The world of camping looks a lot different than it did just a few years ago. From luxury RV resorts with Wi-Fi and EV charging to classic family campgrounds that keep traditions alive, there’s never been more variety—or more demand.

In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa sat down with Jeff Crider, journalist, PR professional, and Go RVing brand ambassador, to talk about the state of campgrounds in the U.S. and what’s changing across the outdoor hospitality industry.

Jeff says the good news is that there are more campgrounds and better amenities than ever before. The pandemic brought a wave of new campers into the lifestyle, and that surge pushed campground owners and developers to expand and upgrade their properties.

While new RV sales have cooled since 2020, camping itself remains incredibly popular. Families, digital nomads, and retirees continue to hit the road in record numbers, keeping demand for campsites strong.

However, Jeff points out that if you want to visit a popular destination in peak season—like summer weekends near national parks—you’ll still need to book early. It’s a simple matter of supply and demand.

Whatever your camping style, there’s a park for you—it just depends on whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat, a family adventure, or a resort experience.

The top campground amenity in 2025? Reliable, high-speed internet.

With more RVers working remotely, Wi-Fi is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Campgrounds are investing heavily in better connectivity, as well as new features like EV charging stations, solar power, glamping accommodations, and community gathering spaces that encourage connection.

Sustainability is another growing focus. More parks are adopting eco-friendly practices like native landscaping, recycling programs, and water conservation efforts.

Jeff shared one inspiring story about the Ventura Ranch KOA in California. The campground not only offers fun attractions like a 12-station zip line but also partners with rehabilitation centers to help guests battling depression and anxiety. Experiences like zip-lining and team activities help build confidence and a sense of connection—a reminder that campgrounds can be about much more than just camping.

Beyond the campground industry, Jeff’s humanitarian work with Med Access International—a volunteer medical mission organization—has taken him around the world. His belief that travel and service go hand in hand resonates deeply with the Girl Camper spirit: adventure, community, and giving back.

Wondering where you should camp next? Check out our America The Beautiful page on our website for ideas.

✨ Go RVing – Discover the joy of RV travel and start planning your next great adventure at GoRVing.com.

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Thinking about skipping the hitch and going all-in on a motorhome? For many campers—especially solo women travelers—owning a motorhome means freedom, comfort, and confidence on the road. In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine Pettit sat down with Tom Stoate, president of The Hitch House, a family-owned Canadian dealership that’s been specializing in motorhomes for over 50 years.

Together, they unpacked what makes motorhome ownership such a smart choice for today’s RVers.

If towing feels intimidating, a motorhome can be the perfect solution. Everything you need is in one unit—no hitching, backing, or setup stress. For solo women, that simplicity translates to confidence. As Tom explained, many buyers start with travel trailers and eventually move to motorhomes because they want something easier to maneuver and ready to go at a moment’s notice.

“What you’re driving is what you’re living in,” Tom said. “It’s all right there with you.”

Safety is a big reason women choose motorhomes. You can lock your doors, sleep securely, and even drive away if needed—without stepping outside. Smaller Class B and Class C models also have driver and passenger doors, giving quick exit options in case of emergency.

And comfort? Motorhomes are like rolling homes on wheels, with everything from full kitchens to cozy bedrooms and climate control. Whether you’re a weekend traveler or a full-time RVer, your space moves with you.

Most Girl Campers travel with a furry friend—and a motorhome makes it easy. Pets can roam comfortably, enjoy their own designated space, and stay close while you drive. Some models even include built-in pet areas or space under the bed for a crate or cozy nook.

No more juggling leashes, crates, and tow vehicles—your motorhome keeps everyone happy.

Motorhomes are a bigger investment, but as Tom points out, they often retain value well—especially when properly maintained and purchased from a reputable dealer. Choosing a family-owned dealership with in-house service, like The Hitch House, ensures ongoing support and accountability.

“If we don’t build the back end—the service side—we can’t take care of the front end, which is sales,” Tom shared.

From Harvest Hosts stays to scenic boondocking spots, motorhomes make it easy to go wherever the road leads. Whether you’re traveling with friends, visiting family, or chasing sunshine, your home comes along for the ride.

Motorhomes aren’t just for retirees or snowbirds—they’re for anyone who wants the freedom to go and do more, with less stress.

