After nearly two decades of RV ownership, we’ve experienced our fair share of dealership service appointments—some smooth, some challenging, and some outright frustrating. Getting your RV serviced can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here, we’re sharing practical, tested tips based on our personal experiences to help you have a smoother, less stressful experience when getting your RV serviced at a dealership.

You can listen to us discuss these 6 tips for getting your rv serviced in detail on The RV Atlas podcast, wherever you listen. 

One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is the importance of building a solid, long-term relationship with a trusted RV dealership. Unlike cars, RVs often require specialized expertise and unique maintenance considerations. If possible, try to establish a relationship with the dealership where you purchased your RV. Service departments often prioritize customers who bought their RV onsite, so sticking with your dealer for routine maintenance can improve your experience significantly.

We’ve found dealerships are more accommodating and quicker to respond to issues when there’s an established history and relationship.

Timing is crucial when scheduling your RV for service. Dealerships typically experience seasonal surges in spring and summer. Planning maintenance during off-peak seasons, such as late fall or winter, can drastically reduce wait times and improve overall efficiency. We learned the hard way that booking a maintenance appointment in April can lead to extensive wait times or rushed service due to high demand.

Make sure to book appointments well in advance, ideally months ahead if possible. Avoid emergency repairs by proactively scheduling annual inspections and regular preventative maintenance.

One of our favorite tips for managing RV service appointments is bundling non-emergency repairs together. This approach helps prevent unnecessary downtime and prolonged stays at the dealership. Rather than taking your RV in each time a minor issue arises, consider maintaining a running list of smaller concerns that don’t require immediate attention.

A faulty cabinet latch or a broken handle, can often wait until scheduled annual maintenance or a more significant service visit. Doing so prevents repeated trips and the inconvenience of your RV sitting idle at the dealership awaiting minor repairs. This method also simplifies your RV maintenance schedule, making it easier and more efficient to plan your travels and maximize RV usage.

One significant mistake many RVers make, ourselves included in earlier years, is failing to clearly document and communicate their RV’s issues. When dropping your RV off, provide the dealership with a written list of specific issues you want addressed. Clearly documented concerns help technicians accurately diagnose and fix problems, eliminating unnecessary back-and-forth.

We’ve learned to take photos and even brief videos of the issues we’re experiencing. This helps to clearly illustrate problems, especially intermittent ones, allowing the technicians to address them efficiently and effectively.

A common pitfall for many RV owners, especially new ones, is misunderstanding warranty coverage. Before you go in for service, thoroughly review your RV’s warranty documents. Understand exactly what’s covered, including the terms, mileage or time limits, and procedures for filing warranty claims. This proactive approach has saved us from unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and frustrations during the service process.

We also suggest clearly communicating to your dealership your intention to utilize your warranty. Provide documentation when necessary to streamline the approval and service process.

Another mistake we made early in our RV ownership was underestimating how long service appointments could take. RV servicing can often involve waiting on specialized parts or manufacturer approvals, making the process lengthier than standard automotive service.

Always inquire about expected timelines. Plan accordingly by making alternative accommodation arrangements, especially if your RV is your full-time home or if a scheduled trip is approaching.

You can significantly reduce service time by communicating thoroughly with your dealership in advance of the appointment. Those pictures and videos that you send can help the service center order parts in advance so everything is ready to go when you drop your RV off to be fixed.

Never leave the dealership without conducting a careful inspection of your RV to confirm all requested work was performed and done properly. It’s easy to overlook this step, but we’ve learned from experience that this is essential. Test appliances, systems, and repairs while you’re still onsite. This can save you unnecessary return trips and frustration later.

Someone asked for camp cookbook recommendations for kids. You can see read more about our favorites here, but this is a brief rundown of the ones we discuss on the podcast:

You can find the episodes here on Go RVing’s YouTube channel.

See you at the campground,

Stephanie + Jeremy

The post 6 Tips for Getting Your RV Serviced, Best Camping Cookbooks, 6 Things I Love About My RV appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Located in the bustling outdoor playground of Grand Junction, Colorado, Camp Eddy offers a camping experience that seamlessly combines modern amenities, river access, and proximity to the vibrant downtown area. This unique campground, situated alongside the Colorado River, captures the best of both natural tranquility and urban convenience. 

You can listen to our complete campground review wherever you get your podcasts!

Camp Eddy is beautifully situated on the banks of the Colorado River, conveniently located just minutes from downtown Grand Junction. The campground combines the rustic charm of riverside camping with close proximity to local attractions, restaurants, and outdoor adventures. It’s an ideal spot for both outdoor enthusiasts and travelers looking for comfortable amenities.

Camp Eddy offers a range of lodging options for visitors. We stayed in an RV rental while we were there, since we flew into the Denver airport. 

The amenities at Camp Eddy are the star of the show, creating a hip, fun camping environment that mirrors the vibe of the surrounding region.

One of the greatest advantages of staying at Camp Eddy is the excellent variety of outdoor adventures available nearby. With its central location in Grand Junction, the campground offers quick access to exciting activities like river rafting, hiking, scenic exploration, and more.

