RV Short Stops

Stop by McJerry's Route 66 Gallery in Chandler, Oklahoma

2018-04-11T00:05:00.000-07:00

Jerry McClanahan, author and artist.

Anything that combines seeing America, RVing and art, I love, love, love.

That's what 'EZ66 Guide for Travelers' by Jerry McClanahan offers. This post is part RV Short Stop and part book report.

First the book information:

"Although over 80% of original Route 66 is still easily drivable, it is not on ordinary maps and signage is spotty," states the book blurb on Amazon.

"The 'EZ66 Guide For Travelers' is the answer to finding the Route. The 4th Edition has many pages updated. This is the ultimate guide for finding and exploring the Route whether you're driving from the WEST or the EAST. Its maps and directions are comprehensive yet easy to follow. "

Many of the pages of this travelers' guide are illustrated with original artwork of "The Main Street of America" by artist and author Jerry McClanahan.

Route 66: EZ66 GUIDE For Travelers - 4th Edition
Spiral-bound, paper back, 216 pages
Publisher: National Historic Route 66 Federation
Package Dimensions: 8.5 x 6 x 0.8 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces

One 5-star reviewer on Amazon wrote: "With its simple (as the Road would let it be :) ) turn by turn directions, recommended side trips, and impromptu history lessons, we were able to travel the Mother Road at our pace, in our time, to meet our desired level of adventure simply and with a minimum of fuss. Having THIS book in the car let us make this trip OUR way, without being beholden to some preset, artificial schedule. This book made the road ours to explore, and explore we did! This trip would not have been NEARLY as fun without this book right there to guide us. We loved having it available, and you will, too," mikemojc

Paintings, prints and signs line the walls of McJerry's Route 66 Gallery.

Now for information on finding the McJerry's Route 66 Gallery that McClanahan opened in 2008:

On his Website, McJerry66.com, Jerry writes that he welcomes visitors to his gallery just off Route 66 in Chandler, Okla.

"Now that spring is upon us, I will start sticking my little OPEN sign in the yard more regularly. But if you drop by, and the gallery looks deserted, give me a call anyway," Jerry says.

"I don't keep regular business hours, so I can be free to travel or do errands. But that also means I can open up any time I am in town. Including weekends if you happen to catch me. But not at 3 am please!," he pleads.

McJerry's Route 66 Gallery:
306 Manvel (Hwy 18)
Chandler OK 74834
Phone:405-240-7659
Email: mcjerry66@att.net

- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles by Julianne G Crane about the RV lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com

Images: Courtesy of McJerry.com

Arizona's Kartchner Caverns' Star Party

2018-03-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

Kartchner Caverns State Park near Benson, Arizona, is one amazing adventure -- below and above ground.

For solar viewing during the day and "celestial amazement after sunset" don't miss "Kartchner Star Party" on Saturday, April 7 and Oct. 13, 2018 between 2 -9 p.m.

Look at the magnificent skies through professional telescopes provided by the Huachuca Astronomy Club who will answer questions and discuss the elements of the Arizona sky.

Be sure to bring a folding chair, red light, sweater or jacket, and "enthusiasm to enjoy and conserve our beautiful night skies."

There will be a special presentation by Dr. Grant Williams of the MMT (Multiple Mirror Telescope) Observatory in the indoor movie theater April 7 at 5:30 p.m.

While in the Discovery Center take a look at the museum exhibits, regional and educational displays.

When:
Saturday, April 7 and Oct. 13, 2-9 p.m. Presentation: 5:30 p.m.
Also enjoy Earth Day at Kartchner Caverns on Sat., April 21, 2018, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

If you go:

Kartchner Caverns State Park
on AZ-90, 9 miles south of I-10
Benson, Ariz.
520.586-2283
Cost: $7/vehicle.
GPS
Latitude: N 31 50.134
Longitude: W 110 20.621
URL: https://azstateparks.com/kartchner

While you're there:

If you want to make a day of it, arrive early and take in one of the two fascinating 1½ hour cave tours.

The Big Room is open only half the year, from mid-Oct. to mid-April, because a resident bat population calls it home the other six months of the year.
Cost: $23/adults; $13/ youth 7-13; Under 7 years: Not Available.

The Rotunda/Throne Tour - On this tour, visitors will discover the role that water plays in creating the cavern and see the discoverers' original trail.
Cost: $23/adults; $13/ youth 7-13; Under 7 years:$5

For tour tickets, reserve online or call (877) MY-PARKS. You can call seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST. Click here for complete Cave Tour Information Page

The Discovery Center is open Dec. 19-May 31 from 8 a.m.-6 pm.; and June 1-Dec. 18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Kartchner Caverns State Park (Click here) RV and tent camping Fees: $30-$35. (All sites have electricity and water hookups).

For more information on the Kartchner Caverns read Tina and Russ DeMaris' RV Short Stops article on "Arizona's Kartchner Caverns a Great Summer Cool Spot."

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles by Julianne G Crane about the RV lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photo: Source: Kartchner Caverns State Park.

Basque Museum ... Boise, Idaho

2018-03-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

Basque Center in Boise, Idaho.

Basque Museum & Cultural Center is the only museum in the United States dedicated to preserve, promote, and perpetuate Basque history and culture. It provides a look into the Basque heritage through exhibits, collections, and tours. As a cultural center, it's a gathering place for events and educational opportunities, according to museum representatives.

Boise, Idaho has long been a central location where Basque immigrants first congregated after coming to the United States from the Spanish Basque Region. As immigrants established their lives here, Basques became well known for their hard work and perseverance, especially in the rigorous field of sheepherding.

Culture is preserved through traditional Basque dances.

The Basque Sheepherder exhibit "focuses on the job that so many Basques came to be known for in the American West. Peek inside a sheepwagon, where many Basques spent several months at a time living while they were in the hills herding sheep."

An Enduring Culture exhibit is a brief overview of the history of the Basques of yesterday and today. It includes many modern and historic photographs and artifacts to highlight key aspects of the culture.

Dancing is perhaps one of the more fun ways to preserve Basque culture in the United States. The museum features an exhibit with costumes, instruments and photographs. In addition there are dancing activities and events held each year.

Children dress in traditional Basque costumes

Upcoming events:

The Annual Benefit Dinner & Auction on Sat., April 7, 2018, at 6 p.m. at the Basque Center. $55. Purchase tickets by calling 208-343-2671.

Celebrate the history of Basque communities and families shared through research, interviews, and archiving with the Community History Project team.

There are cultural events every First Thursday of each month.

Basque Museum Cultural Center
611 Grove St.
Boise, ID 83702
208-343.2671

Hours:  Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday: 11a.m.-3 p.m. ; Closed: Sunday, Monday, Holidays
Cost: General - $5;  Seniors (65+) & Students - $4; Children 6-12 - $3;  Children 5-under - free 

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles by Julianne G Crane about the RV lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photos: Basque Museum Cultural Center.

New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum

2018-02-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. (NMFRHM)

If you are a history buff and traveling along the I-10 east-west route between El Paso, Tex., and Deming, N.M, one place to work into your itinerary is the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces, NM.

Native artifacts

The interactive museum is part of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs and covers 47 acres. It brings to life the "4,000-year history of farming and ranching in New Mexico."

This is a fascinating destination for retirees or the entire family. RVers can stroll along corrals filled with livestock, enjoy the gardens, visit several of the exhibitions, or take a cart tour of the "South 20."

Exhibits: The museum has permanent and changing exhibits in the main building that contains more than 24,000 square feet of space. From the temporary fine art exhibits in the corridors ... to the rows of farm implements at the Antique Equipment Park, folks have an opportunity to learn from a variety of exhibitions that help tell the unique story of farming, ranching, and rural life in New Mexico.

Live blacksmith demonstrations.

Demonstrations are part of what makes this museum unique and fun. People living in remote New Mexico needed to know how to make fabrics and clothing from raw materials including sewing, spinning, weaving, embroidery along with other traditional handcrafts.

Also out of the past, the blacksmith shop is a must-see attraction. Watch metal forged into tools and decorative items. Learn about the history and importance of the blacksmith in rural communities.

Click here for the demonstration schedule.

Sculpture dedicated to New Mexico agriculturalists by Armando Alvarez.

