Monty's Musings - RV Travel Blog

Spring RV Road Trip Idea – Crowley’s Ridge Parkway

Monty — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:08:29 +0000

From the Mississippi River port city of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas to the Bootheel Region of Missouri, there’s a scenic, tree-covered ridge that beckons Spring RV travelers to come and explore. Crowley’s Ridge Parkway, two hundred miles of hardwood-forest-covered hills, opens the door to cultural, historical and natural attractions worth discovering.

Perfect for a multi-day RV road trip, this parkway promises the bright green of newly budded trees, quiet meadows filled with wildflowers and exciting views that stretch out for miles to Spring RV travelers. We suggest making these stops along the way to enjoy the wonders of Crowley’s Ridge.

To absorb the significance of the Mississippi River and Crowley’s Ridge to the Civil War, make Helena-West Helena, Arkansas your first stop on the Parkway. Hometown and burial place of three Confederate generals and the site of the Battle of Helena in 1863, this now-combined pair of towns has a nice collection of antebellum homes, as well.

You’ll find the route well-marked as you travel north out of Helena-West Helena toward St. Francis National Forest. Two RV-ready campgrounds welcome travelers to stop and enjoy the trails, photograph an amazing variety of plant and animal life and enjoy picture-perfect views of Bear Creek Lake.

Having enjoyed a restful night in your comfortable RV, hit the road again following the signs for Crowley’s Ridge Parkway north to Marianna, AR. From there, it’s a short drive to Parkin Archaeological State Park, where an American Indian village flourished for more than 500 years on the banks of the Mississippi. A large burial mound, an interpretive center and remnants of frontier life make for an interesting visit.

Lake Poinsett

Farther up the road in the Arkansas Delta town of Harrisburg, RV visitors will find Lake Poinsett State Park especially inviting for campers. A beautiful tree-lined body of water with two campgrounds and good fishing, Lake Poinsett offers Crowley Ridge Parkway travelers a chance to stop and enjoy their surroundings.

Plan some extra time on your Arkansas Spring RV camping trip to play in Jonesboro, home to Arkansas State University. You’ll find plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment offerings here, as well as the attractive campus itself. Jonesboro is also home to the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center, with trails, exhibits and an observation tower. Definitely worth slowing down to enjoy!

Two state parks just north of Jonesboro near the town of Paragould offer motorhome travelers plenty of outdoor possibilities. Lake Frierson State Park is splendid in springtime, with thousands of flowering trees bursting into bloom. The lake is also famous for its fishing. If you’re ready to set up camp again, Crowley’s Ridge State Park on the east side of the parkway features a Class B campground, hiking trails and canoe and paddle boat rentals on a small fishing lake.

And then it’s north to Missouri to complete our Springtime RV journey along Crowley’s Ridge. You’ll pass through the town of Piggott, AR, where a great museum tells of the time Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in the area. You’ll also encounter scenic St Francis, Arkansas on the St. Francis River which forms the boundary with Missouri.

Just across the river, stop to learn about the largest Civil War battle in Missouri at Chalk Bluff State Park. In addition to commemorative markers, there are wooded trails to enjoy as well as an RV campground.

To learn more about the geological forces that formed Crowley’s Ridge, keep traveling the Parkway north to Campbell, MO and Jim Morris State Park. A lush wonderland of unusual plants and trees, Morris Park offers a fascinating glimpse into nature’s awesome power.

Before ending your trip at Malden, Missouri, be sure to visit at least one of the other attractions in the area. Click here for details from Byways.org on such fascinating spots as the Beachwell Gullies and Billy DeMint’s gravesite.

From Eastern Arkansas’ Delta lowlands to the wild and scenic Bootheel of Missouri, RV travelers will find plenty to see and do this spring along the Crowley Ridge Parkway.

The picture of Lake Poinsett is by Thomas R Machnitzki and from the Wikimedia Commons. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license.

Planning Winter RV Trips to America’s Hot Spots

Monty — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:01:41 +0000

Did you know that planning a winter RV trip to one of America’s warm-weather hot spots doesn’t even require owning an RV? The convenience of RV rentals, available nationwide, lets winter-weary folks plan their dream trips to sunny places.

