In the first segment of the show we have a huge announcement to make about an upcoming international RV trip that we taking this month. You will have to tune in to the podcast to find out more. And in the second (much longer) segment of the show we will be covering four major trends from KOA’s 2024 North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report (which is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2024.) We have covered major trends from the report since its inception 10 years ago and always love digging into the data.

Stephanie summarized some major trends in this year’s report over on the blog at Park Vendor Review. You can read that summary of major trends right here.

To read a high level overview of the report itself —please click here.

On the podcast we discuss the rise of “blended trips” where campers stay at more than one type of accommodation during a single trip. Then we discuss the decline of tent camping and the meteoric rise of glamping. We end the show by discussing how the boomers are back! Many boomers stayed away from camping and all kinds of travel during the pandemic–but they are returning to campgrounds in droves this year!

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss all of those trends and more click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

The post Huge Announcement! + 5 Trends from KOA’s 2024 Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report appeared first on The RV Atlas.

The Pacific Northwest is one of the greatest places in America for camping and outdoor adventure. Our 26-day trip to Washington State, Oregon, and the California Redwoods was one for the record books. We are definitely jonesing for a return trip. When we do return we definitely want to camp at Champoeg State Heritage Area. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are thrilled to welcome Kristy Dobie from Willa Wanders on to the show for a terrific review of this campground and all of the awesome things you can see and do (and eat and drink) nearby.

To listen to Jeremy interview Kristy please click on the media player above–or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows! Or just read on for this guest post from Kristy. It has all of the details you need to plan a trip to Champoeg and the Willamette Valley. Thanks to Kristy for sharing her knowledge of the area and for sharing her wonderful photos!

Kristy Dobie from @willawanders

Photo by Kristy Dobie

Since 2019, Kristy Dobie has hit the road with Willa, her Airstream Trailer. With her adventurous pup, and Sony camera by her side, she has documented the journey on Instagram, TikTok, and other social media accounts. @WillaWanders is an RV and outdoor travel account that features landscape, wildlife, travel, and lifestyle photography, as well as travel itineraries and tips. Since Kristy also worked as a teacher for over a decade, conservation education is woven into her travel content with the hopes of inspiring action and respect for nature. More recently, Kristy has added international travel to her list of adventures by hosting group trips with likeminded travelers.

Champoeg State Heritage Area and The Willamette Valley

Photo by Kristy Dobie

The Willamette Valley is a large region of Oregon that includes fertile farmland from outside of Portland down south of Eugene. Champoeg State Heritage Area is perfectly situated 7 miles east of the town of Newberg and is surrounded by wine country and some excellent dining. This is a great spot to use as a basecamp to explore Northern Oregon, including day trips to the Oregon Coast or the Columbia Gorge and Mount Hood.

Champoeg State Heritage Area is special because it helps preserve the history of the region. Unlike many other mountainous parts of our state, this campground is in a more pastoral setting along the Willamette River.

There are lots of walking and biking paths that wind through groves of trees and pastures that are home to deer and many bird species. Families may also enjoy visiting the historical museums on site or making use of the fishing and boating dock. The campground is great for a variety of campers since it includes cabin and yurt rentals as well as tent and RV camping. 

Photo by Kristy Dobie

There are three different aspects of history that local museums like to focus on: the time prior to 1840, the start of Oregon’s state government, and the area’s historical importance as a transportation hub.

Prior to 1840: The Champoeg prairie was home to Kalapuya Indians. Their tribe used the area for hunting, fishing, and gathering camas bulbs, which were a staple in their diet. In 1811, fur trappers first visited the area.

The Seeds of Government: Let’s flash forward to 1841 –  area settlers began holding meetings that were appropriately known as “wolf meetings” so they could discuss problems with predators. Eventually, the meetings began discussing larger issues, and in 1843, the settlers narrowly voted to establish a new provisional government for the area.

Transportation Hub: Champoeg is also known as a historical transportation hub. Although this provisional government moved in 1844, Champoeg’s location on the river made it a regular stop for stagecoaches and steam boats. Champoeg remained an important transportation link until a disastrous flood led to its total abandonment in 1892.

The Campground at Champoeg State Heritage Area

Photo by Kristy Dobie

There are two main loops in the campground with a mix of the following site types:

• 21 full-hookup sites (sewer, electricity, water) and
• 67 electric sites with water and
• 6 tent sites
• 6 yurts (D,E & F are pet friendly) and
• 6 cabins (C4, C5 and C6 are pet friendly)
• 3 group tent camping areas
• RV group camping loop with meeting hall
• Hiker/biker camp

For RVers, the B loop has more spacious sites and full hookups. Some of those spots are pull-thru, too. During peak season, which is generally from late spring through the fall, weekend spots will regularly sell out in advance. But with many sites available, it’s common to find last-minute cancellations online. So keep checking if the dates that you’re hoping to book are full.

In the A loop of the campground, spots are closer together and many lack privacy. But the B loop is much better in that regards.

Water and electric sites are currently $31 per night. Full hookup sites are a whopping $2 more at $33 per night.

Amenities are limited–but they do offer the following:

• Flush toilets and hot showers
• RV dump station
• Ice and Campfire wood for purchase (suggestion: buy locally to prevent spread of pests)

in addition to the prairies, forest, riverside paths, and well-maintained campground, you may also want to visit the visitor center or tour the pioneer village, barn, and farmstead. 

Pro tips from a local: Do not use an umbrella or you’ll look like a tourist. We wear rain coats with hoods year round. Like most places in Oregon, waterproof shoes are helpful when visiting during the rainy season (late fall through spring)

Best Time of Year To Visit?