Directly onsite, Grand Junction Adventures (GJA) makes exploring the Colorado River exceptionally easy. Visitors can rent equipment such as paddleboards, kayaks, and tubes without leaving the campground. GJA offers excellent guided float trips, including a particularly enjoyable route from nearby Palisade back down to Camp Eddy. This relaxing float provides scenic views and is highly recommended for a leisurely adventure suitable for all skill levels.

Only about 15 minutes from Camp Eddy, Colorado National Monument is a must-see for campers. This remarkable national park features stunning red-rock canyons, towering cliffs, and unique geological formations, often compared to those found in Utah’s famous parks. A drive along Rim Rock Drive is a highlight, offering spectacular viewpoints like Grand View and Coke Ovens. Early morning visits provide excellent photography opportunities and cooler temperatures. Popular trails within the monument include the Canyon Rim Trail and the short Otto’s Trail, which offer breathtaking overlooks accessible for most visitors.

Grand Junction offers ample hiking opportunities close to Camp Eddy. Devil’s Kitchen Trail, a moderate 1.5-mile round trip, leads hikers through beautiful red rock formations. Additionally, Monument Canyon Trail is notable for stunning rock formations such as Independence Monument, ideal for hikers seeking slightly longer routes with impressive views.

For thrill-seekers looking for off-road excitement, adrenaline-pumping ATV tours are available in the Grand Junction area. These guided tours provide opportunities to explore more remote terrain, discovering breathtaking overlooks and rugged backcountry areas inaccessible by regular vehicles. Tours typically range from easy scenic rides suitable for beginners to more challenging adventures for experienced riders. Companies such as Adrenaline Driven Adventure Company (ADAC) provide reliable guided tours that showcase the natural beauty of the region.

Grand Junction is also popular as a mountain biking destination. Nearby trails offer everything from beginner-friendly paths to challenging expert terrain. Popular trail systems include the Lunch Loops area and the Kokopelli trails, providing a range of options to satisfy all skill levels. These trails offer stunning desert scenery and technical rides for those seeking adrenaline-fueled experiences.

Downtown Grand Junction is a quick drive from Camp Eddy and offers numerous attractions. The charming downtown district features boutique shopping, art galleries, and local cafes. The area is perfect for window shopping, enjoying local food joints, and exploring galleries.

Visitors may also want to make time for a day trip to nearby Palisade, known for its orchards, vineyards, and wineries, perfect for wine-tasting excursions. Palisade offers unique opportunities to explore Colorado’s thriving wine country with numerous tasting rooms and vineyard tours.

Grand Junction offers exceptional dining options within easy reach of Camp Eddy, adding significantly to the overall enjoyment of the visit:

Camp Eddy was a delightful place for us to kick off our Colorado and Utah summer adventure. Its unique urban riverfront location provides unmatched convenience to downtown Grand Junction, local dining, and outdoor adventures. The campground offers modern amenities, unique lodging options, and thoughtful design that appeals to a wide range of campers—from adventurous couples to families or groups of friends.

For those prioritizing both outdoor experiences and urban amenities, Camp Eddy delivers the perfect combination, creating a memorable and enjoyable camping experience that reflects the best of what Grand Junction has to offer.

The post Campground Review: Summer Fun at Camp Eddy in Grand Junction, Colorado appeared first on The RV Atlas.

The Roundabout Oxford RV & Water Resort in Oxford, Mississippi, is generating considerable buzz among RVers, and for good reason. Recently opened, this upscale RV resort fills a valuable niche in North Central Mississippi, offering a luxury camping experience that’s perfect for families, football fans, and snowbirds alike. Situated conveniently close to Oxford—home to the University of Mississippi (“Ole Miss”)—this brand-new resort has become an immediate standout.

Dean May, affectionately known around these parts as “Casita Dean,” recently reviewed the new resort on The RV Atlas podcast. You can listen to the entire episode wherever you get your podcasts or by clicking on the media player above.

Roundabout Oxford RV & Water Resort is located near Oxford, Mississippi, approximately 70 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee. Easily accessible via Interstate 55 and U.S. Highway 278, the resort provides convenient city access without the hustle and bustle of a major metropolitan area. 

Oxford, a vibrant college town with a population around 27,000, offers an fun cultural scene, great dining, and ample shopping, all enhanced by the presence of the University of Mississippi.

The resort features approximately 150 RV sites, all equipped with full hookups including 50, 30, and 20 amp service. Impressively, about 80% of these sites are pull-through, ideal for larger rigs, with the remaining 33 back-in sites. Each site is paved, level, and spacious, providing room for campers to spread out comfortably.

Dean highlighted the absence of shade due to the resort’s recent opening but pointed out strategic site choices such as back-in sites along Chillin’ Way (especially sites 117-124), which offer morning shade and additional privacy due to their location near a retaining wall and hillside.

The resort also includes 20 luxurious cottages available for rent, each fully furnished and well-appointed, including amenities like a full kitchen, comfortable beds, and plenty of living space.