One popular way our readers reach those winter RV camping destinations is by taking advantage of our Fly/Drive Program to make picking up their RV rental at select locations simple. You can, for example, fly away from frigid temperatures in Boston, depart your plane at Orlando International Airport and take advantage of a pre-arranged transfer to El Monte RV Rentals Orlando, less than twenty miles away.

Another smart strategy for planning the perfect winter RV getaway is to plan your trip to a sunny spot around area campsites available. We encourage readers to use our Campground Reservations tool to learn which campgrounds in their desired location are highly-rated by other campers and then make their reservations.

Need a tip for saving even more money while planning your winter RV trip to one of America’s hot spots? Take advantage of El Monte RV specials on RV rental rates. At this writing, for instance, we’re offering a Valentine’s Day special for trips that include February 14.

Now, where to go to find the maximum fun in the sun this winter? Here are five winter hot spots to consider for this winter’s RV camping vacation:

Miami, Florida, home to beautiful beaches, stunning architecture and the immense inland “sea of grass” known as the Everglades.
Phoenix, Arizona, surrounded by scenic state parks and national forests and filled with interesting attractions like Old Tucson Studios and Camelback Mountain hiking trails.
San Diego, CA is a classic winter destination for RV campers hoping for sun and sand. San Diego County’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in America, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and beach gear!
Los Angeles, California is centrally located for plenty of outdoor winter fun. Enjoy the mild winter temperatures enjoying outdoor spots highlighted in LA Hiker, a great Los Angeles outdoors blog.
Houston, Texas on the Gulf of Mexico is right next door to Galveston Island National Seashore. It also makes a fine starting point for deep sea fishing adventures. You’ll also discover many affordable Houston attractions such as visiting the Battleship Texas or Space Center Houston.

Don’t sit and sulk about grey winter weather! Tell your favorite RV camping buddy it’s time to schedule some time off and head for the land of sunshine. Plan an RV camping trip soon to one of America’s winter hot spots and put those winter blues to rest for good.

RV Camping Along the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail

Monty — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:27:08 +0000

You may know that the wooded hills around Richmond, Virginia are splendidly scenic and overflowing with historic treasures. But did you know, RV campers, that they’re also the birthplace of numerous notable wines, just waiting to tempt your taste buds?

Here’s a great trip idea – combine the luxury and comfort of Virginia RV camping with the luscious flavors to be found along the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail. Intrigued? We thought you might be, and so we’ve gathered great information for making this your best RV camping trip yet. Here’s just a sip of the pleasures that await on your camping trip along the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail…

Wonderful wineries populate the area within an hour’s drive northwest of Richmond. Start your tour at James River Cellars, between Richmond and Ashland on Route 1. This picturesque oasis offers more than a dozen vintages, including specially-bottled ‘Civil War Wines.’ They also host the April Fools Wine Festival, where all four Heart of Virginia Wine Trail wineries are celebrated the first weekend of April each year.

Having then spent the night in one of the region’s highly-rated RV campgrounds, move on the next day toward Lake Anna Winery in Spotsylvania. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Richmond and a beautiful way to spend a morning. With gently rolling hills all around, this small vineyard offers both red and white wines handcrafted to delight oenophiles of all kinds.

You’ll also have the chance to cruise the shoreline at Lake Anna, a bright blue recreational haven in the heart of the state. There’s a campground here if you’re ready to call it a day, or you can keep moving toward our next destination.

Cooper Vineyards in Louisa, VA is an excellent spot to enjoy tasting and purchasing such delights as their Viognier 2010 in elegant new tasting rooms. Award-winning vintages and beautiful surroundings make this a favorite stop for RV travelers who appreciate fine wines.

We’re coming to the end of our RV wine-tasting journey in the heart of Virginia, but not before we make a stop at Grayhaven Winery in Gum Spring, VA. Gorgeously scenic, this vineyard has been in operation for nearly thirty years. An impressive selection of estate-grown wines can be savored by travelers shopping for just the right vintage to take home.

If you enjoy fine wine and RV camping is your preferred mode of travel, central Virginia is the place for your next camping vacation. And it’s more affordable than you might imagine to visit these vineyards by RV.

