarthy Road, which takes about 2 hours each way. This road began as a railway to support the Kennecott mines, and when mining ended in 1938, most of the rails were salvaged for scrap iron. In 1971, the rail bed was covered with gravel, which created today’s road.

View from Campsite

Bonanza Mine Trail

While this road used to be known for being rough and causing flat tires, it has been improved over the years and we found it to be relatively smooth. Although you could take a large RV on this road (and people have), we think it’s better suited for vans, Class B or C RVs, and regular vehicles.

Getting to Kennecott from McCarthy Road

Once you get to the end of McCarthy Road, you are still about 5 miles from Kennecott, the main area in this section of the park. This final stretch of road does not allow personal vehicles, so to make it the rest of the way you’ll either have to take a shuttle, which you can reserve in advance, bike, or walk (which is what we did).

When to Visit

Wrangell-St. Elias is best to visit from mid-May to mid-September, which is when the trails are free of snow and visitor facilities are open. We visited in mid-August, and it was perfect!

Where to Stay

Camping Inside the Park

Wrangell-St. Elias has a couple of options when it comes to camping inside the park, all of which are free! On Nabesna Road, you can find a few primitive camping areas, plus the Kendesnii Campground, which has ten sites. In the Kennecott area of the park, there are no developed campgrounds, but there are primitive campsites about 2 miles into the Root Glacier Trail. We stayed at a campsite overlooking the Root Glacier, and it was one of the best campsite views we’ve ever had! Not only did we have stunning views from our tent, but it allowed us to explore the park more easily, with many sights and day hikes nearby.

Dry Camping Outside of the Park

Right at the end of McCarthy Road is Base Camp Kennicott, where you can park to visit the Kennecott area for $10 per day, with a variety of spaces to camp for $30 per night. There are no designated campsites here and no amenities except an outhouse, but it’s very convenient if you’re planning

Root Glacier

Stairway Icefall

Bonanza Mine Trail

Bonanza Mine Trail

to visit this area of the park. We stayed here for one night before hiking into the park, and we parked our van here while we were camping by Root Glacier.

Kennicott Glacier Lodge

Not up for camping? The Kennicott Glacier Lodge is located right by the Kennecott mines, making it the perfect location to explore the park.

Hotels in McCarthy

The town of McCarthy, which is located about half a mile east of the end of McCarthy Road, has a couple of small hotels.

Best Things to Do

Explore the Kennecott Mines

Visiting the Kennecott Mines is a must! There are quite a few buildings that are open to the public, which are restored inside and have di erent exhibits, but to go inside the iconic mill building, you’ll have to take a 2-hour tour. Be sure to book this in advance!

Walk on the Root Glacier

Of the park’s 5,000 square miles of glacial ice, Root Glacier is the most accessible. You can not only hike

THINGS TO KNOW

■ It is free Wrangell-St. Elias is totally free to visit, apart from any parking, shuttles, or tours.

■ How much time do you need? We spent two and a half days in the park, not including driving time, and it was the perfect amount of time. We were able to explore the mines, do two day hikes, and check out McCarthy.

■ Dogs are allowed Unlike most national parks, dogs are allowed on trails (on leash) in WrangellSt. Elias! Our pup, Kona, really enjoyed getting to hike and camp with us here.

■ Bring bear spray Wrangell-St. Elias is home to both black bears and grizzly bears, so be sure to carry bear spray! We actually encountered our first grizzly bear on a trail here, but thankfully it had zero interest in us.

■ Food inside the park There are a couple of dining options in the Kennecott area of the park, including a restaurant at the Kennicott Glacier Lodge, as well as a food truck called the Meatza Wagon. McCarthy has food options as well.

to the glacier (which is about 5 miles round trip), but you can also walk on it! And what makes this glacier extra unique is that if you have crampons or spikes, you are allowed to walk on it by yourself, which is an incredible experience. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, you can hire a guide to take you out on the glacier or go ice climbing.

Hike to the Bonanza Mine

The Bonanza Mine Trail is a di cult but rewarding hike that takes you to the Bonanza Mine. The story is that when two prospectors came across an enormous body of copper ore here in the early 1900s, they exclaimed, “It’s a bonanza!”

This hike is 8.3 miles round trip and gains 4,000 feet of elevation, which was extremely exhausting. But the scenery of the Root Glacier, jagged mountain peaks, a waterfall, and the mine itself, made the trek more than worth it. We even found small amounts of copper ore on the ground!

Go on a Flightseeing Tour

With the majority of the park being wilderness, one of the best ways to experience it is from the air.

Wrangell Mountain Air in McCarthy o ers a variety of tours, which can take you over glaciers and right by some of the tallest mountains in the United States.