One unique sculpture by artist Armando Alvarez is shaped like a water tank. "The cut-out figures were inspired by photographs of New Mexico farm and ranch scenes. With this work, the artist makes a statement about the importance of water for farming, ranching and life in general. The 80,000-pound sculpture is made of 1-inch steel that is 130 feet in length. Its height ranges from 16 feet to 8 feet," according to the museum website. It is located in the "South 20."

Livestock Tours: Cart tours to get to the "South 20" portion of the museum grounds are available throughout most of the day. The docent-lead tour includes the livestock corral where visitors learn more about the cattle raised in New Mexico.

Greenhouse & Gardens: The museum also has a Greenhouse, with plants for sale on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a pistachio orchard, as well as a cactus garden, and the Children's Discovery Garden.

If you go:

New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum
4100 Dripping Springs Road
Las Cruces, NM
Directions: From I-25, take Exit 1 and go east 1.5 miles.
Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sun. Noon to 5 p.m.
Admission: $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens (60 and over), $3 for children ages 4 to 17, and $2 for active U.S. military and veterans. Children under 4 free.
There is plenty of free parking for RVs and buses in an enormous parking lot.

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photos: New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. (NMFRHM)

Free things to do around Perry, Georgia

2018-02-13T19:53:00.001-08:00

Old Downtown in Perry, Georgia (City of Perry, Georgia)

The Family Motor Coach Association returns to Perry, Georgia, March 15 -18 for the group’s 97th International Convention & RV Expo. It is the 10th FMCA event at the RV-friendly Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter, 100 miles south of Atlanta and just off I-75, the main north-south route for snowbirds.

"Nestled in the heart of Georgia lies the quaint but thriving city of Perry, where you’ll find a slower pace, a relaxing retreat, and no traffic jams," states the Perry visitor website. "Recognized as the place 'Where Georgia Comes Together,' our city has a tradition of delivering a warm and gracious welcome to visitors dating back more than a century, all the way back to when the city was a major North – South stagecoach stop."

Perry prides itself on being "the home of Southern charm and hospitality." Here are free things to do around Perry to get a feel for that Southern hospitality.

Perry Farmer's Market

Perry Farmer's Market
901 Carroll St
478-225-7626
Saturdays @ 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Perry Farmer’s Market is a "producer-only market" meaning that growers and producers may sell at market only products they grow, raise, or produce themselves. "This is key to guaranteeing quality, authenticity and freshness, and to knowing the farmer who grows and raises your produce."

Museum of Aviation

Museum of Aviation
1942 Heritage Blvd, Robins AFB
GA Hwy 247 & Russell Parkway
Warner Robins, Ga.
478-926-6870
Free Admission, Free Parking. Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Museum of Aviation opened in November 1984. The Museum sits on 51 acres next to Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia. The facility includes four large exhibit buildings which house some of the 85 historic U.S. Air Force aircraft, missiles, cockpits and award-winning exhibits. The Museum is the home of the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame located on the second floor of the Century of Flight Hangar. The Museum has grown to become the second largest museum in the United States Air Force and the fourth most visited museum in the Department of Defense.

Perry Area Historical Museum

Perry Area Historical Museum
901 Northside Dr.
478-224-4442
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m.

"Opened in May of 2010, the Perry Area Historical Society's Historical Museum offers a collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Perry's earliest days. Of particular interest to researchers is the Museum's Resource Room which contains many family histories and photos. The Museum is located approximately 1/2 mile from Exit 136 on I-75," according to the society's website.

Read more about the FMCA gathering by clicking here.

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Lucy the Margate Elephant lives on

2018-01-31T19:00:00.000-08:00

Lucy The Elephant and Lucy's Beach Grille from the Atlantic Ocean (LucyTheElephant.org)

(This item was first posted in April 2011. It was updated Jan. 31, 2018)

Lucy the Elephant is one of those places that always brings a smile to every child's face, no matter what their age.

As with the Wall Drug Store, the world’s largest ball of twine or the Jolly Green Giant--this 65-foot pachyderm is worth flicking on your RV’s blinker and pulling off the road.

First built in the 1880s, Lucy has long been part the colorful Southern Jersey seashore history. She stands proudly on Atlantic Avenue near the Atlantic Ocean just a few minutes from Atlantic City.

The wooden elephant-shaped building was the brain child of wealthy land speculator James V. Lafferty, Jr. He wanted something odd and wonderful to attract visitors and potential buyers to his holdings south of Atlantic City.

The largest elephant in the world, Lucy stands six stories, 60-feet long and 18-feet wide. During her career she is rumored to have been a hotel, real estate office and even a tavern (until, it is said, that drunks nearly burned her down).

Lucy was recognized as a national Historic Landmark in 1976, just in time for the United States' Bicentennial. Tours of inside Lucy's belly are fun for the entire family. See details below.

Lucy the Elephant

If you go:
Lucy the Elephant
9200 Atlantic Ave., Margate City, NJ
609.823-6473
URL: LucyTheElephant.org

Hours of Lucy and Gift Shop:
January-March: Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Open Presidents' Day, Monday, 2/19, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
April: Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
May-Mid-June: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Mid-June to Labor Day: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
September-October: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
November-December: Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
Guided tours: Every 30 minutes top and bottom of hour, lasts about 20 minutes. Final tour of day occurs 30 minutes prior to closing.
Tour Cost: $8, ages 13 and up; $4, ages 3-12; free, under 2. Free to U.S. Military with valid ID.

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photos: Courtesy of Lucy the Elephant.org

##RVT831

Historic Savannah a Snowbird's place to visit

2018-01-17T12:39:00.000-08:00

RV writer Julianne G. Crane at Forsyth Park fountain in Savannah. (RVWheelLife.com)

Savannah, Georgia, is (almost) a year-round destination.

In between the often unpredictable weather along the Eastern Seaboard, one fairly safe harbor is Savannah. With its founding going back to 1733, it is one of America’s oldest cities.

Telfair Academy (Visit Savannah)

There is so much to do in Savannah, one visit is never enough time. "History buffs swarm Savannah, taking in the rich, significant sites like Old Fort Jackson, Fort Pulaski National Monument and Bonaventure Cemetery.

"Art lovers enjoy the renowned Telfair Academy and the SCAD Museum of Art as well as an eclectic variety of art galleries and home decor shops."

Here are just a couple of stops from a recent trip to 'America's Most Haunted City.'

The beautiful Forsyth Park fountain (pictured above) is one of Savannah's most well-known icons. Located on the north end of the park, the fountain is probably the most photographed place in Savannah.

"Lush greenery and Spanish moss-draped live oaks surround the perimeter of the fountain, as well as many park benches, so travelers and locals can sit back, relax and take in the fountain’s majestic charm," according to Visit Savannah website.

Art galleries, shops, cafes at Savannah's City Market (City Market)

If you run into foul weather, a great afternoon stop is the Savannah's City Market. Two blocks from River Street, the City Market dates back to 1755.

"A center of commerce and public market, it was here that fisherman and farmers brought their goods to sell. Today, City Market is home to some of Savannah's most impressive shops, restaurants, art galleries and more. It is even home to an interactive prohibition museum and speakeasy."

We enjoyed a light dinner at the City Market Cafe and picked up pralines at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen. The market is free and open everyday.

Ghosts and Gravestones Tour

When visiting America's Most Haunted City, take at least one of the many ghosts tours.

One evening, we hopped aboard the "Ghosts and Gravestones" tour. It was fun and it was packed. Click here to check out a few of the many walking and trolley tours of the 'haunted' houses in this beautiful port town.

“With Savannah’s long history, it is no wonder the city has her fair share of ghosts and ghost stories. Savannah has thousands of eerie tales to tell…” says the Savannah Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information on "Spooky Savannah" by fulltime RVer Malia Lane, click here.

If you go:

Visit Savannah is an amazing website with all the latest information on hundreds of places to visit.

Savannah Convention & Visitors Bureau

101 East Bay St., Savannah, GA 31401

912-644-6400

RV Park Reviews for Savannah, Georgia, click here.

Biking the Big Ferry Trail in Skidaway Island State Park (Georgia State Park)

Skidaway Island Georgia State Park
2600 Highway 155 SW
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Reservations 1-800-864-7275
(Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday–Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. EST)

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Plains, Georgia: Pres. Jimmy Carter's hometown; plus Americus, Koinonia Farm

2017-12-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Downtown Plains, Georgia

"Located in Southwest Georgia among the pine trees, peanut fields, magnolias, and gnats is Plains, Georgia," hometown of James Earl "Jimmy" Carter, Jr., the 39th President of the United States and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Jimmy Carter (Julianne G. Crane)

"Few U.S. Presidents have had such close ties with where they were born and raised," according to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site.

