Camping can change your weekends.
Community can change your life.

For many women, the real challenge of camping isn’t learning how to tow, back up, or set up camp. It’s stepping into something new without knowing anyone. That’s why finding community through camping is often the moment everything clicks.

In this Girl Camper Podcast episode, Janine interviews Girl Camper Roseanne Palmer, whose journey perfectly captures what happens when courage meets connection.

Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to be fearless. You just have to be willing.

Roseanne didn’t grow up camping. She didn’t start out with a lifetime of outdoor experience or a long list of camping friends. What she did have was a quiet pull toward the outdoors—and a belief that someday she’d figure it out.

That “someday” started small.

Before she ever towed a camper, Roseanne camped in her own backyard, sleeping outside under the stars. It wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t Instagram-worthy. But it was a first step—and first steps matter.

Finding community through camping often starts long before the campsite.

Learning to camp is easier than learning to believe you belong.

For new campers, especially women starting later in life or starting solo, the unknown can feel overwhelming:

Community answers those questions before you even ask them.

Through the Girl Camper community and podcast, Roseanne began learning the practical skills—towing basics, RV terminology, confidence behind the wheel. But more importantly, she learned that other women were figuring it out too.

That shared experience is powerful.

Roseanne eventually bought a small camper and faced the fear many first-time campers know well: towing.

Her solution wasn’t perfection. It was practice.

Two blocks turned into a few miles.
A short drive turned into a local camping trip.
A local trip turned into something much bigger.

When she decided to attend her first Girl Camper Camporee, Roseanne drove thousands of miles from California to Colorado—despite never having traveled that far with a camper before.

She didn’t go because she felt ready.
She went because she felt supported.

That’s what finding community through camping makes possible.

One of the most meaningful parts of Roseanne’s story isn’t the distance she traveled—it’s the friendships she formed along the way.

Camping community doesn’t end when the trip is over.
It turns into lunches, shared holidays, spontaneous adventures, and people who show up when life shifts.

Roseanne didn’t just find camping buddies. She found her people.

And that’s something many women don’t realize they’re missing until they experience it.

One of the biggest misconceptions about camping groups is that you need the “right” gear to belong.

You don’t.

You can:

Community isn’t about what you bring. It’s about showing up.

If the desire is there, the rest can be learned.

Roseanne’s journey is proof that you don’t need to wait until everything is perfect.

You don’t need:

You just need one yes.

Yes to curiosity.
Yes to connection.
Yes to yourself.

And sometimes, yes to showing up scared—and doing it anyway.

Hear Roseanne’s full story on the Girl Camper Podcast, where she and Janine talk about courage, grief, friendship, and how community changes everything.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take your first step—this might be it.

Because there is no wrong way to camp like a girl.
And there’s always room for one more chair around the campfire. 🔥

Big Thank You to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode!

Be sure to check out our other article on why community is so important.

Grandma Gatewood didn’t just hike the Appalachian Trail. She changed how the world saw it.

In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine Pettit sat down with author Ben Montgomery to talk about his bestselling book Grandma Gatewood’s Walk and the extraordinary woman behind it. Emma “Grandma” Gatewood became the first woman to solo thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 1955 at age 67, carrying minimal gear and an enormous amount of determination.

Our conversation explored her legacy, the early history of the Appalachian Trail, and why her story continues to inspire women to step outside and claim their own adventures.

Emma Gatewood was born in 1898 and lived a life shaped by hardship, resilience, and independence. After surviving years of domestic abuse and raising 11 children, she found freedom in walking. When she read about the Appalachian Trail in a magazine, she decided to hike it.

What makes her journey so remarkable is not just the distance. It is how she did it. Grandma Gatewood carried a simple canvas sack, slept under a plastic shower curtain, and relied on kindness from strangers along the way. At a time when long-distance hiking was almost unheard of, especially for women, she set out alone and succeeded.

Her hike brought national attention to the Appalachian Trail. Newspapers across the country followed her progress, and her story helped spark renewed interest in maintaining and preserving the trail.

One of the most memorable parts of our conversation with Ben Montgomery was the discussion of “trail magic.” Trail magic refers to the unexpected kindness hikers receive from strangers. Grandma Gatewood often knocked on doors, introduced herself, and was welcomed with meals, shelter, and encouragement.

Ben shared how her presence inspired families along the trail to continue helping hikers for generations. He also told a personal story about receiving trail magic during his own thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. A stranger offered him rides, meals, and friendship at a moment when he needed it most.