You will experience the best weather from late spring through fall. Rain isn’t uncommon, even into June. July and August bring dry/hot weather. We do occasionally see a week with triple digits in summer. The fall is a beautiful time of year to visit Oregon. Just know that depending on the severity of wildfires, some regions may be smoky in August and September. (Usually this applies to the Columbia Gorge and Central Oregon, like Bend)

Things To Do In and Around the Willamette Valley

Photo by Kristy Dobie

• One of the advantages of this location is how many day trips you can take in the area!
• From this campsite, it would take approximately 30-40 mins to visit downtown Portland:
  • Oregon Zoo is excellent and known for their state-of-the-art elephant habitat
  • Hike forest park – At 5,200 acres, Portland’s Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
  • Walk along the river at the waterfront
  • Visit one of the many gardens: Rose Garden, Japanese Garden
• just under two hours to visit the iconic haystack rocks in Cannon Beach at the Oregon Coast
• about 2 hours to visit Mount Hood or the scenic Columbia Gorge:
  • Multnomah Falls – iconic waterfall in Oregon with bridge across the front
  • Incredible hiking – check alltrails for current conditions
  • Try a brewery in Hood River
  • Drive the Fruit Loop, especially in the fall, visiting farms/vineyards/local artisans along the way
  • Make time to stop for ice cream and amazing food at the very instagramable Sugar Pine Drive Inn
• Most popular activity in the area is wine tasting:
  • Wine Tasting: Stoller – one of the most well-known vineyards in the region. Always delicious and amazing views.
  •  Sokol Blosser – beautiful tasting room, excellent charcuterie board
  • Archer Vineyards (which also has an RV resort located at one of their tasting rooms) – great staff
  • Hazlefern Cellars (family owned, could not be nicer, fun playlists!)
  • Chris James Cellars (delicious wine, Harvest Host location)
  • Argyle Winery for sparkling wine.
  • Be sure to try an Oregon Pinot

Recommendations for Food and Drink

Photo by Kristy Dobie

If you’re a foodie, you’re in the right spot! Wine country is full of amazing places to eat!

• Breakfast:
  • From Russia with Love- coffee, tea, smoothies, russian foods. I suggest trying a savory pastry with your drink from their drive-through coffee cart.
• Lunch/Dinner:
  • Local burger chain: Burgerville. Try the seasonal milkshakes.
  • Red Hills Market: upscale food market with great options for picnics or dining in: pizzas, sandwiches, and more. This is very popular, even with locals.
  • Lemon and Olive: Great gyros with deliciously seasoned smash potatoes on the side
  • Rosmarino Osteria: Authentic italian. You have to try the burrata, which melts in your mouth. Be sure to get reservations in advance.
  • Trellis: burgers, pasta – everything is delicious and servers are friendly. Try for lunch or dinner.
  • Fine dining: Jory at the Allison Inn. It’s very upscale, but offers delicious high-end food in a beautiful resort and spa environment. I’ll also add that their spa is incredible if you are in need of relaxation.

Thanks again to Kristy for joining us on the podcast and sharing her knowledge of the campground (and the entire region) right here on the blog! We hope to have Kristy back on the show again soon! In the meantime–make sure you follow all of her adventures at Willa Wanders!

The post Oregon’s Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground (With Kristy from Willa Wanders) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Heading to Shenandoah National Park and looking for a scenic camping experience with great conveniences and amenities? Put Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views at the top of your list. This bucolic campground offers panoramic mountain views, easy access to national park highlights, and lots of family-friendly activities.

While Shenandoah National Park has many beautiful NPS campgrounds, none offer full hookups. Of course, many campers want these conveniences. But, we don’t want to give up the natural beauty. That’s where a park like Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views truly shines. You’ll practically feel relaxed from the moment you park your RV and set up camp.

Formerly the Luray KOA, this is a park we have visited a couple of times over the years, and we loved it each time. It was one of the cleanest and prettiest parks we’ve ever stayed in. So, we were excited to check it out again to see whether it holds up to our memories and to see what’s changed with the new ownership. Recently, Jeremy had the chance to visit with his buddy Shawn the Camera Guy.

If you’d like to listen to our review of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, click play on the media player above or find The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows.

Location of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views 

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is located amongst the rolling hills of Luray, Virginia. It has “views” in its name for good reason — the park looks out on the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, you are surrounded by picturesque farmlands, with views of sheep grazing in the grasslands. You might even hear the cows moo.

The drive TO the park is pretty, the park itself is beautiful, and the location is prime for visiting Shenandoah National Park. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is close to some of Shenandoah National Park‘s most popular spots. You can easily hop on Skyline Drive. The park is less than 20 minutes from the Thornton Gap Entrance and just north of the Big Meadows areas.

Luray is a great basecamp for exploring the region. It is home to the Luray Caverns and many family-friendly attractions. The area is also known as a wine region. Seriously, you could spend a week here and have a relaxed vacation, while still staying entertained.

Campground Setup of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is a relatively small campground. You definitely feel like you are in the country. At the center of the campground, there is a large central lawn, which really feels like a park. It’s the perfect spot for tossing a frisbee or chilling on a picnic blanket. Plus, the kids have a place to run and play.

A couple of loops of campsites surround the central green space, with a variety of setups. They have some of the coolest sites we’ve ever seen anywhere. In addition to the RV campsites, the park offers cabins, yurts, and tent sites. The yurts are really awesome. More on those in a minute.

Best Campsites at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

Here are some of our favorite campsite options at the campground:

• 3rd favorite: Pull-through sites that immediately ring the field. The are very spacious and have a concrete pad with picnic table right off of your site and then another concrete padded area on the edge of the field with chairs and fire ring.
• 2nd favorite: We are going to call these the “Cow View Back Ins.” They are at the outer edge of the campground on the left side (like sites 40-50). If you want a site with an incredible view of relaxing cows these are your sites–and no joke the cows are mesmerizing at night at dusk. When the sun sets here it looks like a painting.

• FAVORITE FAVORITE: Back-in sites with mountain views. These also offer two sitting areas. They have a shaded shelter (not full roof) with picnic table right at the back of the site, as well as a second concrete pad with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit on a hill side sloping down with dreamy views.

How much will you pay for these awesome campsites? This campground uses dynamic pricing, which means rates vary by the site type, day of the week, and season. Expect to pay somewhere around $70-90 per night. The pricing is reasonable for what you’ll get, in our opinion. Yurts are around $130-150 a night and cabins around $200.

Staying in a Yurt at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

Since this was a quick trip, we decided to try out the yurts at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, and it was such a cool experience. Take a photo tour of the yurts:

Amenities at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

As we’ve mentioned, in addition to the views and beautiful sites, the amenities are another element that really take this park to the next level. If you are traveling with kids who may not 100% love those national park hikes, it’s great to have some treasures waiting at the campground.

