Strategies, Recipes, and Time-Saving Tips for Stress-Free Camping Food

For many of us, weekend camping trips are the perfect escape. But if you’ve ever raced through a Friday workday, packed up the camper, hit traffic, and rolled into your site late and hungry—you know that food can be the most stressful part of the journey.

Over the last 16 years of camping together, we’ve discovered one essential truth: camping food doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable. Whether it’s a Friday night pizza delivery or a leisurely Saturday night steak dinner, the right meal plan can make your weekend getaway smoother and more enjoyable.

Here’s how we plan food for a weekend RV trip—from quick fixes to crowd-pleasing classics—and how you can simplify your own camping meals without sacrificing flavor or fun.

Friday night dinner sets the tone for the weekend, but it’s also the trickiest meal. Depending on your arrival time, you might be navigating setup with tired kids and rumbling stomachs. Our biggest tip? Let go of the pressure to make a picture-perfect camping meal.

Here are our favorite approaches for a stress-free Friday dinner:

If you do want to cook on a Friday night, keep it super simple. Some of our favorite quick recipes from Jeremy’s Camp Griddlemore cooking show include:

Bottom line? Don’t let cooking ruin your Friday night vibe. Settle in, enjoy your food, and save the fancy stuff for later.

Saturday morning is when camping food really shines in our family. If you’re not rushing off to hike or sightsee, take your time and make something special.

This is the time for:

Some creative spins on classic camping breakfasts include:

Not only are these meals delicious, they’re fun for the kids—and offer great flexibility with portion sizes.

After a big breakfast, we tend to go light for lunch. Usually, this means:

Going out for lunch instead of dinner is a great budget travel hack—and it gives you a break from food prep in the middle of the day.

Saturday night is the perfect time to cook a fun, elaborate meal. You’re settled in, relaxed, and not rushing. This is when we pull out all the stops:

If you’re camping with friends, this is a great time to share a meal—but we recommend one family being in charge of the entire dinner, from sides to plates. It avoids the “who brought the ketchup?” problem and makes the whole evening smoother.

Checkout mornings are not the time for a big mess or heavy cooking. Our go-to Sunday breakfasts are quick, light, and low-mess:

This grab-and-go style lets everyone eat when they’re ready and makes packing up the RV much easier.

If meal planning feels overwhelming, try this:

Create a Standard Weekend Camping Menu.

Plan out five meals—Friday dinner, three on Saturday, and Sunday breakfast—and stick with it for every weekend trip. Make a reusable shopping list and save it to your favorite grocery delivery service.

Use shortcuts where they count—bagged salad kits, pre-cut veggies, store-bought sauces. It’s okay to make things easy so that you can focus on what matters: relaxing and having fun at the campground.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out Jeremy’s cooking series Camp Griddlemore on Blackstone’s YouTube channel. He shares camping recipes like smash burgers, skillet stir fries, fun breakfast ideas, and creative desserts.

And don’t forget to listen to the full podcast episode for even more tips, stories, and laughs about easy meal planning for weekend RV trips.

Happy camping—and happy cooking!

The post Easy Meal Planning for Weekend RV Trips appeared first on The RV Atlas.

This week’s episode of The RV Atlas is another Q&A edition, with practical advice straight from our own personal experience and our community. We’re tackling three very relatable camping topics: shoe storage solutions for RVers, tips for buying a used pop-up camper, and advice for planning your first camping trip of the season. Whether you’re a new camper or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something helpful in this week’s listener-submitted questions.

Submitted by: Jess S.

RV shoe storage is a common challenge, especially for families. Here are our favorite ideas for keeping the pile at bay:

We’ve had great success using lidded ottomans, which can store shoes and double as seating. These work especially well near the entry or in front of a bunk for RV shoe storage.

In our Jayco White Hawk, we stored shoes under the TV console. Think creatively—any underused floor space can be turned into an RV shoe storage zone.

We’ve mounted over-the-door organizers sideways near the entrance. These work great for small shoes, especially for kids.

Designate a shoe drop zone with a small carpet or tray. The visual cue can help keep shoes in one place, even if you don’t have a full organizer system.

Shoes will always find their way to the floor. Create a system that works with your family’s habits, not against them. If everyone kicks them off in the same spot, that’s where your solution should live!

Submitted by: Amy R.

Buying a used pop-up camper is a great way to get into RVing on a budget—but it’s important to know what to look for. Make sure you know if you want something solid to camp in, or a project. Those are two very different pop up camper purchases!