Roundabout Oxford goes above and beyond typical campground amenities, offering a truly resort-level experience:

The Welcome Center greets visitors with offices, a business center, restrooms, golf cart rentals, and bike racks. Guests can also enjoy morning coffee and a patio overlooking the newly completed mini-golf course.

The Grand Lodge serves as the resort’s central hub. Here, campers find a well-stocked camp store, community room with a full kitchen and bar, arcade room, sports TV lounge, and the casual dining restaurant called “The Canteen.” Covered balconies with rocking chairs and ample entertainment options create a relaxing atmosphere for families.

Spanning approximately 2.5 acres, the water resort is a highlight, featuring two impressive water slides, family pools, hot tubs, a lively kiddie pool complete with playground and water cannons, and a 912-foot lazy river. An adults-only pool area and a swim-up bar (“Hoka Hut”) further enhance the experience, offering refreshments accessible directly from the lazy river and the adult pool.

Guests have numerous convenient dining choices onsite, including The Canteen for casual meals, the Hoka Hut swim-up bar, the Molly Barr Bar concession, and the Beach Bar serving tasty cocktails. The camp store also provides snacks, ice cream, and camping essentials.

The resort boasts pickleball courts, cornhole areas, a Gaga ball court, classic board games, an arcade, basketball courts, and two playgrounds designed for varying age groups. Plans for beach volleyball and fishing opportunities are in development, further enhancing family entertainment.

A fitness center, yoga pavilion, two dog parks catering separately to large and small dogs, large communal fire rings, and storm shelters enhance guest comfort and safety. These thoughtful additions reflect the resort’s commitment to guest satisfaction.

Rates at Roundabout Oxford are impressively reasonable, considering the quality and amenities:

A unique “Park and Play” day-use option allows visitors to enjoy amenities from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., priced at $129 for four people, available Monday through Thursday.

Reservations are straightforward via their online booking site, though planning in advance is advisable, especially around popular Ole Miss football weekends.

The resort’s commitment to customer service stands out prominently. Dean May highlighted an incident involving a minor electrical issue at a campsite. General Manager Jason Elliott immediately handled the situation with remarkable responsiveness, providing guests with a luxury cottage overnight, a golf cart, and regular check-ins to ensure comfort. Staff friendliness and availability further underscored the resort’s dedication to excellent guest experiences.

While the resort offers plenty of onsite activities, Oxford itself provides additional attractions and dining opportunities. Recommendations include:

Oxford is known for its vibrant atmosphere, delightful small-town charm, and variety of dining and shopping options, making it a compelling place to explore when staying at the resort.

Although summers can be quite hot, making the water resort especially appealing, the ideal times to visit Roundabout Oxford RV & Water Resort are likely the milder spring and fall seasons. These times offer comfortable weather perfect for fully enjoying both the resort’s outdoor amenities and nearby Oxford attractions.

Roundabout Oxford RV & Water Resort is positioned to become a highly popular destination. With thoughtful attention to detail, outstanding amenities, exceptional customer service, and an ideal location near Oxford and Ole Miss, it caters to a wide array of visitors, including families, football fans, RV enthusiasts, and snowbirds. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway or a relaxing retreat, Roundabout Oxford offers everything needed for an enjoyable, memorable RV vacation.

For more campground reviews and RV travel inspiration, visit The RV Atlas podcast and join our friendly private RV Atlas Facebook group. 

See you at the campground!

The post Roundabout Oxford RV & Water Resort in Oxford, Mississippi with Casita Dean May appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Discover delicious, easy camping recipes perfect for your Omnia Oven! This episode of The RV Atlas podcast features cookbook authors Stu and Edye Beans, who share practical tips, tasty meals, and their favorite Omnia Oven accessories for amazing campsite cooking. Click on the media player above or subscribe using your favorite podcasting app!

Cooking outdoors is one of our favorite things about RVing, and the Omnia Stovetop Oven has become a favorite piece of camp cooking gear for our family over the last couple of years. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast, we’re excited to share an interview with Stu and Edye Beans, creators of the popular YouTube channel “Little House of Beans” and authors of the cookbook “Outdoor Cooking with Edye featuring the Omnia Oven.” Stu and Edye joined us to discuss their RV lifestyle, their passion for cooking, and their tips and recipes for the Omnia Oven.

Check out their YouTube channel and cookbook for compete recipes! And thanks to Stu and Edye for the great photos!

Stu and Edye Beans are seasoned RVers from Florida who have been adventuring together around the globe for the past 15 years, sharing experiences such as scuba diving, road-tripping, and camping. Today, they travel in a 20-foot, all-aluminum 2016 Livin’ Lite camper. Their travel schedule typically runs from Halloween through mid-April, focusing heavily on Florida State Parks and State Forests, including favorites like Wekiwa Springs State Park and Anastasia State Park.

Their cooking passion was influenced significantly by Edye’s mother, who was a skilled cook capable of making delicious, hearty meals from basic ingredients. Edye inherited this talent, placing cooking at the heart of their camping adventures.