If you’ve been wondering why a motorhome might be right for you, this episode is a great place to start. Tune in to hear the full conversation with Tom Stoate from The Hitch House and get expert insight into choosing your perfect motorhome.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube: Girl Camper Podcast – “Motorhomes Made Simple: Why Going Class A, B, or C Might Be Right for You”

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There’s something magical about national forests in the fall. The air turns crisp, the bugs disappear, and the forests explode with color. From fiery reds and glowing golds to deep amber and russet tones, autumn transforms our public lands into a living postcard.

In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott sits down with Ali Rasmussen, co-owner of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, to explore why national forests are at their best in the fall—and how you can plan the ultimate foliage-chasing road trip.

If you’ve ever wished you could stretch out the fall season, Spacious Skies has made it possible. Their 15-Stop Fall Color Trail is a curated route that begins in Maine in early September and winds south through New England, the Appalachians, and the Deep South, ending in Savannah, Georgia by late November.

Each stop along the way is a Spacious Skies campground located near some of the most scenic national forests and drives in the country. It’s the perfect way to follow autumn as it rolls down the East Coast—catching peak color in one region after another.

“We designed the Fall Color Trail so campers can literally chase the colors,” Ali explains. “Every few hours of driving takes you to a whole new forest in full display.”

Since the episode aired on October 7, it’s the perfect time to visit mid-Atlantic and southern forests, where fall color is just hitting its stride.

October brings brilliant reds and golds along Skyline Drive, one of the most scenic fall routes in America. Nearby, Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views makes a great basecamp for hiking and leaf-peeping.

Further south, Spacious Skies Bear Den and Hidden Creek sit in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, famous for cascading waterfalls and overlooks that glow in orange and gold from mid-October to early November.

By early November, the color wave reaches Tennessee and Georgia. Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers trails and waterfalls near the Cumberland Plateau, while Savannah Oaks in Georgia provides a peaceful late-season escape surrounded by golden oaks and Spanish moss.

Ali and Lesa shared some practical advice for making the most of your autumn camping trip:

“Camping is supposed to be fun and easy,” Ali reminds listeners. “Pick a stop near you, get in the car, and go. Don’t overthink it.”

Not ready to pack up your rig when the leaves fall? Many Spacious Skies locations stay open through winter. Southern campgrounds like Savannah Oaks and Belle Ridge welcome campers all year long, while French Pond in New Hampshire stays open for those who love a snowy adventure near the ski slopes.

Thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode! For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance at: https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper/

Looking for more fall travel inspiration: Check out our article on The Best Places In The US To See Fall Colors.

Exciting news for women who love adventure and community—Girl Camper has launched a brand-new membership platform designed to bring more connection, perks, and exclusive access to its growing nationwide network of campers!

In this episode of the Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit and Girl Camper events manager Theresa Leppert chat about why this new Girl Camper membership is a game-changer for women who love to camp, explore, and meet like-minded friends.

Janine shares the vision behind the membership, which includes:

Theresa dives into the behind-the-scenes work that went into building a platform that’s intuitive and welcoming, ensuring every member—from weekend warriors to full-time RVers—feels at home.

“We’ve always said Girl Camper is more than a brand—it’s a movement. Now we’ve got a home base to support that movement,” says Janine.

Whether you’re a solo camper, part of a camping crew, or just beginning your journey, this membership gives you tools, community, and inspiration to go further.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now to get the inside scoop on:

Check out our expert guide on How to Overcome Camping Fear—perfect for new campers looking to feel more confident hitting the road.

A big thank you to our sponsor, Go RVing, for supporting this episode and helping us empower more women to go places and do things—together.

The Hershey RV Show 2025 did not disappoint! Known as “America’s Largest RV Show,” it’s the place where manufacturers debut their newest models, campers dream about their next upgrade, and adventurers discover innovative features designed to make camping easier and more fun. Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit walked the show floor and shared her favorite finds for every style of camping.

The Hershey RV Show is more than just a showcase of campers—it’s a chance to see what’s next in the RV industry. Whether you love tiny trailers, adventure vans, or truck campers, you’ll find something that sparks new ideas for your camping lifestyle. This year, Janine highlighted models that stand out for their versatility, smart design, and accessibility.