This PDF inspection guide is our go-to. It walks you through every major system and area to examine before purchasing.

Are you ready for a fixer-upper, or do you want to go camping right away? Be honest with yourself about your DIY skills and timeline.

Canvas rot, soft floors, and cracked roofs are red flags. Don’t be fooled by cute paint jobs or Instagrammable interiors if the bones aren’t solid.

Some sellers make cosmetic updates but ignore mechanical or structural issues. Ask questions and dig deeper.

The Rockwood OTG is a very basic, durable pop-up starting around $6K–$7K. If you’re open to spending a little more, it’s a good alternative to gambling on a used unit.

Look on Craigslist, RV Trader, and local dealerships for better prices and variety. Facebook Marketplace is convenient but often overpriced and filled with scams.

Above all, don’t buy out of emotion. The best deals are the ones that make sense on paper and in person.

Community Question: Where are you heading for your first camping trip this year? Do you have tips for kicking off the season right?

We always recommend starting with a local shakedown trip—something close to home with full hookups if possible.

If something goes wrong (a broken faucet, a leaky tank, etc.), it’s easier to troubleshoot or head home quickly. This is especially helpful after de-winterizing or making repairs.

Don’t have a nearby campground open yet? No problem. Sleep in your RV in the driveway for a night or two to make sure all systems are go.

Here are a few season openers RV Atlas listeners shared this week:

The goal of your season opener should be simplicity and stress-free fun. Save the big road trip for after you have the RV opened and stocked.

We love answering real questions from real campers in The RV Atlas community. Got a question of your own about RV shoe storage or anything else? Join us in the RV Atlas Facebook Group or send us an email or message on Instagram.

And don’t forget to subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast for more tips, trip ideas, and gear reviews—new episodes drop every week!

The post RV Shoe Storage Dilemmas, Buying Used Pop Ups, Season Opening Trips appeared first on The RV Atlas.

After years of RV adventures—and owning everything from pop-ups to a 32-foot Grand Design Imagine—we’ve added a new, smaller rig to our camping lineup: a 2024 nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S. This teardrop trailer with a clamshell kitchen is already bringing a whole new level of flexibility and simplicity to our camping life.

In this episode of The RV Atlas podcast, we talk through all the details behind this big (yet small) decision—why we wanted a second RV, what we were shopping for, how our dealership experiences shaped the purchase, and what we love about the T@b 320 CS-S.

This purchase wasn’t about replacing our Grand Design Imagine 2800 BH “bunkhouse”—it was about complementing it. Our lives and travel needs have changed as our kids have gotten older, and a smaller RV fits the direction we’re heading in.

As always, RV shopping starts with a long list of dreams and must-haves.

We first looked at several teardrop models, including the Airstream Basecamp (which we’ve owned previously), inTech Luna, and various models from Escapod, Vistabule, and Pindrop Trailers. These were all contenders, especially the nüCamp Tag XL with the outdoor kitchen.

But ultimately, we needed more than a bed on wheels. We wanted a small RV with:

The must-haves quickly narrowed the search to one standout model: the nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S. The CS-S version includes the clamshell kitchen (a must for cooking content) and a cassette toilet, all in a sleek, modern design from a company that has a great reputation for quality RVs.

A Disappointing Dealership Experience

We found a used 2022 Tab 320 CS-S nearby listed for around $19,000. It was exactly what we were looking for—until we arrived at the dealership.

It was clear we weren’t getting a great deal or great service—so we left.

So we kept searching online and found a brand new 2024 nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S in stock at a nearby dealership for $29,500. Thankfully, we had long heard good things about Indian Valley Camping Center in Pennsylvania. They’re a third-generation family-owned dealership with a solid reputation for no-pressure sales and fair pricing. Not only was the pricing clear and transparent, but the customer service was excellent—helpful, polite, and absolutely no hidden fees.

Within a week, we put down a deposit, completed the purchase, and brought the Tab 320 CS-S home.

This teardrop trailer checks all of our boxes and more.

We plan to do a full follow-up podcast and article on how we equip this trailer—likely after our first real shakedown trip.

Future topics will include:

We’re also planning to use the Tab 320 CS-S to attend our first nüCamp rally, enjoy some Harvest Hosts adventures, and hopefully even a quick visit to Depot Travel Park in New Jersey.

After looking at dozens of rigs and walking away from a bad deal, we’re thrilled with our new nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S. It’s the right size, the right setup, and the right quality for this stage of our RV life.

Have a question about the Tab 320 CS-S? Come join the conversation in the RV Atlas Facebook group. And don’t forget to subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast for honest, detailed reviews and camping inspiration.