Stu and Edye discovered the Omnia Oven during a search for camping cooking gear after a campsite theft left Stu without his griddle. The Omnia Oven, a three-piece cooking device consisting of a stainless base, a two-liter pan, and a lid, became an instant favorite. The heat from a propane stove circulates through the Omnia, mimicking a traditional oven’s capabilities on a much smaller scale. It allowed the Beans to dramatically diversify their camping menu beyond burgers and hot dogs, which transformed their campsite culinary experience.

Stu began filming their cooking sessions as a project during the early stages of the COVID pandemic, primarily as a way to learn video editing. This hobby quickly turned into their popular YouTube channel, “Little House of Beans,” which now features over 166 recipes specifically designed for the Omnia Oven.

“Outdoor Cooking with Edye” compiles their best recipes and includes unique features such as QR codes linking directly to instructional YouTube videos, beer and wine pairings for each recipe, and Stu’s special cocktail recipes called “Stutinis.” With 100 approachable recipes split between savory and sweet categories, the cookbook offers something for everyone and is perfectly suited for the Omnia Oven.

Below are six standout recipes from the book, specifically highlighted in our conversation:

To enhance the Omnia Oven experience, Stu and Edye highlighted a few favorite accessories:

Their preferred lid colors? Edye’s favorite is yellow for its cheerful brightness, while Stu loves pink for its distinctive look and conversation-starting quality at the campground.

Stu and Edye also run the Facebook group “Omnia Stovetop Oven Fans,” which has grown significantly and become a vibrant community. Members share recipes, photos, tips, and engage with fellow Omnia Oven enthusiasts worldwide, including North America, the UK, Finland, Sweden, and South Africa. The group is a welcoming space for all types of campers, whether tent campers or RV enthusiasts.

Stu and Edye’s journey with the Omnia Oven emphasizes creativity, practicality, and community. The Omnia Oven allows campers to expand their cooking repertoire, enhancing the outdoor adventure through delicious and diverse meals. Their cookbook, “Outdoor Cooking with Edye,” further supports campers in discovering the full potential of Omnia cooking.

For more information, delicious recipes, and further Omnia inspiration, visit their YouTube channel “Little House of Beans,” check out their cookbook “Outdoor Cooking with Edye,” and join their Facebook community, “Omnia Stovetop Oven Fans.”

If you’re feeling inspired by Stu and Edye’s incredible Omnia Oven recipes and want to upgrade your own camp cooking experience, be sure to check out our curated Omnia Oven collection at the RV Atlas Campstore. 

We’ve carefully selected the best Omnia ovens and accessories, offering discounted prices and free shipping to make your outdoor culinary adventures easier and more enjoyable. Visit our RV Atlas Campstore Omnia Collection to start cooking delicious, camper-approved meals today!

The post Outdoor Cooking with Stu and Edye Beans: Omnia Oven Recipes and Tips appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Outfitting a tiny trailer is a unique experience. After years of stocking larger RVs, downsizing to a nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S presented us with unique challenges. The transition required us to rethink our gear choices, optimize our space, and develop some creative strategies to mix comfort and convenience. Over the last few months, we’ve created a tiny space that feels almost perfectly equipped for both of us, whether we are traveling individually or together.

In this episode of The RV Atlas, we share the gear that made the cut for our nuCamp Tab 320 CS-S, and offer some of our recommendations for downsizing from a larger RV to a tiny trailer.      

Bedding in a tiny trailer isn’t as simple as just picking out the fluffiest comforter. We chose the Hest Single Down Comforters (approximately $349 each) because they struck an ideal balance between comfort and compactness. We initially considered a double comforter but found two singles were easier to manage and provided individual comfort. 

We especially appreciate the two-bag storage system that comes with these comforters—a tight compression bag for traveling and a looser bag for long term storage. These comforters turned out to be some of our favorite items because they’re warm yet compact enough to pack away easily, making converting the bed into seating a quick and easy process.

The bathroom storage in the nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S is small, so we didn’t want to pack it full of clutter. We selected Camco TST Drop-Ins because they take up minimal space, are spill-proof, and eliminate odor worries. 

We added tiny bottles of Dr. Bronner’s shampoos conserve space, and are using travel-sized bottles (and refilling them at home) instead of bringing full-sized products. A small Johnson & Johnson first aid kit from Walgreens, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a compact emergency radio rounded out our bathroom essentials—everything sized for limited storage.

One item has become an early favorite: the Fanttik Slim V8 Apex Car Vacuum recommended by YouTuber DSW Adventures. Jeremy loves this rechargeable vacuum because it’s cordless, powerful, and ideal for tidying up the trailer quickly—especially important in small living quarters.

We also included ONE Nebo Slyde King flashlight (if you are a long-time listener, you know how hard this choice was) and a reliable headlamp, crucial for campsite setups and late night adventures.

The nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S small kitchen forced us to be very intentional about gear choices. Without a cooking station inside, an electric kettle is indispensable for morning coffee and oatmeal. Instead of a bulky coffee maker, we opted for a simple pour-over setup—compact and easy to clean.

