Antelope Canyon, located in Page, Arizona, is a mesmerizing slot canyon known for its breathtaking beauty. Carved over thousands of years by the forces of nature, this natural wonder is a popular destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers alike.
I welcome you to my digital art gallery of Antelope Canyon!
“The Half-Pipe” – Orin YellowmanSurf’s Up!All of these pictures were taken in Lower Antelope Canyon on the Dixie Tour.
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The canyon is divided into two sections: the Upper Antelope Canyon and the Lower Antelope Canyon. The Upper Antelope Canyon is renowned for its famous light beams that magically illuminate the sandstone walls. The beams of sunlight create a surreal and ethereal atmosphere, attracting photographers from around the world.
The Lower Antelope Canyon, on the other hand, offers a more intimate and adventurous experience. Visitors can navigate through narrow passageways and climb ladders while being surrounded by stunning rock formations and vibrant hues. The interplay of light and shadows within the canyon creates a unique visual spectacle.
All of these pictures were taken in Lower Antelope Canyon on the Dixie Tour.
Both sections of Antelope Canyon are situated on Navajo land and can only be accessed through guided tours. The knowledgeable Navajo guides not only ensure visitors’ safety but also provide fascinating insights into the cultural and geological significance of the canyon.
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Tour Information
Lower Antelope Canyon:
The Lower Canyon terrain is quite rugged, and multiple parts of the tour involve climbing ladders with slope and maneuvering between tight rocks. Be cautious if you plan to take this tour and listen to the tour guide with you to safely navigate each obstacle.
Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours – Lower Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour, prices: $55 for visitors 13 and older, $35 for 4-12, and those 3 and younger are free, but no strollers are allowed on the tour because of the ladders and climbing obstacles. Prices do not include the required Navajo Nation Permit Fee of $8/person. Tour times last approximately 60 minutes and cover close to a mile of distance walking.
Ken’s Tours – General Tour, prices: same as above, $55 for visitors 13 and older, $35 for 4-12, and those 3 and younger are free, but no strollers are allowed on the tour. There’s also a deluxe tour for $135/person that includes not only the tour in the canyon, but you’ll receive a free meal, and visit the local Heritage Site to learn more Diné (Navajo) culture. Prices do not include the required Navajo Nation Permit Fee of $8/person. Tour times last 60 minutes and cover approximately one mile of distance.
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Upper Antelope Canyon:
The terrain of the Upper Canyon is more accessible, and is usually busier, due to tourists and flocks of photographers. If you would rather walk than climb multiple terraces and levels, Upper Antelope Canyon is probably your best bet.
Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours – Upper Antelope Canyon Tour, prices: $108/person but cost an additional $11 if you want to visit during peak sunlight hours. Those 7 and younger are not permitted on these outings. There are a total of 21 steps going up and 112 steps going down, for those of you curious before going.
Antelope Canyon Tours – Upper Antelope Canyon Sightseeing Tour, prices: $85/person for people eight and older, $75/person for those seven and younger. On this tour, you’ll spend an additional 40 minutes round-trip of travel to get to the slot canyons from the office location.
Antelope Canyon offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sheer beauty of nature’s artistry. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, a visit to Antelope Canyon is sure to leave you in awe.
Steps climbing through the canyon.Near the discrete entrance to Lower Antelope Canyon.The way down into Lower Antelope Canyon!Orin Yellowman, our Diné (Navajo) tour guide.
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Page, Arizona is a stunning destination filled with natural wonders and exciting attractions. It seems like you could write pages and pages about all of the adventures there are to do here in Page. But the real question many of us have is, “Just how many Pages are there in Arizona?” I know, awful dad jokes – I’ll try to refrain for the rest of this blog – no promises though…
Time to read:
6–9 minutes
Lower Antelope Canyon.Horseshoe Bend (“East-Rim of the Grand Canyon”).Bree at Lower Antelope Canyon.“This is as close as I’ll get to the edge.” -Matt.Each look at the canyon reveals another optical illusion.
In this blog, we’ll cover some of the top sights not to be missed while exploring this incredible desert-painted landscape in Page, Arizona. Remember while reading this list to check the opening hours, availability of guided tours, and any necessary permits to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit as these fluctuate often depending on the season.
Situated west of the Navajo Nation’s border, Page, Arizona, has a little bit for everyone. Does exploring one of the most photographed canyons in the world sound cool to you? How about seeing the incredible “East-Rim of the Grand Canyon” – Horseshoe Bend? What about authentic Mexican food and an ice-cold margarita? And don’t worry, Page, AZ, even has a Walmart for all the necessities you forget to pack.
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Antelope Canyon
We learned from our tour guide, Orin Yellowman, that you can take vertical panoramas with the iPhone 11 – look at this incredible picture!
Explore the captivating slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, known for its beautiful sculpted sandstone walls and breathtaking light beams. Whether you choose Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, both offer a surreal photography experience.
“The Half Pipe”Incredible waves.Bree in Lower Antelope Canyon.Wind and water work together to shape the walls of the canyon.“Just WOW!”This place is incredibly photogenic.
We explored the Lower Antelope Canyon with Dixie’s Tours and it was worth every penny. When you get there, ask for Orin Yellowman as your tour guide – if you want Diné cultural history, laughs, and a master course in how to take captivating photos – He’s the absolute man – thank you Orin!
Prices start around $35/kid and $55/adult, + the Navajo park & recreation fee (another $8/person). Don’t forget to bring a little extra spending money for any gift shop purchases and tips you wish to give your guide.
Caution: be prepared to climb ladders and very sloped surfaces for the Lower Antelope Canyon tour. The Upper Antelope Canyon tour is more accessible if you have any concerns.
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Orin Yellowman, tour guide, with Dixie Tours.Stairway down into the Lower Antelope Canyon.Parts of the tour are difficult to navigate. Be prepared for this – your tour guide can aid you if needed.
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend, known as the “East-Rim of the Grand Canyon”.
Known by many as the “East-Rim of the Grand Canyon,” here you can marvel at the iconic Horseshoe Bend, a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Situated almost as far east as the Grand Canyon goes, these incredible rock formations are a delight to see. Enjoy a short hike to the viewpoint and witness the remarkable beauty of the massive 1,000-foot deep canyon.
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This place almost doesn’t seem real – it’s one of those hard to explain ones. You just have to see it in person to even believe it! Over time, the Colorado River has been carving Horseshoe Bend and the Grand Canyon out chunk by chunk, very slowly.
The Sun was blinding – hence my squinty eyes.
Prices are $10/car (same price for RVs + campers) to get in the gate – there’s even a convenient RV-sized parking! With a short 0.6-mile stroll from the parking lot, you’ll arrive at the canyon overlook.
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Discover the splendor of Lake Powell, a massive reservoir encompassing crystal-clear blue waters and majestic red rock formations. Indulge in water activities like kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating, or simply relax along the scenic beaches. Guided tours are available.
Visit the impressive Glen Canyon Dam, the marvel of engineering that created Lake Powell. Take a guided tour to learn about the dam’s construction, its role in generating hydroelectric power, and the history of the area.
Prices: It’s free to get in and park, whether you want to see the Visitor Center, walk along the dam, or learn some local history about the lake. You can’t beat the price of admission here!
You can also visit the Carl Hayden Visitor Center to learn more from the staff there. Everything from the history of the dam, exhibits displaying damage that has happened over the years, and interactive learning opportunities for all ages. Children can even earn junior badges as this property is part of the National Park Service.
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Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Rainbow Bridge, from Adam Birken.
The only way to see this amazing arch is by scenic boat tour or a long hike to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world’s largest natural bridges. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is an incredible sight to behold and holds great cultural significance for Native American tribes in the region.
See a barren, yet-alive landscape encompassing 1.25 million acres ready for exploration. Hundreds of miles can be hiked, biked, kayaked, explored, trekked, climbed, or simply walked. You are the deciding factor. How will you adventure in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area?
We Can’t Have a Blog Without FOOD!
I’m a foodie, so whenever I can get my hands on something new and tasty I.am.in. You don’t even have to ask – the answer is, YES!