Here are some of the amenities you’ll find at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views:

• 2 pools — a swimming pool and a wading pool, perfect for cooling off in the summer
• Common room with pool tables and lounging area with view of the pools
• Playground & jumping pillow
• Game room
• Gem mining
• Camp store — you know how we love a good camp store, and this one didn’t disappoint
• Gas station and convenience store nearby — you can walk or bike to this well-stock spot outside of the campground
• Cosmic Canine Commons — one of the prettiest dog parks we’ve ever seen!
• Themed weekends — TONS of fun options through various seasons

Our Favorite Things to Do Near Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

We enjoyed visiting Shenandoah National Park with our kids over the years. Here are some of our suggestions:

• Stop at a visitor’s center to get oriented and to learn more about the park.
• Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Shenandoah National Park include: Stony Man: Hawksbill, Dark Hollow Falls, and Bearfence Mountain rock scramble.
• Enjoy a meal at the lodges in Shenandoah National Park.
• Grab a meal at Spelunkers Burgers and Frozen Custard in Front Royal.
• If you have time, Luray Caverns is worth a visit.

To hear a lot more about these things to do near the campground, click play on the media player above or check out The RV Atlas podcast.

We hope this campground review of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views helps you plan your visit to Shenandoah National Park!

The post Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray, Virginia (Campground Review) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are tackling three more questions from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook.

1. What are the best options for a budget-friendly RV water filter that gets the job done?
2. How to spend three days in and around Custer State Park?
3. Can you take Buc-ees out of Texas? Or is it not as good in other states?

Talking Water Filters With Noah and Noah from Camco

In the first segment we invite Noah Haut and Noah Cronin from Camco to discuss the new and improved TastePURE Water Filter and why it is a great value for RV owners who want clean water at the campground without having to use bottled water. Camco’s TastePURE water filter is Made in the USA and has six stages of filtration. It also has almost 50,000 four and five star reviews on Amazon--which is pretty amazing if you stop and think about it! When it comes to budget-friendly RV water filters this one is the best in show.

Custer State Park (What To Do and What To See)

Then we welcome Stephanie back on the show and talk about things to do and see in Custer State Park–and how to spend three days there with kids. Are we team Mount Rushmore–or team Crazy Horse? Or team neither? And do we think Jewel Cave is worth the visit? Or should visitors concentrate their time within Custer itself?

Can You Take Buc-ees Out of Texas?

In segment three we discuss Buc-ees and whether you can take Buc-ees out of Texas. Our experiences with Buc-ees inside of the great state of Texas were stellar–but our experiences with some of their new locations outside of the Lone Star State have been a mixed bag. Newer locations have been insanely crowded with less parking and a whole lot of madness. Jeremy loved the madness. Stephanie felt a little claustrophobic.

The post RV Water Filters, Custer State Park, Can You Take Buc-ees Out Of Texas? appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Are you a happy camper? Or do you find yourself getting cranky over some of the challenges that are related to the RV and camping lifestyle? Reservations can be hard to get–and prices for campsites have gone up–and so have the prices of RVs. There are some legitimate issues and concerns out there–but camping is still awesome, right?

We think there are still an abundance of things to love about the RV and camping lifestyle–and there always will be. In fact, we think camping and RVing are good for the mind, good for the body, and good for the soul! We want YOU to be a happy camper in 2024.

It’s all about having the right mindset.

On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we welcome our friend and camping buddy Phil Travaglia back on to the show to discuss tips for being a happy camper in 2024. Phil is the perfect person for this topic because he is the happiest camper we know. On this episode Phil shares 8 tips, Jeremy shares 8 tips, and we share 8 tips from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook–for a total of 24 tips for being a happy camper in 2024.

To listen to this episode of The RV Atlas please click on the media player above–or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

Or just read on right below for Phil’s 8 tips for being a happy camper in 2024!

Phil’s Tips for Being a Happy Camper

Tip #1 Do your homework – When you go camping, whether it be in an RV or a tent; spend some time looking into the area where you will be staying.  Getting a sense of the weather, the stores and amenities nearby (in case of an emergency) and having an idea about the wildlife are important.  They will help you avoid unexpected situations that may negatively impact your overall experience.  A little research (and I really mean a little) can mean the difference between a great trip and wanting a “do over”.

For example: When we go camping in Montauk, knowing the weather and especially, the wind conditions will greatly affect the trip.  If you plan for a windy weekend, the things you bring will be useful and not a hindrance i.e. portable canopies or shelters that will end up on the other side of the campground. Another example would be if the surf is too rough, I won’t bring my fishing gear.  Which can be cumbersome to have to cart around; just to not use it.

Tip #2 Take inventory – We all know that a big part of the fun of camping is picking up gear along the way.  However, this gear can really negatively impact your experiences if you are constantly shuffling it and rearranging it in the RV.  As you camp during the season, take inventory.  Keep a mental tally of the things you use regularly and the things you regularly shuffle around.  Don’t be afraid to take the cluttering items out of the RV.  Having more room in the RV and having to manage less stuff makes a huge difference in the happiness meter on a trip.  For example: cooking accessories that are not going to be used take up so much space in the RV and are a constant source of frustration.  It is no fun to have to play a camping version of tetris under the sink every time you need to get a pot or pan! If you are not planning any crock pot or Dutch oven meals during the trip… leave them home.  They’ll still be there for you when you get back. Another example is board games.  How many board games do you actually need in the camper!  Bring one or two that you know will be fun for the group on your trip.  Free up some space and have less to manage.

Tip #3 Be flexible – One of the biggest things to remember about camping is a lot of unplanned things happen.  The weather is bad, traffic on the way causes major delays… I could go on forever.  The thing to help get through these events is to be flexible.  Having the ability to modify your plans is essential in being a happy camper. We are all guilty of building up expectations and itineraries for our trips, and if they don’t go to plan, that can leave us feeling disappointed. Example: One year we were on a trip with our friends Hector and Laura in the Catskill mountain region of New York.  We wound up with a rainy and cold weekend.  Pretty much all of our usual campground activities were out the window; it was raining that hard!  Laura looked for local events that we could enjoy despite the weather.  Much to our delight, she found a cupcake festival that was on rain or shine.  Even though it was outdoors, it was under large tents. It was a blast!  We brought our umbrellas, got our shoes and trucks a little muddy, and we had a great time. The cupcake festival was never in our original plans, but being flexible, and working with what had, kept our trip fun.

