In this post, I’m focusing on Arizona, a state where I’ve spent many winters over the years. Instead of rehashing the obvious must-sees like the Big Tent Show or the Grand Canyon (both absolutely worth visiting), I wanted to highlight a few experiences I’ve personally enjoyed during winter stays in the state.
Here are five things to do in Arizona during the winter months — with some bonus ideas sprinkled in — that make the season feel like something to enjoy, not just wait out.
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, located near Page, Arizona, on Navajo Nation land. Carved over millions of years by flash flooding and erosion, the smooth sandstone walls glow in shades of orange, red, and gold.
The canyon is famous for its narrow passageways, wave-like formations, and dramatic light beams that appear when sunlight filters through the cracks above. It’s one of those places that somehow lives up to the hype.
Because Antelope Canyon is on Native land, guided tours and reservations are required. There are several tour companies to choose from, but I highly recommend booking with a Native-owned guide — it adds depth and context that makes the experience even more memorable. You’ll also want to read about the two main canyon options (Upper and Lower), as one requires climbing down ladders.
Bonus: Horseshoe Bend is just south of Page and is an absolute must-see. Parking is $10, and the walk takes about 15–20 minutes. It’s an easy stop to pair with Antelope Canyon — just plan ahead, as it can get busy.
Where to Stay: I’ve camped at Lake Powell each time I’ve visited. Wahweap RV & Campground is a well-established option with showers and laundry. Just up the road, there’s also a $10 dry-camping area right on the lake if you prefer something simpler.
Biosphere 2 is one of the most unique scientific research facilities on Earth. Located near Oracle, Arizona — about 30–35 miles north of Tucson — it’s a massive glass-and-steel complex designed to mimic Earth’s ecosystems.
Unlike most attractions, Biosphere 2 isn’t a natural wonder. It’s a fully constructed environment created to study how living systems interact. Earth itself is considered “Biosphere 1,” and this was humanity’s ambitious attempt at building a second one. Touring it is fascinating, whether you’re into science or just curious about big ideas.
Bonus:Saguaro National Park surrounds Tucson on both the east and west sides and protects one of the most iconic landscapes in the Southwest. This is the only place in the world where giant saguaro cacti grow naturally. If the desert had a personality, this park would be it.
Where to Stay: Oracle State Park is very close to Biosphere 2 and offers a beautiful setting with hiking. There’s also a campground on the north side near Saguaro National Park called Gilbert Ray that I recommend checking out.
Los Algodones is a small Mexican town just across the border from Yuma, Arizona, known worldwide for one thing: affordable, high-quality dental care. Despite having only a few thousand residents, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year from the U.S. and Canada.
Locals call it “Molar City,” and once you see the streets lined with dental offices, pharmacies, and optical shops, the nickname makes sense.
Even if you don’t need dental work, it’s still worth a visit. The border crossing is easy — you can walk across from Yuma — and it’s a fun way to spend the day. Wander through shops selling Mexican handicrafts, leather goods, pottery, and jewelry, and enjoy authentic, budget-friendly street food.
Bonus: Not far from the American Girl Mine, the Imperial Sand Dunes are free to visit and are the largest mass of sand dunes in California. Stretching over 40 miles, they’re a popular destination for off-road vehicles. If you plan to ride, be sure to research permits and regulations ahead of time.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of RV parks around Yuma, but I usually stay at American Girl Mine — free dry camping about 15 minutes from Yuma, just across the California border.
Rising sharply east of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains are one of the most dramatic and legendary landscapes in the Southwest. Jagged volcanic peaks, deep canyons, and harsh desert terrain give the area a wild, almost intimidating feel — especially at sunrise and sunset.
This isn’t just a place you hike. It’s a place people argue about, warn each other about, and tell stories about. You can hike, fish, boat, camp, off-road, or even take a scenic cruise nearby.
What truly sets the Superstitions apart is the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. Supposedly discovered in the 1800s, the mine’s location was kept secret, and several people searching for it died under mysterious circumstances. The mine has never been definitively found — and yes, there’s even been a TV show about it.
Another great option is driving Highway 87 to 188 toward Theodore Roosevelt Dam and Tonto National Monument. It’s a beautiful drive with plenty of places to stop and explore.
Bonus: Baseball fans, this one’s for you. Mesa and the surrounding area host many Major League Baseball spring training stadiums. Catching a game or two is a fun winter activity — just know that tickets aren’t as cheap as they used to be, and popular teams (like the Cubs) can sell out quickly.
Where to Stay: Usery Mountain Regional Park is a favorite. The scenery is stunning, the cacti are massive, and the sunsets might be the best around. Plus, it’s close enough to Mesa when you need to head into town.
If you love scenic drives, Arizona State Route 89A — especially the stretch between Sedona and Flagstaff — is hard to beat. In just 30 miles, the road climbs over 3,000 feet, transitioning from red rock desert to pine forest in dramatic fashion.
This isn’t a road you rush. It’s one you remember.
The drive starts in Sedona, surrounded by glowing red sandstone formations. As you head north, red rock canyons give way to steep switchbacks, Oak Creek winds alongside the road, canyon walls close in, and eventually ponderosa pines take over near Flagstaff. It feels like traveling through multiple ecosystems in under an hour.
The most iconic section runs through Oak Creek Canyon, often compared to a smaller, greener version of the Grand Canyon. Flowing water, shaded picnic areas, sheer canyon walls, and even fall colors — rare in Arizona — make it special. In summer, it’s a refuge from the heat; in fall, it’s unexpectedly colorful.
Bonus: Spend a couple of hours exploring Flagstaff. It can be chilly in winter, but there’s plenty to do indoors, including great restaurants and breweries. Flagstaff also embraces its Route 66 roots, with historic signage and character. For even more nostalgia, drive west to Williams.