Drive Nabesna Road

We didn’t have time to drive Nabesna Road on our first visit to the park, but it’s top priority for our next trip! Driving the road itself will be scenic, but to stretch your legs, check out the Skookum Volcano Trail, which is 4.2 miles round trip with 1,345 feet of elevation gain.

Visit McCarthy

Although it’s not technically inside the national park, McCarthy is on the way to the Kennecott mines and is a really neat little town to wander around. While here, be sure to eat at The Potato, which is a delicious way to start or end your adventures in the park! ■

Kathryn shares more travel guides on her blog, adventuresofaplusk.com, as well as on YouTube and Instagram @adventuresofaplusk.

Kennecott Mine

The Potato

Kennecott Mine

Clean & Fresh

Approved 10RVer Products

Stay fresh and clean with this list of recommended products, good for cleaning your RV inside and out.

303 Black Streak Remover

You know those annoying black streaks that keep showing up on the sides of your RV? Give this black streak remover a shot and keep your rig looking shiny and new.

Camco grey water odor control

Keep the stink away with this holding tank treatment from Camco. It removes buildup in the tank, sink, and lines.

Aero Cosmetics waterless kit

Need options for an easy way to clean the exterior of your RV, anytime, and any place? Check out this waterless wash and wax kit that RVers love!

RecPro Extreme Duty RV rubber roof kit

Available in lengths from five feet up to 40 feet, this kit is for the DIYers among us. It contains everything you need for a watertight and weatherproof seal up top.

Thetford Aqua-Clean kitchen and bath cleaner

Designed to be compatible with RVs, Thetford’s kitchen and bath cleaner requires no scrubbing with its foaming action. It will help remove soap scum, rust, and hard water stains.

EternaBond

EternaBond is a favorite among RVers for sealing roof seams. With Microsealant technology, this tape will keep water out for years to come.

Unique RV toilet cleaner

Made for RV and marine toilets, this cleaner helps break down waste while keeping your toilet bowl clean.

Camco sanitation gloves

Keep your hands clean when doing dirty work. These gloves are ideal for use while emptying black tanks.

Dicor rubber roof cleaner

Dirt and grime be gone! Use this spray on your RV roof, along with a brush, for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Star brite RV wash and wax

This wash and wax cleans and shines in just one step, making your RV look like new. ■

Events

Upcoming RV Events and Rallies

Stay connected with fellow RVers at these 2023 and 2024 events. Visit rvtoday.com/rv-rallies for more information.

AUGUST

2023 Forest River Owners Group

International Rally

August 13–19

Goshen, IN

Let’s Go Sunshine Coast Caravan and Outdoor Expo

August 18–20

Nambour, Queensland, Australia

The Western Motorhome and Campervan Show

Aug 18–20

Malvern, Worcestershire, England

SEPTEMBER

Adventure Van Expo

September 2–3

Ogden, UT

Adventure Van Expo

September 16–17

Olympic Valley, CA

Bus Conversion Travelers’ Rally

September 26–October 2

Camp Verde, AZ

OCTOBER

Ti n New England Rally

October 2–6

Essex Junction, VT

O.C.T.O. Fest 2023

October 14

Long Beach, CA

Fast Times at Farmington #39

October 15

Mocksville, NC

NOVEMBER

Trail Along to Pismo Vintage Trailer Rally

November 2–5

Pismo Beach, CA

Rainbow RV CA Palm Springs Pride

2023

November 3–6

Palm Springs, CA

RVing Women Florida Chapter

November 9–12

Punta Gorda, FL

DECEMBER

RVing Women New Member Orientation

December 3

Virtual

Loners on Wheels Texas Border

December 11–15

Marshall, TX

Florida Airstream Club Ring It In Silver In 2024 New Year’s Rally

December 28–January 1

St. Augustine, FL

JANUARY

Ohio RV and Boat Show

January 5–14

Columbus, OH

Pittsburgh RV Show

January 6–14

Pittsburgh, PA

Florida RV Supershow

January 18–22

Tampa, FL

Events listed are a courtesy to our readers, with dates and details subject to change. For more information, contact the event organizers directly. If you want your next event listed here, please email collab@rvtoday.com.

RV Yesterday

Many of the early camp trailers were homemade, like this one owned by a construction worker at Camp Livingston in Alexandria, Louisiana. Also known as a house car, this photo taken in 1940 by Marion Post Wolcott shows the unique craftsmanship and ingenuity of early RV designs.

the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2017805880/.

Photo courtesy of Wolcott, M. P., photographer. (1940) Construction worker’s trailer home-made house car. He has a job at Camp Livingston. Alexandria, Louisiana. United States Alexandria Louisiana Rapides Parish, 1940. Dec. [Photograph] Retrieved from