Hello, Girl Camper family! We’re thrilled to share an exciting update from the Fort Myers RV show where Janine Pettit, founder of Girl Camper and editor in chief of Girl Camper Magazine, teams up with RV industry veteran Mike Harlan. The event promises insights and fun for RV enthusiasts and new campers alike!

Janine welcomes Mike Harlan, the dynamic general manager of North Trail RV in Fort Myers. Mike has been a foundational supporter of Girl Camper since its inception, continually championing skills empowerment through innovative initiatives like ‘Camper College’.

Set your calendars for January 23-26, 2025, at JetBlue Park, a fresh location that offers unprecedented opportunities for exploration and learning. Featuring a diverse presentation of RVs, from compact campers to luxurious motorhomes, this show is designed to educate and inspire.

Join Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott at the Girl Camper booth at the Fort Myers RV show for insightful talks and personalized shopping support. Whether you’re curious about RV lifestyle basics or getting into the technical details like brake controllers and lithium battery systems, this is your chance to learn and grow with fellow RV enthusiasts.

Mike Harlan shares exciting plans to open a 155-space campground adjacent to their dealership for shakedown adventures. Both seasoned RV-goers and newcomers will benefit from practical demonstrations and immersive learning experiences in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.

We invite you to join Girl Camper. Whether you’re in Florida or journeying on, discover the freedom and joy the RV lifestyle promises. Join us at the Fort Myers RV Show, engage with like-minded adventurers, and take part in the various learning sessions. Remember, every venture begins with curiosity and a touch of courage. Happy trails and see you there!

Special Thank you to this episode’s sponsor…Lippert/Curt Manufacturing. Click here to check out their echo mobile brake controller or their quick pin coupler or their rockerball hitch.

Interested in attending an RV Show with your local Girl Camper Guide? Watch our event’s page to see ones coming up in your area.

Welcome to another year with Girl Camper! In our latest podcast episode, we dive into New Year’s resolutions for 2025 with Janine Pettit, Lesa McDermott, and Girl Camper guides. For 2025, our focus is on embracing the outdoors, tackling personal challenges, and building community.

Janine opens the discussion, sharing her desire to spend more time camping locally with friends. For Janine, it’s about reconnecting with simple pleasures like spontaneous camping trips. Meanwhile, Lesa embraces a significant challenge: a 125-mile hike on the Centennial Trail, illustrating the blend of determination and camaraderie that defines Girl Camper.

Our podcast shares resolutions from guides across the nation, each bringing unique goals. Carol Thompson aspires to organize her camper, while Jess Nessler focuses on decluttering and spending more time with her dogs. Sharon Cutbirth aims to improve her physical fitness to lead more active trips. From Nebraska, Mary Byrnes plans to camp more and explore this country and others

Theresa Leppert, Girl Camper’s guide manager, shares her goal of winter camping and organizing camping gear, echoing a common theme among campers: simplicity and decluttering.

Wrapping up, Lisa Dempsey offers her unique “5 by 5 appraisal” approach, encouraging intentional reflection and setting actionable goals. An excellent tool for creating New Year resolutions for 2025.

Girl Camper’s mission is simple: to support each other in our pursuit of outdoor adventures, no matter how small or large. Whether it’s organizing gear, tackling a new hike, or camping more with friends, our 2025 New Year resolutions are about adventure and personal growth.

Join us on this journey by subscribing to our magazine and podcast and attending events. We’re excited to support you in achieving your outdoor aspirations and look forward to seeing you at our events. Happy New Year! Let’s embrace 2025 with courage and joy.

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Looking for more great tips on starting out the New Year right? Check out our wellness section on our website.

As we wrap up an incredible year at Girl Camper, we’re excited to share highlights from 2024 and offer a glimpse into what 2025 holds. This year was all about growth, particularly in our thriving community. We reintroduced our podcast, expanded our Facebook group to over 430,000 members, and fostered meaningful connections at 200 events nationwide.

Our adventures took us across the globe, from the Black Hills of South Dakota to Ireland, and featured unforgettable trips like the Green River, Utah journey. Whether running rivers or exploring dinosaur parks, our travels emphasized the importance of unplugging and reconnecting with nature.

Girl Camper’s backbone is our dedicated guides who organize events that connect women with the outdoors. As a micro-business, our guides empower others while enriching themselves with joy derived from mentoring. This year, we introduced new guides in Oregon and Minnesota, while also bidding farewell to some who have been instrumental in our success.

Our work wouldn’t be possible without our valued partners, including but not limited to Lippert, GoRVing, and Progressive Insurance. Their continued support allows us to inspire and equip women for their outdoor adventures. We also welcome new partners such as Sun RV Outdoors, enhancing our ability to offer diverse camping experiences.