Tip #4 Maintain your gear – There is a certain amount of unspoken satisfaction that every camper feels when their gear performs as expected.  Nothing can impact a trip more than having your heater stop working or your tent or lantern or stove not holding up. This is especially true when you are camping remotely (tent) or off grid in the camper.  Maintaining your equipment can make all the difference.  It also provides a way to get you through the long and depressing off season. Personally, it makes me happy to take out some of my gear in the winter time and clean and tune it up.  Getting the camping gear out in the winter keeps the camping flame burning.  It often acts to get the imagination going and motivate the planning of next season’s trips.

Tip #5 Manage your expectations – Make sure your expectations match your accommodations.  What I mean by this is; don’t go to a KOA Journey level campground and get upset that the amenities are not those of a KOA Resort level campground.  Another thing to keep in mind with expectations (especially for those new to RVing) is that camping is very social.  Unless you are going to a state park or going off grid, you will have people around you.  To me, it’s the best part of the experience.  For those who are looking for solitude, this could be frustrating.  If you know what type of campground you are going to, and keep an openness about you, your experience will most certainly be a positive one.

Tip #6 Know how social media (related to camping) affects you – This is a personal thing.  Everyone is different.  Some people can look at the endless “highlight reel” posts of amazing trips and get motivated.  Some can look at them and can’t help but compare their own experiences and feel that they don’t measure up.  To some, looking at tremendous, once-in-a-lifetime trips can lessen the value of their own trips.  Personally,  I started out in the first group, but after a while, I felt I was slipping into the latter group.  I had to remind myself that the trips we take are what we can afford and they are no less valuable than the ones I was seeing posted on-line.  I find that knowing yourself and finding a balance with camping related social media will make you a happier camper.  If looking at dream trip after dream trip (that you cannot afford) starts creating FOMO,  Look at posts related to troubleshooting problems or camping hacks.  You will find purpose in those as I am sure you all have ingenious hacks to share with the most experienced campers out there.

Tip #7 Don’t be afraid to pull the plug – Over the years, the one mistake I have been guilty of making is insisting on going on a trip once it is booked.  I would get so excited for the trip, that I was going; come hell or high water.  Oftentimes, it was the latter that I would actually run into!  Keeping an eye on the weather and listening to your gut, will provide you with more happy camping experiences than blind ambition to get out there will.  Familiarize yourself with cancellation policies and keep an eye on the weather, especially for weekend trips. It is okay to back out of a trip.  Last year, we went on a trip to meet up with some friends and we had our daughter’s friend with us as well as our 70lb dog Louie.  We have a very small camper.  We knew the weather was going to be bad for a week before the trip.  We should have gracefully bowed out while we could.    Instead, we went and needless to say, it was not the best experience.  Sometimes it’s better to pull the plug, and survive to camp happily on another day!

Tip #8 Leave the kids at home –  This one falls under the “sometimes category”, but yes, every now and again… leave the kids home.  As great as camping is for the kids, it is just as fun for the adults too.  To keep your enthusiasm for camping strong, I would suggest you  have an occasional “grown-ups” trip.  As memorable as our family trips have been, some of our weekends away without the kids have been just as memorable.  Think of these occasional trips as camping’s version of “date night”. Leslie and I look forward to our annual “grown-ups” trip to the Country Living Fair.  We get to enjoy some recuperative time together and recharge our batteries.  We also get to enjoy the fair without having to worry about how long it would take before the kids would get bored and want to leave. Also, it is a great opportunity for the kids to have some grandparent time or visit with their cousins.  Everyone wins.  These trips leave you rested and rejuvenated and ready to take on the next family adventure.

We hope that you all find your inner happy camper in 2024! See you at the campground!

The post 24 Tips for Being a Happy Camper in 2024 (With Phil Travaglia) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast we tackle three more questions (and letters) from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook. First we respond to a lovely message from Cheyenne Allen about our recent episode “12 Reasons Why You Should Take Your Kids RVing While They Are Young.”

Cheyenne wrote in with the following message for Jeremy and Stephanie….

“Today’s episode had me take a walk down memory lane. Our biggest is (almost) 5 and our youngest is 1.5.We’ve done weekend trips with breastfeeding babies, week long trips with a toddler (the entire blue ridge parkway!), lived in our camper for a summer/fall season, and now long weekends with both kids in tow.

I’m so thankful for our campers and the joy it brings our kids. If you’re on the fence of buying an RV with young kids, just do it. Jeremy and Stephanie- listening to you tell us what your kids have gained through camping filled me with joy and excited for the future as my littles grow. Didn’t know I would be emotional today.”

Jeremy and Stephanie responded by discussing how each stage of traveling with kids has its own distinct pleasures and its own distinct challenges.

After discussing RVing with young kids Jeremy and Stephanie answers questions about choosing an RV domicile and whether or night it is appropriate for RV owners to spend the night in spaces at rest stops that are designated for truckers.  Things get a little controversial here–so make sure to tune in to the podcast wherever you get your favorite shows–or by clicking on the media player above.

The post RVing With Little Kids, RV Domiciles, Overnighting at Truck Stops: Yes or No? appeared first on The RV Atlas.

Did you know you can camp in the French Quarter of New Orleans? While this vibrant area is far from the typical landscape where you’d expect to find a campground, the French Quarter RV Resort is a short walk away, offering urban camping at its finest. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we welcome Kerri Cox to share a campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort and everything you need to know about camping in the Big Easy.

Kerri and her husband, Russell, recently spent spring break in NOLA. They soaked up the beautiful March weather, as well as the town’s music, food, architecture, and natural offerings. The French Quarter RV Resort provided a comfortable place to relax after busy adventures in the city.

To hear Jeremy talk about Kerri’s full campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast app.

Location of the French Quarter RV Resort

Location is everything when it comes to the French Quarter RV Resort. It’s located just off Interstate 10 and a few blocks from the French Quarter. By day, it’s easy to walk to the entertainment district in 15-20 minutes. The famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is just 10 minutes by foot — more on that in a minute.