We discovered and love the Silwy Magnetic System—including magnetic coffee tumblers and coat hooks—ideal for keeping the tiny space tidy and preventing spills or misplaced items. Instant oatmeal, instant coffee, and instant ramen are stored in a small organizer that can sit on the counter or be tucked away in the cabinet for travel days.

We are head over heels in love with the versatile Gerber Gear Complete Cook Set, a nesting system providing pans, bowls, plates, and pots in one compact bundle. Alongside the Gerber set, the Omnia stovetop oven (in its sturdy EVA case) allows for baking muffins and casseroles without taking significant space. The Yeti 10-inch skillet fits neatly within the dishwashing system from OXO, which we love for campsite cleanups.

The Blackstone Camping Griddle thankfully fits perfectly under the sink. {add details about blackstone product that you want to]

We also recommend the compact Camco 12-Volt Fridge. Though small, it has worked well on all of our trips so far, and seems to use minimal power which was a concern for us at first. For spice storage and quick access, the Silwy Magnetic Spice Holders are another early favorite, keeping essentials easily accessible.

And you can’t forget the accessories! Our yellow Barebones Forest Lantern matches the yellow lid of our Omnia oven—a small detail that adds a bit of cheerful color to the outdoor kitchen. 

The front storage area presented a unique challenge. We included the Camco EvoFlex hoses, especially the 50-foot version paired with quick-connect fittings. Additionally, the Portable Power Watchdog Surge Protector continues to earn its keep, offering reliability and peace of mind, despite being large for a tiny trailer.

Of course, our favorite RV SnapPads, purchased at Colonial Airstream, got installed immediately for stabilizing the trailer at the campsite.

Throughout the outfitting process, we reminded ourselves of the importance of leaving space open rather than overfilling it. Small RV living demands careful selection and purposeful placement of every item. We found packing cubes far superior to duffle bags, improving both storage and accessibility. The importance of consciously choosing items that are compact, multifunctional, and highly useful became clear as we evaluated our gear selection.

We also realized the benefits of reevaluating gear choices after a few camping trips. Some of our kitchen items proved redundant, leading us to make some edits within the first few months of ownership.

Outfitting our nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S has required a bit of creativity and adaptability, but the result has been incredibly rewarding. We feel like we’ve landed on a very functional yet comfortable tiny space that suits all of our RV travel needs.

Not outfitting a tiny trailer? Check out our favorite gear we’ve used in our larger RVs, like our Jayco Eagle and Grand Design bunkhouse. Or ask for recommendations from other RVers in our friendly private Facebook group where no cranks are allowed. 

See you at the campground!

The post Outfitting our nüCamp Tab 320 CS-S: Best Gear + Organization Tips for Tiny Trailer Living appeared first on The RV Atlas.

The 4th of July is synonymous with grilling and camp cooking, and there’s no better time to up your outdoor culinary game. Whether you’re grilling burgers, griddling pancakes, or cooking something unique, great gear makes all the difference. This week on The RV Atlas podcast, we dive deep into our favorite grilling and griddling gear, skillet recommendations, and flavorful foods and recipes to inspire your next campground feast.

Listen to this 4th of July Camp Cooking episode wherever you get your podcasts to hear more tips and tricks for camp cooking this summer. 

Thanks to Eric Weber for the photos of Jeremy and the Weber Q2800n+!

Price: $399 (Amazon), $450 (Weber.com)

The Weber Q2800N+ builds on the iconic Weber Q series with new, enhanced features designed to take camp grilling to the next level. Featuring two burners—a primary circular burner and a secondary burner in the middle—this grill offers unmatched versatility. The dual burner system provides an exceptional temperature range from 250°F for low-and-slow cooking to a sizzling 700°F ideal for perfect searing.

Notable features include removable side tables, front-access grease catch for easy cleaning, and a higher dome lid suitable for rotisserie chicken. Unlike previous models, this Weber Q connects directly to standard propane tanks rather than smaller disposable tanks. Its solid build quality and impressive cooking range make it ideal for campers who seek both durability and versatility for their 4th of July Camp Cooking.

Camping Griddles: 14-inch OTG Griddle with side burner, 20-inch OTG Camping Griddle

Blackstone introduces its innovative propane chain system allowing multiple cooking devices to connect to a single propane tank, enhancing your camping cook setup significantly. This new chain system can link a griddle to an additional appliance, like a single burner camping stove or a portable air fryer, streamlining your cooking area at the campsite.

The 14-inch camping griddle, equipped with an additional side burner, or the 20-inch griddle provides flexibility and convenience. These new Blackstone OTG camping griddles have a lightweight and portable titanium ceramic nonstick cooktop, which is easy to transport and maintain, making them ideal for RVers wanting lightweight, versatile cooking solutions.

Price: Approximately $200

A compact nesting cook set that includes a sauté pan, detachable handle, basting dome lid, stock pot, slim lid, four plates, four bowls, a mixing bowl, hot pad, and storage bag. The intuitive design ensures easy setup and cleanup, making it ideal for space-conscious campers and perfect for 4th of July Camp Cooking.

This three-piece dishwashing setup includes dedicated basins for washing, drying, and organizing your dishes at the campsite, streamlining cleanup and providing a tidy outdoor kitchen solution.

The Omnia oven offers a versatile way to bake or roast on your stovetop at camp. Popular accessories include the muffin insert, silicone inserts, baking rack, and EVA hard carrying case. This oven is excellent for creating unique camp dishes like French toast casseroles, muffins, and more.

Check out Jeremy’s YouTube show Camp Griddlemore to find even more summer recipes including beef and broccoli stir fry, blueberry butterscotch pancakes, and elevated grilled cheese sandwiches.

For more 4th of July Camp Cooking inspiration, check out other campground reviews and cooking episodes on The RV Atlas podcast. Also, join our friendly community in the RV Atlas Facebook group, where RVers regularly share favorite recipes, campground recommendations, and camping tips.

See you at the campground!

The post 4th of July Camp Cooking Extravaganza: Grills, Griddles, Skillets, Gear, Recipes, and More! appeared first on The RV Atlas.

To buy a Class B or not to buy a Class B? That is a question many RVers have probably considered at some point. After all, #vanlife literally has its own hashtag and a sea of influencers that make it look pretty epic. However, despite the many appeals of a Class B van, they do have their drawbacks. Kerri Cox of Travels with Birdy is here to tell us all about taking the leap from a 30-foot travel trailer to a Winnebago Travato—and all of the decision making that went into the process. What are the pros and cons of buying a Class B? What else do you need to know before buying a Class B? What’s it like to transition from a family travel trailer to a Class B van? Read on to find out in this guest post.

This is a guest post from Kerri Cox. To listen to Jeremy interview Kerri click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows.

This spring, I fell in love with a van and bought one on a bit of a whim. I have joked that this was a mid-life crisis…and it could be! Can I blame it on turning 50 soon? However, there were a lot of real factors that led my husband and I to make the switch from our travel trailer to a Class B van sooner rather than later. I have two years left until I retire from public teaching, and we had 100% planned to keep our travel trailer until then. Then, we planned to decide what RV would be best for the huge trips we plan to take. But, sometimes, life takes you on a detour.

Here’s what made us consider #vanlife now:

So, even though I am a pretty practical person about almost everything in life, I decided to go a little wild and get the Class B!

Even though I have long thought Class B vans were pretty cute, there were many reasons I thought I wouldn’t buy one, including:

Despite all of those reasons not to buy a Class B, we decided to take the plunge, anyway! And, I don’t think it was totally crazy. Here are the pros of buying a Class B:

We saved a lot of money by buying a used RV from a private seller, but the process was a lot more complicated. Here’s what you need to know:

But, if you are determined, do your due diligence, and research everything you can, it can be done!

This is a guest post from Kerri Cox. To hear more about Kerri’s experience with buying a Class B, click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows.

After considering all of the pros, cons, and special considerations, are we happy with our decision to buy a Class B? YES, absolutely!

Here’s what we love about the 2022 Winnebago Travato 59K:

There have been a few drawbacks. We did need to order a whole new awning and are nervous about a weird Travato quirk where the awning deploys itself, even while driving (fingers crossed for this problem to skip us!). And, we still have a lot to learn in order to operate all of the systems. Even though we have a decade of RV experience, this van has a lot of things that are totally new to us.

Have I convinced myself you that this was a reasonable purchase? Even though it was a bit of a whim, we didn’t take the decision lightly. And, while there was a lot involved in both the sale and the transition, it has all been worthwhile! The Travato 59K seems to be the perfect rig for this stage of our life, and we are excited to get out on a long road trip. We just need to add a bird sticker to make Birdy 3.0 official!

If you are thinking about buying a Class B, I hope sharing my experiences has been helpful. Feel free to reach out if you have questions, you can find me on Instagram and Facebook as Travels with Birdy or in the RV Atlas Facebook group!

The post Downsizing from a Family RV to a Winnebago Class B with Kerri Cox from Travels with Birdy appeared first on The RV Atlas.

The Finger Lakes region has long been a favorite destination for New Yorkers seeking picturesque vineyards, stunning lakes, and charming small towns. And while the area offers many beautiful state park camping options, private campgrounds and RV resorts are less abundant. Recently opened, Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, New York, has stepped in to fill this gap, offering RVers an appealing new option with spacious full hook up sites and a prime location near Seneca Lake. This resort is a welcome addition to the Finger Lakes camping scene, and Jeremy thoroughly enjoyed his recent stay.

Finger Lakes RV Resort is located on the eastern side of Seneca Lake, close to the southern half of the lake. It’s about 10 minutes north of Watkins Glen and approximately 30 minutes west of Ithaca. Its prime location places visitors within a short drive of hiking trails, wineries, dining, and shopping opportunities, making it perfect for both short and extended RV vacations.