Where to Stay: I’m mostly a boondocker, so options change. I recommend checking Campendium for current spots around Flagstaff and Sedona. There’s free camping on both the east and west sides of Flagstaff, research Forest Road 171 Dispersed, and I’ve stayed at a free spot off the highway in Sedona before called Forest Road 226 Dispersed. If you want to escape the crowds, consider Cottonwood — Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a solid campground worth a look.
Arizona has a way of turning winter into something worth savoring. Whether you’re chasing warmer weather, incredible landscapes, or just a change of scenery, it’s a state that rewards slowing down and exploring.
Hope this gets you started enjoying Arizona in the winter.
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1. Apple AirTag
Every RVer knows the feeling of misplacing something important — keys, backpacks, even a dog leash. Apple’s AirTag makes it easy to track down lost items right from your phone.
Slip one in your glove box, attach it to your keychain, or drop it inside your luggage before hitting the road. Peace of mind fits neatly in your pocket.
I also use mine for peace of mind when it comes to my vintage Scamp. I researched alarms and other things to protect my camper for awhile. I still get nervous leaving it behind when I boondock so I combine my AirTag with a motion camera and alarm to feel I have my bases covered with security.
**If you are not a Apple user, the Tile works well too, check that out HERE
2. AI Rechargeable Hand Warmers (2-Pack)
Cold mornings in the mountains or late night by the fire? Problem solved. These hand warmers feature an integrated intelligent AI temperature control chip, offering 3 levels of precise heat release control, feedback, and guidance.
Compact, fast-heating, and rechargeable via USB-C, they’re perfect for early hikes, winter RV trips, or even chilly nights around the campfire.
You can even just put them in your pockets to help warm your core to stay comfortable.
3. PETZL Actik Rechargeable Headlamp
A solid headlamp is one of those things you don’t realize you need until you do. Whether fixing something under the rig, setting up camp after dark, or hitting the trail early, the PETZL Actik offers bright, reliable light and USB recharging — no batteries needed.
Seems as an RVer there is never enough lights, or hands!! This is great when I need light or need both my hands to do a task.
4. Portable Propane Fire Pit
A fire always makes camping more fun! This is actually on my want list since I live in such a small space, but I always love when friends bring theirs out. This compact propane fire pit brings instant, no-smoke flames to any site. Just hook up a propane tank and enjoy cozy nights without the ashes or restrictions.
5. Sony Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Model: Sony SRSXB13/B — Waterproof, USB-C, 16-Hour Battery Life
Music and travel just go together. The Sony SRSXB13 brings big sound in a small, rugged package — perfect for outdoor cooking sessions, campfire nights, or scenic drives. Its waterproof design means it can handle a little rain or poolside splash, and the battery lasts up to 16 hours.
It has a strap loop for hanging on your RV awning, backpack, or bike. Small speaker, big vibe. I have 2 of these and will pair them, great for when one on is in the camper and one outside or having surround sound for movie night.
Wrapping It Up
Whether your favorite traveler is heading cross-country or just escaping for the weekend, these gadgets make life on the road more comfortable and connected. Small, smart, and built for adventure — that’s the perfect RVer combo.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Tough Top Awnings!
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Around Christmas time I noticed I chipped a small part of my back tooth; I was in San Diego and heading toward Arizona and the thought came to me to look into the Mexico option. I wanted to get it fixed before I traveled South, and it got worse. Most people have heard of Los Algodones, which has a walk-over border crossing in Yuma, but I was in Tucson and my research quickly taught me that there are many dentists in Nogales MX as well, and that was much closer to where I was currently.
Los Algodones is known for their medical tourism, within four square blocks it is said to have around 600 dentists, more than anywhere else in the world. Nogales also takes advantage of medical tourism being a border town but on a smaller scale. I was ready to do the drive from Tucson to Yuma before reading about Nogales and decided to turn my research to Nogales to get my work done…here are a few things I learned.
As for the crossing into Mexico, I never had an issue. It was fast, I had no wait and didn't get stopped along the way, and I must have done it 10 times total. The way back into the USA goes fast also but is more likely to have a small wait. If you buy anything in Mexico, be aware that it will be searched. The longest wait I had was around 20 minutes.
All in all, I had a really positive experience. As I said above, I needed more work than the chipped tooth. I was able to get appointments made easy and fast, the wait time was much less than in the USA. Once I checked in and was called in, the dentist was waiting for me. I needed a root canal and was able to get it done along with getting a crown ready in one visit, the crowns (depending on what kind you get) only take 24 hours to make so you can often make an appointment for the next day and some dentists say they offer same day crowns. Pretty much all the work I got done was half the price I would have spent in the USA without insurance, I do believe you can work with them if you have insurance, just ask.
I ended up choosing Dental Laser, their office was super clean, very nice and seemed to have top-notch tech with a friendly and helpful staff. They run a big operation from the looks of it, have a large staff that stays on top of things really well, I would highly recommend them.
No one wants to go to the dentist, well at least I don’t, but when you do and Mexico is in sight it’s a great way to save money and get quality work done. If anyone has any questions about my experience feel free to let me know.
Good luck and happy RVing
By Rick Oberreuter, Marketing Director & Part owner of Tough Top Awnings. Has been a full time RVer since 2016 in his vintage 1983 Scamp. Learn more about him HERE
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Highway 395 on the east side of the Sierra Mountains from Reno NV to Ridgecrest CA is one of my personal favorite stretches of highways I’ve spend time on over my 8 years of traveling. With diverse landscape and nature you will always leave feeling you missed a lot!! So, you will need some time to explore and places to stay along the way. Here are 5 campgrounds I’ve stayed while traveling along highway 395.