Fiesta Mexicana with my love, Bree. I ordered a Super Burrito and Dos Equis Amber, and she had a Steak Fajita Burrito and a Fiesta Margarita. Both were amazing, and their “hot” salsa was bomb as a free appetizer!
Fiesta Mexicana claims to have the best margaritas in town, and although they’re good, we didn’t try any other margaritas in town. So, the verdict is out on that one. I can say they weren’t the best we’ve ever had but there burritos certainly were in top five!
Big John’s Texas BBQ has a Navajo and rustic theme. We didn’t have the time to try this one, but I can say it looked like good BBQ. Reviews say it’s fantastic. Reasonably priced menu with great side options, fruit cobbler and ice cream for dessert – yum!
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Another one we didn’t get to try that looked appetizing was BirdHouse, where the local Arizona folk claim the best chicken around is served up daily.
Whatever you pick you can’t go wrong in this small town of Page, Arizona. There is heart and charm located all over the downtown area.
Campground Recommendation
Roam America – Horseshoe Bend.Sunrise at Roam America.Catching an epic sunrise!
Roam America – Horseshoe Bend was a fantastic stay (you may also find this one called “The Canyons RV Resort and Cabins” on Google – they just changed their name). This is the future of RV Glamping – move over KOA!
Brand new washers/dryers.Bathrooms ares suite-style rooms.Fancy tech allows you to pay digitally with a card.The waiting area of each bath hous+ laundry buildings looks something like this. There’s at least 4-5 of these comfort station buildings on site.
We HIGHLY recommend this campground as we had a phenomenal stay here. For the price of $50-$75/night for a RV site, you get full hook-ups, brand-new clean restrooms and shower suites, a dog park, pool, splash pad, camper store, digital laundry, WIFI, and more. This campground is conveniently located near all of the “Just WOW” sights on this list!
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The Adventure Continues
Let us know your travel plans! Are you passing through Page, Arizona to get to the Grand Canyon, see Arches National Park, or coming to see the iconic “East-rim of the Grand Canyon” – Horseshoe Bend? We’d love to hear about your travels – tag us @noplacelike.gone on Instagram + Facebook! You can find us quickly with the links below.
Nature has a unique way of making us feel refreshed and alive. Spending time in the great outdoors can have numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Being in nature, we are able to unplug and reconnect with a more primal & simplistic state of being. Today, we’re going to talk about Ecopsychology and some of the top benefits of spending time in nature outside. Continue reading to learn how the great outdoors can be more effective than many of your prescription medications.
Ecopsychology is a word for “the study of nature and how it affects the human mind.” We’ve learned in the last 10+ months while full-time traveling in a RV that there’s nothing that even comes close to comparing with nature. You can take prescription meds, read self-help books, go to therapy, practice gratitude daily, etc. and then adding in time with nature will make you feel even better.
Research done by Yale University, showed that time in nature — as long as people felt safe in their environment — was an antidote for stress. Spending time outdoors can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
There’s a reason tree roots look like the nerves in the brain.
In other studies done by the American Psychological Association it was discovered that a simple stroll through a city park or a day spent hiking in the wilderness can be extremely beneficial. Their studies showed that exposure to nature was linked to improved attention, lower stress hormones, overall better mood, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even upticks in empathy and cooperation.
So why is this the case? What about nature encourages our mind and bodies to breathe slower, reduce anxiety, and function better holistically? Ecopsychology is a growing field that studies how nature and our environment affects our mental health, stress, mood, physical activity, oxygen levels, and more. We originally thought nature freaks were the only ones who thought this way – but numerous studies have shown that the hippies were right all along and modern science is actually on their side.
Nature Can Do Many Things, So Let’s Explore its Benefits:
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies. Being surrounded by plants, trees, and fresh air can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can significantly lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.
Stress is a major talking point for everyone – you hear it in the news, at work meetings, and even in casual conversations. Everyone is “so busy” and stressed. The stress may look different person to person but there’s one thing that remains consistent – stress will completly fill any space you allow it to have.
There’s many times when we get stressed from overworking, being too busy, not having enough free time, or even just not sleeping properly. Getting out into nature is a free, easy way to get out and feel better – instantly. You don’t have to call the doctor to get a prescription and wait for it to kick it, you don’t have to sit in a therapy session for an hour, you don’t have to wait another day – just grab your shoes and hit the road, Jack.
Improves Physical Health
Nature is a great place to engage in physical activity. Hiking, walking, and biking are just a few examples of outdoor activities that can improve your cardiovascular health, reduce your risk of obesity, and lower your blood pressure.
It’s well known that we all need to work out, eat healthier, have less sugar and caffeine, and many, many other things that doctors tell us at every annual visit. However, just going out on a walk is enough to help – Rome wasn’t built in a day. While you are out exploring you get to create your own adventure. Do you want to hike 1 mile or 5 miles? The world is your oyster. The key is that you are outdoors doing something, and something is better than nothing.
Did you know that walking, hiking, running, or doing any form of exercise outdoors is the healthiest way for your body to produce “natural caffeine?” There’s no drawbacks to taking a walk. Unlike grabbing a sugar filled caffeinated beverage, you won’t have a sugar crash at the end of that walk either.
Boosts Immune System
Being in nature can also help boost your immune system. Trees and plants release phytoncides, which are chemicals that help protect them from germs and insects. When we breathe in these natural chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell that fights infection and even cancer.
“A growing body of evidence suggests that various forms of being exposed to nature, such as living close to, frequenting or even looking at environments dominated by living material, are able to provide salutogenic effects on human health. They range from beneficial psychological to physiological outcomes such as attention restoration, improved mood, lowered anxiety and decrease in depressive symptoms, improved cardiovascular, metabolic, oncogenic, respiratory and endocrine function as well as faster healing after surgery and longer life-expectancy. Often, these benefits are attributed to indirect effects of nature exposure, such as increased physical activity, social interactions, positive mental effects and exposure to sunlight, but recent findings have also highlighted direct physiological mechanisms that are triggered by exposure to natural environments. This review focuses on direct mechanisms by which nature can affect human health, more specifically on air-borne compounds emitted by natural environments that have the potential to modulate immunological responses when inhaled, such as biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), terpenes, essential oils, charged ions, pollen, fungi and bacteria.”
Did you know that your immune system could be enhanced by being out in nature? Because studies are finding out that it absoutely can be.
Enhances Creativity
Nature has been found to enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. In a study conducted by the University of Utah, participants who went on a nature walk prior to testing performed better on a creativity test than those who went on an urban walk.
Provides Mental Clarity
Nature can also help clear our minds and improve our focus. Stepping away from our daily routines and technology can help us recharge and refocus our thoughts.
Have you ever been sitting at work for a few hours and just felt like you can’t focus anymore? There’s too many phones ringing, emails buzzing, your boss wants to have a meeting, and the intern has 500 questions for you today. It’s all happening at once, and the reality is that our brains and bodies were not made to handle this much stimulation at once.
Stress, depression, and other mental illnesses often follow when we are subjected long term to doing something that we can’t sustain. Your mind and body both can not keep up with the constant pinging of the world – so give them a break.
By going outside in nature, you allow yourself to see the trees, plants, animals, and the simplicity of the world. We have stepped away from a simple life in exchange for our digital world of notifications. At any time, you can decide to put down your phone and walk outside. Even turn it off, so that it won’t bother you the rest of the day. We are allowed to rest, and none of us are robots – even if our employers think we are or want us to be. We have to take breaks and reconnect with ourselves.
Wrapping Up:
Spending time in nature can have numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Whether it’s through hiking, camping, or even just taking a walk in the park, make sure to incorporate nature into your life to reap the (many) benefits it has to offer.
We appreciate you reading this far!
We’ve been full-time living in a RV for 10+ months, follow along with our adventures by clicking the buttons below:
National Parks are incredible and almost other-worldly. If you haven’t visited one yet, make sure you add one or two to your summer plans now. We’ve been lucky enough to camp at 10 national parks so far, and every single one of them in the national park system have been incredible.