In 2025, we’re excited to introduce a new membership program with special benefits and expand our event offerings. For Janine, she’ll be soaking up local camping experiences, while Lesa prepares for an epic 125-mile hike through the Black Hills.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or testing the waters, Girl Camper invites you to be part of our community. Subscribe to our magazine, listen to our podcast, and connect with us on social media. Here’s to a year of adventure, connection, and growth as we continue to inspire women to go places and do things. Happy New Year and happy trails!

Special THANKS to this episodes sponsors! Progressive Insurance and Lippert/Curt Manufacturing.

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by sharing cherished traditions? On this special episode of the Girl Camper podcast, Janine Pettit joins forces with Lesa McDermott as they invite guides from across the country to share their unique holiday customs.

Janine and her family embrace the joy of Christmas by gifting ornaments that capture the essence of each passing year, alongside cozy Christmas pajamas for the kids. Lesa, meanwhile, shares her tradition of thoughtful gift-giving, focusing on needs like “something to read” and “something to wear.”

From Wisconsin, Jess Nessler brings the whimsical tradition of hiding a Christmas pickle on the tree, offering a small gift to those who find it. Meanwhile, Shari Sullivan from Alabama can’t imagine Christmas without watching “White Christmas,” a movie that weaves magic into her holiday.

Theresa Leppert from Iowa recounts the clever effort parents go through to keep Santa’s mystery alive, while Carol Thompson traditions of opening pajamas on Christmas Eve always ensure picture-perfect mornings.

Traditions extend beyond family gatherings. Tracey Stieb from Michigan, embodies the spirit of giving by participating in Operation Good Cheer, delivering smiles to children in foster care. Then there’s Mary Byrnes from Nebraska, whose humor shines with a new twist: “Squatch on the Watch.”

Food plays a huge role in the holidays for Lisa Dempsey of Southeast Texas. She cherishes the legacy of delectable See’s chocolates. Larie Dowdy of Arizona wraps up with a summer tradition of Christmas in July, hiding a Sasquatch ornament in her tree.

Whether it’s hiding a pickle, unwrapping pajamas, or savoring sweet treats, it’s these traditions that warm our hearts and homes. From all of us at Girl Camper, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let’s make 2025 just as memorable—with campfires, holiday cheer, and shared traditions carried forward.

Special thanks to this episode’s sponsors: Go RVing & Curt Manufacturing.

Looking to stay warm over the holidays? Check out tips from someone we dearly miss at Girl Camper, Catherine Goggia: Staying Dry & Warm In The New Year

Hey Girl Campers! If you want to try a new outdoor adventure, tune in to this episode of the Girl Camper podcast. Host Janine Pettit talks with Amy Arnold, the Marketing Director of Roam America Campgrounds. Roam America is changing the camping experience by offering modern amenities at beautiful locations.

First, let’s explore Roam America’s Campground near Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona. This campground is surrounded by stunning mesas, making it a perfect desert getaway. It has clean bathhouses, a refreshing pool, and welcomes pets. It’s a great base for visiting nearby attractions like Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon. Plus, local tour partners can help you plan your adventures easily.

Next, we visit Echo Island in Colville, Utah. This campground is family-friendly and offers many activities. You can play pickleball, try a ropes course, or enjoy fishing in the pond. Located near Salt Lake City and Park City, Echo Island is perfect for families and solo travelers looking for fun and exploration.  It’s also open all year round, making it a great spot for winter campers who love to ski.

Also, keep an eye out for the upcoming Roam Tillamook in Garibaldi, Oregon. This campground will feature a sauna and an event lodge. You can take a ride on the nearby coastal train for beautiful views along the Oregon coastline.

Join us on the Girl Camper podcast to learn more about Roam America Campground’s exciting offerings. Whether you’re new to camping or have years of experience, Roam provides a refreshing and enjoyable experience that balances the charm of camping with modern comforts. Get ready to make great memories! Happy camping!

Looking for more campground reviews?  Be sure to check out our America The Beautiful page as we are adding new reviews and things to do on it all the time. 

Special Thank You to this episode’s sponsor:  Curt Manufacturing.  Check out Curt’s line of towing accessories, including its quick pin coupler and rockerball hitch.

On this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott visits with  Eva Mitic, the marketing manager from Go Power Solar. If you’ve been contemplating adding solar to your RV or have questions about what it can do, this podcast episode is your go-to resource. Eva breaks it down on what what equipment is needed and makes it easy to understand.

Eva highlights the key benefits of solar power for RVs—it’s a renewable resource offering free, quiet energy from the sun. Unlike noisy generators, solar systems let you enjoy nature without distractions. They also extend battery lifespan, saving costs over time by reducing campsite hookup fees and eliminating the need for gasoline.

