This peninsula along the state’s eastern shore is a hodge-podge of orchards, lighthouses and state parks, all nestled within a landscape that harkens back to a simpler time. The region is also a haven for lake lovers and watersports aficionados who arrive each summer to enjoy the more than 300 miles of pristine shoreline. Whether you’re looking for fun-in-the-sun or laid-back luxury, life just seems a little easier in Door County.

Loads of Lighthouses

Getting its name from the 19th-century ship captains who called the waters around its northernmost point ‘Porte des Morts’ – or ‘Death’s Door’ – it’s no wonder that the coast of Door County is dotted with lifesaving lighthouses. These days, touring all eleven is the perfect introduction to the region’s quaint waterfront towns. Sturgeon Bay, the county’s largest, has three lighthouses, as well as quirky boutiques, carriage rides, and plenty of boating opportunities. Farther north, the lighthouses around Bailey’s Harbor are easily accessible, with many open to the public. The most photogenic of the bunch, the Cana Island Lighthouse, lies just off the coast and can be waded to during low tide. More remote lights, like the Chambers Island Lighthouse and the Pottawatomie Lighthouse on Rock Island, are only accessible by boat or ferry.

Nautical Past

 

To learn more about the region’s longstanding relationship with Lake Michigan and beyond, head to the Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay. Exhibits at the waterfront site include deep dives into the area’s long history of shipbuilding, its most fantastic captains and craftsman, and a growing number of workshops and classes for those looking to gain hands-on experience. At the northernmost tip of the peninsula, in the small fishing town of Gills Rock, the Death’s Door Maritime Museum offers up insight into the shipwrecks and storms that have come to define the region’s waterways. You can explore a 45ft wooden fishing tug, see artifacts from decades old wrecks, and learn more about the finely-crafted lenses used in the nearby lighthouses. Amazingly, many of the most prominent shipwrecks are submerged in less than 60ft of water, which means that kayakers and snorkelers can see them from the surface when the water is clear. Join a guided boat tour or scenic cruise for an even closer look.

Some RVers might be nervous to venture off the grid. But traveling to rugged, remote destinations doesn’t have to be so intimidating. With the increase of RVs designed for off-road adventures, it’s easier than ever for outdoor enthusiasts to conquer their nerves and replace them with excitement and memories that are truly one-of-a-kind.

While road trips on major routes and byways are still popular, it’s the option to drive to places where only hiking boots can go that really inspire intrepid wanderlust. If your sign of a good trip is mud-caked tires, then an RV built for off-road is the adventure travel partner you need.

So, what makes an RV built for off-road adventures? Let’s get into it.

What to Look for in an Off-Road RV?

Every RV differs from one to the next, but an off-road RV sets itself apart in more than just looks. An off-road RV is built specifically for roads less traveled–think dirt roads, mud trails, or sand-packed shores. It’s on these roads less traveled where the adventure is the journey and not just the destination. Here’s what to look for in an off-road RV.

Industrial Design and Construction

Image: Camping World

Featuring rugged construction from raised axles to reinforced bodies, off-road tires to four-wheel drive capability, off-road RVs are built with protection in mind. They’re designed to protect you and your rig while traversing rugged paths that would cause most RVs to back down quickly. Simply put, off-road RVs are not your typical camper – they’re on another level.

Our first taste of Grand Teton National Park was just a quick drive through it, so we were excited to finally spend a couple of ... Read more

With a yearly attendance of 300,000, one would think that not many people know of the extreme seclusion and overwhelming peace found at Anacapa, Santa Barbara, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, and Santa Cruz islands only 20 miles away from the coast of California. And they would be correct.

Channel Islands National Park is a respite from the fast-paced, crowded city life that lies just across the bay. Kayaks are the main form of transportation around these islands, which harbor 145 incredible plant and animal species not found anywhere else in the world.

Those who have discovered the park’s charms come to watch the whale migration from north and south, spearfish through giant kelp beds, and explore amazing sea caves. It is here, in a land stripped to its bare essentials, that these travelers seek to recover their own equilibrium through the self-sufficiency and preparedness required for one of Mother Nature’s best offerings.