Theodore Roosevelt, often called “the conservation president,” impacted the National Park System well beyond his term in office. He doubled the number of sites within the National Park System during his time in office. Between 1901 & 1909, President Teddy Roosevelt signed legislation establishing five new national parks within the National Park System: Crater Lake, Oregon; Wind Cave, South Dakota; Sullys Hill, North Dakota (later re-designated a game preserve); Mesa Verde, Colorado; and Platt, Oklahoma (now part of Chickasaw National Recreation Area). By the end of his term the US was the proud protector of
There is nothing so American as our national parks … The fundamental idea behind the parks … is that the country belongs to the people, that it is in process of making for the enrichment of the lives of all of us.
Teddy Roosevelt
We’re going to show you all of the current national parks by state with images and short explanations. If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure, then this list is where to start with the national park system.
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Denali National ParkGates of the Arctic National Park and PreserveGlacier Bay National ParkKatmai National ParkKenai Fjords National ParkKobuk Valley National ParkLake Clark National ParkWrangell-St. Elias National Park
Wouldn’t you love to wash up on this shore at American Samoa National?National Park of American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
Arizona
We went to the Grand Canyon in December 2022 – incredible!Grand Canyon National Park, ArizonaSagauro National ParkPetrified Forest National ParkPetrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park, ArkansasHot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
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California
Channel Islands National ParkKings Canyon National ParkMe at Zabriskie Point in Death Valley, January 2023Death Valley National ParkJoshua Tree National ParkMe at the Palm Oasis, Joshua Tree, March 2023Lassen Volcanic National ParkLassen Volcanic National ParkPinnacles National ParkRV’s can’t fit through Redwood trees, LOL, Redwood National ParkRedwood National ParkEl Capitan, Yosemite National ParkGeneral Sherman Tree (the world’s largest tree) at Sequoia National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkRocky Mountain National ParkGreat Sand Dunes National ParkOur Luna at Great Sand Dunes National, November 2022Mesa Verde National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
The climate is tropical in Biscayne National ParkBiscayne National ParkEverglades National ParkMarsh swamps in Everglades National ParkDry Tortugas National Park
Biscayne National Park, Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park, Florida
Hawaii
Haleakala National ParkA barren landscape in Haleakala National ParkHawai’i Volcanos National ParkWaterfall and spring at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
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Idaho
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National ParkYellowstone National ParkGeysers spray hot spring water in all directions at Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
Kentucky
A shot we took of former mining operations while in cave at Mammoth Cave National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Texas
Under the starts at Big Bend National ParkBig Bend National ParkGuadalupe National Park
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Utah
Arches National ParkBryce Canyon National ParkCanyonlands National ParkHorseshoe Bend at Canyonlands National ParkCapitol Reef National ParkA cave within Zion National ParkZion National Park
Virgin Islands National ParkBeautiful Palms at Virigin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
Virginia
Shenandoah National ParkSprawling hills of Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Washington
The beach at sunset at Olympic National ParkOlympic National ParkExcellent trail view at North Cascades National ParkNorth Cascades National ParkMount Rainier National Park
We have merchandise now! Everything from stickers, water bottles, RV pillows, blankets, and plenty of clothing options (t-shirts, shorts, yoga pants, sports bras, hoodies, and more!)
You can click the above green hyperlink, any of the below images, or copy and paste the link below into a new browser window. Any of these will get you to our new merch store – and we know you’ll find something awesome!
Pictured above are all of the 6x custom designs that we have. These are all sample images of the merch we currently are selling, although plenty of other colors, sizes, and products are available on our official store!
If you haven’t used a RV before, it can be a little intimidating. We’ve been there too (we all started as newbies!), so today we’re bringing you this RV guide for beginners to help make the process painless. After reading this RV guide, you’ll learn how to setup your campsite and all the needed utilities for a RV. This will get you out in the great outdoors and finding your next adventure in no time. We’re Matt & Bree with No Place Like Gone, and we’ve been living and traveling the US full-time in a RV for almost a year now, here are our tips for setting up an RV for the first time.
Time to read:
9–13 minutes
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If you have any questions while reading this RV guide, make sure to shoot us a DM on social media with the below links:
Below are the basic steps of RV set up, from pulling in to the campground to roasting those s’mores. Keep reading for a detailed description of each step.
Arrive at campground
Find site number
Park in site
Level
Release slides (if you have them)
Hook up your utilities
Electricity
Water
Sewer
Enjoy camping!
Arriving at the Campsite
Our RV parked in a campsite in SoCal.
Once you get to the campground you’ve decided to stay at, you’ll have to find where your campsite number is.
Generally, numbering starts from smallest to largest and increases the further you drive. Go slow and pay attention to directional signs. Once you find your campsite, park in front of it but make sure you aren’t blocking the road. You’ll want to hop out to walk the perimeter of the campsite before parking.
Look for where the utilities are located in the campsite (electricity, water, sewer) but keep in mind not all campsites will have all three. Confirm where the utilities hook up on your RV or camper (typically on the driver’s side).
Check and see whether it’s easier to pull-in or back-in to the spot, typically you can tell by how the campsite is angled against the road – the utilities will also help determine this.
Park Your RV With This Guide
If you aren’t by yourself, you’re in luck (for many reasons). The person with you should hop out so that they can help guide you into the spot. Parking an RV takes teamwork! This is especially important when you are guiding your RV back into a spot. Instead of shouting throughout the campground, it’s best if you get on the phone to communicate directions with each other.
Backing up a trailer is no easy feat for a newbie – it takes practice AND patience.
Once backed into the spot, give yourself a pat on the back! If you managed to miss hitting anything, give yourself another pat on the belly … it’s dinner time! Well, first you have to hook the RV up to power, water, and all of the other things but you’ll be bbq’ing in no time.
RV Leveling Guide
You’ll want to make sure the RV is level so that you don’t trip, get hurt, or feel wobbly. There’s also other benefits behind this like water and propane flowing properly as well. If your fridge runs off of propane it is especially important to be level to prevent damage to your appliance.
If you’re renting a RV or camper, you might not have the right equipment to level. Make sure to check with who you have rented fromif to confirm they provided leveling instructions.
Auto-Levelers
One type of auto-leveler.Another type of auto-leveler.
If you have auto-levelers, you are the luckiest of all. You would know this because they are a huge deal in the world of RVs. With auto-levelers you can press a few buttons and be leveled within a minute or two. That makes things easy, right?
Jack Stands
With automatic jack stands, you can press the buttons to maneuver the jack stands down onto the ground to help you level and support your RV. If you have manual jack stands, you’ll have to use an impact drill or lever to turn the jacks to the proper height on each side.
Leveling Blocks
10-pack of Camco leveling blocks. Click the image above to be taken to the blocks we recommend on Amazon.
We use leveling blocks because we’re cheap, woo! With these, you’ll have to pull up onto the blocks and check your levels a few times until you get it right. The blocks interlock and stack just like legos, nothing fancy here, folks.
Quick Guide to Slide-Outs
Slide-outs are a great way to gain additional space in your RV’s floor plan. Many rigs have 2-3 slide-outs and there’s also some without any. We live full-time in a 2022 Coachmen Cross Trail 23XG which is a model with no slide-outs.
Our motorhome: 2022 Coachmen Cross Trail 23XG in Jacksonville, FL.
You’ll want to make sure that how you parked allows adequate room for the slide-outs on each side. This will mean that you can not be parked too close to trees or any other obstructions.
Insider tip: Typically you’ll have to leave the engine running of your motorhome to operate the slides, whereas campers and travel trailers do not have this problem.
By finding the slide-out control panel (probably located in the interior of the entrance to your RV) you can operate the slide-outs with the buttons. Make sure that you don’t hear any crazy or weird noises as they are extending out.
Insider tip: You can also open the windows so that you can watch as the slides come out. This will give you extra views to watch any trees or potential danger objects.
Utilities Guide for RVs
Electrical Hook-up
We’re going to have a crash course on RV utilities. Make sure you have all the proper RV accessories and necessities if you are new to camping so that you don’t have any issues when you get to the campsite.
For the renters: if you’re renting, you should have a water hose, sewer hose, power cord, and potentially other accessories with your RV. Make sure to check with who you’ve rented from to confirm what came with your rental.
An electrical surge protector is highly recommended. Click the image to see the one we use from Amazon.