"The rural southern culture of Plains, Georgia, that revolves around farming, church and school, had a large influence in molding the character and in shaping the political policies of the 39th President of the United States." Read more.

I first visited Plains in the summer of 1991 when I first started volunteering for Habitat for Humanity in Americus, Ga., about 10 miles north of Plains. I learned that Pres. Jimmy Carter would frequently give "Sunday school classes" at the Maranatha Baptist Church. ( Click here for Pres. Jimmy Carter's upcoming schedule for presenting at the Maranatha Baptist Church.)

On my Sunday visits to Plains, after listening to President Carter lace his Sunday lessons with wisdom along with current and historic references, I would often walk the main street talking with folks and stopping in at places of interest. Here are just a few of my favorites.

Plains Train Depot (NPS)

"The Plains Train Depot contains a self-guided museum with exhibits focusing on the 1976 Presidential Campaign. It served as a train depot from 1888 to 1951, when passenger service to the area was discontinued. The building was opened in 1976 as Jimmy Carter's Presidential Campaign Headquarters and during that time approximately 10,000 people a day came to Plains to find out about candidate Carter. Many state primary victories, as well as the presidential victory, were celebrated in the streets around the depot," according to the National Park Service website.

Billy Carter Museum aka Billy's Gas Station

Billy Carter Museum (NPS)

Another favorite spot is the old Billy's Gas Station, now known as the Billy Carter Museum and occupied by the 'Friends of the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site.' The group's goal "is the keep the community vibrant, continue learning opportunities, and most importantly, correlate the stories of bygone days and modern times to describe how Plains shaped the life of our 39th President, Jimmy Carter."

"The famous south Georgia service station, once owned by Billy Carter, has come back to life as a museum, reflecting the former First Brother’s life and the station’s history. Billy Carter, who died in 1988, lived in Plains most of his life, managing the family peanut business for a while and in 1972 buying the old service station, which became the town hot spot during the Carter campaign. It was renovated and re-opened as The Billy Carter Service Station Museum in 2008 through the joint efforts of the University of Georgia, the Plains Better Hometown Association and Billy Carter’s family."

If you've traveled all the way to Plains, you'll want to take advantage of at least two other nearby sites that are worth the time and effort to pull off the road.

Habit's Global Village.(Julianne G. Crane)

In the neighboring town of Americus, Georgia, is the Habitat for Humanity Headquarters where thousands of volunteers have spent time working for the nonprofit's vision of "a world where everyone has a decent place to live" by "building strength, stability and self-reliance in partnership with people and families in need of a decent and affordable home." Visit the RV Care-A-Vanners coordinator’s office in the Rylander Building at 322 West Lamar. If you are coming by RV please park in the Old Market Place Building Parking Lot at 721 West Church Street and walk over.

A great place to learn about Habitat's work around the world is the nearby 6-acre Global Village and Discovery Center complex that has life-size Habitat houses from countries around the world. Phone: (800) 422-4828, ext. 7937.

The Discovery Center also tells the story of Habitat for Humanity, including its founding by Millard and Linda Fuller in 1976 after their experience building simple, decent housing with Clarence Jordan and others at Koinonia Farm.

Koinonia sign. (Julianne G. Crane)

Koinonia (Greek for loving community) was founded in 1942 as an intentional Christian community. Koinonia is a "peaceful place to rest, a community that’s committed to peace and social justice, and a working farm with animals, gardens, orchards, walking trails, a store and a museum. It’s also the birthplace of Clarence Jordan’s writings, Habitat for Humanity, the Fuller Center for Housing, Jubilee Partners and many other organizations and causes." It is also a Georgia Historic Site and produces the very best dark chocolate pecan bark made on planet earth.

The Clarence Jordon Symposium and Koinonia Family Reunion is set for March 8-11, 2018, to celebrate Koinonia’s 75th Birthday.

To stay for one night or up to two weeks, click here for more information. There are RV spaces for $30 and Primitive Camping $10. Phone: (229) 924-0391, or email at visit@koinoniafarm.org. Koinonia is only a few miles southeast of Americus along GA Hwy 49.

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Fort Davis National Historic Site and the Davis Mountains State Park Campground

2017-11-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

Fort Davis National Historic Site's Officers Row in southwest Texas. (NPS.gov)

One of the biggest surprises to this snowbird was the Davis Mountains in Southwest Texas. Jimmy and I stumbled onto the area when we were heading north from Big Bend National Park toward El Paso. This unique and remote area offers all sorts of adventures. "Here you can hike, backpack, mountain bike or ride your own horse, take a scenic drive through the mountains, go camping, stargaze, geocache and study nature."

Flag Ceremony_(MaxKandler/NPS.gov)

Fort Davis National Historic Site is set in the rugged beauty of the Davis Mountains, the most extensive mountain range in Texas. Fort Davis is one of America's best surviving examples of an Indian Wars' frontier military post in the Southwest.

These mountains were named after Jefferson Davis, U.S. Secretary of War and later President of the Confederacy, who ordered the construction of the Fort Davis army post in the early 1850s. "Most Indian bands passed through the Davis Mountains. After the war with Mexico, a wave of gold seekers, settlers, and traders came through the area and needed the protection of a military post," according to State Parks.com

"Fort Davis was active from 1854 until 1891, except for certain periods during the Civil War. In 1961, the historic fort ruins were declared a National Historic Site, and a vast restoration and preservation program was initiated by the National Park Service."

(NPS.gov)

Directions: Travel south of I-10 on Highway 17 to Fort Davis.
(512) 389-8900

Davis Mountains State Park

To reach the great public campground, go one mile north of Fort Davis on State Highway 17 to State Highway 118N, then west on State Highway 118N for 3 miles to Park Road 3 entrance.

Campsite at Davis Mountain State Park Campground (Julianne G. Crane)

Just because this is Texas, don't hold the mistaken believe it can't be cold and even snowy about this time of the year.

We had just come out of Big Bend National Park where we camped during the Thanksgiving holiday and couldn't believe it when we encountered a snow storm. (The previous winter on our three-month trip of the Southwest, we were always outrunning one storm or another.)

The highest peaks of the Davis Mountains range between 6,000-7,000 feet. Fort Davis, itself, sits at about 4,800 feet. Winters are often below freezing with occasional snowfall. Summers have hot days, usually low humidity, and cool nights. Temperatures drop dramatically after sunset, so bring a jacket year-round. Average rainfall is 18.9 inches. For current weather conditions go to: National Weather Service forecast for this area.

Within Davis Mountains State Park is an Indian Lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the early 1930s. Indian Lodge has 39 rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool (for Indian Lodge guests only), and a Texas State Park Store.

Be sure to purchase your Texas State Parks Pass for $70. Click here for details.

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Fun, low-cost winter activities for RV Snowbirds in Tucson area

2017-10-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

Sunset at Gilbert Ray Campground, Tucson, Ariz. (Julianne G Crane)

In addition to the warm days, magnificent sunsets and free natural beauty surrounding Tucson, Arizona, there are numerous fun and low-cost activities that entice tens of thousands of RV Snowbirds to return each winter.

According to the folks at VisitTucson.org, this area "inspires a sense of freedom among all who visit. Freedom of thought and expression. Freedom to discover and explore. And the freedom to be yourself."

"Tucson is calling you, the free thinker and the free at heart, to explore without boundaries. Our natural landscape draws visitors outdoors where there is plenty of room to roam."

Along with all that personal freedom are a number of free and low cost events on the calendar this winter. Here are just a few:

Yuma Japanese Gardens of Tucson

Yuma Japanese Gardens of Tucson

2130 N. Alvernon Way
Tucson, AZ 85712
(520) 303-3945

"Stroll beside a pond of flashing koi, contemplate a peaceful Zen garden, and absorb the beauty of intimate courtyard views of classical Japanese landscaping imagery. Five distinct garden styles, replica Japanese buildings, and tea ceremonies and other events immerse you in an ancient artistic heritage."

Visit changing exhibits in the museum and art gallery, and browse unique items in the gift shop, imported from Japan. All just steps from the Tucson Botanical Garden,

Hours:
Oct. - May 7: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1.
Admission: Varies, click here

- Tumacacori National Historical Park

Looking for an afternoon drive, travel a few miles south of Tucson toward Nogales and visit the humble Tumacacori National Historical Park.

Tumacacori is considered the Mission to the Pimas. Made of adobe, plaster and wood, "these ruins evoke tales of life and land transformed by cultures meeting and mixing."

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Entrance fee: $5 per person, age 16 or older, and is valid for seven days. Free to those with America the Beautiful or Golden Age passes. For more on this historical park, click here.

- 2nd Saturdays Downtown Tucson

(Courtesy: VisitTucson.org)

During the winter, RV Snowbirds can listen to music while they stroll and explore Downtown Tucson on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Street parking is free after 5 p.m.
The free event is full of activities from the (Grand)Kids’ Area at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum all the way down Congress Street to the Fox Tucson Theatre. Entertainment is "totally family-friendly." Good Shepherd Ranch provides carriage rides at a minimal charge.

- Second Saturdays at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley

10901 N Oracle Road, (north of the Home Depot Retail Center)
Oro Valley, Ariz.

Take advantage of a Farmers Market, concert series, guest speakers and much more. Free admission. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs for the live music.

Nov. 11, 2017 - April 14, 2018 schedule
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Open for tours; Farmer's Market; Artisan and Antique Fair.
9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. - Guest speakers.
10:30 a.m. - noon - Live Music (Country, Folk or Americana)
10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Heritage Garden demonstrations and a craft for children

*Ride your bike or walk to the Farmers Market and/or Second Saturdays at Steam Pump Ranch events, arriving via the bike path.

-- For a complete list of all the fun evenings happening around Tucson ... go to VisitTucson.Org

-- For information on nearby RV camping at Catalina State Park, click here -- on camping at Gilbert Ray Campground click here

--Julianne G. Crane
--To read more about the RV Lifestyle by Julianne G. Crane and Jimmy Smith, go to RVWheelLife.com

Afternoon Cream Tea in Florence, Oregon

2017-10-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

Lovejoy's Restaurant & Tearoom, Florence, Ore. (Julianne G. Crane)

Recently Jimmy and I were attending an RV Rally in Florence, Oregon, with longtime RV friends Sherian and Lee Shriver of Ohio.

Warm reception at Lovejoy's Tearoom (Julianne G. Crane)

Late one overcast afternoon while walking through Florence's old downtown, Sherian and I were hankering for something sweet and stumbled onto Lovejoy's Tearoom when we spotted the word "scones" painted on the outside of the building. Stepping inside, we learned it had a full lunch menu and we decided to return the next day.

3 RVing women Sherian - Julianne - Jacque meeting for tea.

Sherian and I had been reminiscing about other RVers we met at the Sandollar RV Park in Rockport, Texas, and I remembered that solo RVer Jacque Green was traveling somewhere in the Pacific Northwest. I sent her a quick text asking: 'Where are you?' Within moments she responded that she was at the Thousand Trails RV Park in Florence -- holy moly !!!! She was staying in the park immediately next door to where we were camping. I called her and she quickly agreed to meet us for lunch at Lovejoy's.

On right RVers Jacque Green (Okla.) & Sherian Shriver (Ohio)

Lovejoy's Restaurant & Tearoom

Decorated in a warm, relaxing English country decor, the tearoom features softly draped curtains, flowery tablecloths along with lots and lots of tea cups and tea pots lining the walls.

Jacque ordered Bangers and Mash (English style sausage with Bisto gravy and homemade mashed potato) for $9.50. "It was very good especially for someone who had been eating her own cooking for a long time," said the fulltime solo RVer. Sherian order Squash Soup ($7 a bowl) that "was very good," she said.

I was longing for a traditional English Cream Tea that I remembered from my trips to Great Britain. The 'Devonshire Tea' ($9) selection included a pot of tea (I opted for the Yorkshire Gold) and a scone served with preserves and clotted cream.

Selection of British teas, jams, biscuits

I was a tad disappointed in the single scone (I had anticipated two) it was a bit dry and pricey for the size. That said, I will return to this charming tea shoppe that features a menu offering an array of English and Scottish favorites.

There are specials that change weekly. The amazing variety of teas are excellent and served in a "proper tea pot," neatly covered with a tea cozy. For a peaceful atmosphere and hot authentic British teas, this is one of the best "tucked away treasures" on the Oregon Coast.

"It is a perfect place to go to on a cold early fall day," said Jacque. "A wonderful place for women to meet," added Sherian.

Tea pots, tea towels for sale.

If you go:

Lovejoy's Restaurant and Tearoom
195 Nopal St.
Florence OR 97439
541-902-0502
lovejoysrestaurant.com
Hours: Tues-Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lovejoy's is located just off the main street in Old Town Florence and a few short blocks away from the no-frills Port of Siuslaw Campground and Marina. See below for information and reviews on this and other RV Campgrounds and Parks.

RV Camping

For RV Parks and Campgrounds click on: 'RVParkReviews.com' ... or RVParking.com ... or YellowPages.com

Text and photos: Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Ketchikan offers history, shopping, kayaking all within easy reach of Alaska Ferry dock.

2017-09-28T18:01:00.000-07:00

Ketchikan, Alaska, harbor. (Julianne G. Crane)

Ketchikan, the southeastern most city in Alaska, is located in the midst of "the Tongass National Forest, a 17-million acre rainforest full of lush cedar, Sitka spruce, waterfalls, and wildlife." It sits at the entrance to the famed Alaska Inside Passage and has a population of about 8,000.

Notorious Creek Street, in historic Ketchikan. (Julianne G. Crane)

Technically, the only way to get to “The Salmon Capital of the World” is by sea. The city is located on Revillagigedo Island, which is a five-minute ferry ride from the international airport.

This Alaska town has long been a popular destination with RVers because it is a year-round port-of-call for the Alaska Marine Highway System (1-800-642-0066).

Julianne G. Crane pointing out Dolly's

Ketchikan is best known for three things: "feisty salmon, idyllic scenery, and an incredibly rich Alaska Native culture." ... Oh, and maybe Creek Street and 'Dolly's House.'

During Ketchikan's "rough-and-tumble Prohibition days, Creek Street ... actually a boardwalk built over the water...was the red-light district, a hot-bed of bars and brothels. Today it is the heart of the city's shopping and arts scene."

Jimmy Smith walking by Dolly's House

At the height of the Gold Rush, Ketchikan’s red-light area on Creek Street had around 30 bordellos. Dolly’s House tells the story of those rough and ready pioneering days -- "Where both men and salmon come upstream to spawn."

"Dolly Arthur was one of Ketchikan’s better known madams, operating from the 1930s until prostitution was outlawed in Ketchikan in the 1950s. Today her parlor and boudoir are preserved as a museum filled with memorabilia, commemorating the roaring days of the early 20th century." -- Viator.com

Jimmy taking photos of travelers. (Julianne G. Crane)

Tongass Historical Museum
629 Dock St., Ketchikan, AK
907-225-5600

This is a small city-run museum where visitors can peruse displays highlighting the town's history. Rare artifacts and historical photographs tell the authentic tale of Ketchikan as a Native fish camp, gold and copper mining center, fishing port, timber town, cannery site, transportation hub, and lively community. Just outside the museum there is a large totem pole called "Raven Stealing the Sun."
Admission: Adults: $3 Children 12 and under: Free. Admission is charged May through September.

For other cultural activities, including museum and historical destinations, click here.

RV Camping
Tongass National Forest offers RV camping areas. Click here for more information.

Text and photos: Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

Research sources: Visit-Ketchikan.com; Holland America Cruise brochures, Tongass National Forest website; Viator.com.

Stroll Sitka, Alaska, "Paris of the Pacific"

2017-09-14T22:55:00.000-07:00

Sitka Sound from Castle Hill. (Julianne G. Crane)

Sitka, Alaska, is a beautiful quaint small seaside city. Like most southeast Alaska communities, part of its charm is that it is only reachable by sea or by air. Settled on Baranof Island, Sitka is located on the outer coast of Alaska's Inside Passage. It is a popular destination with RVers because it is a year-round port-of-call for the Alaska Marine Highway System (1-800-642-0066, www.ferryalaska.com).