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Like Gatlinburg and Myrtle Beach, Branson is a family friendly camping destination, offering both the natural beauty of the Ozarks and tons of attractions. Luckily, Branson campgrounds and RV resorts are as bountiful as the fun. Whether you prefer a peaceful lakefront retreat or an active kid-friendly RV park, there’s a great campground for you in Branson, Missouri.

On this week’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast we are excited to welcome Kerri Cox from Travels with Birdy back on the show to share a roundup of Branson campgrounds.  To listen to Jeremy interview Kerri please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your shows. Or read on below for a guest post from Kerri.

Branson is a small town with big theaters, big roller coasters, and big lakes. The brightly lit Branson Strip (AKA “76 Country Boulevard”) cuts a strip through the Ozark Mountains. Beyond the giant statue of King Kong and over the the go-kart tracks, you can spy the rolling green hills (which turn orange in the fall).

This regional destination grew in national popularity during the 1980s when the local bluegrass and comedy music shows were joined by big names in the country music scene. While some of that action has died down, even today you can take your pick of live performances, which now are no longer limited to country, morning through night.

Since the 80s, Branson has really expanded to become a family destination with theme parks, museums, mini golf courses, and so much more. There truly is something for everyone, whether you want to chase thrills at Silver Dollar City, chase deals at an outlet mall, or chase laughs at a comedy show. Toddlers, teens, and grandparents alike can be ALL be entertained!

Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s take a look at some great Branson campgrounds!

Public Branson campgrounds offer the best scenery in the region, with a mix of amenities and hookup options. These parks have the lowest price point but may be the hardest to book due to their popularity!

Private Branson campgrounds are plentiful! You’ll find a lot of relatively similar campgrounds, and it seems like new ones are being built each month! Most are pretty similar in quality, as long as you check the reviews before you book.

If you’ve been to Myrtle Beach, Gatlinburg, or similar tourist towns, Branson will feel very familiar, as it has a similar mix of attractions. Of course, each place has a bit of its own personality. Here are some of the top things to do in Branson:

It’s hard to say which Branson campground is the right fit for you! Luckily, there are dozens of options far beyond the ones listed here! The main thing is to pay attention to the location and the reviews. After camping in Branson for over a decade, my family doesn’t have one clear favorite. Instead, we pick our park based on what we want to do or where we want to be. You can read more about the parks listed above, as well as a few other options, over on my Ultimate Guide to Branson Campgrounds.

I hope this roundup of Branson campgrounds help you a great place to stay for your visit to my corner of the Show Me State!

The post 9 Great Campgrounds in Branson, Missouri appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Every week, we receive fantastic questions from The RV Atlas community, and this week, we’re tackling three trending topics: RVing to Boston and Washington DC, budget-friendly camping in Acadia National Park, and renting a motorhome for the first time. Whether you’re planning an urban RV adventure, looking for affordable ways to explore a national park, or thinking about renting an RV, we’ve got you covered with advice from members of The RV Atlas private Facebook group, and our own personal experiences. 

Thank you to Bill Sferrazza for the featured image of Spacious Skies Minuteman!

One of our community members, Tina, wrote in with the following question:

“Last year, we took a long weekend trip to DC and camped at Cherry Hill RV Park near the University of Maryland. It was a great base to explore the city since the train was nearby. This year, we’d love to do something similar in Boston. Can anyone recommend a good RV campground near Boston?”

Cherry Hill RV Park is widely regarded as one of the best urban RV parks in the country, offering easy access to Washington DC’s public transit system, great amenities, and a well-maintained property. Fortunately, Boston has a couple of great RV-friendly options that offer a similar experience:

photo by Bill Sferrazza

Both options have been highly recommended by our RV Atlas community, offering a mix of affordability and access to Boston’s historic sites, dining, and attractions.

Taylor Riley asked the following:

“Can anyone help me plan a budget-friendly trip to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park? We have three young kids and want to do all the affordable and fun activities we can. This will be a 3-4 day trip.”

Acadia National Park is a spectacular destination, but it can be pricey, especially during peak season. Here are our best budget-friendly camping and activity tips:

With smart campground choices and free activities, you can enjoy Acadia without breaking the bank!

“What are your thoughts on using RVshare to rent an RV? How long should I expect the owner walkthrough to take? And where should we stop for gas with a 34-foot RV?”

RVshare is a peer-to-peer RV rental service that allows renters to book privately owned RVs. It’s a great option for people looking to rent a specific type of RV without going through a commercial rental company.