You’ll want to hook up your electrical surge protector and flick on the 30A or 50A breaker depending on what your RV or camper is. You’ll find this out by which cord you have – it’s either 3-prongs or 4-prongs.
50A with four prongs (far left), 30A with three prongs (middle), 15/20A is a house electrical outlet (far right).
Do not hook up your RV or camper power cord yet! You should only be putting an electrical surge protector to the power pedestal (a sophisticated word for “electrical hook-up”).
Flick on the 30A or 50A depending on your cord, and check if the power is all green lights and safe to use. Otherwise, bring up any grounding issues or faulty electrical problems to the campground staff immediately.
Once your surge protector gives you an A-O-K, it’s time to move on to the power cord. Flick off the 30A or 50A breaker (depending on which one you turned on) to connect your power cord to the surge protector. After, connect the other side of the power cord to your RV electrical connection port. Now is time for the power – flick the corresponding breaker from back on.
Water Connections
A water pressure regulator is recommended to protect the plumbing in your RV. Click the image to see the one we recommend on Amazon.A water filter guarantees you’ll have cleaner water coming into your RV. You’ll want this if you plan to drink the water. Click the image to see the one we recommend on Amazon.
You’ll want to start with turning on your water spigot at the campsite to verify that it works. Let it run for 20-30 seconds to remove any sediment and water that may be settled down in the pipe. Now you can turn it back off.
It’s time to connect your water pressure regulator. One end of the water hose will then connect to the water pressure regulator, and the other end to the water connection on your rig (another word for RV). Be sure to look for the connection that says “city connection” or something similar and NOT “tank fill” – otherwise you’ll be filing your fresh water tank only!
Now you can jump for joy because all you have remaining for this section of the RV guide is to turn on the water and hope for plumbing to do its job. If you notice any leaks or spraying, turn off the water and try to tighten the connection where you saw an issue. Usually this is a simple and quick fix.
Sewer Connections
Remember, not all campsites will have all of these utility connections. Sewer is the least common to see, but many places that are more expensive do have a hook-up for this. If you want to know what van life is actually like, you may end up with poop on you at this point. Just warning you now so that you are prepared for the inevitable.
You’ll want to put one end of the sewer hose aka stinky slinky (lol, it literally is one though) to the waste connection on your RV. This will be a black plastic valve somewhere under the RV near the other utilities at the rear.
MAKE SURE THE SEWER VALVE HANDLES ARE CLOSED! There should be two of them and both should be closed or you will end up with a mess on your hands.
After connecting to your RV, place the other end of the poop slinky (I coined this term) down into the campsite sewer connection on the ground. From here you can let the tanks fill and dump once or you can let the gray drain while you’re parked. If you opt to leave the gray open (sink and shower waste) be sure temperatures won’t be dropping below freezing. Whether you dump once or leave the gray open, you have to leave the black tank (toilet and poop) valve closed and only dump it when you’re ready.
Insider tip: When you go to leave, you’ll always drain the black tank first and then the grey tank after because the sink water will help wash down the poop hose and any potential clogs.
Our new camping merch will level you up from RV beginner to RV pro.
Get to Camping!
That’s basically it … you’ve made it through this RV Setup Guide for Beginners. It wasn’t that bad, was it?
There’s plenty more to learn about this lifestyle, and we want to share it all with you. But the very best way to learn about it – go on a camping trip yourself!
And, we really want to hear about your adventure. If you’re reading this guide, that means you’re probably about to go somewhere awesome very soon. So, where are you camping? Tell us about it in the comments below.
Where Will Your Next Adventure Be After Reading Our RV Guide?
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If you’ve ever bought a RV (brand new or new-to-you) then you know that not everything comes included – especially RV niceties. Expect to be searching Google for RV accessories near me a lot! Even brand new models need customizing to fit your liking. It’s similar to buying a house or renting an apartment, you’ve got to make it feel like YOUR home. Even if you LOVE everything about your RV there are a few additional things you’ll need to purchase before you hit the road.
Amazon has taken our shopping habits and injected them with steroids. We can buy literally anything from the comfort of our own homes. The Amazon fairies make it so simple to click on the app and start shopping; their engineers know the algorithm and know exactly what you want. There’s plenty of things recommended by the algorithm to buy for your RV; these range from accessories, necessities, RV niceties, and doo-dads. But with millions of options, what do you actually need?Glad you asked, here’s some of our favorite Amazon buys for RV life.
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RV Niceties, Necessities, & Accessories on the Amazon Shopping List
Here’s the link to the Amazon wishlist that I’ll be referencing throughout this blog if you’d like to see it for yourself. You can easily purchase through this link (nope, we won’t get paid if you do), or you can click any individual item below as you’re reading to add it to your Amazon cart. Let’s jump into the RV niceties!
RV Necessities:
Water Pressure Regulator: This bad boy is a must. Occasionally when camping, you will find campgrounds that have extremely high water pressure (we’ve seen 100+ psi). This is way too high for an RV. High pressure is a death sentence for your cheaper plastic and PVC piping in your RV. It is recommended to have your water pressure around 40-50 psi. A water pressure regulator reduces the pressure down to a level that is safe for your camper.
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Electrical Surge Protector: Another must-have. You can not safely hook up your camper straight to shore power. Shore power (or power pedestal, or electric box) is the in-ground power that you connect your RV to at the campground, these typically have both 30amp and 50amp hookups. If for any reason the power pedestal was to fail, that current will travel directly into your home on wheels and fry some serious bacon. Let’s not do that … okay?
Unique RV Digest-It Holding Tank Treatment: RVs go hand-in-hand with poop jokes, and for good reason. If you aren’t properly treating your black tank, you will have a (brown) mess on your hands – pun intended.
Scared of having your own holding tank mishap? Don’t worry, you aren’t the only one. We have heard plenty of horror stories of people going to dump and the unfortunate things that occur at the dump station including the dreaded sewer shower. Unique’s products are literally the $h**t! pun intended.
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They make everything liquid so you don’t have to worry about clogs, poop pyramids, or issues at that dump station. All you have to do is drop a pod in with some water each time after you use the dump station. Unique works its magic and you don’t have to worry.
This is a 10/10 product and works the best out of several tank treatment products we’ve tried – seriously buy some TODAY. We don’t have any affiliation with them but we would happily be a brand ambassador for them!
Sewer Hose Kit: Camco makes a LOT of great products for RVs. Make sure you keep them in mind when browsing parts because they are a reputable brand. I am in no way affiliated with them, but maybe one day they’ll hit me up too. Opting for a kit with a clear elbow will making dumping MUCH easier, allowing you to see if there are any issues and when your tank is empty. Be sure to get a second hose – sometimes the ground sewer connection is far away and sometimes your first hose may get punctured and unusable – a backup is always a good idea.
RV Sewer Hose Caps: You MUST have an extra one or two of these handy. If you’re in a class C like us, or any other rig with low clearance, it’s inevitable that you’ll hit a bump and crack or lose your cap in the process. It’s also possible that you lose one at the dump station.
You just never know; so, grab an extra for less than $10 and be prepared. Before we bought this one with the included tether, we lost our cap in a parking lot. We hopped out to grab it and before we could, we watched as someone krrrrunccched our cap with their car tires … lol, RV life.
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RV Accessories:
Portable Ceiling Fans: These are a life saver, especially in spring and summer. Which is probably when you want to be camping anyway, right?! So, just go ahead and order two or three right now. You can’t go wrong with these fans as they can make it feel much cooler when temperatures outside begin to climb. This brand is USB powered which is an added bonus for times when you may be running off of house power and are conserving energy – no need to crank that noisy generator! This is one of our favorite RV accessories for the summer!
Outside Patio Rugs: Do you want to track all kinds of dirt, sand, and mud into your RV? Well you won’t have to if you have a nice outdoor rug. These will help you keep the outdoors outdoors and dramatically cut down on the amount of dirt getting tracked into your RV. They will also help keep your campsite clean for those of you that like to walk barefoot outside.
This is the one we recommend because it’s the one (even the same pattern) that we use! It’s survived almost a year on the road and is showing minimal signs of use. They also make cool ones with LED lights made into the perimeter of them if you’re feeling fancy.