"These state-operated ferries provide an extraordinary opportunity to navigate the Inside Passage at a leisurely pace. Passengers can embark - with or without their vehicle - at Bellingham, Wash. (just north of Seattle), and Prince Rupert, B.C., from the south, and in Skagway or Haines, Alaska from the north," according to Sitka's website.

Jimmy Smith canoe (Julianne G. Crane)

"Sitka was the cultural and political hub of Russian America in the early 19th century. While San Francisco was only a sleepy cow town, Sitka's opulence had already earned it the distinction as the "Paris of the Pacific."

The downtown area is centrally located and many points of interest are within walking distance of one another. We stopped by the Harrigan Centennial Hall on Harbor Drive to view the large hand-carved Tlingit canoe made from one log (see above). The Tlingit have lived continuously in Sitka for more than 50 centuries.

St. Michael's Cathedral

Within a hundred feet of Harrigan Hall is the public library with free wifi / computer usage for visitors, just ask at the front desk.

A casual two block stroll downtown is St. Michael's Cathedral, an active Russian Orthodox Church whose onion-shaped domes have graced Sitka's skyline for nearly two centuries," according to the city's website.

The first "Orthodox Cathedral was established in North America in 1848 by St.Innocent first bishop of Alaska. Russian explorers, hunters, trappers, and eventually missionaries, brought the Orthodox Faith to the shores of Alaska."

Inside St. Michael's (Julianne G. Crane)

Inside is "an important collection of Russian Orthodox art and rare church treasures. Built in 1844-48, the cathedral was totally destroyed by fire in January 1966. Many of the precious icons and religious objects were salvaged and are in the rebuilt structure."
Located at 240 Lincoln St., $2 donation.

Old Harbor Books (Julianne G. Crane)

Just down the street from St. Michael's is Old Harbor Books, an independent book store established in 1976 by a group of three book-loving local families.

"Old Harbor Books offers everything from stationery and 'librarian candles' to local artistic postcards and classic novels," writes Brittany S on Yelp.com. "My favorite part about the shop was the clever handwritten labels on several of the books explaining why it's a good read and what to expect (staff's picks, etc.). I highly recommend popping in during your visit for a dose of feel good vibes and literacy."

Inside Old Harbor Books (Julianne G. Crane)

The warm interior, rich selection of local writers and nostalgic feel invites the visitor to browse the aisles and pick up a book or two about Alaska. Jimmy purchased a map on the Alaska Inside Passage.

Immediately behind the Old Harbor Books is a must-stop for any coffee lover--The Backdoor Cafe. (This is especially true on cool, damp mornings when you are strolling around town before the book store opens.)

For your coffee fix in downtown Sitka. (Julianne G. Crane)

If you need your coffee before 10 a.m., head down the side street on the left of the book store to The Backdoor Cafe where an amazing latte and tasty homemade muffins await.

A favorite hangout for the locals (we asked at the local bike shop), this is a perfect spot to get off your feet for a few minutes and read the local Daily Sitka Sentinel, the only newspaper you can buy in Sitka.

Jimmy Smith sipping a latte in corner.

Sitka RV Parks

Sealing Cove RV Parking operated by the City and Borough of Sitka is adjacent to Sealing Cove Boat Harbor, 7 miles south of the ferry terminal, and a short distance from downtown Sitka (at the beginning of Airport Road). Space available for 26 RV's. Water & electrical hook-ups.
Open May 1 to October 1. For information, contact the Sitka Harbor Master, (907) 747-3439.

Sitka Sportsman's Association RV Park

Sitka Sportsman's Association RV Park, adjacent to the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry terminal at 5211 Halibut Point Road, located approximately 7 miles from downtown. Space for 16 RV's. Water, electric hookups; showers, restrooms, Indoor Shooting Range, a Trap and Skeet Range, and, an Archery Range.
Open year round.

For fees and reservations call (907) 747-4712 or toll free 1-800-750-4712. Online booking is available at www.rvsitka.com.

- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com

##RVT811

An afternoon in historic downtown Juneau

2017-08-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

It's getting toward the end of the RV travel season in Alaska; however, many visitors still crowd the streets of Juneau's historic district. (RVers end up in Juneau because it is a year-round port-of-call for the Alaska Marine Highway System (1-800-642-0066, www.ferryalaska.com).


Downtown Juneau from Mt. Roberts Tramway

Juneau has its roots in the Tlingit people, who for centuries hunted and fished along the shores of Gastineau Channel. Gold was discovered in the early 1880s and soon boatloads of prospectors arrived.

Juneau became the state capital in 1959 when Alaska was granted statehood. Today around 32,000 folks call Juneau home.

Along with museums, memorials and heritage centers, two popular attractions we took in one afternoon were the Mount Roberts Tramway and the Red Dog Saloon.


2000' above Gastineau Channel

The aerial tramway lifts riders almost 2,000 feet above the downtown, delivering them into Sitka spruce forests. There are amazing views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. (One of the frequent ferries or cruise ships that dock in Juneau can be spotted on Gastineau Channel.) Tickets run around $33 a person and can be used all day long.

View along Franklin Street
toward the Red Dog Saloon
in historic downtown Juneau

Ask anyone who visits Juneau the 'one place' not to miss and the majority of those over 21 will say: The Red Dog Saloon.

Jimmy Smith in Red Dog Saloon, Juneau

With roots dating to Juneau's gold rush heyday, the Red Dog Saloon is a classic 'raucous' spot that is popular with old geezers and history buffs.

The walls of the saloon are adorned with an elaborate collection of animal heads and memorabilia, including hundreds of $1 bills.

-- Julianne G. Crane

All photos by Julianne G. Crane

To read more about the RV Lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com.

Cottage Grove historic district's public murals near I-5 in western Oregon

2017-08-03T14:44:00.001-07:00

'Buster Keaton' mural (Howard Tharpe, 2002) in Cottage Grove's Historic District.

Large-scale public paintings are "the people's art works." Everyday ordinary traveling families don't have to worry about making a special trip to a museum or step into an art gallery to be exposed to local creative expressions and a little bit of history.

Many smaller communities across America are enhancing their downtowns with huge murals that reflect the historic events of their region. Cottage Grove, just south of Eugene in western Oregon, is one such community. With a population of around 10,000, it is home to 20 murals that tell the town's stories and "colorfully illustrate" the community's character.

Historic Coca-Cola mural on Main Street in Cottage Grove.

One such mural depicts the silent film star Buster Keaton in one of his best known films, 'The General.' In 1926, the film was made in Cottage Grove and the surrounding area. "The movie included a spectacular locomotive crash, and the wrecked train became a minor tourist attraction until it was dismantled for scrap during World War II," according to historic reports.

Another nostalgic mural captures Cottage Grove's 1920s' Main Street. This black and white rendering was painted by Connie Huston from an actual photograph of Main Street almost a century ago.

1920s' Main Street mural rendered by artist Connie Huston (2007)

Click here for the Cottage Grove, Ore., Scenic Murals Directory and Map. To read more about other family-friendly things to do in Cottage Grove, the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon," click here.

- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com.

Photos and information sources: Cottage Grove Mural Committee, Lane County, EugeneCascadesCoast.org, Oregon's Secretary of State website, Wikipedia.

##RVT805

LeMay - America's Car Museum in Tacoma

2017-07-05T19:00:00.002-07:00

The popular 1966 Mustang at the LeMay America's Car Museum in Tacoma, Wa.

LeMay America's Car Museum (ACM), is a sprawling four-story, 165,000 sq.-ft. facility near the Tacoma Dome in the Puget Sound area of Washington state. And it is perfect for a family's afternoon RV Short Stop.

Since 2012, the museum has housed 815 vehicles including cars, motorcycles and boats (sorry no RVs included, as of yet).

“The automobile played a significant impact on our nation’s heritage and development, and our current focus is ensuring that unforgettable vehicles are enjoyed by future generations,” said America’s Automotive Trust President and CEO David Madeira.

Lucky's Garage exhibit at America's Car Museum (ACM)

The museum’s eclectic cars and rotating exhibits give a glimpse into the histories of countless different marques and vehicle types.

“The wide-ranging assortment at ACM is truly one-of-a-kind and the vehicles rotated into the museum are prominently displayed alongside staple exhibits like ‘Lucky’s Garage’ – which pays tribute to Harold LeMay’s unbelievable treasure trove of cars and auto-related memorabilia,” said ACM President and COO Paul E. Miller.