Pros:

Cons:

When picking up your rental RV, the owner should provide a walkthrough explaining:

A good walkthrough should take at least 30-60 minutes—don’t rush it! Record it on your phone so you can refer back to it later.

Avoid tight gas stations! Instead, look for truck stops or larger fueling stations:

If possible, don’t pull off an exit and go into a small gas station—it’s best to stick to places designed for larger vehicles. When looking for a gas station, aim for fueling lanes that are parallel to the road, not perpendicular. These will allow for easier entry and exit. 

We love answering questions from The RV Atlas community and sharing real-world camping advice. If you have your own RV-related question, be sure to join our Facebook group, where thousands of friendly RVers share advice daily.

For more in-depth discussion, listen to the full episode of The RV Atlas podcast, and stay tuned for more Q&A episodes this season!

The post Boston and Washington D.C. RV Trips, Budget Camping in Acadia, Renting a Motorhome appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Myrtle Beach has long been a favorite destination for RVers, offering a mix of beachfront camping, family-friendly entertainment, and outdoor recreation. In this week’s episode of The RV Atlas, we dive into a review of Ocean Lakes Family Campground, one of the largest and most well-known campgrounds on the East Coast. Then, we share our top things to do in Myrtle Beach, from state parks to local dining and fun attractions. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a relaxing escape, this guide will help you make the most of your Myrtle Beach RV trip.

Thanks to Bill Sferrazza for the photos of Ocean Lakes Family Campground that appear in this post.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground opened in 1971 with just 30 RV sites and one bathhouse. Over the decades, it has expanded significantly and now features 859 RV sites and nearly 2,600 land-lease homes. This transformation has turned Ocean Lakes into a self-contained resort, offering a mix of vacation rentals, full-hookup RV sites, and beachfront access.

Located on South Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, Ocean Lakes is the southernmost of the city’s mega-campgrounds. It’s just north of Murrells Inlet and conveniently positioned between the bustling boardwalk area of Myrtle Beach and the quieter state parks to the south. This prime location makes it easy to explore both lively attractions and serene natural spaces.

Ocean Lakes offers pull-through RV sites, making it easy for large rigs to maneuver. Most sites near the beach feature concrete pads, while those farther inland provide a mix of shaded, grass-covered spots.

Pricing varies throughout the year:

For a beachfront location with resort-level amenities, these rates are reasonable compared to other high-demand oceanfront camping destinations.

Ocean Lakes has distinct seasonal vibes, and knowing what to expect can help you plan accordingly:

Ocean Lakes is a small city in itself, providing nearly everything you need for a full vacation without leaving the property:

Potential Downsides

Overall, Ocean Lakes Family Campground delivers an exceptional beachfront camping experience, especially for those who love a social, amenity-rich campground.

Looking for other great camping options in and around Myrtle Beach? Please click here for the rest of our favorites!

Myrtle Beach offers something for every kind of traveler, from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies and entertainment lovers. Here are our top 12 things to do in Myrtle Beach:

A quieter alternative to the busier beaches, Myrtle Beach State Park features hiking trails, a fishing pier, and a beautiful stretch of shoreline perfect for a relaxing day in nature.

Located south of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park is a top-tier camping and day-trip destination with scenic marshland trails, birdwatching, and the historic Atalaya Castle.

A local favorite, Johnny D’s is a must for a hearty breakfast, serving decadent waffles, creative skillets, and delicious coffee.

Myrtle Beach is the mini golf capital of the world, with countless courses featuring creative themes and fun obstacles.

Baseball fans can enjoy a fun and affordable night out watching the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the city’s minor league team.

Guided kayaking tours at Huntington Beach State Park or through scenic salt marshes offer a peaceful way to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Get panoramic views of the coastline on the SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach’s 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel.

A scenic boardwalk lined with waterfront dining, live music, and fresh seafood, perfect for an evening out. Here you’ll find higher end dining options like the Wicked Tuna, or more casual restaurants like Drunken Jack’s. 

A stunning botanical garden and sculpture park, ideal for a peaceful afternoon. The children’s garden and educational programming make this a fun destination for all ages. 

This live tribute show features incredible performances of iconic musicians, from Elvis to Whitney Houston. Worth the price of admission.

For a unique wildlife experience, visit the Center for Birds of Prey or take a ferry to Bull Island for a day of hiking and beachcombing.