Why Visit Channel Islands National Park in an RV?

Photo Credit: Derek Lohuis

Travelers will not get to the islands with their RV, but they will get pretty close. Ventura, California is the mainland destination, where boat service takes visitors on the 20-mile journey out to the Channel Islands. Once on Santa Cruz, or any of the other islands, let your feet do the hiking over hills, to sea cliffs, and onto the beaches of America’s version of The Galapagos. Or, sign on with a guide service and explore the many sea caves in a kayak. Return to the mainland when you are ready, and your home away from home will be waiting for you.

While you can’t physically reach the Channel Islands National Park by RV, you can still take in the breathtaking views while parked. Being close to the park is one of the biggest advantages of traveling by RV, meaning you’ll be among the first visitors in line for the boat service or air service. Who wouldn’t want to cut down on time waiting to climb aboard a boat or plane to save as much time for exploring the park once you arrive? The comfort and convenience of your RV will be ready, and close by, after a full day of exploring.

Cape Cod lives up to its reputation as a postcard-worthy New England excursion. Jutting out into the Atlantic like a flexing arm, this 339-square-mile Massachusetts playground is home to pristine sandy beaches, rugged natural landscapes and charming seafaring villages. This is where a quiet stroll can lead past Gilded Age mansions, expansive dunes and sun-dappled forests. Check out the charming Cape towns for tranquil walks among coastal pine forests, craggy bluffs, salty marshes and sandy beaches.

Visit the historic lighthouses, tour the wild cranberry bogs, or walk in the footsteps of America’s 35th president. Sample succulent lobster and get crackin’ with the best oysters in New England. Learn the history of the U.S. Coast Guard and explore where Mayflower residents began a new life. This New England coast is steeped in history, legends and romance.

Bay State Paradise

Cape Cod National Seashore, on the tip of Cape Cod, is a 40-mile natural paradise filled with marshlands, freshwater ponds, wild cranberry bogs and beautiful pristine beaches. Wildlife and sea critters are plentiful along with picturesque lighthouses guiding ships at sea to safe harbor. There’s even an ocean graveyard between Chatham and Provincetown where more than 1,000 shipwrecks are buried.

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the nation’s most unique national parks. Although only 70 miles from Key West, FL, Dry Tortugas is the nation’s most remote national park, only accessible by boat or seaplane. 

The list of amenities is few. There’s no cellphone service, no internet, no fuel, no public bathrooms, and there’s not even food or water. You need to bring what you want and need along with you.

What Dry Tortugas does have is 100 square miles of tropical waters and seven small islands where visitors can step back in time and step into nature the way it was intended—wild and untouched.

Why Visit Dry Tortugas National Park?

Photo: Key West Seaplane Adventures

Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the picturesque blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. If you’re into world-class snorkeling and diving, fishing, or soaking up the sun on soft white sand beaches as the day passes, Dry Tortugas National Park is the place for you.

This park often goes overlooked because the lure of Key West stops most visitors. But if you make the excursion, the snorkeling in Dry Tortugas is better than almost anywhere else in the Keys and the secluded, white sand beaches are far superior to any beach in Key West.

The biggest benefit to RV traveling and camping (other than not sleeping on the ground) is having all the amenities of home with you. Road trips can be much more enjoyable and relaxing when you have a comfortable resting place, from a cozy living room to a tranquil outdoor patio. But, let’s be honest, an RV won’t feel like home the moment you drive it off the lot. It’s up to you to make it cozy and welcoming. So, whether you’re a full-time RVer or weekend warrior, it’s time to transform your RV interior.

We asked and you answered––here are unique and simple ways you can transform your RV into your own rolling home!

Hang Wall Decor

This is the easiest way to “spruce up” any space and add your own special touch with your favorite camper decor. Whether it’s family pictures, inspiring quotes, or photography of the places you hope to visit, hang up whatever makes you happy! You may think it’s impossible to keep decor on the walls with all the movement that happens when you travel. Maybe you’re also worried about putting holes in your RV’s walls. But, fear not! Command hooks, putty, and velcro work wonders. Another option is to use decals that stick right on the wall and are removable, reusable, and affordable!