First, click here to purchase the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail Passport that gives you access to tours and tastings at all four wineries. Next, contact us to find out how easily you can secure an economical Virginia RV rental. Finally, visit VirginiaRVCampgrounds.com to select the places you’d like to call home along the way.

Richmond, Virginia’s excellent accommodations for campers combine with the rich wine growing heritage of the surrounding region to make RV camping along the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail a deliciously good time. Isn’t it time to start making your reservations?

Three Great Reasons to go RV Camping in Roswell, New Mexico

Monty — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:47:11 +0000

As RV camping fans begin to map their spring and summer trips, the eastern New Mexico town of Roswell is well worth a second look. State and national parks quite near Roswell make excellent outdoor destinations, thanks to unique geological formations, unusual bodies of water and some pretty terrific campgrounds. Here’s our take on three great reasons to go RV camping in Roswell, New Mexico.

The Pecos River Valley just east of Roswell is a geological wonder. It is home to Bottomless Lakes State Park (PDF), a place that continues to thrill first-time and long-time visitors with its eye-opening landscape. A string of eight small lakes formed by rainwater runoff from the nearby mountains decorate an amazing red rock landscape of canyons and bluffs. One lake (Lea Lake) is open for swimming and active RV campers will enjoy paddle boarding across the lake.
Another popular activity at the lakes is scuba diving, so pack your equipment if that’s your passion. You can also fish on a couple of the smaller lakes, a bonus for outdoor adventurers. These ‘bitter water’ lakes are ringed by nice RV campsites with modern amenities. Be sure to bring your hiking gear; you won’t want to miss exploring this one-of-a-kind landscape.
When motorhome camping in Roswell, NM, you’ll also want to visit Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, where an amazing variety of dragon and damsel flies are unofficial mascots for the park. Wildlife lovers love to explore this refuge, watching for rare and endangered species of birds, mammals and reptiles in a red-rock landscape of mysterious sinkholes, salt plains and rocky bluffs.
Friends of the refuge have put together an excellent visitor center. You’ll also find hiking trails and a scenic drive to expand your experience of the refuge.
Roswell, New Mexico also offers RVers the chance to play a great round of golf! With two golf courses open to the public, you can choose the type of golf experience you prefer. The course at the New Mexico Military Institute is definitely the place to amble through a friendly round. Another Roswell course, the Municipal Spring River Golf Course will test your skills in a lush and scenic setting.

Wildlife, wild landscapes and outstanding golf venues…three great reasons to go RV camping in Roswell, New Mexico. With friendly RV campgrounds like Trailer Village RV Park waiting to play host, isn’t it time you started planning your motorhome camping trip to Roswell? And come see our staff at El Monte RV Rentals in Albuquerque; they’ve got a world of ideas for making your Roswell camping vacation a success.

An Exhilarating RV Excursion in Kentucky

Monty — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:26:55 +0000

Tour of Mammoth Cave

Looking to squeeze a lifetime of Americana, culture, and fun into one week? South-central Kentucky boasts more enviable destinations than most comparable geographic areas in the country. From underground rivers to Civil War battlefields, waterfalls to America’s most iconic automobile, Kentucky offers enough attractions to fill months of travel (or, just relax by a sprawling lake in the rolling hills).

Anchored by the City of Bowling Green and Mammoth Cave National Park, the south-central region has long drawn vacationers who marvel at the state’s most famous natural wonder (after the horses, of course!). But many continue on their way, before getting a chance, to fully experience this rich region.

Each of the stops on this perfect Kentucky itinerary are destinations themselves — don’t hesitate to spend a few days at any one stop. Or, squeeze all of these into a week. Either way, you’ll be amazed at what the bluegrass state has to offer!

If you’re motoring in from the north, east, or south, make your first stop Cumberland Falls State Park. Just a stone’s throw off of I-75, but tucked into the vast wilderness of Daniel Boone State Forest, the falls stretch 125 feet wide and drop 68 vertical feet — they’re easily the largest in Kentucky. Cumberland Falls is most notable, however, for being one of the only places in the world to see a “moonbow,” a rainbow phenomenon that occurs at night when moonlight refracts off of the waterfall’s mist.