In our opinion, Myrtle Beach offers an unbeatable mix of family fun, outdoor adventure, and beachfront relaxation. Whether you stay at a bustling resort like Ocean Lakes or a tranquil state park, you can craft an RV trip that perfectly suits your tastes.

Have you camped in Myrtle Beach before? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook Group and share your favorite campgrounds and activities! And if you want to hear more details about our experience, listen to the full episode of The RV Atlas Podcast for an in-depth discussion.

The post Ocean Lakes Family Campground Review + Our 14 Favorite Things to Do in Myrtle Beach appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Is Seasonal Camping Right for Your Family?

If you love RVing but find yourself struggling to make time for weekend getaways, seasonal camping might be the perfect solution. Rather than hauling your RV to a new campground every trip, seasonal camping allows you to set up at one campground for an extended period—typically an entire season or even a whole year. This setup offers a home-away-from-home experience without the hassle of hitching, towing, and setting up every time you want to enjoy some time at the campground with family and friends.

In this episode of The RV Atlas, we explore seasonal camping and whether it’s a good fit for different types of RVers. We also talk with Ali Rasmussen from Spacious Skies Campgrounds, to learn about their seasonal camping options in New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the South.

Could seasonal camping be the right choice for your RV adventures? Let’s dive in.

Thanks to Bill Sferrazza for the cover photo for this post.

For many RVers, seasonal camping is a game-changer. Instead of spending time planning, packing, and traveling, you can arrive at a pre-set site that’s ready for you to enjoy. Here are some of the top reasons why seasonal camping might be a great option for your family.

Between work, kids’ sports, and social commitments, finding time for weekend camping trips can be challenging. A seasonal site allows for last-minute getaways. Many families with sports schedules, for example, can head to their campsite right after Saturday morning games without the stress of packing up their entire RV.

For those considering a vacation home, seasonal camping is a much more budget-friendly alternative. Buying a beach house or mountain cabin is out of reach for many, but setting up a fifth wheel or travel trailer on a seasonal site offers similar perks at a fraction of the cost.

Many HOAs and city ordinances prevent RV parking in driveways, forcing owners to pay for offsite storage. Rather than spending money just to store your RV, why not put that investment toward a seasonal campsite where you can actually use it?

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

Seasonal camping provides the opportunity to develop friendships with fellow campers. Many seasonal campgrounds have community events, from cook-offs to game nights, making it easy to get to know your neighbors.

If you’re worried that your RV is sitting unused, a seasonal site could help you maximize your investment. With less effort required to set up camp, it becomes much easier to enjoy spur-of-the-moment trips.

Do you find yourself returning to the same region again and again? Whether it’s the Jersey Shore, the Adirondacks, or the mountains of North Carolina, seasonal camping gives you a home base in your favorite spot.

If seasonal camping sounds like a good fit, the next step is to find the right campground for your needs. Here are some factors to consider. Many of these tips come from our friends Jon and Heather and an earlier podcast we did with them a few years back.

Some campgrounds are family-friendly and bustling, while others cater to quiet retreats. Do you want a lakefront view, full-hookup convenience, or amenities like pools and playgrounds? Visit in person if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere before committing.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

If you plan to take occasional road trips from your seasonal site, make sure your campsite is easy to access. Some seasonal sites are tucked away and hard to back into, making frequent departures a hassle.

If you enjoy exploring the area beyond the campground, consider what restaurants, hiking trails, and attractions are nearby. Are you a beachgoer, hiker, or amusement park enthusiast? Make sure your seasonal site is in a region that aligns with your lifestyle.

Many seasonal campgrounds offer themed weekends, social events, and community gatherings. If that’s important to you, research what kind of entertainment and group activities the campground offers.

Seasonal sites typically range from a few thousand dollars per season to over $10,000 at premium resorts. Make sure to calculate:

Photo By Bill Sferrazza

For RVers looking for seasonal sites on the East Coast, Spacious Skies Campgrounds offers a variety of options. Their locations span New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the South, with affordable rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

Spacious Skies offers seasonal camping from May through October at several campgrounds in:

Unlike in the Northeast, seasonal camping in the South is a newer concept since many campgrounds remain open year-round. Spacious Skies has introduced seasonal options at:

Across all locations, campers can expect: 

✔ Full hookups

Seasonal camping isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a stress-free way to enjoy your RV, it can be a fantastic option. For busy families, retirees, and remote workers, having a dedicated site allows for more spontaneous and cost-effective camping.

Have you tried seasonal camping or have more questions about it? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook group, and let us know about your experiences! And don’t forget to tune in to the full podcast episode for an in-depth discussion on this topic.