The Rollin Boles

“I add decorative touches that are easy to just put away in a tote when we are on the road and just take them out when we get to the campground.”-Karla Clark

Add a Rug or Two

Most RVs come with laminate flooring, which makes it easy to clean and care for. You can always replace the flooring if you’re ready for a challenging DIY project. Learn about all the kinds of RV flooring and which one is right for you.

Eleven states make up the Northeast region of the United States including Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The Northeast has a diverse climate, with very cold winters. But visiting this region in the summertime makes for great hiking, and the autumn foliage colors will inspire you to get outside with your dogs.

Our favorite part of travel is the food, and this region has it all from Boston Baked Beans, wild blueberries, stews, chowders, breads, and apples! Our dogs Brickle and Digby certainly had their favorites! We may have shared a few blueberry pies in Maine!

Both mountain ranges and ocean views can be found when you travel in your RV to the Northeast! Major cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia also offer a slice of history and culture. This region truly has it all, but like any region we have visited, Brickle and Digby had their favorite dog-friendly destinations in the Northeast!

Mystic Seaport, Connecticut

There are over 19 acres on the banks of the Mystic River in Connecticut. Mystic Seaport is the largest maritime museum in the United States. But this is really a park! Stroll along with your dog and gaze at magnificent old boats and learn about the nautical lifestyle that was common in this part of New England. Pets must be on a leash and are welcome in all outdoor areas. Pets may also join you on the narrated waterfront cruise, as long as the tour size allows room for the dog on the boat! Take your pick of the RV resorts in the area that offer a water view and welcome dogs!

RV Campgrounds Near Mystic, CT

Timber Creek RV ResortAshaway RV Resort

Delaware

Delaware is the second smallest state in the country, but it also offers five beautiful state parks to camp at! We enjoyed Killens Pond State Park near Felton, Delaware. Killens Pond is the perfect place to kayak, canoe, boat, or paddleboat and hike around a pond with your dog! Killens Pond State Park campground has 59 single-family campsites with electric and water hookups which is dog friendly.

May has the biggest barbecue event of the year: Memorial Day, when chefs fire up the grills and cook up tasty cuisine at campgrounds across the U.S. Backyard chefs will argue over which state has the best barbecue, but we don’t have time to engage in a debate. Instead, let us recommend two gorgeous states where the food is as spectacular as the scenery.

See our Regional Travel Calendar for more year-round destinations.

Kentucky

Get in the Bluegrass State spirit at these delicious destinations.

Explore Daniel Boone National Forest

Set within Daniel Boone National Forest, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is home to what locals affectionately refer to as “Niagara of the South.”

Sometimes the best way to spend your vacations isn’t on the road; it’s in the comfort of your very own destination trailer. If you love to enjoy extended stays at your favorite vacation spot, a destination trailer or park model is just what you need. Below, you’ll find five of our favorite floorplans for your next home away from home.

Find more Forest River destination trailers for sale near you!

2021 Forest River Cedar Creek Cottage 40CCK

This Forest River Cedar Creek Cottage 40CCK destination trailer is the perfect couple’s coach for snowbirds. Inside, you’ll find a front living room with seating for you and your guests. You’ll love the theater seats and the entertainment center with a fireplace that is controlled by a thermostat. The dual entry doors allow you easy access throughout the RV.

Additional Features:

Front Living AreaHide-A-Bed SofaKitchen IslandFireplace with ThermostatDual EntryPower Theater Seats

2022 Forest River Salem Grand Villa 42FK

For a more family-friendly option, check out the Forest River Salem Grand Villa 42FK destination trailer that offers sleeping for up to ten! The double loft over the master bedroom and bathroom ensures that everyone gets an amazing night’s sleep. You’ll love that the bathroom features a walk-in shower with plenty of space so that you can relax and unwind.

Additional Features:

One of the newest additions to the national park system, New River Gorge National Park is a hiking and whitewater rafting paradise. Encompassing more than 70,000 acres, the park boasts deep canyons, rich cultural and natural history, and is home to one of the oldest rivers in North America. 

Why Visit New River Gorge National Park in an RV?