1. Washoe Lake State Park - The campground is located within a small walk to the lake with a few different trails to take, be sure to look for wild horses and deer and it's great for star gazing. The location is great…20 minutes from Reno,10 from Carson City and 30 or so from Lake Tahoe. $20 a night for no hookups, nice bathrooms and there are showers. They do have a loop with hookups. Verizon and T-Mobile both worked good here.
Convict Lake, short drive from Glass Creek
2. Glass Creek Campground - Located about 20 minutes from Mammoth Lakes, this no frills campground is free but they do ask for a $10 donation, another great spot for stars, the sites are big with 4-5 restrooms scattered throughout. Lots of trees but still good for solar, ATV trails right at the campground, creek runs along campground and big enough for a nice morning walk. Cell not strong but got enough to check work emails.
Sunset from my campsite
3. Horton Creek Campground- Great campground about 20 minutes from Bishop with amazing views of the Sierra mountain range. Simple bathrooms with drinking water. $10 a night, not many trees so better for spring, winter and fall. Great location to get up into the mountains for hiking (did a great like to Treasure Lakes, about a 40 minute drive from campground). Got full bars to work with Verizon.
Boot Arch in Alabama Hills, near Tuttle Creek
4. Tuttle Creek Campground - Located near Long Pine, perfect view of the Sierra Mountain range and Mt. Whitney, Tuttle Creek is just minutes from The Alabama Hills. Like Horton Creek Campground this is a no thrills campground with decent sized sites, vaulted toilets and drinking water. Verizon works well here with some T-Mobile in spots. At $10/night and for its location its one of my favorites! From the upper lot you can see a trail that takes you into the mountains, if you have the time, in pretty good shape I highly suggest it… the trails goes to an old house build by Franklin Merrell-Wolff and his wife Sherifa….here is a link in case you have any interest: http://www.merrell-wolff.org/ashrama
Boondocking right down the road from Fossil Falls
5. Fossil Falls Campground - Located about 40 minutes South of Ridgecrest this small campground is surrounded by some better free camping in my opinion, but at $6/ night its a nice spot. There is a small trail right at the campground taking you to some cool rocks and petroglyphs. Check out the lake bed, while there a few years back saw a small plane land there. Great location for some 4x4 adventures and driving up 9 Mile Road to Kennedy Meadows. Had good cell in the area to work, and if I remember correctly driving water as well.
Hike at Red Rock Canyon
Bonus: Red Rock Canyon State Park - Located off of 397 South of Ridgecrest this is a great stop to either start or end your Highway 395 adventure. Known for cliffs, buttes & canyons its popular for hiking, camping & horseback riding. Red Rock has primitive campsites, potable water, pit toilets and is $25/night. Like all of the campgrounds on this list (Besides Washoe) is a first come first serve campground.
Check out the links to all these wonderful places along 395 and start planning your next adventure! Want more details, other things to do in the area please leave a comment.
Happy RVing
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1. Pima Air & Space Museum - South of downtown the museum says it has over 400 aircraft on-site from commercial to military aircraft! It's pet friendly, has a playground, restaurant and arcade games. The museum is close to the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, home to the Aircraft Graveyard, which unfortunately is closed to the public but you still can see rows upon rows of old planes as you drive by. Pretty cool! Website: https://pimaair.org/. Photo of the Airport Graveyard
2. Saguato National Park - Camp, hike and explore the home of the country’s largest cacti!! Explore forests of cacti with hikes that are both long and short. There are a few waterfall hikes in the park during the right season BONUS: Have time check out Old Tucsan Studios and Gates Pass. Both near the Western section of the park.
3. Hang out on 4th Street - Cool section of Tucsan, close to downtown and campus. Lots of shops, bars and restaurants and tends to be a little more mellow than the downtown and campus areas of town. Looking for a good place to get food? Stop by The Boxyard, made of shipping containers, get food, sit outdoors and people watch.
4. Take a drive to Mt. Lemmon - On those days where it might be too hot in town take the 1.5 hour drive to Mt. Lemmon. There are hiking trails, camping, pullouts and picnic areas to explore and relax. The mountain sits at 9,159 ft above Tucsan with some beautiful views of mountains and the city. Check out Rose Canyon Lake located in the campground, sit, relax or go fishing.
5. The best 23 miles of Mexican food - Still hungry? Visit one (or two) the many authentic Mexican restaurants and food trucks. Click on this SITE to help make a plan to go and feast!!
There you have it, you are set for your Tucsan adventure!
Enjoy and Happy RVing!
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It's that time of year again!
The holidays might be over but the social season in Arizona for RVers is about to begin! One of the biggest events is the Quartzsite RV Show in Quartzsite, AZ January 21st-29th.
We will not have a booth or any organised activities this year but we will be there to enjoy the fun and yes, being doing some work!
Tyler will be there walking the show and doing slide out installations for those who need them. WE WILL BE RUNNING A 10% OFF SALE FOR THE MONTH and if you want to schedule a appointment to get your new Tough Top Awning installed give us a call to buy and schedule while Tyler is in Arizona!
We are looking forward to meeting you all and also mark your calendar as we will be at the 2023 Escapees Escapade in Tucson, AZ....Get details HERE.
SEE YOU ALL SOON AND HAPPY RVING!!