Route 66 Gallery (LeMay America's Car Museum)

The museum's Route 66 Gallery is known for featuring vintage American cars from the golden age of motoring – the ’50s and ’60s. To pay homage to the historic Route 66 – aka “The Mother Road” – the primary means of interstate transportation a half century ago, the museum has rolled in an assortment of convertibles from the era.

Take a Spin in history. (ACM)

For a year full of events, click here. One hugely popular event is the Summer Drive Series (free with admission).

This is where visitors can ride in vehicles from the ACM Collection and "experience history in motion." Vehicles will vary and may be a selection from antiques and pre-war classics, to the Fabulous Fifties. Click here for the 2017 "Take A Spin Dates."

In celebration of the museum's fifth year, it is offering $5 off admission on every "fifth day of the month throughout the year." (Also if you are an AAA member, ask for the extra 10-percent off.)

If you go:

1930 Duesenberg (ACM)

LeMay America's Car Museum
2702 East D St.
Tacoma, Wa 98421
253-779-8490
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily
Museum will close at 3 pm on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and will be closed all day on Thanksgiving and Christmas

1994 Flintmobile (ACM)

Admission:

Adults: $18
Seniors (Age 65+): $16
Military: $16
Students: $14
Youth (Ages 6-12): $10
Child (5 and under): Free

Parking on site: $5-10
Directions:
Traffic Lane Switch on I-5 in Tacoma. Two big traffic shifts on I-5 in Tacoma are scheduled to occur between July and December 2017. Click here for details.

- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles about the RV lifestyle by Julianne G Crane, go to RVWheelLife.com.

Need a break on I-40, pull off when you see the 'World's Largest Spinach Can'

2017-06-20T18:05:00.000-07:00

I-40 is an incredible interstate ... it cuts through the south-central portion of the United States and is the fastest route from the Atlantic Ocean to California.

(Stephanie Geckle)

Because Jimmy and I tend to favor two-lane roads, it seems that just about every time we've been on I-40, we are outrunning bad weather or in a rush to get home.

However, to relieve boredom, or to just get out of your rig, stretch your legs and grab an ice cream, consider an RV Short Stop in Alma, Ark., the self-proclaimed Spinach Capital of the World. (BTW: Crystal City, Texas, also calls itself the Spinach Capital of the World.)

Once you spot the World's Largest Spinach Can sitting along I-40, you're pretty much there. Alma is located in the Arkansas River Valley at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and sits just off exit 12 on I-40 at US 71, about 12 miles east of the Oklahoma border and a dozen miles north of Ft. Smith (about a two-hour drive west of Little Rock).

Alma is the original home to Popeye Brand Spinach (once with the Allen Canning Company, now part of Del Monte). "Around 1987, Alma began calling itself the Spinach Capital of the World because the Allen Canning Company based in Alma canned more than half of all the spinach canned in the U.S., about 60 million pounds annually," states Wikipedia.

Popeye Park, Alma, Ark. (Wikipedia)

Popeye Park
A bronze statue of Popeye the Sailor Man was unveiled in April 2007 and sits in the heart of a circular garden near downtown Alma. In 2009 a mural was painted on an adjoining wall of old Fayetteville Avenue.

Popeye Statue

Directions to Popeye Park:
801 Fayetteville Ave., Alma, Ark.
479-632-4127
I-40 exit 12 onto US 71 south. Go through the traffic light, bear left, then turn right onto Fayetteville Ave./Hwy 162 into downtown. The Park is at the other end of town, on the right. (If you get to the high school, you’ve gone too far.)

While in Alma, if you are looking for a cool ice cream treat, check out Braum's Ice Cream and Burgers, 129 US Hwy 71 North. Open daily at 6 a.m. to 10:45 p.m.

To read more about Braum's ice cream, and nearby day hiking and camping at White Rock Mountain, click here.

For more about the RV Lifestyle by Julianne G. Crane and Jimmy Smith, go to RVWheelLife.com

-- Julianne G. Crane

Photos: World's Largest Spinach Can (Stephanie Geckle). Popeye Park and bronze statue (Source: Wikipedia.)

##RVT799

Synchronous fireflies put on magical show

2017-05-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fireflies of Tennessee (firefly.org)

Catching fireflies on warm summer evenings was always one of my fondest childhood activities.

I've never been lucky enough, not yet anyway, to witness thousands of these enchanting insects flash all at the same time. These rare synchronous displays are magical. More about these unusual sightings in a moment.

According to early reports, lightning bugs are already started flashing this year. They love warm, humid areas and need a moist environment to survive. They thrive on all continents except Antarctica, and live at the lush margins where forest or field meet water.

They typically start appearing after the rainy season, with the peak date occurring between the third week of May to the third week in June.

"In the U.S., almost no species of fireflies are found west of Kansas—although there are also warm and humid areas to the west. Nobody is sure why this is," according to Firefly.org.

As for 'synchronous fireflies' sightings, there are less than a handful in the United States--the three main locations are in Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina. In these very specific habitats, the Photinus carolinus firefly species is responsible for putting on the synchronized displays.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fireflies of Tennessee

"No one is sure why the fireflies flash synchronously. Competition between males may be one reason: they all want to be the first to flash. Or perhaps if the males all flash together they have a better chance of being noticed, and the females can make better comparisons," reports the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website.

Best Viewing Dates: late May - mid-June
Peak Times: 7 - 10 p.m.
The Firefly Shuttle operates May 30-June 6, 2017.
For all the information you need, click here.

Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania

Allegheny National Park (firefly.org)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was once thought to be the only place where you can see synchronous fireflies in North America, and it remains the best known, according to Firefly.org.

"In summer 2012, a rare discovery of synchronous fireflies known as Photinus carolinus were discovered in the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania."

Synchronous fireflies come out very late, best times: between 10:30 p.m. until after midnight.

The Pennsylvania Firefly Festival - June 24, 2017

The Pennsylvania Firefly Festival celebrates the annual mating displays of over 15 different species of firefly in the Allegheny National Forest area including the synchronous firefly and the unique "Chinese Lantern" firefly along the Tionesta Creek.

On Wed., June 21, 6 p.m. author and firefly expert Sara Lewis who will give an informative presentation about fireflies, answer firefly questions and sign copies of her new book, "Silent Sparks." This is a free event, but donations to PAFF are appreciated. Place: West Forest High School Gym.

The Firefly Festival takes place on June 24, 2017, on the grounds of the Black Caddis Ranch B & B in Kellettville, just 15 miles east of Tionesta on Route 666. Live music goes from 12:30 to 9:15 p.m.

Due to the growing crowds at the festival, organizers are asking attendees to register if they want a spot in the firefly walks the night of the festival. They are still free, but registering will help to organize the crowds and give you the best firefly experience possible.

New this year, the festival is offering a VIP Firefly Experience. "For a $10 ticket, you’ll get access to the exclusive VIP firefly viewing area, your own dedicated firefly guide and up to an hour of uninterrupted viewing."

For complete festival and viewing information click here.

Black Caddis Ranch B & B
13558 Route 666, Tionesta, Pa 16353
Call: (814) 230-2035.

Congaree National Park in South Carolina

Congaree National Park is one of the least known areas for synchronous fireflies in the United States.

"For two weeks in late May and early June the fireflies in Congaree will blink in unison on evenings with the right weather conditions. The habitat of Congaree is also slightly more unique than others with synchronous fireflies in that it's more swampy and known as an old growth floodplain forest," according to Firefly.org.

Update (5/13/2017): "Visitors have noticed an increase in the number of fireflies over the past few evenings and some have stated that they have been synchronized. It is likely that we are nearing the beginning of the period of synchronization."

"The Harry Hampton Visitor Center will be open extended hours from Sat., May 20 to Sat., June 10, 2017. During that time, the Visitor Center will be open till 9 p.m. each night and park staff and volunteers will be offering special programs. " The park will also be hosting a "Firefly Festival" on Saturday, May 27, 2017.

Best Viewing Dates: mid-May - Mid-June
Peak Times: 8 - 10 p.m.
Call: 803-776-4396, and ask for information.

Help Fireflies make a comeback

"Fireflies are disappearing all over the world, and it's believed to be because of human encroachment on habitat and increased light pollution from development and traffic," states Firefly.org.