The cool, crisp air of late fall is the best time to witness the moonbow phenomenon. Plan your trip around a full moon and enjoy it for nights on end!

In close vicinity to the falls, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park is both a great place to camp (full hook-ups) and worth a visit itself. Highlights of the 1300-acre park include McHargue’s Mill, a working reproduction of a settlement-era grinding mill, and the seven-building Mountain Life Museum, full of relics from the pioneering days when Kentucky was still the ‘wild west.’

Heading west, just over an hour away is the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. The park is a place for quiet reflection — it’s the site of the bloodiest Civil War battle in the state. 7,600 men were wounded or killed in October 1862 (If you can, visit for the annual reenactments). Perryville was the Confederacy’s failed last attempt to take control of Kentucky, and is one of the least-altered battlefields in the nation, offering nearly the same view that soldiers saw when marching onto the field 150 years ago.

Just down the road is a site worthy of quick stopover — the Georgian mansion where the famous American songwriter Stephen Foster penned “My Old Kentucky Home.” Whistle the state song while touring the home and formal gardens at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, which also features a 39-site campground.

It’s time for an obvious highlight of the trip — Mammoth Cave National Park. Consider two days here; one to explore the subterranean wonderland, and one to enjoy the above-ground world away from the crowds. The 6.6-mile out-and-back Turnhole Bend Trail is a favorite of hiking buffs, passing over serene, isolated bluffs and through Kentucky’s last remaining old-growths forests.

When you’re ready to put Mammoth in your rearview, scoot on down to Bowling Green. If you’ve still got the urge to spelunk, Lost River Cave offers an experience unlike any other you’ll find; a cave tour by boat! The sensation of floating down an underground river is a family adventure not to be missed.

After your watery tour, stop into the National Corvette Museum and watch dad drool over the factory where every Corvette is made. Finish this well-rounded day at Bowling Green’s iconic Great American Donut Shop, where you’ll find locals ready to tout their hometown favorite guilty-pleasure ahead of any national chain’s offerings.

For RVers needing to restock, the country’s first Camping World is in Bowling Green. Stop by and pay homage to the best way to travel and see the country, and pick up a few supplies.

Back on the road, return east to finish your south-central Kentucky circuit at one of two gorgeous lakes in the midlands. Green River Lake’s rock shoals feature 1,331 acres of remote public land along Green River Lake State Park, and plenty of room to explore one of the state’s prettiest places, with a full-service 157-site campground. There’s a marina, mini golf, and 28 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Just to the south, the immense Lake Cumberland stretches out over 52,000 acres of water, with 1,225 miles of shoreline. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park is an RV campground on steroids, offering every amenity from rental fishing boats to disc golf to horseshoe riding. An entire week spent just at Lake Cumberland offers enough to entertain the family without end.

Across the entire state, Kentucky offers an endless bounty of history, nature, and family fun. Even in the 300-mile loop of the state’s mid-south described in this post, there are more attractions than room to write about!

Make Bowling Green the base for your next RV adventure, and see how far just a few miles can take you in Kentucky.

Picture credits: The picture of the Mammoth Cave Tour is by Daniel Schwen and is from the Wikimedia Commons. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Enjoying Richmond Hill, Georgia by RV

Monty — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:05:13 +0000

We wrote recently about the RV camping adventures to be found along the southern Georgia coast, but there’s much to be celebrated up north on Georgia’s “colonial coast”, as well. RV travelers to Georgia will want to discover the small town charm of Richmond Hill, twenty miles south of Savannah along the Ogeechee River.

Why venture to Richmond Hill by RV? There are dozens of reasons this town has the makings of a great motorhome vacation, but let’s start with our top five. We think our readers will find it’s time to start planning an RV camping vacation to Richmond Hill.