Determining the right solar setup depends on your RV’s roof space and power needs. For small power requirements like charging phones, minimal solar panels suffice. However, more significant systems are necessary for appliances like residential refrigerators. Interestingly, advancements in lithium batteries are making it more feasible to power air conditioners using solar energy.

Eva advises starting small and expanding as needs grow. It’s crucial to use appropriate wiring to optimize energy transfer. For portable solar kits, securing them is important to prevent theft. When considering investment, users should weigh nightly campground fees versus long-term savings and freedom.

Regular maintenance includes cleaning panels and checking connections. A typical solar panel lasts over 25 years, while charge controllers last around five years. Battery lifespans vary, with lithium batteries offering the longest duration.

Eva wraps up with practical advice for winterizing your RV solar system and emphasizes the importance of investing in quality solar components. This  episode reinforces solar energy’s role in enhancing RV experiences, providing freedom and sustainability. For additional resources and guidance, visit Go Power’s website and explore their interactive tools for sizing the perfect solar system for your RV.  Watch for a future episode on lithium batteries with Lesa & Eva and more tech advancements on the Girl Camper podcast!

Special thank you to this episode’s sponsors:  Progressive Insurance & Curt Manufacturing.  Be sure to check out Curt’s Echo Mobile Brake Controller. Looking to start small with solar? Check out Girl Camper’s Bonnie Shafto’s review of a portable solar charging pack here.

Welcome to the Girl Camper podcast! Today, we’re diving into the best tips for snagging camping deals just in time for Travel Tuesday, your guide to budget-friendly adventures in 2025.

While Travel Tuesday might sound new, it’s a great time to scoop up deals for your 2025 camping adventures. Much like Cyber Monday, it brings unique opportunities for savvy travelers. But our tips in today’s show, can be used all year round!

Great deals abound on apps like HipCamp and The Dirt. Downloading these apps and subscribing to their newsletters is vital. Often, subscribers receive exclusive discounts that are not widely advertised. Other platforms to consider include FreeCampsites.net, iOverlanding, and RV Trip Wizard. In fact, use coupon code GIRLCAMPER at checkout on RV Tripwizard to get 25% off.

Being a member of KOA or similar organizations can lead to discounts and even free nights if you camp frequently. Government discounts for seniors, veterans, and residents can also offer significant savings.

Visiting during shoulder seasons, or camping midweek, can lower costs significantly. In destinations with seasonal peaks, camping outside the high season offers a cheaper, quieter experience.

Join groups such as Girl Camper, where members benefit from established discounts with partnered campgrounds. Being part of a community also provides insider tips and exclusive deals.

Where available, public lands like those managed by the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management allow free camping. While facilities may be limited, the views and experiences are unmatched. Joining groups like Harvest Hosts is also a great way to camp at low cost. Use code HOLIDAYHH at checkout on their site for 30% off your first year of membership. This is a limited time deal so act now.

Consider calling campgrounds directly for last-minute deals. Inquire about packages that might include passes to local attractions or restaurants for a bundled discount. Sun Outdoors Resorts usually has various discounts throughout the year.

You don’t have to wait till Travel Tuesday to find affordable camping adventures. With a little planning and our tips, you can make the most of your trips. Don’t forget to share your deals and experiences with us for future travel ideas. Happy trails!

Special THANK YOU to this episode’s sponsors: Go RVing and Progressive Insurance. 🙂

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves preparing to host gatherings or visit friends and family as their guest. But what does it take to be a gracious host or a considerate guest? Whether you’re opening your home or traveling to someone else’s, these tips will help make the experience enjoyable for everyone involved.

1. **Preparation is Key**: Ensure your home is guest-ready by providing essentials like bathrobes, towels, snacks, and toiletries. Pre-making meals such as soups or casseroles can alleviate stress and allow more time to spend with your guests.

2. **Hospitality and Communication**: Greet your guests warmly, show them around, and let them know they’re welcome. Sharing meal plans or scheduled activities can help guests understand expectations and plan their time accordingly.

3. **Flexibility and Engagement**: Provide options for activities and entertainment that cater to different preferences, such as hiking, local attractions, or game nights. Encourage open communication about dietary restrictions or special needs.

1. **Mindful Requests**: While it’s okay to mention dietary needs, avoid making extensive or pricey requests that could burden your host.

2. **Offer to Help**: Whether it’s setting the table, cleaning up, or buying groceries, volunteering for simple tasks makes a big difference.

3. **Respect and Gratitude**: Respect your host’s schedule and house rules. Show appreciation with a thoughtful gift or a handwritten thank-you note after your visit.

Ultimately, creating a welcoming atmosphere or being a considerate guest is about making others feel valued and comfortable. As Bonnie Shafto emphasizes, “Be prepared and flexible, engage in great conversations, and most importantly, be joyful.”

