Over the last few years, the boom in RVing and camping has inspired a wave of investment in the outdoor hospitality industry, leading to the opening of some truly spectacular new campgrounds. In this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast, we’re kicking off a series featuring new and exciting campgrounds that have opened recently or are opening soon—places that deserve your attention for your 2025 camping plans.

From luxurious adult-oriented retreats near wine country to Jellystone resorts for families, this list showcases something for everyone. Best of all? These campgrounds are already earning rave reviews from happy guests. Let’s dive into six new spots to explore in the years ahead.

Location: Ivins, Utah (near St. George, 45 minutes from Zion National Park)

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

Location: Page, Arizona

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

Location: Near Seneca Lake, NY (10 minutes from Watkins Glen)

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

Location: Belton, Texas (between Austin and Waco)

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

Location: Spruce Pine, North Carolina (in Pisgah National Forest)

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

Location: Loudon, Tennessee (30 minutes from Knoxville)

Why it stands out:

What guests are saying:

These campgrounds are part of the next-generation RV resorts—places that blend thoughtful design, great service, and an appreciation for the heart of camping. Whether you’re seeking wine-country calm or splash-filled family fun, these six spots are worth adding to your 2025 travel plans.

So instead of stressing over fully booked sites, broaden your horizons and try somewhere new! The RVing world is expanding with incredible destinations—and your next favorite campground might just be one of these rising stars.

The post 6 New and Exciting Campgrounds to Check Out in 2025 and Beyond appeared first on The RV Atlas.

As part of our new “Beyond the 48” podcast series, we’re stepping outside the lower 48 states and sharing stories from recent international travel experiences. While The RV Atlas will always be focused on RV and campground travel in the United States, we also know that many of our listeners love to explore beyond where the family RV can take you. In this episode, we’re sharing details from an unforgettable family trip to Costa Rica with Exodus Adventure Travels.

We went on this trip as part of the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards, where Stephanie served as a tester. The goal was to evaluate this guided group adventure and see how it stacked up as a family-friendly travel option. Spoiler alert: it more than lived up to expectations.

This trip, called the Costa Rica Family Escape, was specifically designed for families with older kids and teens, and every moment—from rainforest hikes to beach relaxation—was crafted to be educational, engaging, and just the right amount of adventurous.

The Costa Rica Family Escape is an eight-day guided tour operated by Exodus Adventure Travels, a long-established UK-based travel company with a strong reputation in Europe. The trip was designed for families with kids ages 9 and up and includes a range of outdoor adventures in Costa Rica’s most iconic regions. While Exodus is still gaining name recognition in the U.S., we quickly learned why their trips have earned a loyal following overseas.

We traveled with a group of four other families from the UK—five teenagers in total—and stayed in comfortable local lodges and hotels throughout. With an “easy to moderate” activity rating, the trip balanced downtime with exciting excursions and offered enough variety to keep everyone in our group engaged.

The Costa Rica With Exodus Adventure Travels itinerary moved through three major destinations in Costa Rica:

We started in San José and ended in Liberia on the West Coast, traveling by minibus, boat, and foot with a fantastic local guide named Jorge.

We flew into San José and stayed at the Studio Hotel, a modern, boutique-style hotel that offered a great overnight stay near the airport. That evening, we met our group and guide for a welcome briefing.

We traveled north to La Fortuna, where we explored the area surrounding the Arenal Volcano, which was active until recently. A hike down to La Fortuna Waterfall gave us our first taste of Costa Rica’s natural beauty—lush rainforest and a powerful waterfall. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to swim at the bottom of the waterfall because of flash flood warnings, but it was still a beautiful experience. 

Overnight: Arenal Paraiso Hotel, with natural hot spring-fed pools and views of the volcano.

We tackled Class II and III rapids on the Balsa River, an exhilarating but beginner-friendly white-water rafting trip. Along the way, we spotted toucans, monkeys, and other wildlife.

After rafting, we visited Vida Campesina, a small country estate where we enjoyed a traditional wood-stove-cooked lunch with ingredients harvested right on-site.

We crossed Lake Arenal by boat and continued by road to Monteverde, famous for its cool temperatures and misty cloud forest. That night, we ventured into the forest after dark for a night hike, spotting wildlife like armadillos and coatis under the stars.

Overnight: Monteverde Country Lodge

Our day at Selvatura Park was packed with activity. We started with an unforgettable zipline adventure through the cloud forest, then walked the hanging bridges above the forest canopy, and visited one of the largest butterfly gardens in the world. Lunch was included, and the park had excellent facilities for families.

After a long drive to the Pacific Coast, we checked into the Nammbú Hotel, which sits right above Carrillo Beach—a quieter alternative to the busier Sámara area. The beach was tranquil, perfect for swimming thanks to an offshore coral reef that tames the Pacific waves. We didn’t have time, but there were plenty of places to rent surfboards or go horseback riding on the beach. 

Our last full day featured a boat trip to look for dolphins and whales off the coast. We spotted several and also had time for snorkeling near Isla Chora, a remote white-sand island with tons of hermit crabs and iguanas.

We packed up and drove to Liberia Airport for our flight home.

One of our biggest concerns going into the trip was that it might feel “too touristy.” But that wasn’t the case at all. The entire itinerary felt thoughtful and authentic—thanks in large part to our guide Jorge and the emphasis Exodus places on supporting local, small businesses. From eco-lodges to farm lunches, the trip felt community-based and low-impact.

The pre-departure materials from Exodus were excellent—clear itineraries, packing lists, and helpful information on what to expect at each stop. During the trip, logistics like transportation and lodging were all handled smoothly, which made it easy to relax and enjoy the experience.

This trip was specifically designed for families with 13–16-year-olds, though it’s also suitable for kids as young as 9. Having a group of similarly aged teens was a huge plus. Our son had a great time getting to know the other kids (and introducing them to Shirley Temples!).

We were impressed with the value for the price. The tour included hotels, many activities, transportation, and a local guide, and after crunching the numbers, it would have been very hard to plan a similar independent trip for much less. Families from the UK who booked airfare through Exodus said the same.

Although it was a guided group tour, there was plenty of free time built into the schedule, especially for meals and evenings. That flexibility made the trip feel more personalized and allowed us to explore on our own when we wanted to.

We had an amazing time on the Costa Rica Family Escape and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others—especially those with teens who love nature, wildlife, and adventure. It struck the perfect balance between activity and downtime, structure and spontaneity.

If you’re interested in learning more about the trip, you can check out all the details—including transparent pricing—on the Exodus Adventure Travels website.

We’ll be sharing more Beyond the 48 episodes soon, including trips to Oahu, a cruise, and more about Iceland. 

Have you traveled beyond the lower 48 with your family? We’d love to hear your stories. Join the conversation in the RV Atlas Facebook Group, or tag us @thervatlas on Instagram to share your own adventures.

And don’t forget to subscribe to The RV Atlas Podcast wherever you get your favorite shows!

The post Beyond the 48: a Family Adventure to Costa Rica with Exodus Adventure Travels appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Whether you’re a seasoned RVer looking for reliable repairs or someone interested in launching a career in the RV industry, the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) is playing an increasingly vital role in ensuring that RVers can hit the road with confidence. In this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast, Curtis Hemmeler, Executive Director of RVTI, joined us for an in-depth conversation about the organization’s mission, training programs, and career opportunities.

From the importance of working with certified technicians to how you can become one, here’s everything you need to know about RVTI and the impact it’s making across the RV community.

RVTI is a nonprofit organization created about five years ago by the RV Industry Association (RVIA) and RV Dealers Association (RVDA). The organization was established to address a persistent and growing issue in the RV world: the shortage of qualified service technicians.

As Curtis explained, “We were set up basically to train, certify, and recruit technicians into the career field—but with the mission of making sure that the RV consumer has a better experience.”

The goal is simple: to reduce the amount of time RV owners wait for repairs and to improve the quality and safety of those repairs by making sure they’re performed by highly trained and certified professionals.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

For RV owners, long wait times for repairs are a common and frustrating problem. That’s why RVTI certification is more than just a piece of paper—it’s a marker of credibility, safety, and reliability.

“When you have somebody that has that credential,” Curtis emphasized, “you can basically sleep comfortably at night because that person has been trained and has passed a certification.”

Certified technicians not only understand complex modern RV systems—from electrical to propane and plumbing—but also meet professional safety standards, which is crucial when dealing with increasingly sophisticated RV components.

RVTI has trained over 21,000 individuals, with more than 7,000 having completed certification, and demand is growing. Their mission is supported by the broader RV industry and is designed with consumers in mind.

RVTI has launched an online “Find a Tech” map tool, which allows RV owners to locate certified technicians in their area. Many of these professionals work at dealerships, while others are part of independent mobile repair services or small businesses.

The certification is especially valuable for mobile RV techs, a growing part of the industry. If you’ve ever had a breakdown at a campground, you know the relief of finding someone on-site who can help. The RVTI directory is a great first step in locating a trustworthy expert.

For those considering a career change, RVTI offers an exciting and accessible path. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, looking to start a new business, or want a flexible job you can take on the road, becoming a certified tech may be for you.

Curtis outlined four levels of certification:

The cost? Just $630 for both Level 1 and Level 2 training, which includes a one-year subscription to complete the coursework. That’s a bargain when compared to other trade certifications—and even better, scholarships are available through the Kevin Phillips Memorial Fund.

“If you take both Level 1 and 2,” Curtis said, “you can repair a lot of your stuff on your own, and even if not, you’ll be more educated as a consumer.”

RVTI offers five different ways to complete the training:

RVTI has even partnered with correctional facilities and women’s organizations to make training accessible and inclusive. The message is clear: RVTI is for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

A certified technician can pursue several career tracks:

Salaries vary based on role and effort. According to Curtis, entry-level dealership technicians can expect to earn $40,000–$50,000, while master techs often make $60,000–$80,000. Mobile techs, on the other hand, can charge $100–$150 per hour plus travel fees, creating significant earning potential.

Some technicians choose to work seasonally at campgrounds or full-time while traveling the country. As Curtis put it, “There’s no ceiling with what you can do in this career.”

At the heart of RVTI is a strong sense of purpose. For Curtis, the work is deeply personal: “I was put on this Earth to serve people. The greatest joy is knowing I had some little way of making them have a great life.”

That service-oriented mindset runs through every part of RVTI’s mission—to train skilled technicians, improve RV owner experiences, and raise the bar for safety and professionalism across the industry.

And with the rapid growth in RV ownership and the increasing complexity of RVs themselves, this work has never been more important.

If you’re an RV owner looking for qualified service or someone ready to explore a new career path, RVTI offers tools, training, and support to help you succeed.

Whether you’re looking to protect your RV investment or take the next step in a rewarding career, the RV Technical Institute is ready to help you hit the road with confidence.

Listen to this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast to hear Curtis Hemmeler share even more insights and stories from inside RVTI. And don’t forget to join the conversation in our RV Atlas Facebook group, where RVers help each other every day.

We’ll see you at the campground—with working rigs and worry-free adventures ahead!

The post How to Find Certified RV Techs and How to Become One with Curtis from RVTI appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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.

The post Why We Bought a nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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.