Upon arrival, guests receive a warm welcome, which includes freshly baked chocolate chip cookies as part of the check-in experience—a thoughtful and charming touch.

Sites at Finger Lakes RV Resort are notably large, offering abundant space comparable to many state park campsites. Back-in sites are particularly spacious and comfortable, typically providing more room than pull-through options. Sites have ample grassy areas around and behind each paved parking pad, creating a comfortable environment with plenty of space to stretch your legs.

The campground provides several amenities for guests:

However, despite the use of the term “resort,” the campground lacks some common resort amenities such as a pool or hot tub. The addition of these features, along with other recreational activities such as pickleball or cornhole, could further elevate the campground’s appeal and fully justify its resort designation.

Nightly rates hover around $106, which we consider fair given the generous site sizes, excellent cleanliness, overall quality, and ideal location.

One standout feature of Finger Lakes RV Resort is its easy walking access to local wineries. Visitors can directly walk to:

This unique perk significantly enhances the campground experience, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts or casual tasters alike.

The region surrounding Finger Lakes RV Resort offers many attractions suitable for various interests. From excellent dining to picturesque outdoor excursions, there are abundant options for enjoyment:

The nearby town of Ithaca offers additional experiences worth exploring:

Finger Lakes RV Resort serves as an excellent hub for a range of visitors, from romantic couples and wine enthusiasts to families with younger children. The peaceful atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and high-quality campground amenities combine to create a relaxing yet engaging experience.

However, teenagers might find this area less than thrilling. The region’s primary attractions cater more toward leisurely explorations like wine-tasting, scenic hikes, and local dining rather than adrenaline-packed entertainment.

Despite this, the quiet charm, abundant natural beauty, and developing culinary scene make the Finger Lakes region perfect for those seeking a restful escape paired with cultural and natural explorations.

For more campground reviews and destination inspiration, check out these episodes of The RV Atlas podcast or join the conversation over in the private RV Atlas Facebook group. 

See you at the campground!

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We’ve explored several Spacious Skies Campgrounds over the last two years, each offering its own unique charm. Spacious Skies Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, New York, instantly became a new favorite due to its perfect blend of peaceful surroundings, great amenities, and proximity to some of the Upper Hudson Valley’s most delightful towns.

Spacious Skies Woodland Hills sits nestled in Columbia County, about 2 hours north of New York City without traffic. Coming from the south, the drive is relatively straightforward, with a brief complicated stretch where several highways converge, but quickly settles into an easy and scenic route north. The campground is wonderfully positioned in the quiet hills of Austerlitz, just minutes from the Massachusetts border and the Berkshires. It’s accessed via a picturesque country road leading to the peaceful tranquility of the campground.

One of our favorite aspects of this area is how the cultural fingerprints of New York City stretch upward into the Hudson Valley, and especially into the Upper Hudson Valley. You get the best of both worlds—the beautiful countryside combined with cultural experiences, including fantastic food, coffee shops, bookstores, wineries, and craft breweries. This blend ramped up during the pandemic as many New Yorkers relocated here, bringing a vibrant city vibe to upstate New York.

Spacious Skies Woodland Hills is a medium-sized campground with about 175 sites, of which approximately 50 are seasonal. The seasonal sites are notably well-kept and integrated seamlessly into the campground, creating a welcoming atmosphere for transient visitors as well.

The campground layout consists of several different camping areas including the following:

Spacious Skies Woodland Hills offers amenities that strike a perfect balance between peaceful camping vibes and family fun:

One of the campground’s best features? Cleanliness! Bathhouses are immaculate, showers hot and reliable, and the landscaping beautifully maintained.

Sparks, the campground manager, provided a curated activity sheet upon check-in, featuring local recommendations and staff favorites for dining, hikes, and sightseeing. We love this unique offering. This kind of personalized guide offers campers the opportunity to genuinely explore and appreciate the local area beyond standard tourist offerings.

One of the significant draws of Spacious Skies Woodland Hills is its location near three charming towns, each within a short drive:

West Stockbridge impressed with its quintessential New England charm. Notable spots include:

Chatham offers a vibrant, hip atmosphere with great local establishments:

Kinderhook is smaller but still charming, with places worth visiting:

Overall, Spacious Skies Woodland Hills combines the serene charm of a countryside escape with the convenience and culture of nearby small towns. We are enchanted by the campground’s quiet, relaxing atmosphere and the beautiful surrounding area. The personal touches, such as Sparks’s thoughtfully curated recommendations, truly elevated this experience, making it a campground worth returning to again and again.

For campers seeking relaxation coupled with access to excellent amenities and local culture, Spacious Skies Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, NY, should be at the top of your list. And don’t forget—using the coupon code RVATLAS will save you 10% off your reservations at any Spacious Skies campground.

We look forward to returning soon, perhaps for some upstate leaf peeping in the fall. Until then, see you at the campground!

The post Campground Review: Spacious Skies Woodland Hills in New York appeared first on The RV Atlas.