The post Is Seasonal Camping Right for Your Family? Tips, Tricks, Costs, and Considerations appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks is a dream for many RV owners, but it’s no small feat. Between logistics, budgeting, and time constraints, planning visits to all the parks requires some serious strategy.

In this episode of The RV Atlas, podcast, we interview Shellie Bailey-Shah, a seasoned traveler and founder of KidTripster, who has visited every single U.S. National Park. With years of experience RVing across the country, she shares practical tips for visiting all 63 National Parks—whether you want to visit them all in a few years or spread them out over a few decades.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a goal like this happen, listen to the podcast episode or read on for 10 expert tips that will help you efficiently and meaningfully explore America’s most iconic and cherished landscapes.

This is part four of a four-part series on National Parks with Shellie–here are the first three podcasts in this series:

photo provided by Shellie Bailey-Shah

Seeing all 63 national parks is a huge undertaking, and for many, it may not be a feasible goal. Some of the most remote parks—like American Samoa National Park and Gates of the Arctic in Alaska—are incredibly difficult (and expensive) to reach.

Shellie suggests setting a realistic goal that works for you:

By defining what success looks like before you start planning, you’ll avoid frustration and create an achievable bucket list.

Many national parks have length restrictions for RVs, particularly for in-park campgrounds. If you currently own a smaller RV but plan to upgrade in the future, visit the size-restricted parks first.

Shellie’s family followed this strategy by visiting length-restricted parks in their 31-foot RV before upgrading to a 38-foot RV. This allowed them to experience certain campgrounds that would not have been accessible later.

Some parks with notable RV length restrictions include:

Rather than making individual trips to parks spread across the country, maximize efficiency by visiting parks in geographically connected clusters. Some natural groupings include:

By bundling parks together, you reduce travel time, save money, and create more immersive trips.

For those committed to visiting many parks in a short period, a cross-country RV trip is a fantastic way to check off multiple destinations. Shellie has done two coast-to-coast trips, using different routes each time to maximize the number of parks visited.

On one cross-country trip, her family hit 10 national parks, strategically planning stops to get the most out of their time on the road.

If you have the time and flexibility, consider taking a long-haul RV trip that incorporates multiple parks, covering different regions of the country in one go.

Visiting all 63 National Parks doesn’t mean visiting all of them as standalone trips. Shellie and her family blended park visits with other travel priorities, such as:

By integrating national park visits into other trips, you can gradually check parks off your list without adding extra travel costs.

photo by Shellie Bailey-Shah

Not every park visit has to involve your RV. Some parks are easier to visit as part of a traditional vacation.

For example, Shellie’s family visited Congaree National Park during a beach trip to Kiawah Island. Since Congaree didn’t fit into any of their cross-country RV itineraries, they planned a day trip to explore it while on vacation.

Consider visiting parks as side trips during other vacations—especially for destinations where campgrounds or RV access may be limited.

Not every national park visit has to be a week-long experience. Shellie encourages travelers to embrace shorter visits, especially when road-tripping across multiple parks.

If you only have one day, make it memorable by choosing a unique activity, like:

A short but meaningful experience is better than skipping the park altogether.

When visiting dozens of national parks, they can start to blend together—unless you intentionally create distinct experiences at each one.

Shellie’s family made sure each visit was special, including:

By choosing unique activities, each park becomes memorable and distinct.

Photo provided by Shellie Bailey-Shah

National park trips aren’t just about the landscapes—they’re also about the people you share them with.

On one of Shellie’s cross-country trips, she planned the journey in three legs, traveling with different family members and friends along the way.

By including loved ones in your journey, you can create lasting memories and inspire others to explore the parks, too.

If visiting national parks with kids is part of your goal, start planning early. Kids grow up fast, and once they hit their college years, family travel may become more difficult.

For families, Shellie suggests:

If this goal is important to you, start planning now, even if it takes decades to complete.

photo by Shellie Bailey-Shah

Visiting all 63 national parks is an incredible achievement, but it requires thoughtful planning, flexibility, and creativity. Whether your goal is all 63 parks or just a select group, these tips from Shellie Bailey-Shah can help you create an efficient, enjoyable, and memorable national park journey.

Are you working on your own national park bucket list? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook group and share your experiences!

And don’t forget to listen to the full podcast episode for even more details and stories from Shellie’s journey.

The post 10 Tips for Visiting all 63 National Parks (with Shellie Bailey-Shah from Kid Tripster) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

The 2025 camping season is shaping up to be an interesting one, with new trends and insights emerging from two of the most respected reports in the industry: RVshare’s Travel Trend Report 2025 and The Dyrt’s 2025 Camping Report. These reports aim to predict where RV and camping trends travel headed in the coming year.