Photo by anthony heflin via Shutterstock

New River Gorge offers several free camping areas right along the river. Most locations offer primitive camping free of charge, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. That means a road trip to visit this park in a smaller RV or travel trailer will make your trip much more comfortable. 

Smaller rigs are best if you are planning to stay at one of the camping areas along the river. If you are looking for a campground with full hookups, you’ll need to camp on the rim of the river gorge. Many of the park’s roads are narrow and windy once you leave the rim and head down into the canyon. 

If you’re trying to enjoy some of the park’s notorious whitewater, having a warm, dry RV to come home to at the end of the day will be critical. Especially if you happen to go for an unexpected swim. 

When to Visit New River Gorge National Park

New River Gorge National Park is open year-round, but the visitor centers are closed on major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). April through October tends to be the park’s busiest season, as the weather is excellent and the river runs at optimal flow rates. 

Whenever you’re RVing with the kids, you’ll want to ensure everyone has plenty of space if you’re trapped inside on a rainy day. That won’t be a problem when you have one of these RVs with six slides in tow! These spacious RVs offer beautiful interiors for large families or couples who love to entertain guests at the campground.

Take home this DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites 44 Nashville fifth wheel today.

2022 DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites 44 Nashville

The layout of this DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites 44 Nashville fifth wheel gives you all the space you need for entertaining. The front entertainment center is ideal for hosting game-day activities, and the middle kitchen gives you ample space to prepare snacks and meals for your guests. You’ll love that the full and a half bath design gives you a spacious private bathroom in the master bedroom.

Additional Features:

Front Entertainment CenterSix SlidesFull and Half BathSeparate KitchenConvection MicrowaveResidential ReclinersTruma Hot Water HeaterHeat Pumps on All AC UnitsTank HeatersA luxurious kitchen for making meals for your guests.

2022 Forest River Riverstone 419RD

With opposing slides in the kitchen, the living room, and the master bedroom, this Forest River Riverstone 419RD fifth wheel feels massive once you’re set up at the campground. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a condo instead of an RV wherever you travel. The dual vanity sink in the master bathroom gives you and your partner ample space to get ready in the morning, and the fireplace in the living room helps to keep your space cozy on chilly nights.

Additional Features:

Situated in the vibrant community of Deming in the heart of the Old West is the Little Vineyard RV Resort. Deming is a celebrated “Rock-Hunter’s Paradise” known for geodes, opals and jasper. Our landscape bursts with wildlife, flowers, desert plants, dramatic rocks and minerals, setting the perfect backdrop for amazing hikes, excellent mountain biking, horseback riding, ATV adventures, stargazing, birdwatching, golf and more.

Less than half a mile away is a brand new park with a manmade pond with trout, bass, bluegill, perch, catfish and fathead minnows, walking trails and outdoor exercise equipment. Across the street from the park is an 18-hole semi-private golf course.

Enjoy a weekend away without breaking the bank while experiencing luxury amenities in a friendly atmosphere. Within the resort is a newly renovated clubhouse featuring a billiards room and a library. Little Vineyard offers a pristine 24-hour laundry room and two immaculate bathroom and shower facilities. Fido will feel right at home while playing in the spacious, well-lit dog park. With the recent upgrade to stadium-quality Wi-Fi, guests can surf the internet while watching cable TV without ever feeling like they have left the comforts of home.

Six years ago I bought my first kayak after fishing for two decades. Why? To be honest, I bought it because I got bored. 

There are many reasons why people consider kayak fishing, but it’s important to understand that there’s a lot to learn and many adjustments to make when switching from boat or bank fishing.

In this beginners guide, I want to focus on the applicable tips that you’ll be able to take on the water right away. 

Choosing Your Kayak 

Finding the right kayak comes down to three major factors:

Where you plan to fishWhat you want to catchWhat the water looks like 

There are usually a few different reasons why someone chooses to fish with a kayak. You may not have enough room to store a boat, the budget for a boat, or you’re simply fishing water that is better accessible through a kayak. 