If you live in a region of the country where fireflies make their fascinating appearance, there are a few things you can do to help fireflies make a comeback. For a wealth of information on ways to save these magical creatures click on "How to Help".

-- Julianne G. Crane
To read more articles by Julianne on the RV lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photos: Source Firefly.org.

##RVT795

Bluegrass, VW buses head for Chantilly Farm in Blue Ridge Mountains near Floyd, Virginia

2017-05-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Chantilly Farm's performance stage near Floyd, Va. (Chantilly Farm)

Whenever traveling through the Blue Ridge Mountain area, Floyd, Virginia, is at the top of our 'must visit' list. We love this southwest region of Virginia for several reasons: kin, friends and traditional mountain music. One visit here, especially over a weekend, and you'll understand.

And, if you are traveling in an RV, check out the beautiful Chantilly Farm campground six miles from downtown Floyd and convenient to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail.

Camping at Chantilly Farm

This is the perfect way to combine camping and a fun, family RV Short Stop.

Opened in 2011, Chantilly Farm has evolved into one of the region’s premiere outdoor venues for camping and special events. With acres of grassy fields, woodlands, and abundant wildlife, the venue provides the perfect backdrop for gatherings and full hookups or rustic tent camping.

Here are some of their 2017 events:

- The 7th Annual Bluegrass & BBQ Festival, May 26-28, is "an all-star lineup of some of the biggest artists in the genre along with local and regional talent."
- Floyd Auto Fair & Vintage Swap Meet, June 2-4, is one of the region's most unique classic car events.
- The Barn Dance, June 9, 6:30-9 p.m. is an old-fashioned style barn dance in celebration of The Crooked Road's Mountains of Music featuring The Wildmans and Back Porch Cloggers. Free Admission.
- 4th Annual Gospel Jubilee, June 10, 2- 8 p.m. features Grammy and Dove award winner Jason Crabb. Free event.
- Floyd Energy Fair, July 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. is organized by nonprofits Sustain Floyd and Apple Ridge Farm. $5 per family, $3 for individuals.
- "Buses at Chantilly" Volkswagen Bus Campout, Sept. 15 - 17, is perfect if your rig is a VW camper.

"Buses at Chantilly" Rally, music at Chantilly Farms

This weekend campout features a Saturday evening concert on the main stage with Cosmic Charlie: A Tribute to The Grateful Dead. "Cosmic Charlie has performed over 500 shows at theaters, clubs and festivals across the continental USA. From Oregon to Colorado to Ohio to the Carolinas, Cosmic Charlie’s unique take on the Dead has garnered the attention of luminaries from the Grateful Dead extended family."

Admission to the concert is free for VW Bus Campout participants. If you don't own a VW bus, but are fascinated by them or just want to be there for the concert, tickets for the general public are available.

Questions? Call (540) 353-5898 or email chantillyfarm@gmail.com

For more about previous visits to Floyd, click here to learn more about the nearby Floyd Country Store and its Friday Night Jamborees.

— Julianne G. Crane
For more on the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Photos: Chantilly Farm

Summer festivals in Oxford County, Ontario

2017-04-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

For RVers making their way to Canada's Maritime Provinces this summer, consider going through Oxford County in the southwest section of Ontario. It is about a two-hour drive from United States border crossings at Buffalo, Detroit and Port Huron.

Here are a few of Oxford County's summer festivals --

Every Saturday in May

Big Cheese Days - Saturdays in May

"Calling all curd nerds. Hit the open road to Canada's Dairy Capital in Oxford County and enjoy the day celebrating all things cheese."

The Oxford County Cheese Trail is "stepping up their game with amazing culinary experiences, games, delicious local cheese menus, artisan workshops and of course, all the cheese you can get your hands on." Read on for what you can expect.

Harvard's Wings & Wheels - 8/26

Harvards' summer Fly Days and the Annual Wings and Wheels Event

The Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association (CHAA) proudly flies the Harvards, vintage training aircraft, "that are a memorial to all those who gave so much for our freedom."

Come out for Fly Days on May 13, June 10, July 15, and August 5. The Annual Wings and Wheels Event is August 26 (rain date Sunday, Aug. 27) - Read more by clicking here.

Renaissance jousting 6/23-25

Oxford Renaissance Festival - June 23-25

"The Oxford Renaissance Festival brings Knights and Maidens to life." This family friendly festival features live shows, jousting, comedy, music and something for all ages. On June 23 in addition to jousting, look for education shows on birds of prey, the Trebuchet, and much more. - Read more by clicking here.

Wiener Races - 6/24

Wienerfest Home County Festival - June 24

A festival for the dogs (Dachshunds that is). More than 1,000 dachshunds are expected. There will be fun games for the pooches including "the yogurt licking contest, costume contest, Hide a Squirrel game, musical paws, and the famous Wiener Races." The festival is looking to break a Guinness World Record for most wiener dogs wearing bandanas. Proceeds go to Helping Homeless Pets and Tiny Paws Rescue.

Kids love to camp and fish.

Nearby Camping:

Hiking, swimming, birding, paddling, fishing and many children's activities are available at four nearby campground destinations.

For more information on these conservation areas and camping resorts, click on "RV camping in Oxford County, Ontario" on RVWheelLife.com

— Julianne G. Crane
For more on the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Source of Photos: TourismOxford.ca

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National Parks' 'free entrance days' offer hundreds of family RV Short Stops

2017-04-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

National Park Week weekend April 22–23 is the perfect time for a family outing to one of the National Parks and Monuments to take advantage of the *free entrance days.

Bandelier National Monument dwellings in New Mexico. (Julianne G. Crane)

The National Park Service invites everyone "to discover American history in all its diversity, from the homes of poets and Presidents to ancient archeological places (such as New Mexico's Bandelier National Monument pictured) to the sobering stories of Civil War soldiers and civilians to the legacy of a courageous woman who refused to give up her seat on a bus. Our history is part of who we were, who we are, and who we will be," according to the NPS web site.

America’s “national parks, wildlife refuges, forests and other public lands offer every American a place to get outdoors, learn about our nation’s history and culture, and restore our spirits.” By providing free admission, all Americans can visit and enjoy these extraordinary treasures that belong to all of us.

Kids having fun. (NPS Photo)

Other free days that remain in 2017 include:
• Friday, Aug. 25, National Park Service birthday.
• National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 30.
• Veterans Day Weekend: Nov. 11-12.

* “Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.”

The fee-free days provide a great opportunity to visit a new place or an old favorite, especially one of the 117 national parks that normally charge an entrance fee. Start Planning Your Visit.

For non-free days, consider America the Beautiful Passes:

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (Marcel Robicheaux)

While you and your family are visiting a national park or monument, think about picking up one of six available passes.

"A pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges as well as standard amenity fees (day use fees) at national forests and grasslands, and at lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers," according to park officials.

The following passes are available:

Annual Pass -- Cost: $80, available for everyone.
Free Annual Pass for U.S. Military -- Current U.S. military members and dependents.
Free Annual 4th Grade Pass -- Check out the Every Kid in a Park program.
Senior Pass -- $10 lifetime pass for those age 62 and over.
Free Access Pass -- Lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.
Free Volunteer Pass -- For volunteers with 250 service hours with federal agencies that participate in the Interagency Pass Program.

Find the nearest national park to you by clicking here.

– Julianne G. Crane
For more on the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Photos: Top: RVer Jimmy Smith explores a series of dwellings carved into the rock cliffs of Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico. For information on camping, click here. (Julianne G. Crane). Middle: Happy youngsters having fun outdoors (NPS Photo) Bottom: RVers Julianne G. Crane and Jimmy Smith near Sunset Point in Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Click here for camping information. (Marcel Robicheaux).

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A little about the Animal Adventure Park - Home to 'April the Giraffe'

2017-03-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

In case you have missed it, 'April the Giraffe' and her new born calf are huge YouTube stars.

April and her suitor, Oliver, captured the hearts, imaginations and attention of the world. Millions (myself included) spent hours (make that weeks) captivated by the final days of her 15-month pregnancy via the Animal Adventure Park's live Giraffe Cam. This is April's 4th offspring and Animal Adventure’s first giraffe calf.

I became curious about where April and Oliver live and started a little online research about the Animal Adventure Park in central New York State. This growing, interactive family-friendly facility is presently home to more than 200 animals representing 70 different species.