These stories highlight something beautiful about outdoor culture. Hiking is not just about miles walked. It is about connection, generosity, and shared humanity.

One theme that stood out in the interview was Grandma Gatewood’s refusal to let age define her. Starting a 2,000-mile hike at 67 challenges modern assumptions about what is possible later in life.

For the Girl Camper community, her story is a powerful reminder that adventure has no expiration date. Many women hesitate to try camping or traveling outdoors because they worry they are too old, too inexperienced, or too late to start. Grandma Gatewood’s life argues the opposite.

Her journey shows that curiosity and courage matter more than perfect timing.

Today, Grandma Gatewood’s influence can still be felt along the Appalachian Trail. Hikers share her story in shelters. Trails and memorials honor her name. Many people begin their outdoor journeys after learning about her determination.

Ben Montgomery described meeting hikers who set out specifically because of Grandma Gatewood’s example. Her legacy is not frozen in history. It is alive in every woman who decides to step outside her comfort zone and explore.

At Girl Camper, we believe there is no wrong way to camp like a girl. Grandma Gatewood embodies that spirit. She did not wait for perfect gear or perfect conditions. She started with what she had and figured it out along the way.

Her story encourages women to trust themselves, seek adventure, and build community. Whether you are pitching your first tent, traveling in an RV, or planning a weekend getaway, her example reminds us that the outdoors belongs to everyone.

If you have ever dreamed of exploring more, this podcast episode is a wonderful place to start.

You can watch the full video podcast or listen to the episode wherever you stream podcasts. Ben Montgomery’s storytelling brings Grandma Gatewood’s journey to life and offers deeper insight into her courage and impact.

If Grandma Gatewood’s story inspires you, consider joining the Girl Camper community. We are a group of women who support each other in getting outside, building friendships, and creating unforgettable adventures together.

Adventure is waiting. And as Grandma Gatewood proved, it is never too late to begin.

Be sure to check out Janine’s article on the lessons she learned from reading Grandma Gatewood’s Walk.

Special thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode!

A link to the video podcast version is coming soon!

The Florida RV SuperShow is one of the largest RV shows in the country, and every year it offers a snapshot of where RVing is headed. This year, Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott attended the show with a very intentional lens: What actually works for women who camp?

In the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, they go beyond the shiny RV displays to talk about standout campers, meaningful industry changes, and why Girl Camper is doubling down on camping, connection, and community in 2026.

Rather than focusing on massive fifth wheels and luxury motorhomes, Janine and Lesa gravitated toward small, smart, and flexible RVs. These are campers designed for solo women, friends camping together, and people who want freedom without excess.

Some of the biggest standouts included:

One clear trend at the show was versatility. RVs that can serve multiple purposes, adjust to different travel styles, and feel manageable rather than overwhelming stood out the most.

👉 You can watch full walk-through videos of the campers discussed in this episode on our YouTube playlist: RV Tours

This year’s Florida RV Supershow felt different, and not just because of the weather.

Janine and Lesa noticed signs of a broader shift in the RV industry, including:

During the pandemic, RV sales surged and production expanded quickly. Now, the industry is recalibrating. That shift is impacting not just manufacturers and dealers, but content creators, educators, and community-driven brands like Girl Camper.

For over a decade, Girl Camper has inspired women to get outside, try camping in their own way, and build friendships along the way. But as the industry changes, so is Girl Camper’s strategy.

In this episode, Janine and Lesa share why Girl Camper is intentionally moving toward:

The Girl Camper Podcast will now release episodes twice a month, allowing more time for camping, community engagement, and deeper storytelling. Interviews may be longer, but they’ll be richer and more meaningful.

One of the core messages of this episode is simple but powerful:
There is no wrong way to camp like a girl.

Girl Camper members include women who tent camp, car camp, RV full-time, camp solo, camp with friends, or camp once a year. Many are married or partnered. Many are navigating career changes, caregiving, grief, or new chapters of life.

Camping, for many women, isn’t about escaping life. It’s about resetting, reconnecting, and remembering who you are outside of daily responsibilities.

That’s why Girl Camper is expanding its Hostess program, making it easier for members to host simple, local camping meetups at their favorite parks. No fees. No pressure. Just book your site, bring your food, and show up.

Looking ahead to 2026, Girl Camper’s commitment is clear:

Whether you’re actively shopping for a small RV, curious about RV trends, or simply looking for a supportive outdoor community, Girl Camper is here to walk alongside you.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode:
Beyond the RV Show: Favorite Finds, Industry Changes & the Future of Girl Camper

🏕️ Want to camp with us or host an event?
Email [email protected] to get started.