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Outdoor String Lights: Want your campsite to be a shining star in the night sky? Well you can with these string lights! Not only do the Edison style bulbs look awesome, but they also are outdoor and weather-rated. String these between trees at the campsite, along the ground, or from your awning to illuminate your space.
Just be sure to turn them off when you go to bed so you don’t keep anyone up with your lights. And believe me, the campground police will not be happy with you if you leave your lights on all night shining in your neighbor’s window. If you want to make sure won’t forget to turn them off, consider using a Christmas light timer like this one.
RV Vent Shades: These are great for keeping the heat out of your roof vents. In the spring and summer temperatures outside soar and you’ll feel it getting warmer inside your RV too. Block out the sun and heat coming in from your roof vents with these. They attach with velcro so they are removable and foldable if you want partial light. They are also reflective and come in a variety of colors. Grab one for each of your roof vents (we have three!) – you can’t go wrong with these RV accessories.
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Wheel Chocks: You place these under your wheels when you get parked in a new camp site so that you don’t roll away – literally. You can also use a brick, a block of wood, or a freakin’ rock if you really wanted to. PLEASE please be sure to use your chocks if you’re parked on ANY type of incline – but they’re always a good idea regardless.
X-scissor jacks: For you peeps with fifth wheels and travel trailers, you’ve probably got two wheels on each side of your trailer, or maybe even three. With a scissor jack, you can anchor two neighboring tires to each other which will not allow them to roll you away. Wowzers!
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RV Niceties:
Hydra Hide Gloves: Why do I recommend these bad boys? Because, they will keep your hands clean from any potential “brown problems” while also allowing you to get a good grip on your connections at the dump station. Some people like to use disposable gloves, like the doctor’s office uses, but you literally throw away money that way. Piling up disposable gloves in the trash is not good for the environment, is costly, and they are prone to tearing – ew. We highly recommend getting these affordable RV niceties.
Weboost for RV: Have you ever been camping and had no cell signal?Welcome to the club, most RVers have. Having no cell signal is a very “typical” camping experience – especially when staying in state or national parks. These parks can be extremely remote – protected lands don’t have cell phone towers on them. This baby is expensive, but it’s worth it. A Weboost takes what little amount of signal there may be available in the airwaves, converts it, and them amplifies it back out to your devices to be a usable signal. We have had great luck getting signal in remote places with zero bars up to 3 bars or so. Worth it!
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RV Water Filter: This is almost a necessity, but you don’t technicallyyyyy require one. Most of all, these filters ensure the water coming into your RV is clean and safe – you never know who was camping in the space before you. Hopefully it wasn’t the guy using the city water connection to flush his tanks, yum brownwater backwash. I understand that some people think all water is water, and they’re allowed to feel that way, but I don’t.
Doo-dads & RV Niceties
Stick-on Wall Hooks: These might seem dumb at first, but you’ll thank me later. These little hooks peel and stick on just about any surface and can hold decor, baskets, fans, lights, etc. We’ve used about 20 throughout our RV and they are easily removed without causing damage. Imagine what you can hang with these RV niceties.
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Fuse Assortment: RVs have complex electrical systems that include fuses and breakers. RVs have traditional house-style breakers, but they also have car-style breakers aka fuses. You never know when a 10 amp fuse will blow. Sometimes a fix is as simple as swamping out a fuse for your lights or water pump.
Sewer Hose Seal: You can place this little doo-dad down into the ground sewer connection before you hook up. Then, you place your elbow or waste connection inside this fitting. Basically, it is a cone shape that tapers down so that you guarantee your sewer hose will fit any ground connection and will stay secure. Not all ground connections are universal, this allows you to adapt to multiple sizes.
Leveling Blocks: These are must-have RV accessories. There’s a billion different colors and sizes of these things, but what matters is that you get a ton of them. We have 40 blocks total for when parked on major inclines. Since our RV doesn’t have a leveling system or jack stands we rely heavily on these. Those with leveling systems or stabilizing jacks will not require nearly as many.
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Cabinet Tension Rods: After you drive down a windy road to a campsite, park, and open your cabinet doors – what happens? Everything falls out in an avalanche because it was shaken up during the drive. These tension rods can be inserted into smaller (medicine-sized cabinets) to hold everything in place from falling out. They also make large sizes for bigger cabinets.
BONUS Section!
Want to see a few bonus RV niceties for your rig? Keep reading!
Other Camping & Unique RV Accessories:
Clear Storage Bins: You’ll learn that keeping a small fridge clean is quite a task. Organizing the fridge is the best start, so grab some clear storage bins on Amazon with this link or at your local TJ Maxx. These also go great in cabinets and other small spaces.
Dish Drying Rack: In such a small place, it’s hard to find a place to dry your dishes. After washing, plop them down on this drying rack suspended over your sink to dry.
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Extension Cord: You’ll need extra outlets, there’s not nearly enough within your small space. You’ll need to charge phones, laptops, video game consoles, cameras, etc.
Outlet Extender: These things are quite handy … they basically take your two normal outlets and convert them into 5 outlets + USB + LED light on there.
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What Did We Miss?
Did we miss your favorite RV accessories, doo-dad or thing-a-ma-bob? If it didn’t make the list, please write our PR team and complain. Kidding, please don’t do that. I am the PR team. What other tips and tricks do you have? Please drop a comment below so we can talk about it!
Joshua Tree National Park is located in southern California, covering an area of almost one million acres. The park is named after the unique (and eerie) Joshua tree, which is native only to the Mojave Desert and is found throughout the park. The park is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, rock climbers, and photographers of Joshua Trees.
Estimated time to read:
12–18 minutes
The park is divided into two distinct ecosystems: the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. The Mojave Desert is characterized by its high elevation and rocky terrain, while the Colorado Desert is lower and has a more diverse landscape, including sand dunes and palm oases.
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One of the most popular activities in Joshua Tree National Park is hiking. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails throughout the park, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes that require technical skill. Some of the most popular hikes include the Hidden Valley Trail, the Barker Dam Trail, and the Ryan Mountain Trail.
Joshua Tree National Park is also a VERY popular destination for rock climbers. The park has a whopping 8,000 climbing routes and is considered one of the best places in the world for bouldering. The park’s granite rock formations and unique geological features make it a challenging and rewarding destination for climbers of all skill levels. There are several local outfitters that will teach you to safely climb if you’re new to the sport.
In addition to hiking and rock climbing, Joshua Tree National Park offers visitors an incredible opportunity to stargaze. The park is located miles from major cities, which makes it an ideal location for viewing the night sky. Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park and boasts some of the darkest skies in the U.S. On clear nights, visitors can even see the Milky Way.
Overall, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. Its unique landscape and diverse ecosystem offer visitors a truly unforgettable (and instagram worthy) experience.
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Map of Joshua Tree:
Joshua Tree National Park is the 15th-largest National Park in the United States. It’s a few thousand acres away from being a total of 800,000 acres – which is relatively small as far as National Parks go. From north to south, the park is close to one hour of driving distance but can take a little longer depending on your route planning & stops. The shortest route is along Park Boulevard, so if you stay on this road then you’ll save extra time.
Refer to the map below to plan your adventure and see the landscape. We’ve also included a downloadable PDF below to get you jumpstarted with planning your trip to the park!
We Had Bad Weather at Joshua Tree … Make Sure to Check for Alerts!
Check this link to read the most current alerts at Joshua Tree National Park. While we were there, we encountered clear skies, rain, sleet, hail, and snow all in one day. It was a brutal storm moving in, but we enjoyed our unique time at the park nonetheless!
Visitor Centers @ Joshua Tree
There are THREE visitor centers in Joshua Tree. While we were there, the Oasis Visitor Center was closed, but we checked out the other two. Joshua Tree Visitor Center is at the main entrance that the majority of people come into from the Los Angeles area. Expect this center to be packed full of clamoring tourists, while the other two are much smaller experiences for those quiet minds.
We checked out this visitor center on the northwestern edge of the park, and it has just about everything. They’ve got a gift shop, plenty of cool exhibits, a cactus garden (albeit sad in the snow,) a coffee shop next door, and friendly park staff. This visitor center is also right next to the town of Joshua Tree – allowing you to make a day trip to explore the unique area if you’re so inclined.