Kerri and Russell opted to arrive at the campground midday to avoid any rush hour traffic in NOLA. The drive in was not too busy. To reach the campground, you’ll exit the interstate and navigate a city street for approximately 1/4 of a mile. Aside from the potential for traffic at the busiest times of day, the campground is super easy to reach, despite its urban environment.

NOLA does have a bit of a reputation as a dangerous city, but Kerri felt safe at the park. It is gated and has 24-hour security onsite. The main thing is to just pay attention to your surroundings and to not venture off the main path. At night, it’s advisable to take a cab home (Kerri and Russell actually took a human-powered bicycle taxi home one night and found it an exhilarating way to return to camp–there aren’t many places where you can do that!).

French Quarter RV Resort Campground Details

CAMPSITES: French Quarter RV Resort offers 52 campsites. Each is paved and has full hookups. All sites are back-ins and measure at least 30 feet by 60 feet in length. Big rigs will fit right in. Premium sites have gazebos or cabanas with lounge furniture, while the standard sites do not. Sites are fairly close together, as you might expect in a private RV park; however, Kerri felt the spacing was fair for an urban park.

AMBIANCE: While there is some grass between sites and landscaping around the pool, the sites themselves are not particularly scenic since the park is practically located under an overpass with a giant billboard towering above. Again, this is not traditional campground scenery, so you have to go in understanding that it truly is urban camping. You will hear lots of road noise and the city environment.

AMENITIES: While the scenery isn’t particularly beautiful, the campground is truly NICE. The pool and hot tub are small but have a resort vibe. The clubhouse has private bathrooms and showers, as well as a laundry room, all of which are clean and well maintained. The park does mostly cater to adults, but you might spot some kids rolling through, just like other campgrounds.

RATES: Expect to pay premium prices. Currently (as of 2024), standard sites are $120 a night (plus taxes). These sites are closer to the highway and under the brightly-lit billboard. Premium sites are $155 a night. These are slightly less noisy, have upgraded furniture, and may back up against a fence instead of being back-to-back with other RVs. While pricy, these rates are much lower than hotels in the area.

Insider Tips for Your Stay at the French Quarter RV Resort

• The Basin Street Station is just a 5-minute walk. It’s a stop for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours, which offer a fun way to navigate the city without a vehicle. It also has a visitor center and cute cafe with coffees and sandwiches. It’s also the departure point for tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
• The campground does book up, particularly for Mardi Gras, the annual Jazz Festival, and more. Expect to pay higher prices during these special events. Summer is actually the slow season.
• French Quarter RV Resort’s FAQ page has lots of helpful info for planning your visit to the park and the city.
• If you want more of a natural environment, Bayou Segnette State Park campground is highly reviewed and just 20-30 minutes or so outside of the French Quarter.
• Is New Orleans just a party town? No! There is so much to see and do that you can fully enjoy the city (even with kids). The party never ends on Bourbon Street, but the rest of the French Quarter is calmer (though, probably not true during Mardi Gras).

Things to Do While Camping in New Orleans

There’s more to see than the French Quarter! While the district is within walking district from French Quarter RV Resort, it’s worth doing a bus tour, driving, or using public transportation to venture out to city parks, the Garden District, and more. Here are a few things Kerri and Russell enjoyed:

• French Quarter: With its historic architecture, this is the true heart of the city. Stroll to Jackson Square to find artists, horse-drawn carriages, live music, street cars, and more. Of course, Bourbon Street is a party by day or by night. But, there’s more to the French Quarter than the booze. You’ll find restaurants, galleries, book stores, and more. Don’t miss Crescent City Books.
• The Presbytère: Located on Jackson Square, this Louisiana State Museum has permanent exhibits about Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina, offering a nice glimpse into the city’s history.
• Cemeteries: New Orleans is famous for its above-ground burial vaults. A cemetery tour is a must! You can only visit the oldest, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, with a tour. Check out Nicholas Cage’s pyramid-shaped vault that is awaiting his arrival., and learn about the infamous voodoo queen Marie Laveau.
• City Parks: Several parks offer a natural retreat outside of the city—and good places to check out the iconic Live Oak trees with boughs of Spanish moss: City Park and Audubon Park.
• Mississippi Riverfront: A fun and cheap way to experience the river is with a ferry ride ($3). You can also stroll the riverfront or book a ride on a steamboat for a classic journey.
• Garden District: A bit further out, this area is home to the classic historic New Orleans mansions.
• Music: Aside from all the street music, venture inside to find classic jazz and more. Preservation Hall is a classic spot to take in a show. We wish you could hear this photo!

To hear more details about where to go and what to eat while camping in New Orleans, listen to the full campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort by clicking play on the media player above or by looking for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast app.

Where to Eat While Camping in New Orleans

You could eat day in and day out and still find more food and treats to enjoy in New Orleans. Here are just a few recs:

• Cafe du Monde  — you have to get beignets while in town, of course! Get them at the Jackson Square location and walk to the riverfront. (Insider tip: The lines are long all day, so go at night. Get your beignets to go and walk over to the riverfront.)
• Central Grocery & Deli — grab a muffuletta sandwich to go (even if the temporary liquor store location looks sketchy, trust us!)
• Katie’s Restaurant & Bar — featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives (don’t overlook the simple chicken sandwich!)
• The Court of Two Sisters — great place to sample creole and cajun fare alongside traditional offerings while enjoying a jazz brunch
• Monty’s on the Square — great food on Jackson Square
• District Donuts, Sliders, & Brew — The Hot Chicken & Honey Butter Biscuit is to die for (and, even though it’s only on the breakfast menu, you may be able to get it later in the day). The ice cream is also delicious!
• Pralines — many places sell these local favorites, but Kerri especially like Laura’s Candies

To see Kerri’s photos of her trip, check out Travels with Birdy on Instagram. For more of her travels, head to the Travels with Birdy blog.

We hope you enjoyed this whirlwind tour of New Orleans! Did we cover everything you could see, do, or eat in the Big Easy? Absolutely not! However, we hope you got a sense of what it’s like to camp in New Orleans. Do you think you would try it?

The post French Quarter RV Resort in New Orleans: Campground Review appeared first on The RV Atlas.