There is no wrong way to camp like a girl.
Just go places. Do things. Interested in finding great places to camp in 2026? Check our our America The Beautiful Section of our Website.

When making a major purchase, knowing the right questions to ask when buying a used RV can protect both your budget and your peace of mind. In Part 3 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott wraps up her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager of North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida.

This final episode focuses on the decisions buyers often rush through but should never skip.

Not all RV dealers operate the same way. Mike explains why choosing the right dealer is just as important as choosing the right RV. Service capacity, technician availability, and long-term support all play a role after the sale.

A dealer who cannot properly service what they sell may create frustration down the road.

Dealer fees can be confusing for used RV buyers. In this episode, Mike explains what common fees often include and which charges should raise questions.

Knowing what is normal helps buyers avoid unpleasant surprises at closing.

One of the most overlooked questions to ask when buying a used RV is about financing. Mike discusses why buyers should always compare credit unions, banks, and dealer financing.

Even small differences in interest rates can have a big impact over time.

Inspections play a key role in protecting used RV buyers. Mike explains why inspections should never be skipped and why a dealer refusing one should be considered a red flag.

He also highlights a commonly forgotten area buyers should always ask about: the roof.

Perhaps the most important takeaway from this episode is knowing when to walk away. A used RV purchase should never feel rushed or pressured.

By slowing the process down and asking the right questions, buyers can avoid costly mistakes.

This episode completes the three-part series on questions to ask when buying a used RV. Be sure to also listen to Part 1 for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 2 for inspections, pricing, and “as-is” sales.

Together, these episodes give buyers the confidence to shop smart and protect their investment.

Big thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance.

Buying a used RV can be a great way to get on the road for less. But once you move past first impressions, it becomes critical to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. In Part 2 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her candid conversation with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center, focusing on inspections, pricing, and what “as-is” really means for buyers.

This episode helps buyers understand what they should confirm before signing any paperwork.

Many used RVs are sold “as-is,” but buyers often misunderstand that term. An as-is sale means the RV is being sold in its current condition, with no warranty unless an extended warranty is purchased separately.

Because of this, buyers should never assume that everything works properly. Asking to see systems operate before purchase is essential.

One of the most important questions to ask when buying a used RV is whether you can have it inspected. Mike strongly recommends inspections before signing any contract.

Buyers should ask to see:

These items are often overlooked, but they are critical for safety and peace of mind.

Many buyers assume lemon laws apply to all RVs. That is not the case. Mike explains that most travel trailers are not covered under lemon laws, and protections vary widely by state.

This makes it especially important to research your state laws before purchasing a used RV.

Pricing a used RV is based on market value, not emotion. Mike explains how JD Power pricing guides work and why trade-in values are often lower than owners expect.

Upgrades and personal improvements rarely increase resale value. Buyers should focus on condition, demand, and realistic pricing.

This episode reinforces why knowing the questions to ask when buying a used RV can save buyers thousands of dollars and prevent costly surprises.

Be sure to also check out Part 1 of this series for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 3 for guidance on dealers, fees, and financing.

🎧 Catch Part 2 of Questions to Ask When Buying a Used RV on the Girl Camper Podcast, available on your favorite podcast platform and on our YouTube channel.

Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance.

Buying a used RV can be a smart and affordable way to get on the road. But before you step onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. Asking the right questions early can help you avoid costly mistakes and buyer’s remorse.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott kicks off a three-part series with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center. The goal of this series is simple: help buyers feel informed, confident, and prepared.

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is shopping before doing any research. Many people fall in love with how an RV looks and forget to ask practical questions. Mike explains why slowing down and gathering information first can save thousands of dollars later.

Another common mistake is assuming a used RV will be problem-free. Every used RV has a history. Understanding that history matters.

These steps help narrow choices and prevent impulse decisions.

Even with a used RV, tow ratings and weight limits are critical. Mike explains why exceeding limits can create safety issues and damage vehicles. Floorplans also deserve careful thought. Buyers should consider daily use, storage needs, and bad-weather days.

Mike shares early warning signs buyers should never ignore. These include strong odors, visible water damage, worn tires, and missing maintenance records. Asking direct questions about these issues is essential when buying a used RV.

This episode lays the foundation for the entire series. If you’re considering a used RV, learning the questions to ask when buying a used RV will help you shop smarter and with more confidence.

👉 Be sure to also listen to Part 2 and Part 3 of this series to get the full picture before you buy.