A portable generator is a great alternative power source for your RV or for powering some of your household appliances in emergency situations. Because we’re dealing with gas and electricity here, you’ll need to follow these portable generator safety tips for safe operation.

Test Your Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector 

PC Camping World

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can lead to full incapacitation and, in the worst case, death. You can be exposed to it even if you don’t smell exhaust fumes and the early warning signs are feelings of dizziness, weakness, and sickness. 

If you feel any of these signs, get outside and into fresh air IMMEDIATELY. 

It should also be noted that CO poisoning can affect your neighbors, whether you’re using a generator at home or in a campground. Ensure your generator isn’t expelling fumes into anyone else’s home or RV and notify neighbors of its use to be as safe as possible. 

To protect yourself from carbon monoxide exposure, make sure your CO detectors are plugged in and operating properly. Test the batteries frequently and replace them when needed. If your CO alarm goes off, move outside into fresh air or next to an open door or window. 

Downtown Grande Prairie

The County of Grande Prairie in Alberta has a diverse landscape, including prairie; rivers, creeks and small lakes; a mixed boreal forest; and the province’s northernmost badlands. This contrasting landscape creates different habitats for a variety of wildlife.

Pipestone Creek

The history is just as rich, with evidence of humans dating back to 9,000–10,000 B.C., when the now-fertile farmland was covered by a vast glacier. For pre-human history, dinosaur fossils are being excavated from Kleskun Hill, Pipestone Creek and the Red Willow River.

Canoeing on the Wapiti River

Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of options in the County, including canoeing, jet-boating, parasailing, fishing, wildlife watching, geocaching, hiking, cycling, snowmobiling and ATV riding. There are also farmers’ markets, festivals, cultural events, golf courses, museums, rodeos and historical sites to explore.

The gem of central Alberta, Camrose is located between Calgary and Edmonton and there is plenty to see and do in the area. Camrose RV Park serves as your home away from home while exploring.

Camrose RV Park offers campers new, up-to-date amenities. The Park boasts 107 fully serviced sites, laundry and shower facilities, free Wi-Fi, firewood, a picnic table and a fire pit at each site. Camrose RV Park is “Big Rig Friendly,” and groups are always welcome.

A children’s playground sits on the property along with lots of green space for active kids. Confectionaries and RV supplies at the office keep guests supplied.

Guests can rent the park’s onsite pavilion. It accommodates approximately 50 guests and is conveniently located near the park entrance and close to restrooms. You can also enjoy the group fire pit.

The RV Park sits in the Camrose Regional Exhibition grounds, making this the perfect location to partake of all CRE events, from the Big Valley Jamboree to the Camrose Spring Classic Rough Stock Rodeo. The location entices campers to just park and attend events and activities or explore the many interesting sites in and around the Camrose area and Boomtown Trail. The Park borders the Camrose Resort Casino, offering entertainment and dining within walking distance. Camrose boasts lots of well-known hiking and cycling trails.

Tent camping is a great way to enjoy the rugged nature of the outdoors, but if you’re looking for something that will help you get a good night’s sleep whenever you’re away, we can help! These folding pop-up campers for families give you the feel of sleeping in a tent without the need to toss and turn on the ground. You’ll love the bed tents and features that will help improve your camping experience.

Find more pop-up campers for sale near you!

Coachmen RV Clipper Camping Trailers 107LS Folding Pop-Up Camper

The dual queen bed tents in this Coachmen Clipper Camping Trailers 107LS pop-up camper allow you to sleep up to four adults comfortably. Additionally, sleeping space for the kids can be found on the two gaucho benches. The weather-proof tents make it easy to enjoy a cool spring breeze while drifting off to sleep.

Additional Features:

Queen Tent End BedsTwo GauchosDark Ash CabinetryInterior StorageAn excellent space for your family!

Forest River RV Rockwood Extreme Sports 1910ESP Folding Pop-Up Camper

Featuring plenty of storage space for everyone’s things, this Forest River Rockwood Extreme Sports 1910ESP pop-up camper is an excellent choice for families on the go! The swing galley kitchen gives you all the additional space you need to make meals for your crew before hitting the trails. Enjoy dinners as a family at the dinette table!

Additional Features: