CampH54

Rob and Allie are rolling back toward the Arizona White Mountains after turning a business trip into a full-on New York City adventure. The trip starts with Allie's work at the Federal Reserve (and Rob accidentally landing at the "main table" and becoming the face on every TV in the room), then quickly shifts into tourist mode: the New York Public Library (including the Rose Room and Treasures like the Gutenberg Bible and Winnie-the-Pooh), the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City, a killer Italian dinner, and a powerful early-entry tour of the 9/11 Museum that leaves them emotionally drained (in the best, most respectful way).

They nerd out on how easy NYC is without a car, rave about the city's legendary pizza, bagels, and pretzels ("it's the water"), and laugh through a major hotel disaster where fire system testing turns into water pouring down elevator shafts—forcing them to climb 25 flights of stairs just to get ready for their Broadway night. Despite the chaos, they score quick pre-show bites thanks to a clutch waiter, then cap the night with Chicago on Broadway, a wild Times Square stroll, and a late subway ride home.

Before heading back to Arizona, they squeeze in one more "podcast-related" stop: the real-life building used as The Arconia (The Belnord) from Only Murders in the Building, meet the doorman, and finally walk through Central Park. By the end, they agree: NYC is an amazing place to visit—and an even better place to leave… but they're already plotting a return trip with the kids for the Rockettes (and more Broadway).

This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill

Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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Our last stop gave us another swim and was a relaxing oasis in the middle of what were certain wasn't going to be such a great place as we rolled in.

https://koa.com/campgrounds/albuquerque/

Albuquerque KOA Journey – At a Glance Location & Overview • Address: 12400 Skyline Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123  • Setting: Conveniently located near the Sandia Mountains, Route 66, and not far from attractions like the Balloon Fiesta Park, Expo New Mexico, Old Town, aquarium, zoo, and museums . • Site Options: Offers a mix of accommodations including RV sites, deluxe cabins, camping cabins, and tent sites . • Site Counts: Approximately 149 RV sites, 4 deluxe cabins, 8 camping cabins, and 8 tent sites . ⸻ Site Types & Amenities RV Sites • Pull‑through RV Sites with 50/30 AMP service, full hookups, and level paved pads . • Extra‑long Pull‑throughs allow most towing RVs to stay attached . • KOA Patio® Paw Pen Sites include a shaded pergola, patio furniture, grill, custom fire pit, and a private fenced pet area—great for pet owners . Cabins & Tent Sites • Deluxe Cabins: Sleep up to 6, include partial kitchen, full bathroom, patio, outdoor fire feature; linens and cookware provided . • Camping Cabins: Rustic, studio-style, sleep up to 4 or 6 depending on layout—near restrooms/playground, pet-friendly (fee), with TV, fridge, fireplace, fire pit, grill (bring your linens) . • Tent Sites: Simple spots for traditional camping . ⸻ Onsite Amenities & Recreation • Essentials: General store stocked with RV supplies, groceries, firewood, propane refill station . • Connected & Entertaining: Free cable TV, Wi‑Fi (upgraded available), bike rentals, mini-golf, camp pavilion, and lawn games . • Water Fun: Heated outdoor pool (open May–Nov, 9 AM–9 PM) and indoor adult-only hot tub accessible 24/7 . • Dog-Friendly Features: Multiple KampK9 off-leash pet parks and dog-washing station . • Other Recreation: Playground, sauna, jump zone, self-guided games like cornhole and ladder golf, plus indoor lounge areas . ⸻ Practical Info & Perks • Check-In/Out: • RV & Tent Sites: Check-in at 1:00 PM, check-out by 11:00 AM • Accommodations: Check-in at 3:00 PM, check-out by 11:00 AM • Late check-out (if available): $25 until 2:00 PM  . • Store Hours: • Spring/Summer: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM • Fall/Winter: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM • Laundry is open 24/7; quiet hours are 10:00 PM–7:00 AM . • Fire Safety: Only burn firewood; follow specific fire ring guidelines at the registration office . • Deals & Rewards: • Stay 5+ nights? Save 30% (valid between March 15 and December 19, 2025) . • KOA Rewards members get a 10% check-out discount . • Special discounts for military, first responders, and more . ⸻ Why Choose Albuquerque KOA Journey? • Location: Ideal for accessing iconic Albuquerque attractions like the International Balloon Fiesta, Expo Fairgrounds, Old Town, and museum districts . • Diverse Stays: Options for RVers, pet owners, cabin lovers, and traditional campers. • Amenities: From swimming and spa relaxation to pet zones and recreation, there's something for everyone. • Convenience: Full-service store, propane, laundry, Wi-Fi, and easy check-in/out policies make your stay carefree.

This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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Allie discovers a very cool placeto visit based upon a stop we needed to make on the way home. The need to have one day less put us on a less travelled path and this was certainly a fun discovery. Old Town Museum – Burlington, CO Overview & Location • A 6½-acre living history museum featuring 21 fully restored buildings and over 20,000 authentic artifacts, including photographs, documents, pioneer tools, and more   . • Showcases local agricultural heritage and pioneer life on the Colorado plains  . • Conveniently located just off Interstate 70 near the Colorado–Kansas border  . • Address: 420 S 14th Street, Burlington, CO 80807  . What You'll See & Do • Explore a recreated prairie "Main Street" with historically accurate buildings such as a depot (1889), general store, saloon, church (1921), schoolhouse (1911), blacksmith shop, barn (1937), law office, cream station, sod houses, and more   . • Inside the museum, you'll find a chuck wagon, covered wagon, tractors, wagons, a barbed-wire collection, and Native American artifacts  . • The Emporium and General Store offer hand-dipped ice cream treats, souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and old-fashioned goodies  . Events & Entertainment • Seasonal live entertainment runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, including: • High Noon can-can shows and gunfight reenactments on Saturdays  . • Wild West Dinner Theater on the fourth Saturday of summer months—enjoy a full western meal and melodrama show (reservations required)   . • Additional events include Haunted House in the barn, Pioneer Days, School Daze, Winter WonderLights, and a Christmas Tree Stroll with carolers and wagon rides  . Visiting Info & Pricing • Operating hours: • Typically Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., closed Sunday   . • Seasonal variations: • Summer: extended hours, sometimes until 6 p.m.  . • Winter hours: generally shorter, roughly 9 a.m.–5 p.m.  . • Admission: • Adults: $10 • Seniors (60+): $8 • Youth (12–17): $6

This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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• Children (3–11): $4 • Children under 3 and military (including veterans) are admitted free.

A few stops left us feeling a little bit concerned. Allie and Rob talk about the balance between calming fears and having a plan.

⚠️ Dangers of Wind Storms While RV Camping 1. Falling Trees and Branches • In wooded campgrounds, strong winds can snap large branches or even bring down whole trees onto RVs. Safety Tip: Avoid parking under tall or leaning trees. Pick open or sheltered sites with fewer overhead hazards. ⸻ 2. Awning & Slide-Out Damage • Awnings act like sails, and slide-out toppers can rip away in high winds, often damaging the RV itself. Safety Tip: Retract awnings and slide-outs if a storm is forecast or if winds pick up suddenly. ⸻ 3. Rocking and Instability • Even parked, RVs can sway and shake during strong gusts, making it unsafe or unnerving for occupants. Safety Tip: Use stabilizers, lower jacks fully, and if winds are severe (50+ mph), consider moving to a sturdier shelter. ⸻ 4. Flying Debris Around Camp • Loose gear like chairs, grills, or firewood can turn into dangerous projectiles. Safety Tip: Always secure or store all outdoor equipment when not in use, especially if windy weather is possible. ⸻ 5. Roof, Vents, and Antennas at Risk • Wind storms can tear off vent covers, loosen seals, and damage antennas or satellite dishes. Safety Tip: Inspect your roof regularly, keep vent covers secure, and lower antennas before storms. ⸻ 6. Outdoor Safety Concerns • Walking around camp during a wind storm is risky due to falling limbs or sudden gusts. Safety Tip: Stay inside your RV—or better yet, move to a safer structure if winds are extreme. ⸻ 7. Storm Shelter Awareness • RVs are not built to withstand severe wind storms or tornadoes. Relying solely on your RV for protection can be dangerous. Safety Tip: Always know the nearest storm shelter, bathhouse, or solid building at your campground. If a strong wind storm or tornado is approaching, leave the RV and take shelter there. ⸻ ✅ Bottom line: RVs are great for camping, but they aren't storm-proof. Secure your gear, retract awnings, avoid trees, and always know where to go if the winds get dangerous.

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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After 5 camping stops along the way, we arrive at the park we've planned as our Forward Operating Base for months. This episode we will talk about the campgroud itself. Be sure to check out the YouTube video where we talk about and show our Chicago adventure.

YouTube - Chicago Adventure

Our FOB Camp - Click Here

Overview & Location • Just about 55 miles from downtown Chicago, this rural KOA campground in Union, IL offers a peaceful country setting with easy access via I-90 (Exit 42 or Exit 36) . • Ideal for anyone wanting to blend city sightseeing—via nearby Metra access—with a more relaxed, nature-first stay . ⸻ Accommodations & Site Options • RV sites feature upgraded amenities like KOA Patio®, and support rigs up to 65 feet in length with 50 Amp service . • Deluxe Cabins: Family-friendly units featuring full baths, a partial kitchen, loft, and outdoor decks with swings, fire rings, grills, and a fenced dog run—pets allowed ($) . • Rustic (Camping) Cabins: No bathroom inside, but include A/C, a mini-fridge, porch swings, and access to shared facilities; also pet-friendly . • Tent sites and group camping options are available as well . ⸻ Onsite Amenities & Recreation • The campground is well-equipped for fun and relaxation, offering: • A seasonal swimming pool (Memorial Day to early September) • Mini golf, Frisbee golf, Gem Mine, Jump Pad, and a large playground • Dog park (KampK9®), wi-fi, camp store, laundry room, patio swings, and walking trails . ⸻ Events & Activities • This KOA brings the community spirit with frequent family-friendly events such as: • Ice cream socials, hay wagon rides, bingo, flashlight candy hunts, t-shirt relays, tie-dye sessions, crafts, and more . • They also host seasonal special events like "Dinosaurs Return," "Fall Fest," and KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend . ⸻ Nearby Attractions • Explore the Illinois Railway Museum just a mile away, or enjoy family outings to Santa's Village Azoosment Park . • Shopping and entertainment aren't far either—Woodfield Mall, Prime Outlet Mall, and the Grand Victoria Riverboat Casino are within convenient reach .

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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Also check out our newest sponsor - Pinetop Coffee House & Roasting Company

Here's a look at COMLARA Park—also known as COMLARA Park & Evergreen Lake—in McLean County, Illinois. It's a beautiful, multi-use recreational area worth exploring: https://www.camplife.com/campground/comlara ⸻ Overview & Highlights Location & Size • COMLARA Park spans approximately 1,300 acres and includes Evergreen Lake, which is around 925 acres  . Activities & Amenities • Outdoor recreation: You can enjoy camping, swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use  . • Boating details: Evergreen Lake features a 10 hp motor limit—great for kayaking, sailboat sailing, and paddleboarding. You'll need a watercraft registration or you can rent at the boat rental facility . • Beach & concessions: The F.R. Glasener Beach is open daily (no lifeguards—swim at your own risk), and there's a nearby concession stand . Camping Facilities • The park offers 156 individual campsites and 2 group campsites. Types include: • Electrified sites (30 amp/50 amp) • Non-electric sites • Primitive walk-in and primitive walk-in group camps . • Most campsites are seasonal (April 1 to November 1), but sites 1–33 and group camp areas remain open year-round—except during firearm deer hunt weekends  . Reservations & Fees • Campsite reservations for the 2025 season are now being accepted via online, phone, or in-person at the Visitor Center (8 a.m.–6 p.m. daily) . • Overnight pricing (plus reservation fees): • Electric/50 A: ~$35 in person, ~$38 phone/online • Electric/30 A: ~$32–$35 • Non-electric: ~$29–$32 • McLean County residents get a $2/night discount . Wildlife & Conservation • The park participates in a White-tailed Deer Management Program. Hunting (archery and firearm) helps reduce overpopulation—deer densities can exceed 60 per square mile, far above ecological carrying capacity (15–20)  . • Hunting seasons: • Archery: October 1–November 11, 2025 • Firearm: November 21–23 and December 4–7, 2025 . • During certain seasons, parts or all of the park may close to general public access for hunting safety  . Community Contributions & Projects • Local Boy Scouts have contributed: • A bridge built by Boy Scout Ian Gresham • Fishing line recycling tubes installed by Oliver Weber • Benches added through another Eagle Scout project  . • Bluebird houses and wood duck nesting structures have also been donated by local craftspeople . Fireflies — also called lightning bugs — are one of nature's most magical evening sights, turning summer nights into sparkling light shows. Despite the name, they're not flies at all — they're actually a type of beetle from the family Lampyridae. ⸻ How They Glow • Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction called bioluminescence, which happens in special light-producing organs in their lower abdomen. • The process involves luciferin, luciferase (an enzyme), oxygen, and ATP (cell energy). • The light is "cold" — meaning it doesn't give off heat — and can be yellow, green, or even bluish, depending on the species. ⸻ Why They Flash 1. Mating Signals – Each species has its own flash pattern so males and females can recognize each other. 2. Predator Deterrence – The light warns predators that fireflies taste bad or are toxic. 3. Communication – Some species use it to signal territory or other social cues. ⸻ Where You'll See Them • Fireflies love warm, humid environments with lots of vegetation. • They are often found in meadows, forest edges, and near ponds, rivers, or marshes. • In the U.S., they're common in the Midwest, South, and parts of the East — but rare in drier western regions. ⸻ Life Cycle • Eggs are laid in soil or leaf litter. • Larvae, sometimes called "glowworms," live in the soil for 1–2 years, eating snails, worms, and other small creatures. • Adults usually live only a few weeks — just long enough to find a mate and lay eggs. ⸻ Conservation Concerns Firefly populations are declining in some areas due to: • Habitat loss (development, light pollution, pesticide use) • Artificial lighting that disrupts mating signals • Environmental changes from climate shifts ⸻ Fun Facts • Some species synchronize their flashing so hundreds blink together — a breathtaking natural display. • In Japan, fireflies (hotaru) are celebrated as symbols of love and the fleeting beauty of life. • Not all fireflies glow — some use scent instead of light to attract mates.

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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Also check out our newest sponsor - Pinetop Coffee House & Roasting Company

We are rolling along and finally get to a place we can see some really cool things.

DraftKings at Casino Queen RV Park.

We parked acoss the river from St. Louis and have a view of the Arch, but we took the time to go walk the area as well.

St. Louis offers a unique mix of American history, modern attractions, and a deep-rooted love for baseball—and the heart of all this action is centered around Downtown St. Louis, where you'll find the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and a vibrant surrounding district. ⸻ 🏛️ Gateway Arch: The Icon of the Midwest The Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the U.S., standing 630 feet tall, and symbolizes St. Louis's role as the "Gateway to the West." Highlights: • Tram Ride to the Top: You can take a small pod-like tram ride all the way to the top for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. • Museum at the Gateway Arch: A modern, interactive museum beneath the Arch explores westward expansion, Native American history, and St. Louis's founding. • Gateway Arch National Park: Includes beautifully landscaped grounds, riverfront walking paths, and riverboat cruises nearby. 🛈 Pro tip: Book tram tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season or Cardinals games. ⸻ ⚾ Busch Stadium: Home of the St. Louis Cardinals Just a short walk from the Arch, Busch Stadium is the home of the St. Louis Cardinals, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball. What Makes It Special: • Great skyline views from inside the stadium, with the Arch in the background—especially striking during night games. • Electric atmosphere—Cardinals fans are known for being passionate and loyal, yet friendly to visiting fans. • Ballpark Village right next door adds even more to the game day experience. ⸻ 🏙️ Ballpark Village: Dining, Entertainment & Nightlife Ballpark Village is a mixed-use district adjacent to Busch Stadium designed for fans and tourists alike. What You'll Find: • Sports bars, rooftop seating, and restaurants like Cardinals Nation, Brew House, and PBR St. Louis. • Live music, event nights, and massive TVs during games—even when the Cardinals are away. • A fun place to walk, dine, and hang out whether you're going to the game or not.

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⸻ 🧭 Walking Distance Attractions Around the Arch & Stadium • Old Courthouse: Historic site of the Dred Scott case, located just west of the Arch grounds. • Kiener Plaza: A peaceful green space with fountains and sculptures—great photo ops. • Citygarden Sculpture Park: Public art and landscaping blend with interactive water features. • Mississippi Riverfront: Walk along the river or hop on a riverboat cruise. • St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station and Ferris wheel are just a short trolley or drive away.

😰 Why It Feels Stressful: • Tight turning space and low clearance • Other drivers being impatient or in your blind spots • Not knowing if you'll be able to get out once you're in • Feeling pressure from people waiting behind you • Fuel pumps being in awkward locations or too close together ⸻ ✅ Tips to Reduce RV Fuel Stop Stress: 1. Plan Fuel Stops in Advance Use apps like: • GasBuddy – to compare prices • RV Life, Togo RV, or iExit – to find RV-friendly stops with room to maneuver • TruckMap – helpful if you use diesel and want large pull-through bays Look for truck stops (like Pilot, Love's, TA, Buc-ee's)—they often have more space, higher clearances, and easier entry/exit. ⸻ 2. Aim for Pull-Through Pumps • Look for pumps parallel to the store (not perpendicular) or on outer lanes. • Avoid older gas stations in town centers—they're often too tight. ⸻ 3. Fuel When It's Less Busy • Early mornings or late evenings are quieter • Weekdays are usually better than weekends or holidays ⸻ 4. Do a Visual Check Before Pulling In If you're unsure: • Park nearby and walk the layout before committing. • Check for clear exit paths, pole placement, and ceiling overhangs. ⸻ 5. Use a Spotter if Needed If you're traveling with someone, have them hop out and guide you in tight spots. ⸻ 6. Practice Backing and Turning (When toad is uphooked) Confidence comes with familiarity. Practice in an empty parking lot or use cones to get used to your turning radius and length. ⸻ 7. Give Yourself Grace Everyone who drives a big rig or RV has had an awkward gas stop. Most people around you are more curious than annoyed—and the impatient ones? You'll never see them again. ⸻ 🧠 Mindset Shift: Think of fuel stops as part of the adventure, not a test. You're piloting a mobile house—respect! You're allowed to take your time, breathe, and move at your pace.

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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Rob dicovered a lost SnapPad in Amarillo, but the discovery at this stop was a bit more alrming.

Love's RV Hookup-Big Cabin OK 727

Where we ate!! - Great Food.

A bit about the area. 📍 Quick Facts & Location • Big Cabin is a tiny rural town in Craig County, OK, with a 2020 population of just 174, down from 265 in 2010 . • It lies along U.S. Highway 69, about 10 mi north of Vinita and 8 mi south of Adair, with I‑44 (Will Rogers Turnpike) Exit 283 just to the north . ⸻ 🪵 A History Rooted in Hay & Rails • Named after a large plank cabin used by local Native Americans, built near a railroad switch in 1871–72 when the MKT Railway passed through the area . • Big Cabin became famous as the "Hay Capital of the World"—between roughly 1883 and 1910, more hay was shipped from here than any other U.S. town . • The town was formally platted in 1904, began incorporation in 1926, and finalized it in 1958 . ⸻ ⚔️ Historic Site: Cabin Creek Battlefield • Just southeast of town sits the Cabin Creek Battlefield, where two Civil War raids (1863 & 1864) targeted Union supply trains on the Texas Road. Though the Confederate raids captured supplies in the 1864 engagement, they didn't alter the course of the war .

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CampH54 makes a stop an the Love's RV Stop in Amarillo and adventure out while they are there. Love's RV Stop - Amarillo 🚗 Cadillac Ranch: A Canvas on the Plains • Created in 1974 by the San Francisco art collective Ant Farm, funded by eccentric millionaire Stanley Marsh 3, the installation features ten Cadillacs (1949–1963) half-buried nose-first in the ground at the same 60° angle as the Great Pyramids, facing west toward I‑40 . • Originally on Route 66, it was relocated in 1997 to a field just off I‑40 to accommodate Amarillo's growth — the new location is still publicly accessible 24/7 without admission . • Visitors are encouraged to spray paint the cars. The ever-evolving, colorful graffiti is part of the attraction and intended by the artists . ⸻ 🛍️ Buc-ee's Amarillo: A Travel Center Marvel • Opened in December 2024, the Amarillo Buc-ee's spans a massive 74,000 sq ft, offering 108 fueling positions and 24 EV charging stations . • Known for its reputation as the cleanest gas station on the planet, this location features barbecue sandwiches, homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver Nuggets, jerky, fresh pastries, and more . • It's open 24/7/365, with enthusiastic fans often lining up for its grand opening or to stock up on their favorite snacks 📅 . ⸻ 🥩 The Big Texan Steak Ranch: Texas-Sized Dining • Since 1960, The Big Texan has operated along historic Route 66 and I‑40, now housed in a bright yellow building at 7701 I‑40 Access Road in Amarillo . • Famous for its legendary 72‑oz steak challenge: finish a 72‑oz steak plus sides (shrimp cocktail, salad, baked potato, bread) within one hour and the meal's free. Over 10,000 people have completed it out of roughly 90,000 attempts . • The expansive property includes a motel, RV park, arcade, gift shop, brewery, and large banquet hall. The décor leans cowboy Western—wagon-wheel chandeliers, taxidermy, and live events like country music or Texas hold 'em nights . ⸻

CampH54 is a production of Birdman Media™

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