One of the best parts about owning an RV  is the ability to travel with the comforts of home. Your home probably has a few products that make your life easier and more enjoyable. RVing too can be improved with some handy items that enrich your outdoor experience. It’s these little things that make a big difference.

We’re talking about the things that put the “fun,” in functional — the gadgets! Gadgets to an RV enthusiast are like toys to a kid, you can never have too many and they get cooler every year.

We asked you what your favorite RV gadgets were, and you didn’t hesitate to answer! Check out RVers favorite camping gadgets. We’ve rounded up where to find these items below.

Grills & Griddles

Image: Camping World

From tailgating parties to weekend getaways, everyone loves eating tasty meals when they’re on the road. Whether you’re cooking up dinner for the family or appetizers at the campsite, a quality grill or griddle is always a favorite way to fire up the tastebuds.

“Our Blackstone griddle… my husband and daughter have made fried rice and then added chicken. They have done burgers. The nice thing is you can have dinner cooking all at once.” -Alice D.

Winegard entered the television reception industry at the dawn of the television era back in 1954. Since becoming a Camping World vendor in 1973, they’ve demonstrated a strong commitment to adapting to evolving technological advancements and customer needs.

Today, the Winegard Company is the leading television reception products provider in the RV industry. With a diverse line of Winegard TV antennas and a proven track record of quality, they have earned the distinction of being a preferred satellite provider. 

A Smart Satellite TV Antenna Choice

Photo by Camping World

Winegard Company, located in the heart of the Midwest in Burlington, Iowa, takes great pride in designing and manufacturing its antennas in the US. Winegard is committed to providing top-quality products by putting all of its RV antennas and antenna accessories through stringent environmental testing procedures to ensure they can survive the harshest weather conditions.

Furthermore, all automatic antennas are live tested before leaving the facility. With a Winegard antenna, you can be confident you are getting a top-quality product, and their antennas are backed by a limited warranty that covers parts for two years and labor for one year.

Shop Camping World’s complete selection of Winegard TV antennas.

With the weather finally starting to cool off, it’s easy to lean into the upcoming holidays and the laidback lifestyle that typically comes with them this time of year. But don’t start hibernating just yet! There is still plenty of camping to do. Arguably, fall is the best time to pack up the RV and hit the open road. So, before the summer comes to an end completely, check out five of our favorite campgrounds to visit this fall!

1. Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area & Campground — North Carolina

Image: Shutterstock

Swim, fish, and relax at the beautiful Carolina Hemlocks! Located in the mountains of the Pisgah National Forest, the campgrounds also offer challenging trails and hiking for the adventurer that never quits. Some campgrounds even offer stunning river views to maximize the time you’re spending in nature. Imagine those views in fall in North Carolina — have your camera ready.

You can expect moderate temperatures and miles of North Carolina’s breathtaking scenery during the day while being lulled to sleep by the South Toe River at night. Just a short drive away from Mount Mitchell State Park, campground amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, fresh drinking water, and memories to last a lifetime.

Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby

Buck Creek RV ParkMama Gertie’s Hideaway CampgroundScenic RV ResortAsheville Bear Creek RV ParkLakewood RV Resort

2. Ocean Pond Campground — Florida

Image: Leigh Trail / Shutterstock

With over 60 campsites and access to the gorgeous 1,760-acre lake, Ocean Pond is an RVers paradise! The hunting, long trails, and swimming make this a great spot to park the RV and get in touch with your wild side. The Great Florida Birding Trail and the Florida National Scenic Trail pass through this campground making it a backpacker’s dream destination.

Located in the Osceola National Forest, the area is rich with early American history and has played host to the largest battle fought on Florida soil during the Civil War. History enthusiasts are welcome to venture into the Olustee Battlefield State Park and relive the past during the annual civil war reenactment. A campground that marries the past and the present? Sign us up.

Located an hour and a half from Washington, D.C., RVing in Shenandoah National Park offers the “back to nature” option for city dwellers and a hiker’s wonderland. From numerous waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, and unending mountain vistas, this park has everything you need to put the brakes on life’s non-stop carousel of craziness.