One of the first RVs that caught Janine’s eye was the Aurora, a compact trailer available exclusively at Blue Compass RV. At just 13.5 feet long and a little over 2,600 pounds, it’s lightweight but packed with features:

Perfect for state park camping or light off-grid adventures, the Aurora proves that small campers can still offer big comfort.

For those who crave serious adventure, the Beast Mode 2026 from Storyteller Overland was a showstopper. Built on a diesel chassis, it includes:

It’s a true overlander’s dream—ideal for girl campers who want to go farther and stay longer.

Not every camper wants to tow, and that’s where the Cirrus 620 Truck Camper shines. Weighing just over 1,500 pounds, it fits easily on an F-150 or similar half-ton truck. Inside, it offers:

Best of all, it allows you to camp without worrying about parking or towing a trailer.

For campers ready to transition from towing to driving, the Jayco Comet Touring Van offers an appealing option. With seating for two, a convertible RV queen bed, and a galley kitchen, it’s practical and road-trip ready. Features include:

This van makes a great daily driver that doubles as a weekend escape vehicle.

The Hershey RV Show 2025 was full of inspiration. From lightweight trailers to rugged overland vans, the variety of options proves there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl. Whether you’re dreaming of your first RV or considering a switch to something new, these models offer ideas for every lifestyle.

Ready to explore more? Don’t forget to subscribe to the Girl Camper Podcast, follow us on YouTube for RV tours, and check out our community events on our EVENTS PAGE.

When it comes to camping in a small RV, every inch of space counts. The right gear can make your adventures easier, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun. In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast and as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper YouTube series, Lesa teamed up with nuCamp Brand Ambassador and outdoor educator Jenn Grover to compare their favorite small camper essentials.

Some of these items are practical, others feel like a little luxury, and a few might just surprise you!

If you’ve spent time in a teardrop trailer, T@B 360, or other small camper, you know that space is limited. Choosing the right gear is about more than just convenience — it’s about maximizing your comfort and making sure every item you pack truly earns its place.

Jenn and Lesa each brought their list of 6–7 essentials, and together they came up with a lineup that covers everything from cooking to sleeping to powering your adventures.

Here are some of the products mentioned in the episode (with links so you can check them out for yourself):

Jenn is a nuCamp Brand Ambassador, outdoor educator, and small camper enthusiast. She’s also a talented photographer whose adventures inspire campers everywhere. Learn more about her work at JennGrover.com.

We’re proud to partner with nuCamp RV, makers of the T@B 360 and 360cs and other high-quality small campers designed for big adventures. Explore their full lineup at nuCampRV.com.

Whether you’re a new RVer or a seasoned Girl Camper, the right gear can make your small camper feel like home. Try out a few of these favorites and see how they transform your next trip.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, Girl Camper may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us continue creating content, podcasts, and resources for our community. Thank you for your support! 💛

When making such a big purchase, it’s critical to know the right questions to ask when buying a new RV. In Part 3 of our Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott and Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center, explore the final steps of the buying process: fees, financing, and trade-in values.

Dealer fees can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. Mike explains common charges such as prep fees, shipping fees, and starter kits. He also shares which fees are legitimate, which are negotiable, and which ones you should walk away from. Knowing the difference helps you avoid overpaying.

Extended warranties, nitrogen tire fills, upholstery protection, and ceramic coatings are often offered at the dealership. Mike outlines which add-ons might be worth considering and which ones are usually overpriced. His advice helps buyers decide when to say yes—and when to save their money.

Should you finance through a dealer or shop around at banks and credit unions? Mike discusses how dealers make money on financing, why loan terms vary, and how to compare offers. He also explains how some contracts may change if you plan to pay cash.

If you plan to trade in your current RV, it’s important to know how dealers calculate value. Mike shares resources buyers can use to estimate trade-ins, why sentimental value doesn’t translate into higher offers, and how tax savings factor into the final number.

By asking the right questions about fees, financing, and trade-ins, you’ll be prepared to make a fair deal and drive away confident in your purchase.

👉 If you missed them, be sure to go back and listen to Episode 1 (common mistakes, prep work, and tow vehicles) and Episode 2 (warranties, pricing, and dealer practices) in this series.

Sponsored by Progressive Insurance – Protect your RV adventures with Progressive.