One of the biggest takeaways? RVing and camping remain as popular as ever, but the way people travel and plan their trips is evolving. From shifting demographics and flexible work travel to campground booking challenges and the rise of passion-driven adventures, these reports provide valuable insights for anyone planning a camping trip in 2025.

In this week’s RV Atlas podcast episode, Jeremy and Stephanie discuss many of the key RV and camping trends from these reports and explore what they mean for actual campers and RVers.

One of the most eye-catching trends in the RVshare Travel Trend Report is the continued rise of younger generations in the RVing space. While RVing was once associated primarily with retirees, that perception is changing quickly. Last year, everyone was saying “the Boomers are back!” But this year didn’t show that trend continuing. 

These numbers indicate a major generational shift in RV and camping trends, with younger travelers embracing RVing and outdoor adventure. Millennials are in the prime family-travel years, and many see RVing as an affordable way to vacation with kids. Meanwhile, Gen Z is showing strong interest in road-tripping and the RV lifestyle, but in a way that fits their unique travel style—shorter trips, experience-driven adventures, and solo or small-group travel.

The RVshare report highlights a key shift in how people are spending their travel dollars. Many travelers are planning fewer trips in 2025, but they’re spending more money per trip to make those vacations more special.

This trend reflects how travelers are prioritizing quality over quantity when it comes to their vacations. Instead of packing in multiple small trips, they’re focusing on bucket-list destinations and memorable experiences—whether that means staying at a high-end RV resort, booking a scenic boondocking site, or planning a month-long cross-country road trip.

One of the most interesting trends highlighted in RVshare’s report is the rise of passion-driven travel. Instead of simply picking a destination like Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon, more travelers are choosing trips based on their interests and hobbies.

Popular themes include:

This type of travel has been around for decades, but it’s gaining new popularity as social media and online trip-planning tools make it easier to customize trips around personal passions.

The Dyrt’s 2025 Camping Report sheds light on one of the biggest frustrations in the camping community: campground reservations and no-shows. While securing a great campsite has always been a challenge, the problem has become worse due to last-minute cancellations and unused reservations.

This issue is particularly frustrating because state and national parks are subsidized by taxpayer dollars—which means when a campsite sits empty, the public isn’t getting the benefit of that resource. Campers have long been calling for better reservation policies, such as penalties for repeated no-shows or lockout periods for those who abuse the system.

On the flip side, private campgrounds are increasingly adopting stricter cancellation policies, which has left some campers frustrated. Unlike hotels, which often allow last-minute cancellations, many RV resorts and private campgrounds require weeks or even months of advance notice for cancellations—something that can be difficult for travelers planning long-term trips.

While inflation has affected travel prices across the board, camping remains one of the most affordable ways to vacation. According to The Dyrt’s report:

These trends suggest that, while the price of camping has gone up, most travelers are still prioritizing outdoor travel over other vacation options.

For the third consecutive year, solo camping has been a rising trend. More people—especially women—are embracing the independence and adventure of camping alone. According to The Dyrt:

As more people look for ways to escape into nature on their own terms, solo camping is becoming a mainstream travel choice rather than just one of severa niche RV and camping trends.

Overall, the RVshare Travel Trend Report and The Dyrt’s Camping Report paint a picture of industries still morphing years after the pandemic disruption. While some aspects of  RV and camping trends are evolving—such as pricing models, cancellation policies, and travel motivations—the core appeal of camping appears to remain strong.

As we head into the 2025 season, it’s clear that RVers and campers are looking for unique experiences, better booking systems, and more flexibility in their trips. Whether you’re planning a big splurgecation, a solo adventure, or just hoping to secure that perfect state park campsite, there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year.

Do these RV and Camping Trends align with your own camping experiences and plans for 2025? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook group and let us know your thoughts on these reports! You can also email us at [email protected], or leave us a voice message at 732-455-9814. 

And if you missed last week’s episode, be sure to check out our deep dive into the Florida RV SuperShow, where we shared some of our favorite RVs from the show.

See you at the campground!

The post 2025 RV and Camping Trends: Our Take On Reports from RVshare and The Dyrt appeared first on The RV Atlas.

On this podcast episode, we return with Part 2 of our top picks from the Florida RV SuperShow, one of the largest and most exciting RV events of the year. Last week, we covered Alliance, Brinkley, and nuCamp, diving deep into the buzz and reputation of those brands. This week, we’re highlighting six more standout RVs that caught our attention, including options for families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike. Let’s dive in.