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Cottonwood Visitor Center
This visitor center was the first one we went to because of proximity to our campsite but it was well worth it. Of course they have the usual maps, information, and souvenirs but the best part is just around the corner. If you’re going to do any of the visitor centers, don’t miss this one for incredible views of the Cottonwood Spring, a quick walk from the nearby parking area. Here you will see larger-than-life palms, unique flora and fauna, and (if you’re lucky) the spring.
Oasis Visitor Center
This visitor center was closed when we went to the park. I checked online recently and it now says permanently closed … so expect that when you go! Regardless, this visitor center is right next to the Oasis of Mara which we heard is beautiful. Also near this area is Sky’s the Limit which is well worth the visit itself (more on that below).
– Our Campsite at Joshua Tree –
Belle Campground, #17
Belle Campground: $15/night dry camping. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates on site. No water.
This is where we camped out, and you can see plenty of awesome pictures we took just at the campground. We originally wanted to be at Jumbo Rocks campground, but it was booked way out in advance. If your plan is to get one of these first-come, first-serve spots, make sure to get there early (before noon). Especially on the weekends!
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– Other Camping Options at Joshua Tree National Park –
Reservations Required Camping:
Black Rock: $25/night, 99 campsites. Water, flush toilets, tables, fire grates, and a dump station.
Cottonwood: $25/night, 62 campsites. Water, flush toilets, tables, fire grates, and a dump station.
Indian Cove: $25/night, 101 campsites. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates. No water.
Jumbo Rocks: $20/night, 124 campsites. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates. No water.
Ryan: $20/night, 31 campsites. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates. No water.
Hidden Valley: $15/night, 44 campsites. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates. No water.
White Tank: $15/night, 15 campsites. Pit toilets, tables, and fire grates. No water.
Places We Explored in Joshua Tree:
Sky’s the Limit
Sky’s the Limit was a nice little stray out of the way, towards the town of Twenty Nine Palms. Here, they have a meditation garden, sun clock, celestial calendar, stargazing at night, and plenty more to do with a full event calendar. Even when not staffed, we still enjoyed all of the abstract artwork made out of metal modeled after the solar system, planets, & moons.
This one looks foreboding and for good reason – it’s literally in the shape of a skull (if you look from the right angle, lol.) It is literally called Skull Rock. As we were walking over to see this incredible rock formation, rain begin to fall. We even began to start to see snow flurries, how much fun!
Parking is on the side of the road right across from this, so very easy to access.
Cap Rock
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Cap Rock is another easy walk from the parking lot. It’s pretty cool, because it literally looks like a ball cap on the edge of a rock formation. How long has it been holding onto the edge like that?
Snow started falling as we were sitting in the parking lot here. Our original plan was to head up to Key’s View to have a picnic in our RV there with a great vista all around. But, the rangers shut down the road to Key’s View because of inclement weather, so we pulled off in the nearby Cap Rock parking lot to have lunch with the snow. This detour ended up being a highlight of the day with plenty of fun picture spots.
Arch Rock
Narrow passage next to Arch Rock – take this!
Arch Rock looks exactly like that – a natural rock-shaped arch. How incredible is it that nature allows such a beautiful thing to happen?
BONUS: Once you get to Arch Rock, turn to the right. The arch should be on your left now. Keep heading straight through the narrow passages of rocks (top right picture above with a caption). This is an amazing picture-worthy area. If you keep going it turns to the right and there’s even more incredible crevices and rock formations to explore.
Cottonwood Spring
Sorry to disappoint but we didn’t actually get to see a desert oasis spring in the middle of the park. However, there is a spring underground which is indicated by the abnormally large growth of palm trees nearby. This spring feeds a few of the palm trees in this area to keep them growing happy, healthy, tall, and strong.
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It’s a great hike to take regardless, and very easy for people of all ages – just a short walk down from the parking area. We ran into a nice elderly couple who had been hiking in the area and had a wonderful chat. Be nice to old people – you never know what you can learn!
These little cactus guys are something fierce. They can grow taller than people, and when in bloom, have an incredible looking flower. Not to mention that they are super cool and hollow on the inside. Make sure you don’t miss this area when at the park because it is well worth the time. It’s such a beautiful spot with thousands of Cholla cacti situated right off the parking area. The park service has made a walking path that feels like a labyrinth that allows you to get up close. Not too close though! These guys are SHARP.
While we were there, these weren’t in bloom. It’s said that they bloom 2-3 times roughly per year. When they do bloom, they become green, luscious, and even bear flowers. Obviously the pictures we have here tell a different story – not one of thriving and blooms. We saw a few that were starting their regrowth cycle, but I think we must have been too early in the season to see their full potential.
The full bloom of these magnificent cacti-trees. Quite something rare indeed.
This popular destination, perched on the crest of the Little San Bernardino Mountains, provides panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and is well worth the 20-minute drive from Park Boulevard down Keys View Road.
The Keys Ranch is the prime example of early settlement in the Joshua Tree National Park area. Bill Keys was the area’s leading character, and his ranch is a symbol of the resourcefulness of early settlers. The ranch is an extensive complex of small frame buildings built between 1910 and Keys’ death in 1964.
The Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead is located just off Park Boulevard. This trailhead provides access to the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, an easy one mile loop through Hidden Valley on a dirt and rock trail. This is a popular hike through a rock-enclosed valley surrounded by unique rock formations. Along the way there are interpretive signs with information on the area. The trail has an average width of three feet and an average grade of 4% with a max grade of 19% and involves climbing both steps and open rock.
Ryan Mountain is a difficult three mile out and back hike with 1,050 feet of elevation in the central part of Joshua Tree National Park. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, but quickly gains in elevation up the mountain. This is one of the most popular hikes as it provides sweeping panoramic views of the park.
The trailhead for Ryan Mountain is located along Park Boulevard between Ryan Campground and Sheep Pass Campground. There is a secondary trailhead for campers at Sheep Pass Campground, but there is no parking available at Sheep Pass for non-campers.
Explore the rocky desert landscape of Joshua Tree on the Barker Dam Trail, an easy 1.1 (1.8 km) loop. Wander through Joshua Tree’s iconic monzogranite boulders, namesake Joshua trees, and past the historic Barker Dam. Visit a rock art site and experience human history from a respectful distance.
Encounter rock climbers, spot wildlife big and small, scramble over boulders, and walk along desert washes. Catch a glimpse of the far-off San Gorgonio Mountain. View the plant life of the Mojave Desert, including Joshua trees, creosote, Mojave yucca, and pinon pines.
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This trail is ideal for short visits, families, wildlife enthusiasts, rock art and history enthusiasts, photographers, and novice scramblers.
Today Lost Horse Mill is considered one of the best preserved mills of its kind in a National Park Service unit. Lost Horse is also a popular destination for visitors looking for a moderate hike. The trailhead is located off Keys View Road. The trail, which is a four-mile round-trip, follows the road developed by the Ryans to haul ore and supplies. Mine shafts are dangerous, and historic structures are easily damaged. While the Lost Horse site has been stabilized, it is still not safe to walk on so proceed with caution.
Lost Palms Oasis is located in the southeastern portion of Joshua Tree National Park. This oasis can be reached on a 7.5 mile out and back hike from Cottonwood Spring with 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is on a mix of rock, dirt, and sandy washes with very little shade and includes a strenuous climb on rocky terrain out of the canyon that the oasis is located in at the far end of the trail. The oasis is located in Lost Palms Canyon where a permanent water source allows fan palms and other plants to thrive, supporting a vibrant desert wildlife community.
Fortynine Palms Oasis is one of Joshua Tree National Park’s desert oases and is open to the public in the fall, winter, and spring. Located in the northern portion of the park, this oasis provides a refuge among the desert mountains. By providing a reliable source of water, this little oasis allows life to thrive in this seemingly harsh environment.
The oasis is reachable by the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail, a three mile out and back hike with 300 feet elevation gain in each direction. The trail is on compact dirt with an average grade of 8% and max grade of 27%.
This oasis is a sensitive biological area, please follow posted signs and do not enter the oasis as this is a crucial water supply for plant and wildlife.