We are big believers in taking your kids RVing while they are young–and we mean very young! Our 14 year old boys, Max and Theo, went on their first RV trip when they were right around 1 years old. Our youngest, Wes, who is 11 now, went on his first camping trip when he was 4 weeks old. Those trips were challenging. But they were also magical–and formative for our children.  Ten years ago we did a podcast called “The Family Road Trip, What’s in it for the Kids?” that really resonated with our audience at that time. That podcast eventually become a chapter in our book Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101–which is excerpted in this blog post–just below.  We revisit that podcast in the podcast in the media player just above–and we add four more reasons whey we think you should take your young kids camping without waiting until they are older and more able.

The following excerpt was originally published in Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101 in a chapter entitled “What’s in it for the Kids.”

We started camping when our oldest kids were 11 months old because of our dreams for the future. I can honestly say it wasn’t because we had some parenting vision that involved raising our boys in the woods. We loved travel. We loved road trips. And we wanted to keep having fun in spite of the drastic changes that happened as soon as our twin babies entered the picture. 

In hindsight, though, I feel so incredibly lucky that we bought that pop up camper. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it was exactly the right decision to help us raise our kids according to values that have become very important to us as parents. 

Anyone that has kids knows that the early years can be like a fog. You emerge from those baby years a bit confused and disoriented, wondering what just happened. Well, as we left that baby stage behind us, we started to realize that our efforts were truly paying off. Even though it wasn’t entirely by design, we had managed to create a life that was encouraging our boys to grow in many areas that were very important to us, like patience, creativity, and curiosity. 

At the time, we felt that many of these traits were limited to our actually camping experience. I would see them engage in imaginative play at the campsite in ways that wouldn’t necessarily translate to our backyard. But over the years, I have been amazed to watch these traits translate to every area of their life, including academics and organized sports. 

So, yes, I am thankful that I have taken my children to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, where the sun first strikes the eastern shores of the United States each morning. And I’m also grateful that they have stood next to some of the largest Redwood trees in the world on the California coast. But I am more grateful that we stumbled into this whole camping lifestyle when they were itty bitty babies, because their lives will be forever better because of it. 

I can now see that we have been giving our children the gifts of camping and I look forward to watching as they benefit for years to come. 

1. The Gift of Flexibility

As a new parent, I can admit that I was completely addicted to structure and routine. I don’t think that was a bad thing. I firmly believe it helped us avoid major breakdowns at key points in our journey. In fact, our commitment to the routine even while traveling probably made our trips much more enjoyable, even when the boys were babies. We would keep the same bedtime, nap time, and meal habits. That gave the boys a sense of familiarity and kept them from being overwhelmed by all the unknown factors that come along with travel.

Nevertheless, we were constantly introducing them to new environments. On one of our earliest family camping trips, we stayed at four different campgrounds over the course of 16 days. They had many familiar surroundings to help them feel secure (we actually traveled with their mini cribs in the pop up camper…crazy, we know), but they had to adapt their expectations for each new place. Some of the campgrounds had pools and playgrounds, and some didn’t. Over the years we have seen that they are now masters at getting the lay of the land in a new location. They don’t expect every place to be the same. They don’t need a pool to have fun. Camping has taught them how to find the best things about any new environment and embrace the fun, whether we are in the mountains or a lake or a beachside resort. 

I’ll never forget the time we traveled from a Jellystone Campground in Sioux Falls, North Dakota to Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park. Our kids went from swimming in a heated pool to scrambling up clay and volcanic rock formations in the space of 24 hours and didn’t even blink. I love that they know how to have a blast in a remarkable range of environments. 

2. The Gift of Sociability

Many people talk about how the American neighborhood has changed over the last few decades, and we personally found that to be true as young parents. Our friends and family were scattered across different cities and states, and we barely knew the people that lived on our block. 

When we started camping, we found that a lot of those traditional social interactions were alive and well at the campground. Folks sat out in their camp chairs waving to complete strangers who were walking by. It wasn’t unusual to start up a conversation with a couple and wind up enjoying a potluck dinner together the next night. Camping introduced us to a culture where people are open to meeting new folks and starting new friendships. In fact, we now camp throughout the year with at least 10 families that we met at various campgrounds. 

This has been great for us, but more importantly we now realize that it’s had a profound impact on our kids. Our boys will make new friends at a campground within hours of us pulling in. They have no problem striking up a conversation with some kids at the playground. I’ve seen them independently introduce themselves and ask where the other kids are from. They know how to organize a pick up game of tag in a split second. 

A couple of years ago these experiences ended up having a profound impact on our neighborhood at home. I had gotten sucked into the playdate culture, organizing social interactions for my kids throughout their childhood. But they had reached the age where I wanted them to develop some social independence. I told the boys that I was done being their social secretary. If they wanted to play, they were going to have to go to their friends’ houses, knock on the door, and ask if little Johnny could play. 

At first they resisted, but soon enough they mustered the courage to walk a couple of houses down and see if their friends could play. Two years later, I cannot believe the impact this has had on our neighborhood. I regularly have 12 or more kids playing in my backyard after school or riding bikes together around our loop of houses. They play manhunt across each other’s yard and race scooters down the hill. 

Max and Theo tell me that their friends at school, from the same town, think it’s crazy that all the kids in our neighborhood knock on each other’s doors every day after school and find out who can play. Apparently they all think that we live in a super fun area of town. I believe in my heart of hearts that we brought the campground back to our little slice of suburbia, and in a way transformed our kids’ childhood experience. 

3. The Gift of Imaginative Play

We know unscheduled, creative playtime is at risk for our kids. As much as we try to resist that, we get sucked into the busyness just like most other families out there. When we are at home, our boys are constantly asking us what the next exciting event is. Even when we attempt to have lazy, laid back Saturdays, the kids are asking for the schedule of activities by midmorning. 

Camping puts us in a different environment and helps our children shift modes. They intuitively head into the woods and find sticks for sword fights. They swing each other in the hammock. They build sand castles when we are beach camping and try to catch crayfish when we are near a stream.  Sticks, rocks, pickup games with kids at the campground. Even when there is a bounce pillow at the campground, they are having seat drop contest or playing Mother May I with other kids. 

Campsites with interesting natural features tend to really bring out our kids’ creativity. I’ll never forget one campsite in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. There was a giant rock to the side of the site, and our boys did nothing by play on that rock for four days straight. From that moment on I understood how camping could inspire my boys to be more creative people. 