A visit to Shenandoah is guaranteed to teach travelers how to stop, look, and listen to the quieter side of existence. Here’s what you need to know about the park before visiting.

Why Visit Shenandoah National Park in Your RV?

Shenandoah National Park offers the perfect opportunity for RVers to escape the city crowds of Washington, D.C., and enter the bucolic meadows, mountains, and forests. The park is a gift of tranquility amid chaos. Its rolling mountain landscapes remind us that time continues on here, but at a slower, more meaningful pace.

When we encounter the staggering beauty of a crashing waterfall in the forest, we realize that the sound of Mother Nature can be loud but magnetic, drawing us closer as if to vocalize her secrets to us. That’s when it hits us: sharing her confidences makes us an accessory, a witness to the mysterious splendor that lies just outside the city on this lovely slice of Virginia real estate.

Skyline Drive is a curving scenic byway that can be traversed in a motorhome, and the park has five campgrounds with hundreds of campsites available for motorhomes and travel trailers. It is an ideal spot to rest and relax or take your activity up a notch with some challenging hikes.

One of the easiest ways to make your RV feel more like home is to remodel it. While manufacturers are becoming more and more aware of what RV enthusiasts are looking for when it comes to design, there’s no denying the mileage you get from adding your own personal touch.

Whether it’s a little change here and there or a full interior remodel, we wanted to know if you could remodel your RV what one thing would you change. So, we asked, and you answered!

Replace the Flooring

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It should come as no surprise that a remodel often starts from the ground up. The flooring in your RV may be outdated, damaged, or simply not your taste, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it that way. Updating your RV flooring is an easy fix that quickly provides a new foundation for all your remodeling desires.

“No carpet on the stairs or slide-outs!!!! It’s so much easier to care for and keep clean [without carpet].” -Kim P.

Not sure which flooring to choose? No worries. There are pros and cons to all RV flooring types including carpet, hardwood, laminate, and vinyl. One thing to keep in mind is how your flooring choice will tie into the rest of your design decisions.

Grand Canyon National Park is the second-most visited national park, just behind Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s one of America’s most distinguishable natural landmarks, not to mention one of the seven natural wonders of the entire world. 

Even those that don’t venture down into the canyon during their visit are amazed by the geological forces that have shaped the region for millennia. But hiking into the Inner Gorge puts things into a whole new perspective

Why Visit Grand Canyon National Park?

Image by bluejayphoto from Getty

The Grand Canyon is truly a sight you have to see to believe. It’s a mile deep, 277 miles long, and 18 miles wide. Photos or videos don’t do it justice as the canyon’s sheer size is astonishing. 

From many points on the river, it’s impossible to catch a glimpse of the river winding by below. That river is responsible for so much of the canyon’s history, but there’s a story to be told in the layers of ancient rock visible from every angle. 

It’s a bucket list destination and something everyone should see in their lifetime. Its name says it all; it’s truly “grand” and a jaw-dropping masterpiece that will leave you speechless.

The Northeasternmost state in the U.S., Maine brings to mind fresh Atlantic seafood, a beautiful rocky coastline dotted with historic lighthouses, and the place that ... Read more

When it comes to RVing, having fun isn’t the only prerequisite. There are several essential items you simply must have if you’re looking to get the most out of your adventures on the road.

Everyone has a different idea of what is “essential,” but this collection of all of our must-have lists is a good place to start in customizing your own camping experience.

You’ll find essentials here for a full-timer or weekend warrior, nomads working from the road or escaping the 9-to-5, travelers pulling a travel trailer or driving a Class A motorhome. Your RV trip will be better — arguably your best — if you stock up on everything you must have for RVing.

Must-Have Kitchen Essentials

Image: Camping World

The heart of every home, even your home away from home, is the kitchen. The table is the place where everyone comes together over a warm meal, a family game, or cozy drinks after a long day. In the kitchen and at mealtime, conversations turn into memories.

So, what are the must-have essentials that take your RV kitchen from standard to superb? I’m glad you asked. Check out the must-have kitchen essentials below:

Are you the type of camper that loves to cook delicious meals at the campground while keeping your family on the go? RVs with a kitchen island make it easy to serve your family and guests. See seven of our favorite floorplans available for RVs with kitchen islands below and find the perfect fit for your family!