In the summer, Fortynine Palms Oasis, its trail, and the parking area all close to allow bighorn sheep undisturbed access to surface water. The park is under drought conditions and herds in the area are increasingly reliant on the oasis spring to survive the hot summer months. The closure will remain in place until summer or fall monsoons provide adequate rainfall to increase water availability.
Which Adventure Will You Take in Joshua Tree National Park?
We’ve had a blast writing this blog and hopefully you’ve got some awesome tips for your next trip to Joshua Tree National Park. My girlfriend’s favorite tree is a Joshua Tree – and for good reason. This park is loaded with thousands of them in all directions, and they’re all unique in their own way. Plus, we had the excitement of adventuring the park during a snow day, which is quite an unusual occurrence – like we are!
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<img alt="Matt with
Matt with No Place Like Gone
Hey! I’m the man behind the magic – A.K.A. the camera and blog. I’m also a purveyor of craft beer, grill master, and chief RV driver.
The average American spends close to 90,000 hours in their lifetime working to make a living. Whether it’s a job that you love, hate, or could care less about, you’re working just like the rest of us.
But, who said you had to spend your life doing things that you don’t enjoy? Even if you went to trade school to get a certification or college to get a degree – you aren’t stuck doing that specific thing forever.
Instead, spend your life searching for adventure.Adventure is a little different for everyone, but there are proven ways to find the adventure that is uniquely yours.
Start your adventure today by joining the [gone] community!We’ll send you travel hacks, money tips, lifestyle advice, and so much more.
You can ask us any questions about van life, traveling the US, or just chat with us on social media:
You must find adventure – it’s out there waiting, undiscovered.
For me, I had a moment about a year ago when I just couldn’t handle the stress anymore. It felt like I was stuck in a rut and like I wasn’t moving anywhere. I wasn’t happy with my life, I was sinking down into depression, and I needed a way out. So, I began searching for adventure. “What do I love doing? And if I could find it, “why did I love doing it?” These are questions that kept me up late at night.
Me searching for adventure, from a tree stump.
Fast forward to where I am now, about a year later, and I’m feeling like the best version of myself. I went through a near death experience a few months ago, but that won’t stop me. I have things to accomplish, and I’m searching for adventure everywhere I go.
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Along the way, I’ve discovered that I really enjoy writing. I actually started out with trying to write a self-help book – and that adventure lead to me wanting to begin this blog as we traveled the U.S. I took a hiatus from my day job because I needed to regroup and recover in many areas of my life. But even so, I worked vigilantly to create this blog & update our social media – passion projects that I discovered I really enjoy.
Our latest on Instagram:
A year ago, we knew that a change of pace could do us both good. Our instagram feeds were flooded with van-lifers and full-time RV travelers. You know the type, perfectly curated photos set in incredibly impossible locations – the stuff of dreams. We thought these people were crazy (guess we are now too), but there was something that continued to draw us both in – adventure. My girlfriend and I are both nature lovers, needed a change of scenery, and didn’t want to feel stuck with our careers or our day-to-day life. We wanted to create a new life, and that began with our plan to travel the United States.
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We put down our fears and sold the house, both cars, and almost every material possession we owned. Knick-knacks – nixed. Extra clothes in the closet – donated. Christmas junk – gone. Lawn equipment – don’t need it without a house, huh? We were crazy enough to do that, and it was one of the scariest times of our lives. But, because of pushing through that fear, I’ve had the most exciting and exhilarating times of my life. It has been an adventure, daily.
We’ve traveled from South Carolina (where I’m originally from) down to Florida (where my girlfriend is originally from,) all the way across the country to California (where we are now). We’ve seen 15 states in about 10 months. We’ve really only slowed down recently because California is so ginormous!
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We knew that things weren’t making us happy. They never did, even when society told us everywhere that they could (Thanks, capitalism). By saving money on useless things we used to buy, we were then able to invest that money back into ourselves. We reallocated our money towards therapy, books to inspire us, a RV, travel expenses, and investing in our future. That’s how important you are, I am, and we all are.
I want to ask you to analyze where you are in life right now. Think about your career, the city you live in, your living situation (house, apartment, etc.,) you relationships, your health, your community. The key here is to make sure you write all of this down – it can be on paper or even on your iPhone’s Notes app. Take this seriously, because you need to evaluate where you are in life so that you can make a plan for YOUR future adventure.
Who said you can’t chase your dreams? The wildest thing in life is that life is a choose-your-own-adventure type of experience – and everyone’s is different. During your lifetime, you can do just about anything – but you have to define what it is that you actually want to do.
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Me almost two years ago starting this blog.
Do you want to become a YouTube video creator? Let’s say video games are your thing; you can make videos and game walkthroughs. Do it! Start your adventure today, and don’t quit. Part of the secret to success in life is that you have to invest enough time to let things flourish – don’t give up on your first try.
If you plant corn, you expect corn to grow – not pumpkins. So plant the corn and be hopeful about its future growth. Because of drought, pests, and/or bad weather, it’s possible that the corn may not grow well this year. Your harvest may be lacking now but next year will be better. If you keep watering the seeds, fertilizing the soil, and caring for your crop, you’ll eventually reap exactly what you’ve sown – corn.
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Allow yourself to think heavily on what adventure(s) you want to pursue. If you don’t have any idea what this could be, think about what you are good at, what you find yourself excited about doing – or, better yet, try something new. Try writing, taking pictures, a new job, coaching youth sports, cooking your grandma’s recipes, or maybe even getting your hands dirty landscaping. I’ve really been enjoying exploring nature photography, as well as writing (of course.)
Some of my recent pictures from San Clemente Beach, CA.
The main point here is to try a little of everything until you discover what you really enjoy. It may be that something you never even considered – you’ll have to think outside of the box. To be honest though, the goal is less about finding what you enjoy and more about the adventure along the way of trying something new.
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I don’t make a lot of money (yet) writing this blog. But every week I still sit down to write. That’s because I enjoy doing this, and want to share my thoughts with others. I want to change the way society sees things, lifestyles, and travel which is why I’m fulled by passion.
As this blog continues to grow, and that could take YEARS, it’ll evolve and take on new shapes. Along the way, I will get better and better at it, and people will begin to notice it online. The goal isn’t to make a lot of money writing, the goal is to see what becomes of the blog – to enjoy the adventure. These things take time. But since this is a passion of mine, it doesn’t matter how much time will pass for me, I’ll enjoy the journey along the way.
It’s important to note that you’ll have bills to pay as an adult, and adventure seeking won’t always pay those bills right away. It may take searching for a while and a lot of learning to discover how you can make a living doing something you are passionate about. So, you’ll probably have to work some jobs in the mean time that you align with but know that they won’t be forever. This is okay and is all a part of the adventure along the way.
Keep searching for your next adventure, and you will find it.
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You’ve made it to the end, thank you so much for joining me on this adventure! I hope that I have encouraged you to chase your own adventure soon. You can become what you want to be, but you’ll have to work hard, and keep your face up to the sun.
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You can chat with us directly on social media – DMs are open!We’d love to hear about the adventures you’re chasing.
For my 27th birthday, we planned a nostalgic throwback adventure. The Super Mario Bros movie released April 5th, and the new Super Mario World at Universal Studios Hollywood just recently opened its doors to the castle in February of this year. The stars could not have aligned any more perfectly for a super weekend at Universal! Read below for a behind the scenes look at our newest EPIC adventure.
Birthday cake milkshake – fitting for the occasion of a 27th birthday!
Bree & I grabbed a late-night showing of The Super Mario Bros. Movie during opening week. We timed it so that we got to enjoy the movie and kick-off the nostalgia the day before going to Super Mario World at Universal Studios Hollywood. If you have an AMC dine-in theatre near you, the milkshakes alone make it worth the price of a ticket. The very next day we woke up at 5am to head into the park with our early access pass at 7am.
We’re happy you’re here! It would help out a bunch if you followed us on social media – it’s FREE and well worth the cost of admission. We post our adventures, tips & tricks, planning guides, and travel inspiration daily.