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2. The View Coffee House - Sedona, Arizona - The name says it all. I found this place a few years back when I broke down in Cottonwood and came to Sedona to work. They have a pretty big outdoor patio overlooking the beautiful red rocks of Sedona. It was hard to work, I kept finding myself just gazing out over the view and not my computer. I remember their coffee was really good too. Visit The View website
3. Moss Beach Distillery - Moss Beach California - I love San Fran! For a while I would go each October for the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival and then hang out for a week to explore all I could. I found this place when I was staying at the Point Montara Lighthouse Hostel, I had no car and I went out to see if I could find a place and get some food. I somehow stumbled across this place and had some amazing fish tacos while sitting at the bar. They have a big enclosed patio right off the cliff overlooking the ocean. I forgot the name of this place, the way I found it was the fact their website spoke about the ghost and that it was a popular speakeasy for the San Fran elite during probation, both things the bartender mentioned to me during my visit. Visit the Moss Beach Distillery website
4. Redfish - Port Orford, Oregon - A little restaurant on the edge of Port Orford. I just got a beer a few times (one of my fav cheap camping spots is near by) and sat on their patio which sits above, overlooking the beach and ocean. For some reason I just love this stretch of beach, rocks coming out of the water it just seems the sunsets and lighting are always wonderful and perfect. Visit the Redfish website
5. The Rooftop at Coors Field - Denver, Colorado - I love baseball, I lived in Denver for many years and went to a lot of games over the years. One of the add-ons Coors Field did is called The Rooftop. In the outfield upper deck The Rooftop has places to get food, drinks, and cozy chairs that to relax and chat with friends. Best ticket in sports? Get a Rockpile (bleacher seats) seat for around $5, experience the Rockpile for a few innings, then head over to The Rooftop. Get a local beer, watch the sun go down and be able see the Denver cityscape and field all at once!! They also seem to have a Rooftop ticket option as well, thats new since my days! Visit The rooftop website
Hope you have a chance to visit one of these places. Do you have a spot you like? Add to the comments and share with your fellow travelers.
Thanks for reading and Happy RVing
PHOTOS:
Pelican Brewery
The View Coffee House
Redfish
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1. Find a cool spot and stay awhile - Gas prices are high and RV travel is expensive as it is. Find a location you like or have been wanting to visit and stay awhile! The best way to get to know a community is to spend some quality time there.
2. Use your clubs and other discounts - If you are like me, I forget the clubs and discount programs I’m apart of; Harvest Host, Good Sam ect. Revisit your clubs and see what discounts they might offer. If you are a senior take advantage of your Interagency Senior Pass and get half off on National Forest Campgrounds.
3. Do some boondocking. -Whats great about boondocking? Its free!! Use apps like Campendium and find a nice free location to call home for a while.
4. Eat in - Find some easy one pot recipes for easy cooking at home. It's fun to dine out, but adds up over time. Here is one to get you started: https://gypsyplate.com/the-best-one-pot-meals/
5. Do it Yourself - Let YouTube be your friend, take on a couple projects you might just have a professional do. You don’t have to go crazy but you can save alot by installing your new RV awning for example! Click HERE to view our YouTube page.
Good luck and happy RVing!!
]]>January is an exciting time for a RVer, when everyone else is coming down from the holiday season, most stuck in the cold of winter and daydreaming of spring, January is the start of what many call “the social season”!
With many full timers looking for warmer weather in Arizona, communities like Quartzsite and others start to flourish this time of year. Pods of RVs form desert communities as friends gather for fun in the desert sun.
RV shows are a big attraction, one of the biggest being the Quartzsite RV Show that runs January 22nd-30th. The show is huge with exhibitors, vendors, music and food…its everything RVing. This year a friend of ours, The Flipping Nomad will be at the show with her out of this world Montana 5th Wheel. Learn more about Corti HERE.
RV travel groups like the Xscapers, under the umbrella of the Escapees RV Club have their big event in Lake Havasu in January adding to the social list of activities. Plus, RVers just know how to make their own fun; movie nights, happy hours, potlucks (maybe not during COVID) and daytime hikes and walks with friends makes for more than enough to fill your days.
Quartzsite and Lake Havesu are not the only popular locations in Arizona to spend the winter. With many boondocking locations all over the state other popular spots include Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, American Girl Mine (technically in CA, easy access to Yuma), Organ Pipe, Tucson, and Sedona (just to name a few).
The holidays might be over, but the fun is just starting in the desert!
Don’t let the blues of winter get you down! Happy RVing
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The RV industry is booming, with COVID and more freedom at the workplace, RVing and Van Life lifestyles are not just for the retired! This is nothing new, digital nomads and even traveling families have been hitting the road for years but make no mistake this is a large community that is still growing.
So, the decision is made, and you decided to be part of this growing community and become a RVer…. now what? I firmly believe that the most difficult decision was just made but there is more work ahead!
First, select your new home - This is no easy task and there is not a perfect rig or solution. This is a good time to ask yourself what are you trying to get out of your upcoming experience? Are you looking to connect more with nature and keep things simple? Keep a life similar to the one you are leaving? And you need to keep within your budget as well.
Everyone will answer these questions differently. I had my heart set on a C-Class for years, so I really didn’t think of any other kind of living situation. I was not sure I would enjoy the RVing lifestyle, so I was hesitant to spend a lot of money, plus I did not have a lot to spend anyway. I ended up with an older model 27-foot C-Class that was found in Arizona for my first on the road home.
Why a C-Class? Funny, for some time had this romantic idea of traveling the West for a summer in a Toyota Dolphin, so when it was time to look find my home on wheels, I only had eyes for a C-Class. I wanted something not too big to get to those places I wanted to go and a place that was comfortable for my doggy and comfortable to work. I didn’t have a truck at the time to tow something, nor wanted to spend the money to buy a truck, and to be honest the idea of towing felt a little overwhelming since I’ve never done that before. I liked the idea of me not having to exit my vehicle after stopping and there really is no setup once settled for the night. It felt to me at the time the easiest solution, I might think differently now after 5 plus years on the road. The main issue being having a second vehicle to go exploring!
I am currently in a 13 ft. Scamp, and I do like it, its small, no hassle and I can unhook and go! I don’t have to worry about things breaking because it’s so simple, the towing is easy, but it is SMALL, and I lost some of the comforts. Like most RVers, I’m currently thinking about my next setup!
Get rid of your stuff! - Some find this hard, some easy…. I found it very freeing! Even if you have the smallest of apartments, you will have to rid yourself of at least half your stuff…. I only brought I would say about 20% of my stuff…. the rest went to thrift stores, some in the trash (I didn’t have really nice things) and I did get myself a 5x5 storage unit that I put items I could not part with. Plus, you never know when you might go back to the “normal” life.
Get that new home ready to travel - Many of the questions above can also be asked here too. What do I need to add or modify to get ready for the lifestyle I want?
But first things first… if you bought a used RV be sure everything is in working order. It might be July but at some point, you will need the heater…. and if you have a C-Class or something similar doing what you can upfront to avoid engine breakdowns is huge!! I quickly realized that my older C-Class STILL had the original tires…. I blew 3 of them the first month!
After that it’s adding the amenities, I knew I wanted to boondock as much as possible so solar was the first add on I did. I kept my system rather simple with one 260 panel, (2) 6-volt batteries, solar controller, and inverter…. total cost around $2,000.
I kicked the tires about adding a composting toilet but ultimately decided against it (I do have a compost toilet in my current Scamp) …. I did some redecorating like removing chairs and the microwave, added my design flair, installed a safe for belongings, added some lighting and I was done! My C-Class came with 2 twin beds and after about 2 years I redesigned the back and added a queen bed, made me feel more like an adult : )
Where do you go? - My travel mantra is “the best plan is not to have one” but you got to start somewhere, your rig won’t just drive itself!! My first somewhat planned trip was Highway 101…. basically, my plan was to just start in Oregon and travel South…I spent 5 months heading South, with my biggest driving day being 60 miles…There were places I thought I would want to spend time and turned out that I didn’t! And others I knew nothing about and spent much more time in some of those areas. Leave yourself open to organic experiences, remember time is on your side. Search out your interest so you don’t miss any epic opportunities!! You don’t need a guidebook or do massive research on each place you stop, I found using the “Places” search on Instagram was a good starting point to find cool places to visit and check out.
Find your groove - You are doing it! Things are going good, you are moving along, meeting people, seeing wonderful things. My biggest challenge, surprising enough was breaking out of my old routine! I still work but I have the ability set my own hours, so breaking myself from that feeling of having to be in front of the computer under certain hours was huge! Enjoy the sun and get out for a hike in the AM, work at night…go explore on a weekday when its less crowded and work on a busy Saturday instead. Also, telling myself “You are NOT on vacation” and I don’t need to be doing stuff and spending money all the time!! Sometimes it’s cool to just relax and do nothing, sometimes the best things are free, like a walk around the area you are at to get a lay of the land, meet some locals and find out the cool local spots. Find the schedule that works for you and your new lifestyle.
Find a community - There are many RV communities out there, sometimes it does just happen organically and you travel with people you meet along the way, but if that does not happen right away there are others options….Facebook groups are a good source of online and off line communities…RVillage is an social network for RVers where you can connect with others and find other RVers that are currently in your area. There is also the Escapers and Xscapers, this is where I found my community. They are both under the same umbrella. Escapers is geared toward the retired community and Xscapers to the working folks. They do events all summer throughout the West and usually people travel together from event to event. You can make some wonderful connections and friends here. Of course, there are many others that have more of a target focus; van life communities etc. But this will get you started.
I have talked to many, and as a solo traveller I agree I have a stronger community on the road than I did living in a town. There is a different mindset among travellers, we are open to those organic experiences more so than people living a “normal” life. Plus, its nice when traveling with friends, they are RIGHT there, just need to look out your door. No need to call or text, make plans for weeks in advance.
Enjoy the life - Now you have it all figured out, right? : ) You know when to work, when to play, you know where to spend the winter, know the best free camping spots and you have your community! All there left to do is enjoy what you have created for yourself, your family and enjoy.
Happy RVing
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#1. Inspect your awning prior to a trip or when you plan to start using your coach or trailer for the season. I give myself 2 to 3 weeks, in case a replacement or repair is needed.
#2. Use a awning secure strap when traveling. I use a couple Velcro straps on both my vertical support legs just for that added piece of mind.
#3. Wash your awning a couple times a year. I use the same bush I use to wash my coach and regular automotive soap and usually do it when I am washing the entire coach.
#4. Never leave your awning deployed and unattended! This is a personal rule of mine. Working in the industry I have heard way too many horror stories about walking away from an awning. So, if I am going for a walk I am hitting the switch and rolling it in.
#5. Stay up on the mechanics of the awning. I grease up all moving parts at least twice a year. Especially if I am leaving the desert southwest. Dust is like little rocks of gears and gas struts.
#6. Don’t roll up a wet awning. Even if I do, I will get to my next destination and roll it back out to dry. Mold and mildew can grow and I would rather not smell mildew and have to wash my awning more than necessary.
#7. Be sure to adjust your awning for weather. I lower mine on one side to make sure water rolls off. Also, if it’s a windy area. I will put on a pair of de flappers to keep the flapping to a minimum.
We hope this helps…It’s busy out there and the last thing you need is awning repairs while on the road.
Happy RVing
]]>I do love the Colorado mountains! I lived in Colorado for 17 years before I hit the road and only traveled to Salida once!! I had the pleasure of RVing in the area for 2 months a couple of summers ago and fell in love. So, when I was looking for a place to spend the summer, Salida was at the top of the list.
Salida sits at 7,083’ in the Upper Arkansas Valley with the Arkansas River running through town, besides having a lot of actives right in town, Salida is close to so much outdoor activity and other fun things. The Methodist Mountain trail system is just south of town, Buena Vista and Leadville are right up the road, the Collegiate Peaks are right there and Salida is not far from the Royal Gorge (58 miles) and even the Sand Dunes (90 miles).
Besides all I mentioned above here are 5 things to do when visiting the town of Salida.
Click on red for links to these awesome places
1. HIT THE RIVER - With the river going through town, river actives are a plenty! Rent a tube and tube down the river from right from town, you can also kayak and fish….there is even a place to river surf right in town. Of course the most popular river activity is river rafting! There are many commercial rafting companies that will take you down the exciting rapids of the Arkansas River. There are many companies, here's ONE to start with
2. GET A COCKTAIL - After a long day on the river, get a signature cocktail from Woods Distillery. They make custom cocktails from their own whiskey, gin and vodka. A staple in Salida since 2012 it’s a must visit for cocktail lovers! I suggest trying the WHISKEY SMASH!!
3. DO A TOURIST ACTIVITY- Salida, like most mountain towns have a rich and interesting history, what else does it have? Ghosts!!! Take the SALIDA GHOST & MURDER TOUR and for 90 minutes walk the haunted streets of Salida’s past with your knowledgeable guide on this spine-chilling tour!
4. TAKE A DAY TRIP - You are in the mountains, let's go see them! From Salida go though Buena Vista up to Twin Lakes; two large, sparkling glacial lakes reflecting some of the nation’s highest peaks. Take a quick hike, grab a coffee at the General Store and it’s time for a beautiful drive up to Independence Pass. A beautiful drive to 12,095 feet with places to pull off, hike or just enjoy the scenery. From there you are only a few miles from Independence Pass Ghost Town, located just below the Continental Divide, the ghost town is a “don’t-miss stop” on Independence Pass along the Top of the Rockies’ Scenic Byway. Don’t want the day to end? Continue 16 miles to the historic Aspen for lunch before your drive back.
5. WALK THE DOWNTOWN - Sometimes the best way to see a town and really get to now it is to just walk! Salida is very walking friendly. Start at Riverside Park, behind the music stage is the Riverside trail that goes along the Arkansas River for a peaceful shaded stroll. Next walk the historic downtown. Grab a quick bite at The Fritz or coffee at Black Dog. There are some cool shops in town to find a gift for a friend. The F Street Five and Dime has a reputation for carrying some of the best souvenirs in town and be sure to check out the WWII Chaffee County Honor Roll Board. From there you have the choice of many wonderful places to eat and drink. Here are a couple I have enjoyed: Shallots for something a little fancy, Moonlight Pizza for good pizza and beer on the patio, Chill for something sweet and Tres Litros for a cold beer and maybe some live music.
I hope this gets you excited! I’ve only scratched the surface of the activities here in wonderful Salida. Enjoy and happy RVing!
]]>Leavenworth is a hidden little gem in the cascade mountains of Central Washington. It’s a small, beautifully designed, old world Alpine/Bavarian style village, envision a small town, somewhere in Germany….
Leavenworth has the charm of a mountain town with many activities for all to enjoy….Here are some of our highlights during our trip.
2. Shopping –Leavenworth has a lot of really cute, unique shops that are all located on Front Street within easy walking distance of each other. Being a Bavarian Village think nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, beer steins and music boxes! Check out their Chamber of Commerce page for a bunch of info.
3. Food – The Bavarians know how to make a mean pretzel!! We had someof the best schnitzel and pretzels we have ever had. Try the Rhein Haus, located in the heart of Leavenworth.
4. Wine/Breweries – There are several places on Front St. to enjoy some wine or local beers and ciders. Try Blewett Brewing for a good beer and some pizza.
5. Hiking – The heat wave of 2021 got us, so we didn’t get to hike as the temperatures were way to high while we were there, but they are trails everywhere for all skill levels, HERE is a list of hikes to get you started.:
6. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm – Who does not want to hang out with the reindeer?! Located just a mile form town, we got to feed and pet the reindeer, which are very friendly. They also have draft horses, ducks, bunnies, ponies, chickens, and pigs. Tickets range between $20-$25 depending on season. Get all the details HERE.
7. The Nutcracker Museum - has a collection of over 7000 nutcrackers! I’m stating the obvious, but thats a lot of nutcrackers!! It’s worth the visit if you have the time, and not very expensive to get in. Find out more HERE.
If you are still in the area and need MORE to do, there are two things on my list that I have not been able to do yet. First is a day trip to Death Valley and second is driving highway 120 up to Tioga Pass into Yosemite National Park. Be sure to check when the road opens for the season.
That should get you started on your highway 395 adventure!
Enjoy and Happy RVing
They also have a toll free number: 1-800-789-4623
If you have any questions feel free to contact us.
Happy RVing
We are approaching what I think is the best time of year for RVing! I’m sure I’m not the only one that thinks this and I might even be stating the obvious but just in case I’ll tell ya why.
I spend most of my time in the West and Pacific Northwest and I’m NOT a planner, both things that add to why I’m a lover of this time of year….here are a few others.
Less People - As soon as the Labor Day holiday is over I feel I can breathe! The kids are back in school and the summer vacation season is winding down. When I was traveling down the Oregon Coast I could tell a difference between the middle of August and the beginning of September in terms of the number of people and RVs on the road.
As a cool bonus, seems September and October is time for folks from other counties are traveling in the USA, great opportunity to meet some cool people and hear stories of living in other parts of the word.
Beautiful Weather - This is really the case for Oregon, Washington and California. The hot summer days are on their way out but the sunny skies are still around. You get the bonus of nice days and in a lot of places the changing of the leaves....Like the Colorado Rockies!
Less Planning - Because there are less people, there is less need to plan. Again, being on the Oregon Coast finding a camping spot in July is almost impossible the day before, most of the time one must plan months ahead, but not in September and October. Most of the time you can breeze into a city make a call or two and be good to go! And you have the chance to stay in places that would be hard to get into the summer. One of my favorite State Park Campgrounds is called Humbug Mountain Campground outside Port Orford, OR. I rolled right in and stayed 3 days. The campground had wild berries to eat, hiking and pretty much a private beach.
Cheaper - Alot of times the off season starts after the holiday weekend, so RV Park prices might be a bit cheaper than summer, Every penny counts!! Be sure to ask RV parks and attractions what their off-season rates are. And of course keep using your Good Sams, Passport of America and National Parks Passes.
Wildlife - Maybe this is a stretch but as fall hits the wildlife in certain places starts to come out in the open more. In Colorado the moose come to lower elevations and in Rocky Mountain National Park the elk are down and very active. Fun stuff to watch, I can imagine being in Yellowstone or Glacier in the fall would be just awesome!!
Anyone have any tips for off season travel? Please share
1. Custom Pull Strap - Actually this is NOT a new accessory but it’s one Tough Tops makes in-house and we have created our first packaging for….Which we think is exciting!
(Photo - Boondocking off Plomosa Rd.)
Boondocking or dry camping can be a scary experience if you are new to it, but having the knowledge can make all the difference in the world.
Here are a few tips to make your experience the best it can be.
1. Choose a location that fits your needs - Like I said above there are options to be near town or further out. The options you have is BLM land and there is some State Land Trust too (this requires a permit which is $15-$20 per year that can be done online). A great resource to find these locations is Campendium, a website and app. They provide a lot of information included cell signal strength! A couple spots I have stayed and enjoy are on Plomosa Rd., about 7 miles South of Quartzsite, easy access to Quartzsite, a lot of space and decent cell coverage…and Desert Hills State Land Trust Land, on the north end of Lake Havasu. You can see the Walmart from the location! Not as much room as Plomosa Rd, but close to everything, safe and great cell coverage.
Also do some research on the area you want to go…Most of the places I’ve seen most rigs and easily get to, but the last thing you need is to get stuck or can’t get out of an area. Again Campendium is a good resource, Google Earth too can provide some good intel.
2. Have what you need!! This is especially important when you are further away from a town. But be sure your black and gray tanks are empty and your fresh water is full. Fill up your propane and have gas for the generator if you need it. Have meals planned and bought and be sure to have enough drinking water!! Even though it's winter it still can get warm out there.
3. Have a power source - Need to be sure you can turn on your lights, use your appliances. People use solar, a generator or both. This might be a new thing if you stay at RV parks and are accustomed to being plugged in. If you do not have solar, keep your distance from others if you need to run a generator a lot, this is a quick way to upset the folks around you, and probably #1 rule for boondocking.
4. Be ready for an emergency - Maybe obvious, but things can happen out there. Know where the nearest hospital is (also goes for animal hospital if you have pets), and have a first aid kit. A friend recently was trying to move a rock, the rock broke into 3 pieces and one piece sliced his wrist. He was ok but if it was worse it was at least an hour from the nearest hospital.
5. (BONUS) Power in numbers - Boondocking with friends makes for more fun, plus it provide a layer of safety as well, Because of many factors I don’t see many rangers, police or sheriffs in those areas…..plus just having others around in case of you need a tool, help with a DIY project is nice too. 
That will get you started….Be safe and have fun out there. Arizona in the winter can be great….there is hiking, exploring, off-roading, sand dunes and of course Mexico being right there!
(Photo - Sunset at KOFA National Wildlife Refuge, south of Quartzsite)
Happy RVing
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Happy RVing
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I’ve had the pleasure of traveling up and down the Oregon Coast a few times now, I do really love it and highly recommend taking the time if you are able…Here are a few observations or tips I acquired while traveling on the wonderful coastal 101.
PICK A DIRECTION IF YOU NEED - I feel the North and South are vastly different!….The North is more touristy town, good for shopping and eating, nice beaches to bring a chair and hang out all day….The South is more rugged beaches, smaller towns with not a lot going on and more scenery and parks…Both are fun, but if you don’t have time to do the entire coast, this might help decide.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DEALS / MEMBERSHIPS / PASSES - The coast can be expensive, the restaurants, supermarkets and campgrounds are all pricey so be sure to take advantage, here are a few examples:
Good Sam - Get discounts on RV Parks.
Oregon State Parks Pass - if you don't camp at state parks but like to see the beaches and hike a parks pass is a must so you are not paying at every turnoff or hike you want to take.
Senior National Parks Pass - There are no National Parks along the coast but if you have the Senior Pass you get half off Federal campgrounds.
** If you have a standard National Parks Pass you get free access to any Federal fee locations for hiking ect.
Casino Camping - there are a few along the coast, they are not totally free always, but still a great deal…plus you can usually get a cheap (and pretty good) meal at one as well….not to mention free coffee.
SEA FOOD, EAT FOOD - Anytime you are on a coast you must take advantage of the awesome fresh seafood the coast provides, does not always need to be at a pricy restaurants, do your homework and find the little local spots with great eats. And pass along your knowledge, I ate wonderful fish and chips at a place called The Crazy Norwegians Fish and Chips in Port Orford because a friend recommended it….and this leads to my next point...
ASK FRIENDS AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR HELP - The 101 is popular and well traveled, and there is SO much to see and explore. Ask your friends of places to stop and check out, ask questions over Facebook, Facebook Groups and Instagram to help plan and make the best adventure you possibly can. Plus you can search Instagram at your location and get insight of cool places to explore.
PORTS - For those who travel simply and might not always have a shower opportunity every morning, cities which have ports will have showers to use…..bring quarters!!
TAKE YOUR TIME - Sometimes easier said than done, but if you have the chance don't rush your experience, take things in, get to know the communities and be in the moment!
GET OFF THE BEATEN PATH - This does not mean go wonder into the abyss but some people tend NOT to get off the 101….there is a lot to see that right off the 101…..a few of my favorites:
Pacific City - The 101 does not go through this small ocean town….the beach is beautiful and you can have a beer while your feet are in the sand at The Pelican Brewery.
Manzanita - Another small town off the 101….South of Canon Beach, Manzanita makes for a nice stop to check out the beach and grab a coffee
Cape Blanco State Park - I just love the Port Orford area, some of the best coastal views in my mind, about 5 miles off the 101 Cape Blanco offers amazing ocean views, beach, hiking and a lighthouse.
Cape Arago / Shore Arches / Sunset Bay State Park - Another personal favorite, 25 or so minute drive from Coos Bay these parks offer cliff views, hiking, beach time and even seal viewing….wonderful experience.
Enjoy the Oregon Coast!
And Happy RVing
]]>BONUS:
Campendium - I wrote this post a couple years ago, since then I was introduced to Campendium, now the ONLY app I use to find camping. You can find free and paid parks, boondocking with reviews talking about cell service, amenities, how easy it is to get there and how big a rig can be. It's a must have!!
Please share if you have any apps that you use a lot while traveling. I just traveled with some friends and leaned of a few new ones I might try....so this list might change....stay tuned
Happy RVing
]]>Here are my top 5 must have travel items:
1. WiBoost - I work as I travel, and I do like to get off the beaten path and camp in places where cell coverage is not great…My Booster is wonderful….The booster usually boosts my signal 2 bars or so….Don’t leave home without it!
https://www.weboost.com/products/drive-4gm
2. DC to AC Power Inverter (plugs into lighter) - I do have solar, but a inverter like this is great to power up phone, jetpack and smaller devices…and if I'm in a place with clouds and rain I can plug on computer and charge if I'm lacking sun.
https://www.cobra.com/collections/power-inverters-recreational/products/cpi290ch
3. French Press - It just makes a good cup of coffee!! And using this along with a hand grinder are 2 things i don't need to plug in!
https://www.amazon.com/French-Double-Wall-Stainless-Mirror-Finish/dp/B00MMQOZ1U/ref=sr_1_14?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1542139429&sr=1-14&keywords=french+press
4. Computer / Phone - Most of us are controlled by our devices, right?…No different being on the road…My phone is my camera, GPS, hot spot sometimes, music and entertainment…I use my computer not only to work but stream movies and sports
Taken from eco gear's Instrgram Page
5.Bluetooth Speaker - I love music…my old rig had terrible speakers and a good Bluetooth Speaker with great sound quality is a must. I use it inside and I can take it outside at my campsite.
https://ecoxgear.com/shop/ecocarbon/
Bonus: National Parks Pass - Gotta have this!! Gets you into all the National Parks, always get you into Federal Lands, forests to get out and enjoy nature!
https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Here is a video I made a couple years back talking about some of these items and a few others:
Have your favorite items? Please share
Happy RVing
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Many of us will be taking our RVs, trailers and campers for summer adventures….
Some of us are full time RVers, some bringing out their RVs for vacations and some renting or borrowing from friends.
I’m just finishing up about 2 weeks of camping in King’s Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Camping in one of our beautiful National Parks is much different than an RV Park or even a trip to your local lake.
The National Parks system has done a wonderful job in getting our National Parks back to nature….and away from the over commercialized way they were in the 1970’s.
I thought it might be beneficial for some to have a simple checklist of things to think about when planning your visit to a National Park this summer.
1. Be prepared! Easy right? Be sure your gray and black tanks are empty and your water and propane tank filled. Most sites on the National Parks don't have hook ups and many times there will be one dump station at the largest campground at the Park…..those lines can get long!
2. Bring extra motor oil and brake fluid (any any other fluid your rig might need) - Not guarantee in finding these things and the roads can get curvy and hilly. I found that out the hard way and had to get into the National Forest to find some brake fluid!!
3. Levels - if you don't have those built in be sure to have ways to level out our rig….some of those sites are on a bit of a hill and during summer you might not have a choice in the matter due to busy campgrounds.
4. Food - Bring lots! Most National Parks have the essentials and mostly grab fan go food. If you like to eat healthy bring extra fruits, vegetables and meats. You eat a lot more when you are active. You will not regret it!!
5. Water - Many National Parks have potable water at the campground, and even water fill up stations and visitors centers and gift shops. I have two 40oz stainless steel containers that are always filled with water and 5-6 gallon jugs I refill when I need to.
6. Wood - We all like a fire while we camp….wait to you get there…woods is bulky to stow away and most National Parks don't want foreign wood in the Park…can cause disease.
7. The extras - if your traveling full time you probably have all you need for all conditions, but if not remember the extra blankets, clothes, natural bug spray and sun screen. National Parks can get you dirty, sweaty and get very cold and hot (sometimes in the same day). Rain and maybe even snow may occur....The National Parks knows no season.
8. Cash- Always a good idea, sometimes you will need cash for shower tokens or campsites... plus you never know when the credit cards systems go down in the woods (just happened to me in the National Forest)
BONUS - Pennies and Quarters - Good for laundry of course...And if you or your kids like those pressed penny machines (like I do) there are many opportunities in the National Parks!
To find a National Park for your summer adventure, start here
https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm
Simple stuff but this will make your trip that much better…Let me know if I missed something.
Happy RVing (and Exploring)