Find more fifth wheels with kitchen islands on sale at RVingPlanet.com.

2022 Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pack 355PACK14

This Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pack 355PACK14 toy hauler fifth wheel is an excellent example of how a kitchen island can make an RV feel like a home away from home! The kitchen features an island bar with stools to make breakfasts and lunches with your family easy and fun! Inside, you’ll find a spacious separated garage with 14′ of storage space.

Additional Features:

Separate Garage30 Gallon Fuel StationBar Top with StoolsPass-Through with D-RingsBath and a Half“Party Patio”King BedThis nook is great for cleaning up after dinner or a coffee corner!

2022 Keystone Outback 355CG

Another option for taking your toys on the road is the Keystone Outback 355CG toy hauler travel trailer with a dual entry bathroom and more! The 21′ awning ensures you always have plenty of shade at the campground, and you’ll love the power ramp door for loading and unloading your toys. There’s sleeping for up to six in this unit!

Additional Features:

As the world’s first cave to be named a national park, Wind Cave is an outstanding addition to the National Park Service. It is the world’s longest and most complex cave system, with 149 miles of explored passages containing intricate box work and frostwork formations.

Many miss its allure by only noticing the undulating prairie that lies above this geologic anomaly. In fact, the cave’s discovery by white Americans came from two brothers peering into a 10” x 14” hole as the wind whistled out of it. By knocking the hat off the boys’ heads, Wind Cave acquired a name and a reputation.

Why Visit Wind Cave National Park in an RV?

Wind Cave is an excellent destination for RVers who enjoy hidden gems underground and the rolling hills and ranchland above. The park has one campground with plenty of space for motorhomes and travel trailers.

After hiking over scenic trails, then cooling off in the cave, RVers quickly realize that Wind Cave National Park has even more going for it.

The park lies amid many other nationally recognized attractions. In fact, its northern border is next to the popular Custer State Park. Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore National Memorial are also nearby.

One of the most exciting aspects of camping begins when the sun goes down, and the stars come out. By the warmth of the campfire, you can toast marshmallows to make the most epic S’more while listening to the lovely sounds of nature.

But beyond the campfire glow lies the dark of night, and what you can’t see can often ruin a good time. Luckily, camp lanterns can save the day — or rather save the night – by illuminating more of your campsite and providing a valuable backup light source in the event of an RV power outage. Not only for RVs, camp lanterns also prove handy to have for the home as an essential part of any storm kit.

From lanterns that double as bug zappers (like the Personal Mosquito Zapper with LED Lantern) to Bluetooth speakers that look like lanterns (like the iJoy Lumina Light-Up Lantern Speaker), you have plenty of options to light up your campsite and let the good times continue as long, and as late, as possible.

Not sure which camp lantern is best for you? No worries. Check out this guide to camp lanterns and let Camping World light the way.

The Brightness of Your Camp Lantern

Photo by Camping World

Before choosing a type, ask yourself how bright you want your camp lantern. Lumens, which measure and determine how bright a light is, are the metric to look at in terms of a lantern’s light output. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light will be.

Camping is all about being engaged in your surroundings — soaking in all that mother nature has to offer by way of breathtaking views and dreamy weather. However, being one with the environment doesn’t have to mean subjecting yourself to unfavorable weather.

How do you achieve this? How do you enjoy the benefits of nature without suffering the consequences of its bad days? With a canopy tent, that’s how. Canopy tents allow you to be in, around, and one with nature without being overheated, drenched, bitten, or stung by it.

Not sure how to choose the best canopy tent for you? No worries. We’ve got you covered. (See what we did there?)

What to Look for in a Canopy Tent

Image: Shutterstock

The first thing to note is that canopy tents go by several different names. Why settle for one thing when you can be many, right?

Canopy tents are also known as portable shelters, screen houses, outdoor tent canopies, pop-up canopies, canopy shade tents, and other monikers.

One of the most common sustainability goals I hear from friends is to create less waste. In particular, they want to use less plastic, which isn’t surprising. Plastic and our planet’s overflowing landfills are at the forefront of many conversations these days.