Richmond Hill’s History can be traced from its quiet, rural Georgia beginnings through the devastation of the Civil War and into a time of growth and prosperity thanks to beloved benefactors – Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ford. Historic buildings throughout the area give testimony to the powerful forces that shaped this Southern town.
Fort McAllister Historic Park allows RVers the opportunity to learn how this fortification on the Ogeechee River played a crucial role in the Civil War. It isn’t hard to imagine while you’re there the mighty Union ironclads wreaking havoc against the South’s valiant blockade runners. Visitors can explore the well-preserved earthworks and Civil War Museum and take a stroll along the river. There’s also a tree-lined campground with memorable views from every campsite.
Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge, forty-five minutes from Richmond Hill on Ossabaw Sound, is an untouched paradise accessible only by boat. Book a boat tour while RV camping in Georgia’s Lowcountry, it’s a trip you won’t soon forget!
Savannah , Richmond Hill’s famous neighbor to the north, is absolutely the cultural and historical center of Georgia’s Colonial Coast. The magnificent tree-lined squares, the marvelous architecture and the wonderful mix of cultures make Savannah a fascinating place to visit. Indulge in the cultural, culinary and historic delights of Savannah and then come back to the peace and quiet of Richmond Hill’s Savannah South KOA Campground.
Georgia’s Colonial Coast Birding Trail makes two stops in and around Richmond Hill. The first is at Fort McAllister Historic Park, mentioned above, where bird-watching enthusiasts may spot shorebirds, songbirds and larger visitors such as osprey. The town’s J.F. Gregory Park, built around a three-hundred acre rice field, features a three mile walking trail, a birding station and lots of opportunities to discover winged wetland residents. Click here for more information on Georgia’s premier route for bird watchers.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to spend a few days RV camping in a quiet town with plenty to offer visitors? Georgia’s Richmond Hill is one such place, and we hope you’ll allow our El Monte RV Rentals Richmond Hill location to give an assist.

Picture credits: The picture of Fort McAllister Historic Park is from the Wikimedia Commons. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported, 2.5 Generic, 2.0 Generic and 1.0 Generic license.

An Intriguing RV Adventure from Des Moines

Monty — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:43:16 +0000

Whether you’re a native or just touring the heartland, there’s enough adventure to be had in Iowa to warrant weeks (or a lifetime) of exploration. If you’re pressed for time, however, Iowa’s got more-than-enough fun to pack a memorable trip into three days of RV adventuring. Of course, take your time if you can. Most of my favorite Iowa destinations are worth more than just a breeze through.

For a three-day run based out of Des Moines, start by heading east on Interstate 80. The first ‘can’t miss’ destination on your route is just two hours away, at the Amana Colonies. These seven villages were formed by German Pietist migrants from New York, who lived communally here from 1855 until the 1930s. Their self-sufficient spirit lives on today, as the Colonies have grown into one of the country’s most impressive collections of artisans, creating everything from furniture to clothing to gifts on-site. Days could be spent watching craftsmen, browsing for mementos, and enjoying traditional Colonial-era cuisine (there are several impressive campgrounds, as well), but we’ve got an adventure on a time schedule!

Continue east another hour to Le Claire, directly on the Mississippi River, outside Davenport. Here we’ll get a taste of the old Wild West, touring the Buffalo Bill Museum, honoring Iowa’s famous frontiersman, “Buffalo Bill” Cody. At the museum see Native American artifacts, a Civil War encampment, and visit the Lone Star Steamer, a wooden steamship that worked the river for 99 years, three times longer than the average working vessel (they usually caught fire!).

For a late afternoon treat (for the adults!), drop into the Mississippi River Distilling Company for a tour, and pick up a carefully handcrafted spirit like their River Rose Gin to enjoy when you get to your campground.

Julien Dubuque Monument at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area

It’s just over an hour up the river to your last stop today in Dubuque. If you leave yourself time, visit the Mines of Spain, a National Historic Landmark. In addition to a monument marking the Spanish-controlled lead mines here in the 18th century, it’s a fantastic place to spot wildlife along the Mississippi River. The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center offers a jumping off point to spot bald eagles, deer, wild turkey, and bobcats in the wetlands, creeks, and prairies around the river’s bluffs.

Begin day two by continuing up the Mississippi to Effigy Mounds National Monument. These prehistoric sites date back to 500 BC, featuring 206 earthen mounds built by Native Americans, some in the shape of animals. The hilly bluffs here provide fantastic views of the Mississippi at its wildest.