Show Price: $86,500

inTech is known for its high-quality aluminum construction, and the Aucta Sycamore is no exception. This is the largest travel trailer the company has ever built, coming in at 30 feet long with a UVW around 7,000 pounds and CCC between 2,300-2,600 pounds. It features a panoramic front window that allows for stunning campsite views and a sleek, modern design.

What really makes the Aucta Sycamore stand out is its bunk room, which isn’t just for sleeping—it’s a multi-functional flex space that can serve as an office, lounge, or gear storage area thanks to its cargo door. Families with kids or remote-working RVers will love the adaptability of this design. If you’ve admired InTech’s smaller trailers but wanted more space, this is one to check out.

Show Price: $94,995

Finding a Class C motorhome under $100K is a rare feat these days, but the Jayco Redhawk SE 31FF delivers. Built on a Ford E450 chassis, this budget-friendly Class C is designed with families in mind. It sleeps five people without needing to convert a bed, and if you convert the dinette, you can accommodate up to seven. The layout provides privacy for parents, a spacious bunk area for kids, and plenty of seating.

One design compromise is the narrow entrance to the master bedroom, which some may find a bit tight. Additionally, while the rig offers great sleeping space, counter space in the kitchen is limited—something to consider if you love to cook while traveling. If you’re in the market for an affordable, well-designed Class C, this one should be on your radar.

MSRP: $48,300

We couldn’t resist revisiting the Airstream Basecamp 16, a trailer we’ve owned in the past and still wish we hadn’t sold. This compact adventure trailer is perfect for solo travelers or couples who want an easy-to-tow, highly functional space. The front kitchen layout and wrap-around windows make it feel much larger than its footprint suggests.

If you’re looking for a small trailer that can handle off-grid adventures but still provides comfort, the Basecamp 16 remains one of the best options on the market. With an MSRP of $48,300, it offers an affordable entry into the Airstream lifestyle.

Show Price: $151,832

Westfalia has made a splash with the Wave Pop-Top Class B camper van. Unlike many Class Bs that stick to neutral tones and predictable designs, this one offers fun color choices like Spitfire Orange and Cherry Red Crystal, giving it a distinct personality.

Built on a Ram Promaster chassis, the Wave Pop-Top features a pop-up roof for extra sleeping space, a flexible seating arrangement, and a spacious rear cargo area that can easily accommodate e-bikes or adventure gear. With its cool, modern graphics and fun aesthetic, this camper van is designed for younger van lifers—or anyone who wants to feel young!

Show Price: $180,000

One of the most unique motorhomes at the SuperShow was the Wingamm Oasi 540.1, a micro-motorhome that combines European efficiency with high-end materials. Built on a Ram Promaster chassis, this 18-foot-long rig has a fully fiberglass shell that the company claims is impervious to leaks.

What makes the Oasi 540.1 stand out is its incredible use of space. The manual drop-down bed allows the main living area to feel open and spacious during the day, then easily converts into a sleeping area at night. If you’re willing to commit to pulling your bed down each night, this motorhome provides a high level of comfort in a compact, maneuverable package.

MSRP: $21,900

For those looking for a rugged, lightweight teardrop trailer, the Modern Buggy Little Buggy 12LRK is a fantastic option. Measuring just under 15 feet and weighing 1,575 pounds, this trailer is easy to tow with a variety of vehicles.

The standout feature is its rear kitchen, which is well-designed and highly functional. Inside, you’ll find a bed that converts into a couch, along with a spacious front gear box for extra storage. The trailer also comes with rugged tires and torsion axles, with an option to upgrade to Timbren suspension for those planning more off-road adventures.

That’s a wrap on Part 2 of our favorite picks from the Florida RV SuperShow! From InTech’s largest travel trailer to Wingamm’s European-style micro motorhome, this year’s show had an impressive variety of rigs catering to every type of RVer.

Missed Part 1 of our coverage? Be sure to check it out for our in-depth look at Alliance, Brinkley, and NuCamp. And don’t forget to join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook group—we’d love to hear which rigs caught your eye at this year’s Supershow!

Stay tuned for more RV reviews, travel inspiration, and campground recommendations in upcoming episodes of The RV Atlas! Happy camping!

The post Florida RV SuperShow Top Picks, Part 2 (inTech, Jayco, Westfalia, Wingamm, Modern Buggy+More) appeared first on The RV Atlas.