We see stories about plastic debris absolutely everywhere, littering RV parks and campgrounds, piling up in our oceans, and killing wildlife. It’s easy to vilify plastic, especially when you see the disturbing pictures of nature’s plastic victims — adorable seals tangled in plastic bags, birds with six-pack plastic rings on their necks, and the most recent I’ve seen; a raccoon with its head stuck in a plastic bottle. These environmental effects of plastic are heartbreaking and often point directly back to the use and improper disposal of single-use plastics. I’ll teach you some tips and habits to reduce your plastic pollution. Together, as mindful travelers, we can make healthy choices that benefit animals, the environment, and ourselves.

Is All Plastic Bad?

Photo by Stef & James Adinaro @TheFitRV

Plastic, in general, isn’t all bad news. We encounter hundreds of plastic things a day. Just look around. You’re surrounded by it, just like I am.

My computer is plastic. As I look forward, the RV cab’s dash is plastic, the laundry basket to my right is plastic,  and even the many polyester-blend clothing items inside it, yep, those too are another form of plastic.

Plastic makes our lives easier and is a truly extraordinary material. So I try not to lump all plastic together in the “you’re-bad-and-I-must-avoid-you” category.

Make the most out of the waning days of summer and early fall. These legendary Midwest locations will treat you to thrills in the heartland.

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

Illinois

Go from big city to small town in the Land of Lincoln, and check out some natural attractions along the way.

Walk Chicago’s Magic Mile

Known as the Windy City, Chicago’s skyline dominates the shoreline of Lake Michigan, and many visitors put the Magnificent Mile at the top of their lists. Just a few blocks from the lake’s shoreline, this stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, museums, and fancy hotels. If you prefer fresh air, hang out at Millennium Park near the lake and gawk at your reflection on the giant Bean sculpture.

Traveling to see the vastness of the country.

More time with your family.

The freedom to explore.

All of these are reasons people consider the RV lifestyle. And it’s no wonder why! The RV lifestyle provides all of that and more.

RVing is the perfect lifestyle for those who enjoy traveling, adventuring, exploring, and sightseeing while also enjoying the comforts of home. RVing literally provides a home-away-from-home with a constantly changing backyard. Does traveling get any better than that?

Dreaming of a warm weather winter destination with numerous opportunities to enjoy nature, be on the water, in the sun, and be a part of a thriving RV community? Whether you’re a family seeking a place to enjoy all winter long, or a couple looking for a winter getaway, then the Florida Keys might be the right winter destination for you!

Make the Keys the end, or beginning, of your RV road trip through Florida. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Florida in an RV. And a few of the The Best Campgrounds on the Beach in Florida. Are you in the tropical mood yet? 

RVing the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are divided into 3 regions: Upper Keys, Middle Keys, and Lower Keys. Together, the keys make up 800 keys in total and stretch over 180 miles into the ocean off the southern tip of Florida. You might’ve heard of Key West or Key Largo, but explore some of the Lesser Known Florida Keys for RV Camping too.

The Upper Keys offers delicious restaurants and tourist attractions and is your last closest stop to mainland Florida. Key Largo is at the tippy top of the Keys and is the beginning of the Florida Keys experience. It’s just across the bridge from the southern Florida mainland and is home to the first Florida State Park in the Florida Keys.

John Pennekamp State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida Keys (Image: Shutterstock)

John Pennekamp offers 39 full hook-up RV spots that are within walking distance of the state park beach and kayak/boat launch. The best thing about visiting this State Park is the maze of mangrove kayak trails! These trails will accommodate any small boat such as kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards and you’re sure to see a ton of Florida wildlife!

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, so naturally, the sentiment stands up even in your home away from home as well. If you find that your heart isn’t skipping a beat or causing those butterflies in your belly to flutter, then it might be time for some upgrades.

Whether your kitchen needs a full renovation or a few tweaks here and there, we have ten RV kitchen remodel ideas that will take your space from dated to amazing in one weekend. I know they say if you can’t stand the heat to get out of the kitchen, but with items (and prices) this hot, there’s nowhere else you’ll want to be.