When it comes to RV shopping, the questions to ask when buying a new RV go far beyond floorplans and tow ratings. In Part 2 of our three-part Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. This episode digs into the details of warranties, pricing, and the dealer practices every buyer should understand.

One of the most confusing areas for new RV buyers is the warranty. Mike explains the difference between a manufacturer’s warranty and a dealer warranty. He also breaks down what “lifetime warranty” really means—and why you should read the fine print carefully. Not all coverage is the same, and sometimes what sounds too good to be true, is.

Should you focus on MSRP or the final sale price? Mike shares why it’s important to understand both numbers, along with the best times of year to shop for deals. Knowing your manufacturer’s calendar and incentive periods can save you thousands.

Many dealers advertise low monthly payments or showcase rock-bottom prices that disappear when you arrive. Mike offers practical advice on how to avoid these common traps, why you should always double-check paperwork, and the warning signs of a bait-and-switch tactic.

The dealer you buy from is just as important as the RV itself. Mike explains how to evaluate a dealership, from the cleanliness of the service department to the honesty of the sales team. Trust and transparency matter when you’re making such a big investment.

This episode will help you shop with confidence. By asking smart questions, you can spot red flags, avoid unnecessary costs, and find a dealer who puts your needs first.

👉 Don’t miss Part 3 of this series, where we’ll cover fees, financing, and trade-in values. Check out Part 1 where we talked about how to prepare before you shop, common mistakes, and so much more.

Sponsored by Go RVing – Start your RV adventure today at gorving.com

Are you shopping for your first RV? Before stepping onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a new RV. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. Together, they explore how to prepare for RV shopping and avoid common pitfalls.

Mike shares the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make. Too often, people rush into a purchase without doing any homework. He explains why preparation is the key to making a smart investment. By asking the right questions before you buy, you can save money and avoid frustration later.

Your tow vehicle plays a critical role in your RV choice. Mike explains that just because your vehicle can tow a certain weight doesn’t mean it will do it safely. Understanding tongue weight and tow ratings helps ensure you’ll enjoy your travels without stress.

Flashy features can be tempting, but the floorplan determines how you’ll live in the RV. Mike encourages buyers to picture everyday use:

Asking these simple but practical questions can prevent regret down the road.

This first episode sets the foundation for making a confident RV purchase. If you’re planning to buy soon, these insights will guide you toward the right rig.

👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into warranties, pricing, and dealer practices every buyer should know.

Sponsored by Progressive Insurance – Protect your RV adventures with Progressive.

When it comes to buying a new RV, it’s easy to get distracted by floorplans, décor, and shiny features. But if you want a camper that lasts, the real magic is in the quality of the build. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott breaks down the five key signs that show you’re looking at a well‑built RV — using the nuCamp TAB 360cs as a prime example.

Start inside. Are the cabinets made from solid plywood or cheap particle board? nuCamp uses furniture‑grade plywood with dovetail joints — the kind you’d expect in high‑end furniture. Check for soft‑close hinges, sturdy mounting, and locking mechanisms that keep everything secure on the road.

The bones of your RV matter. Aluminum framing and fiberglass composite sidewalls — like those found in nuCamp campers — offer strength, water resistance, and weight savings. Bonus: nuCamp builds its own frame/sidewalls in‑house for tighter quality control.

A one‑piece seamless roof reduces leak points, and proper insulation keeps you comfortable year‑round. nuCamp’s Boondock Black Canyon package even includes heated tanks for all‑season camping.

A great RV comes with a warranty that’s both comprehensive and transferable. nuCamp’s warranty is competitive, but what sets them apart is their on‑site service center in Sugarcreek, Ohio — open to all RV owners, not just their customers.

The best RV builders lead with integrity. nuCamp’s core values — Care Genuinely, Service Over Self, Always Do the Right Thing, Work Hard — are backed by a company culture that puts quality and relationships first.

Lesa wraps up with a simple checklist: quality materials, durable construction, solid warranty, easy service access, and a trustworthy manufacturer. Floorplans may change and colors will fade, but quality, integrity, and customer care will carry you through every mile.

Looking for more helpful advice when buying an RV? Check out our article, First Time Buyer Questions.

Thank you to Go RVing for sponsoring this episode.
👉 Start your own RV adventure today at GoRVing.com