Keep your hiking shoes on, because the rest of your day will be spent at Yellow River State Forest, where the 25-mile “Backpack Trail” offers a rare opportunity to hike into heartland wilderness. Hike as short or long a section of trail as you please, but as you head up steep, wooden hillsides, relish in the “I can’t believe I’m in Iowa!” moments and remember what a diverse state it truly is.

It’s time to head west again. For a glimpse at the history of farming (and possibly the future!), stop by the Seed Savers Exchange near Decorah, just half an hour from Yellow River. This impressive organization catalogs and saves heirloom seeds from around the country, preserving varieties of apples, vegetables, grapes, and other treasures that might otherwise fade into the past. Their gardens and historic orchard are well worth a visit.

Less then an hour west is the Hayden Prairie State Preserve, a perfect spot for a picnic. Sadly, 99 percent of Iowa’s tall grass prairie has gone the way of the Dodo. At Hayden Prairie’s 240-acres, you can catch a glimpse of what the entire state once looked like, with over 100 species of wildflowers growing free on the tiny tract.

From Hayden, it’s a quick three hours back to Des Moines. Stop on the city’s western outskirts at Living History Farms, an interactive outdoor museum that lets people play and engage on a 1700 Ioway Indian Farm, an 1850 Pioneer Farm, and a 1900 Horse-Powered Farm. Live demonstrations explain how Iowa transformed from prairie land into world’s most productive farmland.

After touring a large portion of the state, Living History Farms sheds an invaluable light on Iowa’s history and its relevance to the country and the world.

Conclude your Iowa tour with an evening stroll through the East Village of Des Moines, admiring the State Capital and taking your pick of eateries and shops that rival the hippest metropolitan districts in the country.

Still have more time? From Des Moines, it’s just four hours heading northwest to the lakes of the Okoboji region, a one-stop destination with enough family fun and natural beauty to fill an entire week-long vacation. Have just one extra day? Elk Rock State Park is just half-an-hour away, with plenty of swimming, boating, and horseback riding to please the whole family, and a small campground with electric hookups.

Whichever direction you steer, there’s no reason to head out of Iowa! And with gas prices where they’re at, we’re lucky the heartland offers so much fun for RV adventurers right around Des Moines.

Picture credits: The picture of the Julien Dubuque Monument was taken by Bill Whittaker. It is from Wikipedia. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 License.

An Active North Carolina RV Excursion

Monty — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:58:33 +0000

Looking for some excitement for your next family getaway, but not sure which direction to go? What if I told you there’s a way to travel by both land and sea? No, I don’t mean a hovercraft rental. I’m talking about traversing the outer reaches of North Carolina’s coast via RV and ferry, with several stops along the way to stretch not only your legs, but the most active imaginations. With two dozen ferry boats that run daily along the eastern edge of the state — from Knotts Island, which hugs the Virginia state line, to Fort Fisher and the Cape Fear area — the North Carolina Department of Transportation provides road warriors plenty of opportunity to explore this chain of islands. And on these tiny slivers of land, big adventure awaits. (Before setting out on your journey, remember that reservations may be required to secure a spot on board.)

Begin by rolling south on Route 158 towards the Outer Banks and keep an eye out for the blue-and-white signs leading to the free Currituck/Knotts Island Ferry. After a 45-minute boat ride across the Currituck Sound, you’ll arrive on quaint Knotts Island. While the island is primarily residential, visitors are warmly welcomed with two public vineyards, a U-pick orchard, the Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge, artist and craftsman shops, and the Sandy Point Resort Campground. As the birthplace of Ducks Unlimited, Knotts Island also makes an ideal layover spot for the sporting enthusiast. Though the ferry rides to and from the island provide beautiful views of the sound, the best way to take in the marshy vistas is by kayak or canoe. Stillwater Touring Company offers guided paddling tours of the area, including a popular 5.5-mile trek to Carova Beach, where wild horses can often be spotted roaming the shoreline.