This episode of our “Beyond the 48” series highlights our family surf trip to Oahu, Hawaii. Though this journey didn’t involve our RV, it was a remarkable multi-generational family vacation and an experience of a lifetime. At the end of our eight-day stay, we understood why Hawaii is a bucket-list destination for so many families.

Other Beyond the 48 Episodes:

Explore Costa Rica with Exodus Travels

Explore Iceland with Rent Easy Iceland

Planning a big family trip to Hawaii requires thoughtful budgeting and logistics. We chose Costco Travel because it offered transparent pricing and substantial extra perks, including resort credits, a $200 Costco gift card, and cashback rewards on our Costco credit card, amounting to over $1,000 in savings. Stephanie appreciated Costco’s accountability and clear price comparisons, making planning seamless and stress-free. If you visit Costco for your regular grocery shopping (and weekly gas fill-up!), definitely check out the travel services for your next trip.

We booked our accommodations at Embassy Suites Waikiki, located one block from the beach. This hotel was particularly appealing for our family of five, featuring two-room suites with a separate bedroom, living area with a pull-out couch, kitchenette, and spacious bathroom. Jeremy’s mom enjoyed her stunning ocean-view room, while Stephanie upgraded our room for just $25 to snag a better view than our original room offered. The hotel’s setup offered ample space, ideal for larger families without feeling cramped.

Waikiki Beach turned out to be the ultimate surf paradise that we were dreaming of. We rented surfboards from Big Wave Dave’s Surf Shop, conveniently located in our hotel’s breezeway. They recommended not bringing our own boards, as their rentals could be switched daily depending on wave conditions—a significant advantage for avid surfers. 

We found the South Shore’s waves gentle and perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers, specifically the areas known as Populars and Canoes. Our older sons found waves big and fun enough to entertain them for hours, while our younger son was able to independently paddle out and catch plenty of waves himself. The hotel’s locker system made it easy to store surfboards without hassle.

Waikiki also provided such a convenient atmosphere for all the necessities. Everything from meals at Raising Cane’s to grab and go meals (and sunscreen!) at the ABC Stores was within walking distance. The area felt incredibly safe, making it ideal for teenagers to have some independence.

Our visit to Pearl Harbor was deeply moving but did require advance planning. Important note: reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial open eight weeks in advance (or 24 hours ahead for last-minute spots) on Recreation.gov, which can fill quickly. We highly recommend securing this reservation, as visiting the USS Arizona Memorial was a truly special experience and the highlight of our time at Pearl Harbor.

We found the actual Pearl Harbor NPS site to be a bit confusing and not intuitive. After spending the day at the site, we would recommend experience the various installations in the following order:

Optional: Walk over to the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and tour the USS Bowfin. This is an extra ticketed experience, and not necessary to appreciate the Pearl Harbor Memorial, so don’t fret if the ticket price is out of budget. However, our boys did very much enjoy the tour and exhibits here. There is a well-stocked gift shop and food truck on site as well.

A day trip to Oahu’s famous North Shore was another highlight. The drive from Waikiki to Haleiwa took under an hour. We made a quick stop at the Dole Plantation, solely for Dole Whips, and wouldn’t recommend the rather touristy ticketed experiences there. We also visited the Green World Coffee Farm, which featured outstanding local coffee and charming souvenirs.

In Haleiwa, we visited surf shops and ate lunch at Killer Tacos, an affordable local favorite. There are also dozens of food trucks to explore throughout the town. If you don’t mind waiting in line, try the shaved ice at Matsumoto. We also stopped at legendary surf spots such as Waimea Bay and Pipeline, famous in winter but calm during our spring visit.

We chose Chief’s Luau due to its strong reputation for providing a great show. The luau featured engaging entertainment, including remarkable fire-dancing performances, and offered a decent, traditional Hawaiian meal–meaning in our opinion the food was good but not great. The setting and quality of the performance made it a memorable evening for our entire family. There are also plenty of Luaus offered right in Waikiki. Or you can venture a bit farther and visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, which gets rave reviews, but would have been a longer evening for our family.

Favorite Dining Experiences in Waikiki

Our stay included several standout dining experiences. Yard House offered reliable American cuisine and was better than we expected. Hula Grill Waikiki provided one of the trip’s best meals with a stunning view from the Outrigger Hotel. For a quick local snack, Musubi Cafe Iyasume served delicious Spam musubi. Daily visits to Lahaina Shave Ice may become an afternoon tradition during your stay.

This family surf trip to Oahu was certainly among our family’s most expensive vacations, but careful budgeting and credit card rewards helped make it manageable. The balance of planned activities and spontaneous relaxation suited our teenagers perfectly, offering them independence while still making plenty of shared family memories. Honolulu’s combination of urban bustle and beach paradise left an enduring impression on Jeremy, ranking it among his favorite American cities.

For more episodes detailing our family’s adventures beyond the continental U.S., follow our “Beyond the 48” series on The RV Atlas podcast. Explore new places, learn valuable travel tips, and gain insights into creating unforgettable family memories. And next week, we’ll see you  back at the campground!

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