For tips on buying a New RV, check out Episode 1 of that 3 part series we also did.

Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. Check Progressive out for all your insurance needs.

Cooking in a small camper kitchen doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, creativity, or enjoyment. With the right gear, pantry staples, and mindset, it’s possible to make satisfying meals in even the smallest of spaces.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast and our On the Road with Girl Camper series with nuCamp RV, Lesa sits down with Allana Bykes, a professionally trained chef and nuCamp T@B 320 owner, to talk about how she cooks real meals while camping in a small camper.

Instead of focusing on trendy gadgets, Allana shared what truly earns a place in her camper kitchen—and why.

Allana approaches camper cooking with intention. Every piece of gear and every pantry item has a purpose.

Her philosophy is simple:

This approach allows her to cook confidently without overcrowding her limited space.

Rather than filling cabinets with single-use tools, Allana focuses on a streamlined setup. Her small camper kitchen essentials include:

Each item earns its place by being versatile and easy to store.

A well-planned pantry makes all the difference when cooking in a small camper. Allana relies on ingredients that are shelf-stable, compact, and flexible.

Her go-to camper pantry staples include:

With these basics on hand, she can create a wide variety of meals without overpacking.

🍳 Recipe Call-Out: Easy Dirty Rice for Camp Cooking
One of Allana’s favorite camper meals is dirty rice—a one-pan dish that’s simple, filling, and easy to adapt.

Easy Camper Dirty Rice (Chef-Style)
Why it works at camp:
✔ One pan
✔ Minimal cleanup
✔ Flexible ingredients
✔ Great for small camper kitchens

Ingredients (ratio-based):
1 part cooked sausage (or protein of choice)
1 part sautéed vegetables (onion, pepper, celery)
1 part rice
2 parts liquid (water or broth)
Garlic, herbs, and seasoning to taste

How to Make It:
Warm cooked sausage and vegetables in a pan with a little oil.
Add garlic, herbs, and tomato paste if desired.
Stir in rice and toast briefly.
Add liquid gradually, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked.
Adjust seasoning and serve.
This technique-based recipe makes it easy to swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand—perfect for camping.

Whether you’re new to RVing or downsizing your setup, a small camper kitchen can feel limiting. This episode proves that thoughtful planning makes all the difference.

You don’t need:

You do need:

You can listen to the full conversation on the Girl Camper Podcast or watch the video as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper series.

Be sure to check out nuCamp RV and their thoughtfully designed campers, including the T@B 320 featured in this episode.

And if you’re looking for connection, confidence, and community on the road, we’d love for you to join Girl Camper and come along on one of our many adventures.

Because there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl.

Do you ever find yourself standing in front of a breathtaking sunset or a majestic mountain range, only to have your photo look like a flat, blurry version of the real thing? You aren’t alone! Many campers struggle to capture the magic of their adventures, especially when relying on a smartphone.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott sits down with professional landscape photographer Mandy Lea from Mandy Lea Photo. Mandy shares her “photographer mindset” and practical secrets to help you level up your photography game without needing a heavy DSLR camera.

Mandy explains that the biggest difference between a “tourist” and a “photographer” is intentionality. A tourist hops out of the car, snaps a photo, and leaves. A photographer slows down.

Pro Tip: Before you click the shutter, do an “edge check.” Look at the corners of your frame. Is there a stray branch or a trash can distracting from your subject? Reposition yourself to keep your composition clean and focused.

Most of us carry a powerful camera right in our pockets. Here is how to use it like a pro:

One of the most common questions Mandy gets is: “How do I stop the moon from looking like a white blob?” The secret is exposure. Because the moon is a bright light source in a dark sky, your phone tries to brighten the whole image, which overexposes the moon. To fix this, tap the moon on your screen and drag the exposure slider all the way down until you see the craters and detail. For the best results, use a tripod to keep the phone steady!

You don’t need expensive software to make your photos shine. Mandy recommends Snapseed, a free app by Google. It allows you to selectively brighten areas, fix colors, and add professional touches in seconds.

Want to dive deeper into photography or join an outdoor workshop? Mandy and her partner Kendrick offer incredible backpacking and photography trips, including excursions to the Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Ready to hit the road? Check out our upcoming Girl Camper Events and put these new photography skills to the test!

Looking for a durable backpack that fits on the back of a motorcycle? Check out Vikings Trident Extra Large Backpack.