The festive season can come with its challenges, but a little planning and goodwill can transform any visit into a cherished memory. No matter which role you find yourself in this holiday season, these insights can help ensure that everyone leaves with a smile. If you have a tip on how to be a great holiday host or guest, please let us know.

Special THANK YOU to the sponsors of this podcast episode: Go RVing and Progressive Insurance.

Looking for the perfect gift? Consider a gift subscription to the Girl Camper Magazine.

Join Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott as they share their first-ever Girl Camper holiday gift guide and ideas. From practical camper gear to luxurious alpaca sweaters, these camper enthusiasts reveal their top picks without knowing what’s on each other’s lists, making for a fun surprise-filled episode. They discuss everything from favorite camping-inspired books and high-quality clothing to amazing gadgets and delicious treats, complete with product recommendations and personal anecdotes. Don’t miss out on this episode that will help you find the perfect gifts for fellow campers and outdoor lovers. Plus, learn about exciting camping trips and how you can get involved.

Do you have any gift ideas for a Girl Camper? We would love to hear what’s on your holiday wish list!

Lippert/Curt Manufacturing

Progressive Insurance

Looking for more gift ideas? Be sure to check out our Gear & Apparel Page.

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Exploring the Journey of Seasonal Camping with Janine Pettit on the Girl Camper Podcast

Ever wondered what it’s like to set up a home-away-from-home at a campground for an entire season? Janine Pettit, co-host of the Girl Camper podcast, dives into her first season as a seasonal camper. She unpacks the highs, the lows, and all the lessons in between.

Janine’s journey wasn’t just about setting a camper down and calling it home. It was about embracing a new lifestyle and creating a base where friends, family, and fellow campers could gather. In this episode, she reflects on why she chose seasonal camping, her experiences, and how it impacted her day-to-day life. Here’s a peek into Janine’s thoughts and advice for anyone thinking about seasonal camping.

Seasonal camping isn’t just about saving on travel costs or avoiding the hassle of setting up and tearing down. For Janine, it was the allure of a steady retreat that sparked her interest. She explains how her decision was shaped by the convenience of always having a space waiting for her. A spot perfect for spontaneous getaways and family get-togethers, without the logistics of constant planning.

With a dedicated campsite, Janine enjoys a ready-to-go setup, where all her camping essentials are already in place. No more packing, repacking, or frequent RV maintenance, she notes. The stability offered by a seasonal campsite made family gatherings easier and helped her think differently about her “camping home base.”

Seasonal camping also became a great excuse for family time, creating opportunities to come together. Janine touches on the “homey” feel of having her own spot in nature and even weighs in on the real estate-like value of a seasonal site—getting “the best of both worlds” without a mortgage.

For anyone who needs to work remotely, Janine mentions the surprising benefits of setting up a workstation at her campground. It allowed her to enjoy peace and productivity that her usual workspace couldn’t always provide. She even goes into practical details about truck maintenance and managing the unique needs of an RV in a seasonal setup.

Janine chose the Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground for her seasonal adventure, highlighting the amenities and the welcoming environment. With activities that range from cozy fire pits to community gatherings, she found herself soaking up the social side of camping and benefiting from a supportive, ready-made community.

One of the highlights of seasonal camping, according to Janine, is the unique blend of serenity on weekdays and a vibrant, bustling campground on weekends. She enjoys the quiet time during the week and the lively atmosphere on weekends—an ideal balance that’s a bit of a hidden perk of seasonal camping.

No journey is without its drawbacks. Janine is candid about some of the challenges she faced, from scheduling conflicts to routine RV maintenance. And while she loves the flexibility of seasonal camping, she’s realistic about the occasional need for additional upkeep and time management.

Janine shares her joy in having her camper as a seasonal retreat. She discusses the process of choosing the right RV for a seasonal stay, weighing the benefits of different setups, and what worked best for her needs.

From holiday gatherings to themed events, Janine notes the special community spirit that’s unique to seasonal camping. Celebrating Halloween at the campground with her seasonal neighbors added a new experience, blending tradition with the novelty of the campground.

As Janine wraps up her episode, she reflects on the unexpected joys and the challenges of her first year as a seasonal camper. She shares personal anecdotes and helpful tips for those considering making seasonal camping their own. Finally, for those pondering if it’s worth the commitment, Janine’s takeaway is simple: If you’re seeking a deeper connection to nature, community, and maybe even to yourself, seasonal camping might just be the answer.

For all aspiring seasonal campers out there, Janine’s journey is filled with lessons and a genuine appreciation for this unique lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of setting up a seasonal spot of your own or simply curious about what it’s like, this episode is packed with valuable advice.

Be sure to catch Janine’s podcast episode on Why Seasonal Camping Podcast Episode

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