Returning to Currituck and heading further south, cross into Kitty Hawk via the Wright Memorial Bridge. Here, you’ll discover endless options for adventure, including a bit of air travel at Kitty Hawk Kites’ Hang Gliding Training Center. Try spreading your wings over the mountainous dunes of Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern U.S. The site also serves up opportunities for sandboarding (think snowboarding minus the cold stuff). If you’re still looking for an adrenaline rush, hit Kitty Hawk Sports, which can set you out sailing, sea kayaking, kite surfing, and wind surfing.

If you’re a fan of history (and heights), this stretch of highway is perfect for lighthouse learning. North of Kitty Hawk in Corolla, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse has been flashing its Fresnel lens since 1875 and is currently open for climbing. Aim your RV in the other direction past Nags Head to visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse. While you can’t scale this black-and-white standard that guards Oregon Inlet, you can visit the restored keeper’s quarters and stand under the 150-foot high structure. Continue down the slender strip of Route 12 to find the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the country’s tallest brick beacon, which is open to explorers willing to make the strenuous climb up 248 spiraling stairs.

From Hatteras, pick up the free ferry across Hatteras Inlet to Ocracoke Island (a 40-minute trip), home to miles of secluded beaches, even more lighthouses, wild ponies that descended from Spanish mustangs, and legends and lore from the days of Blackbeard. Still feeling restless? Check out the jet-ski rentals and parasailing opportunities. And for those that need a rest, the tiny fishing village hosts Teeter’s Campground, where you can hook up and stay the night. If you do choose to stay over, be sure to bring along a flashlight, since there are about as many ghost crabs on the beaches as there are ghost stories in this historic spot, and chasing the skittering critters at night is a great way to play.

The ferry ride from Ocracoke to Cedar Island is the longest of this journey at two hours and 20 minutes — as such, the fee is $45 for vehicles over 40 feet long (most cars are charged $15). While this small coastal community doesn’t offer nearly the adventure of its northern neighbors, travelers will find the Driftwood Campground, Motel, and Restaurant, as well as the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge, where you can rest your wheels and kick up your heels for some peaceful kayaking, fishing, and beach combing.

And if you’re not quite ready to set the parking brake on your getaway, you can continue southward to the Cape Fear region. Kayaking, backpacking, camping, and surfing abound in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. And not far from the South Carolina border, another ferry ($15 for vehicles over 40 feet) awaits to take you from the historic Civil War site Fort Fisher to the maritime town of Southport.

RV Camper’s Paradise: Croatan National Forest

Monty — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:36:37 +0000

North Carolina’s Atlantic Coast lures RV camping fans year round. Croatan National Forest, in particular, showcases the rivers, beaches and forests of the state’s central shore. Roll along with us as we entice you to set up camp in this coastal RV camping paradise.

How to Get There
You’ll find this outdoor wonderland about three hours north of Myrtle Beach, SC. Follow US-17 north from Myrtle Beach along the coast, through Wilmington, Surf City and Jacksonville, NC. The highway wraps around the national forest to the north and west, where two main roads lead into the forest. The confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, on the forest’s northeast boundary at New Bern, NC, is an awesome landmark from which to navigate your journey into Croatan National Forest.

Croatan National Forest Campgrounds
An excellent guide to Croatan National Forest Campgrounds lets RV travelers know that all types of motorhome camping experiences await. Whether you choose to camp along the Neuse River or on the eastern shore at Cedar Point campground, coastal beauty will be your constant companion. There’s truly no better way to enjoy Croatan National Forest than with a stay at one of its campgrounds.

Croatan National Forest Trails
And yet another reason motorhome campers are drawn to this North Carolina paradise can be found by exploring its trails. Its most famous hiking path is the Neusiok Trail from Pine Cliff Recreation Area to Oyster Point. Get ready to experience white sand beaches, coastal pine forests and the mysteries of blackwater swampland along this twenty mile hike.

Two other favorite hikes among campers are the Cedar Point Tideland Trail and Flanners Beach Trail. No matter where you hike, keep your eyes open for the forest’s abundant coastal mammals and reptiles.