FloorPops Raven Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiles

FloorPops Raven Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiles

Let’s start from the bottom and work our way to the top with the FloorPops Raven Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiles. The marble-inspired design gives a polished, high-end look at a fraction of the cost. Dark gray hues make a bold statement while the water-resistant vinyl remains easy to clean. Installation? A piece of cake! Simply peel and stick, trim with a utility knife when necessary, and skip the grout as it isn’t needed. What else could you ask for? Cake? Agreed.

Shop all tile flooring options.

Dometic Americana II Refrigerator

Dometic Americana II Refrigerator

The quickest way to update the look, feel, and function of your RV kitchen is by upgrading the appliances. The Dometic American II Plus Refrigerator has a solid steel frame and convenient design features to give you the best of both performance and appearance. A flexible shelf system, adjustable door bins, and electronic controls all work together seamlessly so your kitchen is a space that stays organized and ingredients are ready when you need them to whip up your next recipe. Let me know when that is, by the way. I’m an expert taste tester.

RV adventures often lead to incredible experiences that teach us about new people and places. Our road trips are often remembered for the unexpected parts of the journey rather than the destination. 

You’re bound to meet fellow campers no matter where you go, but camping at a Harvest Hosts location provides unique chances to meet and learn from locals. If you’re curious about Harvest Hosts, here’s how you can maximize your camping experiences at Harvest Hosts locations. 

What is Harvest Hosts?

Harvest Hosts is a network of more than 3,000 RV camping locations in the lower 48 states, Canada, Alaska, and Baja, California – and their network of locations is still growing. They also offer a golf upgrade, which adds more than 400 options for Members to enjoy overnight stays at golf courses.

The annual membership-based platform gives Members unlimited access to overnight stays at Host locations with no added camping fees. They just ask that you support your Host, which is almost always a small, local business.

Want to get more out of your RV? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

While campers love RV parks and campgrounds with an abundance of trees, that’s not always possible, especially if you’re camping in the American Southwest. That’s why RV awnings are a great addition to motorhomes and towable RVs. 

Awnings are great for providing shade and protection from light rain. They’re easy to operate, but a few important safety precautions must be considered. As a note on safety, RV awnings are NOT meant to withstand high winds and heavy rain. If the forecast calls for either, retract your awning to be safe. 

Types of RV Awnings

There are two basic types of RV awnings: manual and power. The video above contains directions for both awning types, but here are the main differences: 

Photo by Camping World

Power awnings feature a motor connected to a switch inside the coach, which is used for extending and retracting the awning. 

Home to the highest peak in North America, Denali National Park is a vast and untamed wilderness. The park features some of the most rugged terrain in Alaska, a state that is known for its wild landscapes. At the heart of Denali sits the 20,194-foot mountain with which the park shares its name. On a clear day, the summit of the mountain—which was formerly known as Mount McKinley—can be seen in Anchorage, which sits nearly 250 miles to the south.

Viewed up close from within the national park, Denali stands as a stone sentinel over a wilderness stuffed with wild animals, wild terrain, and wild dreams. Here’s a guide to this unforgettable destination and how to explore it from an RV.

Photo Credit: NPS Emily Mesner

Why Visit Denali National Park in Your RV?

Spread out across almost 5 million acres of land, Denali National Park is enormous. That leaves a lot of ground to cover on your vacation. Wouldn’t you rather camp inside the park, catching a shuttle bus every morning to a new hiking destination? Driving outside the park’s boundaries every night to stay at a motel takes time that could be used to explore Denali’s wonders. With your RV in a park campground, you may even spot some of the park’s most popular residents, like moose, marmots, and bears.

Photo Credit: Paxson Woelber (CC BY-SA 3.0)

When to Visit Denali National Park

Denali is open year-round, although your experience in visiting the park will vary greatly depending on when you go. This is what you should expect during each season:

Denali National Park in Spring

Spring is slow in coming to Denali, with cold conditions and snow common all the way through April. Dress in warm layers and expect conditions to change quickly. The Park Service begins plowing the road in mid-March, with the weather slowly changing after that. By May, temperatures begin to rise and the skies clear, as it is the driest month of the year inside the park.