Some of Animal Adventure Park's residents, activities. (Click on photos to enlarge)

According to their Website, this year and next will see expansion in the park beginning with a new Welcome Center and Gift Shop facility that will also house indoor reptile, sloth and small animal exhibits.

Monkey

Already underway in the park's 5th season is the South American Monkey House, Walkabout Aussie Aviary and the Giraffe Encounter Deck.

Next on the planning boards is the new "Wilds of Asia and African Conservation Outpost" that will become home to "some highly anticipated and endangered species; with all new approaches to our hands-on and interactive educational experience, geared toward the conservation of our new arrivals," say park officials.

This would be a perfect family RV Short Stop after the park opens for the season on May 13. In addition to seeing April's calf, daily activities include hands-on activities for kids of all ages and "Keeper Talks" beginning at 11 a.m. and every 60 – 90 minutes until 3 p.m.

Peacock

If you go:

Animal Adventure Park
85 Martin Hill Road
Harpursville, NY 13787
(607) 760-4429 (during season)

Opening day for season: May 13
Daily: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Last Admission: 4 pm

American Alligator

Fall Hours begin Sept. 5
Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Admission:

Cash only (ATM on site)
2 yrs and under: Free
Children 3-11: $9.99
General 12+: $11.99
Seniors 65+: $10.99

- Julianne G. Crane
For more on the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Photos Source: Animal Adventure Park Click on images to enlarge.

Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

2017-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yuma Territorial Prison 'Guard Tower'

One popular tourist attraction for thousands of RV snowbirds each winter is the Yuma Territorial Prison (Arizona) State Historic Park.

This fascinating RV Short Stop is only a short distance from I-8.

Historical image of Yuma Territorial Prision

"Sitting on a bluff overlooking the Colorado River, three miles west of the confluence of the Colorado and the historic Gila River, stand the ruins of Arizona’s famous Territorial Prison, and a short distance west are the remaining buildings that served as a part of the Yuma Quartermaster's Depot," writes Charles R. Eatherly about the Park's history on the prison's web site.

Prison cell block.

A few of the original buildings have been preserved.

At Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park visitors are able to walk through "the actual strap iron cells and solitary chamber of Arizona Territory’s first prison, and see the areas where prisoners spent their lives in the desert."

The Territorial Prison Historic Park opened to the public on January 1, 1961. There are many fascinating and informative artifacts and displays in the air conditioned museum. Take the guided tour and learn the complete history.

If you go:

Prison sign.

Yuma Territorial Prison
220 N. Prison Hill Road
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 783-4771

Hours
Winter Schedule: Oct. 1 to May 31, 2017
Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Summer Schedule: June 1 - Sept. 30, 2017
Open Thursday through Monday
(Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Also closed September 5-20, 2017 for major maintenance and repairs
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Admission: $6 adults
$3 children age 7 to 13
free for children 6 and under

Free Parking: Plenty of RV and tow vehicle parking in South Parking Lot

-- Julianne G. Crane
For more regarding the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Photos Source: Yuma Territorial Prison (Arizona) State Historic Park

USS Lexington, Corpus Christi, Texas

2017-02-15T00:30:00.000-08:00

RVer Jimmy Smith walks the beach by USS Lexington (Julianne G. Crane)

The USS Lexington aircraft carrier rests majestically next to the North Beach of Corpus Christi Bay on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Beginning in World War II, the LEX played a significant role in the nation’s defense for nearly 50 years. She is a memorial worth preserving and thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, she continues to serve today as a museum and educational facility.

Shuttle up ramp. (Julianne G. Crane)

There is a complimentary shuttle up the approach ramp to the 16-story "Blue Ghost" that displays military artifacts and more than a dozen aircraft.

The five self-guided tour routes cover 100,000 square feet and eleven decks. The flight deck alone is equal to more than two acres. You will need to be able to climb stairs and some spaces are a tight squeeze. (See details below about accessibility.)

This highly decorated ship has steamed more miles and served longer than any other Essex Class aircraft carrier in the world.

RV snowbirds Sherian and Lee Shriver (Julianne G. Crane)

From the very first day as a naval aviation museum in October 1992, the LEX has "remained totally self-sufficient, never having received funds from local, state or federal government agencies," according to museum officials. It is estimated that more than 5-1/2 million people have visited the USS Lexington since she opened as a museum.

A few facts about the Lexington:
- During World War II, the carrier participated in nearly every major operation in the Pacific Theater and spent a total of 21 months in combat. Her planes destroyed 372 enemy aircraft in the air, and 475 more on the ground.

Veterans Jimmy Smith and Lee Shriver (Julianne G. Crane)

- She was the first foreign heavy fleet carrier to enter Tokyo Bay.

- The LEX was the first aircraft carrier in US Naval history to have women stationed aboard as crew members (18 Aug. 1980).

- During her heyday, the USS Lexington carried enough fuel to sail nonstop for 30,000 miles.

Accessibility:
The Hangar Deck and Flight Deck are wheelchair accessible. The 3D MEGA Theater, Mess Deck, Ship’s Store and restrooms are on the Hangar Deck. The LEX lift elevator takes those unable to climb stairs, from the Hangar Deck to the Flight Deck.

Sherian & Lee Shriver buy tickets to the LEX. (Julianne G. Crane)

If you go:

USS Lexington Museum
2914 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Corpus Christi, Texas 78403
Phone: 1-800-LADY LEX, (361) 888-4873

Admission: General- $14.95; Seniors/Military $12.95; Children 4-12 $9.85 (check online for a $1 off coupon)
Admission includes a free movie in the 3D MEGA Theater. The giant-screen film features "the world’s largest and most comprehensive international maritime training exercise" from aboard "the USS Ronald Reagan alongside the 5,000 highly skilled sea and air personnel conducting flight operations in the midst of simulated war exercises."

Open: Year-round, seven days a week except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Convenient all-day parking is available across the street for $3.50

-- Julianne G. Crane
For more regarding the RV lifestyle, click on RVWheelLife.com

Fulton Mansion on Aransas Bay in Rockport, Texas, perfect afternoon RV Short Stop

2017-02-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

Fulton Mansion in Rockport, Texas (Julianne G. Crane)

Fulton Mansion is an imposing three-story Victorian villa in Rockport, Texas, about 30 miles northeast of Corpus Christi. It is a perfect RV Short Stop destination for Winter Texan snowbirds or for Texas families on a weekend trip to the Gulf Coast.

It was named "Oakhurst" because "majestic live oak trees surrounded the property on three sides" and faces Aransas Bay. When it was completed, there was nothing like it on the Texas Coastal Plains.

It was built between 1874 and 1877 for George Ware Fulton (1810-1893) and his wife, Harriet Smith Fulton (1823-1910) who were married in 1840.

View from Fulton Mansion (Julianne G. Crane)

The 2.7-acre site is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The historical significance of this bayside residence lies in its noteworthy architectural style, a classic example of French Second Empire; its unique plank wall and shell aggregate concrete basement; characteristic mansard roof construction methods; and its advanced mechanical systems — which featured gas lighting, central heating and indoor plumbing with hot and cold running water.

Because of significant deterioration due to age and moisture, the mansion underwent an extensive restoration that took nearly three years spanning 2013-2015.

This state historical site is part of the Texas Tropical Trail Region that provides information on "the natural, cultural, and historical treasures in the unique and vibrant southern tip of Texas."

Start with the Education Center where there is an exhibit with background information on the Fulton family. Allow about an hour for the self-guided tour.

RVer Jimmy Smith in Education Center

If you go:

Fulton Mansion
317 Fulton Beach Road
Rockport, TX 78382
Phone: 361-729-0386
URL: visitfultonmansion.com

Tickets: Adults, $6; students, $4.
Mansion hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: 1-4 p.m.
Education Center hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday: 12:30-4:30 p.m.

Directions:
From State Highway 35, turn east on Henderson Street and travel approximately 7 blocks.
GPS: N28° 3' 25" W97° 2' 7.4"

-- Julianne G. Crane
For more information about the RV lifestyle, go to RVWheelLife.com

Photos: (Top) Fulton Mansion; (middle) view from Fulton Mansion of Aransas Bay, Rockport, Texas. (Bottom) RVer Jimmy Smith reads about the history of the Fulton Mansion. (Julianne G. Crane)