Every winter, something incredible happens in the Arizona desert. A tiny town of just a few thousand people transforms into one of the largest gatherings of RVers in the world. If you’ve ever wondered what the big deal is about Quartzsite, Arizona, you’re not alone — and this Girl Camper Podcast episode dives into all the reasons this destination has become a bucket-list experience for RV travelers.

Lesa sat down with longtime Quartzsite regulars Tony & Peggy Barthel of StressLess Camping to get their insider tips, best advice for first-timers, and a real sense of what makes this place unlike anywhere else.

Quartzsite is a small desert town just off I-10 near the California border. For most of the year, it’s quiet and hot… but from late fall through early spring, it becomes a full-blown RV metropolis. Hundreds of thousands of campers — snowbirds, boondockers, full-timers, vanlifers, and everyone in between — gather to enjoy sunshine, community, and one enormous RV show.

If you’re imagining wall-to-wall RVs across open desert, quirky vendors, campfire meetups, and a vibe that feels part festival, part flea market, part family reunion — you’re right.

The Quartzsite Arizona RV show is the centerpiece of the season. This giant white tent (we’re talking up to 70,000 square feet) is packed with:

It runs for nine days every January and — here’s the best part — admission is completely free.

If you’re shopping for RV gear, curious about solar, or just love exploring new gadgets, set aside a whole day to wander the Big Tent.

Absolutely. Quartzsite is surrounded by miles of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, giving RVers endless space to spread out and camp. Options include:

Stay up to 14 days with no cost. Great for short visits or first-timers who want to try boondocking.

For those wanting to stay weeks or months. These areas offer:

If you’re new to boondocking, Tony and Peggy recommend scouting during daylight and observing how far other rigs space themselves — it’s a great way to learn the etiquette.

Quartzsite is warm by winter standards — often in the 60s or low 70s — but don’t be fooled:

Pack layers, tie down awnings, and be prepared for conditions to change quickly.

Short answer: don’t count on it.
Long answer: bring Starlink if you absolutely need reliable connectivity.

Quartzsite’s population explosion overwhelms local towers, and while temporary towers are sometimes brought in, they don’t reach everyone. Many attendees rely on Starlink or simply unplug for the week.

Contrary to rumors, Quartzsite is not a food desert.

You’ll find:

For a bigger grocery run, Blythe, CA and Parker, AZ are each about an hour away.

One of the biggest reasons RVers return year after year? The people.

Quartzsite forms countless temporary communities including:

If you’re going alone, don’t worry — Quartzsite is one of the easiest places to meet fellow campers. There’s truly a “camp for everyone.”

Still, most visitors agree the experience is worth it — you simply have to go once to understand the magic.

Tony and Peggy share even more tips — including how to save your campsite when dumping tanks, favorite food spots, and what first-timers always get wrong.

Listen or watch now on the Girl Camper Podcast!

And for more from our guests, visit StressLess Camping:
https://www.stresslesscamping.com

Learn more about the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show:
https://www.quartzsitervshow.com

This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance, supporting RVers nationwide.
https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper/

Looking for more great places to camp? Check out our America The Beautiful page.

Looking for meaningful, budget-friendly homemade holiday gifts for campers this year? On the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine shares five handmade gift ideas that are easy to create, fun to personalize, and perfect for your favorite camping friends. These gifts are thoughtful, practical, and infused with that Girl Camper spirit of creativity and community.

Whether you’re looking for something cozy for the campsite or a heartfelt gift that doesn’t break the bank, these projects are simple, beautiful, and totally doable.

A gorgeous (and useful!) fire starter made from a simple lunch bag, twine, and a bit of petroleum jelly. Perfect for campfires and backyard firepits.

Turn a thrift store thermos into a charming bedside lamp using a battery-operated LED puck light and a clip-on shade. Stunning on a camper nightstand!

Layer dehydrated oranges, apples, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon for a fragrant stovetop simmer that smells like the holidays.

Combine freeze-dried vegetables, quick-cook pasta, and bouillon to create an easy soup mix your friends can take on the road. Perfect for a chilly camping night.

Hand-folded origami cubes placed over a strand of LED lights—simple, soothing, and beautiful in any RV or tiny space.

All items are from the supply list used in the episode:

Extra Large Double Sided Tape

Origami Paper

Freeze-Dried Mixed Vegetables

Battery Operated Wireless LED Light Bulb

Lamp Shade Light Bulb Clip Adapter

Dried Blood Orange Slices

Whole Cloves

Star Anise

Looking for more DIY projects? Check out our article on more ideas on how to make nature inspired fire starters.

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