4. The Gift of Physical Activity

Jeremy and I are naturally active people. Before the boys were born we were never the type to be bored on a day off from work. Between surfing, yoga, gardening, biking, and a million other hobbies, we kept ourselves busy. When kids came along, getting out of the house became more complicated, and we noticed that our activity level went way down. Even now that they are older, we still struggle to spend as much time outside as we should. Going for a walk on our local boardwalk sometimes feels like more work than it’s worth.  

There is no doubt that we have a more active lifestyle when we are camping and traveling. The boys wake up in the morning and are on their bikes before breakfast is even ready. I even notice that I walk the dog more when we are camping, since it’s so easy to just stroll around the campground. We’re more likely to look for nearby hiking spots or find a beautiful lake to launch the kayaks. The best part of this is that by the end of the day, the kids are completely worn out and fall asleep before their heads hit the pillow. 

5. The Gift of Patience

I didn’t grow up fishing, so when we started camping it was not part of our usual routine at the campground when the boys were babies. But campgrounds often have small catch and release ponds, so as they got older, the kids would regularly ask to fish. I’ll never forget the first time I watched my three year old sit for almost an hour, trying to catch a little sunfish. This was a kid who never stopped moving, yet he was willing to wait quietly for a fish to find his bait. 

The same thing happens on long car rides or challenging hikes. My boys are normally balls of energy that bounce from one thing to the next. So many parts of our camping life encourage them to wait patiently for the pay off.  

6. The Gift of Curiosity

As someone who loves learning new things, I’ve always wanted my kids to be curious people. I wanted them to know that there is a big, beautiful world outside and it’s worth exploring. I believe our camping trips helped establish that same curiosity in my children from a very young age. They know that the world outside of their own home is diverse. They know that different places will offer different types of adventures. I love that they are always excited to disover something new on our upcoming camping trips. 

We’ve heard this feedback from teachers over and over again throughout the years. The boys’ teachers always seem shocked at how diverse their knowledge is and how interested they are in thematic learning. I’m confident that’s a direct result of us teaching them about the Civil War while touring Charleston or about the lobster industry on a boat in Maine. 

7. The Gift of a Love for Nature 

A little while ago we were driving along the Wildlife loop in Badlands National Park, and we pulled the truck over to check out the prairie dog town. My boys were shocked and scandalized to find another family feeding pretzels to the animals. They went on and on about it for days. Didn’t they know it’s wrong to do that? Don’t they realize it harms the prairie dogs? 

Their regular exposure to nature and wildlife at state and national parks over the last decade has given the boys such a wealth of appreciation for the world around them. We never could have taught those same lessons from books or other media. They don’t just know the rules of the Leave No Trace philosophy. They also understand the purpose behind it. They know how overfishing affected the ocean waters of New England and how the natural world recovered from the eruption of Mount St. Helens. I’m so grateful that my kids are in awe of nature.

8. The Gift of a Family Narrative 

We had a lot of adventures when the boys were very young that we assumed they would never remember. That wasn’t the point at all. First of all, we wanted to have fun ourselves. Plus, we figured we were training them up as our little adventure buddies for the future. 

Well, it’s shocking to us how much our kids do actually remember about our adventures. Apparently a lot of these exciting moments have stuck. Of course we are always retelling the highlights of trips again and again throughout the years, but it’s also become a part of their identity. They think of themselves as explorers and travelers. They expect us to take them to epic destinations. And we are happy to deliver on that year after year.

To find out four more reasons why you should take your kids RVing while they are young–please click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

The post 12 Reasons Why You Should Take Your Kids RVing While They Are Young! appeared first on The RV Atlas.

We have rented several RV’s over the years (for a variety of different reasons) and we have loved the experience each and every time. Renting has given us the opportunity to try different types of RVs (like Class A, B and C motorhomes) and it has allowed us to camp at Disney World in the winter when we did not want to tow our own rig down from New Jersey. The peer to peer RV rental market has exploded in recent years and, in many areas of the country, there are plenty of options to choose from. When we have looked to rent we have always found plenty of options to choose from.

On today’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast we are pleased to welcome Maddi Bourgerie from RVshare onto the show for the very first time to talk about all aspects of enjoying an RV rental: we talk about tips for selecting an RV, tips for budgeting, tips for renting our own RV’s, and so much more. At the heart of our interview we also discuss a wide variety of the RV rental adventures that Maddi has taken over the years.

Maddi’s boyfriend even proposed to her on an RV Rental adventure in Hawaii and they have had many other RV rental adventures since then!

“Maddi is a travel expert who has worked in the industry for a decade, visited almost all 50 states and rented more than 20 RVs (for a wide variety of bucket list trips and adventures.) She currently works full-time for RVshare and is dedicated to the company’s mission to help travelers experience the magic of an RV adventure. Maddi has RVed on the East and West Coast checking off National Parks and music festivals from her bucket list. Her career has been dedicated to sharing her passion for travel.”

RVshare is the largest online community for RV renters and owners with a diverse selection of vehicles for rent across the US, ranging from luxury motorhomes to cozy camper vans. On RVshare you’ll find vehicles that can accommodate any outdoor adventure, whether it’s a weekend of camping or a cross-country tour of national parks. RVshare was Founded in 2013 in Akron, Ohio and has more than 100,000 RVs for rent across the country, from 60,000 owners. It is a peer-to-peer platform similar to Airbnb.

To save $30 dollars on a $500 dollar or more RV rental from RVshare please use code RVATLAS30 at checkout. For more tips about renting RV’s from RVshare please click here.

On this episode of the RV Atlas (which you can listen to by clicking on the media player above) Maddi shares tips about choosing the right RV rental. We discuss the following topics:

• Different RV Classes 
• RV Delivery 
• What are the important amenities? 
• What is best for your group? 
• Taking advantage of the search filters that RVshare has (amenities, pet-friendly, distance, etc)
• Flying to your destination and then renting 
• How rentals are perfect for first-timers

We also discuss the different types of RV rental experiences that can be had with an RVshare rental.

• RV Delivery 
• Boondocking
• Campgrounds 
• Road Trip s
• Music Festivals/Events
• Parking in your own driveway for extra room (family reunions, weddings)
• Local trips – nearby State Park or Campground 
• Fly to your destination and rent

Maddi also share tips to consider when budgeting for an RV rental.