Croatan National Forest by Water
While camping in Croatan National Forest, there’s no way to miss the significance of its proximity to area waterways. The Atlantic Ocean is, of course, magnificent for swimming, surf fishing and sea kayaking, and the national forest’s white sand beaches couldn’t be more picturesque. Bogue Sound, part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, forms the forest’s southern boundary. Cedar Point Campground is located here and offers RV campers in Croatan National Forest the perfect place to relax on the shore.

Some travelers to Coastal North Carolina, however, prefer to explore its rivers. The mighty Neuse River flows into the Atlantic along the national forest’s eastern edge, offering endless fishing, canoeing, swimming and boating opportunities for RV campers. A half dozen small lakes add even more outdoor adventure for those who love nothing better than an afternoon fishing in the shade of loblolly pines.

Bringing someone along on your RV camping trip to Croatan National Forest who enjoys historic river cities? For a very special adventure, take the Cherry Branch-Minnesott Branch Ferry across the Neuse River from Pine Cliff Recreation Area to the town of Minnesott Branch. You’ll find this historic resort town a fascinating place to spend an afternoon. Another spot they’ll enjoy is New Bern, NC, where living history museums, trolley tours through historic neighborhoods and dolphin-watching on the Neuse River are among the town’s favorite attractions.

Don’t miss the chance to hike the trails, relax on the white sand beaches, traverse forest waterways and, most of all, get to know the unique joys of coastal forest RV camping. Croatan National Forest, a gem of a place on North Carolina’s Atlantic Coast, is a destined to become a favorite with your RV camping family.

Picture credits: The sign for the Croatan National Forest is from the Wikimedia Commons. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.

Five Ways to Enjoy RV Camping at Pinnacles National Monument

Monty — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:09:54 +0000

Is it hard for you to imagine camping in the shadow of an ancient volcano? Then it’s high time you packed the RV and took a trip to Pinnacles National Monument in California. Ruggedly awesome, this is one place you’ll get to know nature up-front and personal!

Rock Formations at Pinnacles National Monument

If you’re not familiar with this NPS-managed monument, there’s plenty of information available online. Click here for the National Park Service website as you start planning your trip, and, by all means, let us know if we can help with an RV rental!

What you need to know most of all is what kind of adventures you’ll find once you’re there. The remnant of long ago volcanic activity, Pinnacles encompasses boulder-strewn gulches, wildflower-carpeted meadows and impressive rock formations marching up hillsides, so there’s no shortage of places to discover. Here are five favorite ways to enjoy RV camping at Pinnacles National Monument:

Hiking the Trails – The pristine wilderness setting of Pinnacles National Monument promises plenty of hiking opportunities. You’ll find marked trails among amazing rock formations, through hardwood forests and along rocky ridges. Decide how strenuous you’d like your trek to be, pack plenty of water and be prepared to be amazed at the variations in nature you’ll find along the way.
Exploring the Caves – “Talus caves” formed by ancient shifting rock piles are a favorite feature at Pinnacles National Monument. Some of these caverns are home to rare species such as Townsend’s big-eared bat and the park protects their habitat by partially closing sections of the caves throughout the year. You can still expect to have at least partial access to this unique geological phenomenon, so add a trip to the caves to your RV vacation itinerary.
Watching the Wildlife – Did we mention that Pinnacles National Monument is home to nearly three dozen California condors? An important site in the condor preservation movement, Pinnacles is also an excellent place for condor viewing from a distance. Keep your eyes to the skies as you hike, drive and camp at the monument—you might just catch sight of the largest bird in Northern America.
Photographing the Monument – Surrounded by unforgettable sunsets, spires rising to the sky, rock-walled canyons and rare and wonderful wildlife, you won’t know where to point your camera first. Take advantage of the isolated beauty of Pinnacles National Monument to capture unforgettable vacation photos and great memories.
Camping! Pinnacles Campground, within the monument’s boundaries, is an excellent place to start your journey. Set up camp at this year-round campground with convenient amenities; in a luxurious motorhome, your stay at Pinnacles National Monument will both comfortable and affordable.

Come visit one of California’s best-kept secrets just two hours south of San Jose. It’s well worth the journey to discover an ancient landscape perfect for your next RV camping vacation.

Picture credits: The picture of the Rock Formations at Pinnacles National Monument is from the Wikimedia Commons. It is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.