• Rentals on RVshare range from $50 a night to $250+ a night 
• You Must Consider Taxes and Fees 
• Mileage 
• Gas Prices
• Campground fees 

Maddi’s RV Rental Adventures

Maddi has used RV rentals for 20+ trips to a wide variety of places and for a bunch of different uses. Here are some of the highlights:

Camper Van Rental in Hawaii

• Camper van in Hawaii – got engaged to my fiance (who also works at RVshare) 
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1666977 
• Class B 2020 Dodge Promaster, custom build-out with solar power 

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons

• Campervan through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons 
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1194195 
• 2019 winnebago Revel – off-roading, solar-powered, shower and toilet 

Airstream rental to Big Bend.

• Pulled an airstream to Big Bend National Park with my Volvo SC60 
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1470649 
• Caravel 22FB Travel Trailer

Family Reunions

• Parked an RV in my parents front yard for a family reunion 
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1181565 
• $185 a night – 2019 Forest River wildwood X-Lite 

We wrap up the show with some lessons that Maddi has learned from her 20+ RV rental adventures. Here are her final tips!

• The owner’s are super useful – make sure to get in contact with them ahead of time and learn the ins and outs of your rental at pick up/delivery
• Read reviews before booking 
• There will almost always be a Walmart stop involved 
• It is always a unique, memorable experience but doesn’t come without “roughing” it – camping showers, no turn down or daily maid service 😉 
• Your family will LOVE it – families with kids 7-16 say it is the best family vacation ever 
• Try before you buy 
• If you own, renting an RVshare is an undertaking. It is providing a hospitality experience to others. But it can be extremely rewarding and brings in extra income. 

The post RV Rental Adventures with Maddi Bourgerie from RVshare appeared first on The RV Atlas.

On this week’s Q+A episode of the RV Atlas podcast we tackle four more questions from our private facebook–which you can join here. We talk about options for replacing the RVQ with products from Blackstone, Weber, and more. We also discuss things to do in the Redwoods, and places to camp in Lake George, NY. At the end of the episode we also discuss the best tankless water heaters.

Replacing the RVQ

Our first question on this week’s RV Atlas podcast (which you can listen to by clicking on the media player above) is about replacing the dreaded RVQ that came with your RV. We recommend new products by Blackstone, Weber, and more. For a great resource about replacing your RVQ check out this podcast from 2021. We go over the best options for camp stoves, grills, and griddles.

Should I Get a Camp Grill, Camp Griddle, or Camp Stove?

Things to do in Redwood National and State Parks

Our trip to the PNW a few years back was one of our greatest adventures as a family. We spent four nights in the Redwoods and experienced amazing hiking amongst the mystical Redwood trees. Here is our podcast about the Redwoods and all of the wonderful hikes and family activities that we did there. It is a terrific resource for planning your own trip to this bucket-list worthy destination in Northern California.

RVFTA #155 Greetings from the Redwoods National and State Parks in California!

Lake George Campgrounds

We also discuss the two best campgrounds in the Lake George area of New York State. Moose Hillock and Lake George RV Resort are often mentioned as the two best campgrounds in this stunning region of the Adirondack Park. Here is our review of Moose Hillock from a few years back.

Our Return to Lake George and Moose Hillock NY

As for tankless water heaters? We recommend the Truma AquaGo as best in class. But we are happy with our Furrion that came standard in our Grand Design Imagine.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts and we hope to see you at the campground!

The post Replacing the RVQ, Redwoods, Lake George Campgrounds, Tankless Water Heaters appeared first on The RV Atlas.

We have long considered Virginia to be one of the most underrated states for camping in America. Virginia has camping in the mountains, and near the sea. There is camping along many rivers and along the quiet shores of the Chesapeake Bay. The entire state is also packed with historical and cultural sites–and many of them are near campgrounds. Virginia state park campgrounds are also excellent and a point of pride among Virginia’s RV owners and tent campers.

Virginia state park campgrounds are beautiful and in most cases, incredibly well maintained. Many of the campgrounds within the system also have sites with water and electric that are quite affordable at around $35 dollars per night.

We are thrilled to have Campin’ Erin on the RV Atlas this week to discuss Virginia’s state park campgrounds. In particular, three of her absolute favorites: Douthat State Park, Pocahontas State Park, and James River State Park. To listen to Jeremy interview Campin’ Erin please click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you  get your favorite podcasts.

Or read on below to find out a little bit more about these three Virginia state park campgrounds.

All photos compliments of Campin’ Erin. Thanks Erin!

Douthat State Park

Photo Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Douthat State Park campground is Campin’ Erin’s new favorite. This campground is located in the mountains and is a bit cooler in the summertime. There is a lake in the state park that is great for swimming, fishing, and recreation. The beach here is terrific and has excellent mountain views. There are three different camping areas in the park–and Campin’ Erin likes White Oak the best because of its shaded sites. Whispering Pines is open year around and more out in the open–and there is a third camping area right by the lake. Cabins and Lodge rooms are also available.

To find out more about camping at Douthat State Park–please click here.

Pocahontas State Park

Photo Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Pocahontas State Park is only 20 minutes away from Richmond–but it feels like it is a world away from the city. Recreational opportunities are abundant in this state park with options for boating, hiking, and swimming and playing in their epic aquatic center.  There are also terrific educational and cultural programs that take place at the park’s 2,000-seat amphitheater (pictured above). Campin’ Erin loves the campgrounds here because they have huge campsites and feel very private and removed from some of the hustle and bustle in the rest of the park. There are lots of options for cabins and yurts here–making it a great place for camping with friends and family that don’t tent camp or RV.

To find out more about camping at Pocahontas State Park–please click here.

James River State Park

Photo Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Virginia state park campgrounds are so beautiful–and James River State Park is definitely one of the prettiest. Located in Gladstone, Virginia in south central Virginia–this state park features a lovely campground set among rolling hills. There are 16 cabins here and there are also lodges available that can accommodate multiple families at a terrific price. The RV sites feature water and electric at a bargain price and some of them can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet.  Campin’ Erin and her family loved the natural playground–and you will too!

To find out more about James River State Park–please click here.

The post Virginia is for Campers! 3 Amazing Virginia State Park Campgrounds Worth Visiting appeared first on The RV Atlas.