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Maps + Getting Around the Park
Before you start your day, make sure to download the Universal Studios Hollywood app.You can look at maps, wait times, dining options, show times, and so much more. Plus, the app is integrated with the new Super Mario World power up bands!
Here’s a few maps for reference, but the interactive maps within the app are much better. Make sure to download that today with the links above to get around the theme park while you’re there!
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Super Mario World Map
Again, make sure to download the Universal Studios Hollywood app when you go because there are completely interactive maps to help guide you around the park in there! You’ll also be able to check line waiting times, make reservations for dinner, and much, much more!
64-Bit Nostalgia at Super Nintendo World
Wow, where do we start? This place was designed beautifully in partnership with Nintendo and we loved every single moment we had in the park. We paid a bit extra for the early admission pass and it was well worth every penny. From the sprawling world of 64-bit graphic-looking sets, hidden easter eggs, and the interactivity and character meetups – this place has something for everyone (even adults).
I grew up with Nintendo, and have been a serious gamer myself my entire life. I remember playing Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, & Super Mario 64 religiously. I will always hold a place in my heart for this franchise, and many of Nintendo’s other franchises too, forever. I’m sure that I’m not alone with this sentiment, either.
Power Up Band & the App
Super Nintendo World has a section within the Universal Studios Hollywood app
Make sure to download the Universal Studios Hollywood app – scroll to the top of this blog for the links I left that will take you straight to the App Store or Google Play Store. Within the Universal Studios Hollywood app, you can click into Super Nintendo World and it will greet you with a lovely sound bite and colorful interface (pictured left). Go down the warp pipe and be immersed in Super Mario World. Together the power up bands (more on those below) and Universal app track your progress in the world including coins, stamps, keys, and a real time player ranking system. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure style experience with something to do around every corner – even while waiting in line! Collect three of the four keys to challenge Bowser Jr. for the star to save Princess Peach. Nintendo really spent the time here to make an in-real-time leveling up system; these work wonderful for kids and adults (big kids) alike.
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Power Up Bands
Here’s the team Yoshi band I got – by the way, team Yoshi CRUSHED it the day we went and got first place in the park rankings. These Power Up Bands are $40 each (I know – pricey). The bands are used interactively with many of the blocks, mini-games, stamps, coin collections, etc. to track your progress in Super Mario World. The band also allows you to create a player profile and come back in the future to keep playing. and leveling up.
There’s six bands in total – Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Toad, and Yoshi.
Want to plan out your trip to Super Mario World? Click here.
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Super Mario World is the newest themed area in the park and this is the newest ride in the park – expect long lines. Jump into a guided AR (augmented-reality) experience fit for folks of all ages. You get to steer and control your kart’s direction using the mini steering wheel – be sure to steer as a team to increase bonuses. By looking around with your head you can throw your power ups at the enemy racers just like in real Mario Kart fashion.
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This ride is true to form and includes plenty of visual, wind, and smoke effects to keep you entranced for the duration of the ride. This is the “main attraction” for this new land. We saw line wait times of 2-3 hours almost the whole time we were here.
Nintendo knocked it out of the theme park with this one (pun intended). Every meal on the menu is themed around your Mushroom Kingdom friends from the games.
The burgers come with mushrooms and a mini mustache – completely on theme. Peach has her very own cupcake dessert decorated in all pink with a matching crown. Even the spaghetti is an ode to Mario’s Italian background. The garlic bread is shaped like 1-UP mushrooms. There’s even truffle butter (more mushrooms!) on the fries.
For more about the Toadstool Cafe and menu, click here.
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My Thoughts for the Future of Nintendo Land (expansions to Super Nintendo World)
Expansion for Nintendo Land located within Universal Studios Hollywood is inevitable. I’d like to suggest that Hyrule from the Legend of Zelda is the perfect answer. You would be able to grab weapons from the actual games and use them in your battles through trials and dungeons. Doesn’t that sound epic? Of course it does! I’m completely down for this idea, and you’re welcome Nintendo – I want my royalties.
Another great idea would be Luigi’s Mansion (adjacent to Super Mario World, of course). Could you imagine walking through a scary plaza of haunted mansions that are all themed with boos (ghosts) and erie music? Just like the games, you could use some kind of vacuum cleaner to run around collecting the spirits at each of the interactive spots hidden throughout the mansion.
What do you think would be the next coolest addition to Nintendo Land at Universal Studios Hollywood? Do you live near Florida and wish they would add Super Mario World to Universal Orlando? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us an email at: noplacelikegone@gmail.com.
Photos of Super Mario World
If you’d like to see even more photos of this immersive new world check out our social media accounts here:
On to the rest of the park – Universal Studios Hollywood
Jurassic World (the ride)
This was freakin’ incredible and there’s no other way to say it. After waiting in one of the longest lines of the day, we were prepared to be terrified – and we were. Age-old dinosaurs are roaming the land, you’re getting sprayed by water in all directions, you’re riding through an exhilarating adventure in the dark until you splash down a waterfall surprise at the end. The plot is that the dinos (lead by Indominus Rex) have escaped and they’re on the run thrashing about. Your goal is to escape from danger before becoming their next meal – how fast can you run?
They took a horror movie classic and pulled out all of the stops for this ride. You’re literally riding on a rolling death-trap in a dark room – or at least that’s what it felt like to me. Its gut-wrenching turns will send you spiraling – oops, who left the brick wall there? There’s a surprise on the other side – but you’ll have to go on the ride to find out what it is!
Imagine walking through the streets of New York before the ride and hearing the hums of the Allspark. It’s right there next to you, and suddenly you’re joining the Autobots on a new mission to protect it. Once you’re loaded in, prepare for a jet-speed story where you’ll be sent racing through a city to escape from Megatron.
The back lot studio tour is included in the cost of your admission to Universal Studios Hollywood. This is one thing that Universal Studios Orlando does not have, exclusive only to here. When on this tour, you’ll get to see several real production sets that Universal Studios has actually used in their movies and shows. From picture cars like Back to the Future, sets from Desperate House Wives, a special effects demonstration, and also, live-action appearance by the killer from Psycho – Norman Bates. The Studio Tour is well worth doing while in the park and a can’t miss while your in Hollywood!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an absolute immersive delight and for great reason. Want to step into Olivander’s and watch a wand select its master? How about drink a butter beer in the alley streets? Take a flight with a hippogriff? Play a game of quidditch? You can do all this (and more!) at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Flight of the Hippogriff is a family-friendly roller coaster. It’s a “baby coaster” but still packs a nice punch with its tight-turning, high-speed fun. You get to see a hippogriff, Hagrid’s hut and the pumpkin patch while riding overhead.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey starts you on a conveyer belt. Right after, you’ll enter what’s only to be described as a rocket ship simulator. The seats will fling and toss you in every direction while you somehow seamlessly transition from real props to virtual screens displaying an epic story. Oh and word of advice – make sure you dodge the Womping Willow.
Stay into the evening for special light shows on the Hogwarts Castle, showtimes available in the park app. You DO NOT want to miss seeing one of these.
Springfield: Home to The Simpsons Cast & The Krustyland Ride
Grab a seat with The Simpsons™ on a virtual reality roller coaster ride. As the journey begins, you find out that there’s trouble underway at Krustyland – Krusty the Clown’s low-budget theme park. You’ll smash and blast through the park with Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie in an over-the-top non-stop adventure.
Now Showing at The Dreamworks Theatre: Kung Fu Panda
Channel the power of Chi and join Po, Mr. Ping, and Master Shifu as they embark on a wild, perilous mission to deliver the Liquid of Ultimate Power to the Emperor. Experience roaring rapids, river pirates, and the villainous Kang Wolf on this multi-sensory journey of awesomeness. This short animation is a nice break from the California heat and also includes 4D features.
Want to be immersed in a Dreamworks production? Follow this link.
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Aren’t the minions just the funniest little creatures? (And possibly some of the cutest too.) Hop on to the Minion Mayhem ride where Gru blasts you with the legendary Fart Blaster, followed by his minion-shrinking laser. Be prepared to run mad with an army of fellow yellow minions through multiple trippy, mind-defying scenes to save the world. There’s a special party waiting for you at the end.
This splash park showcases your favorite minion Dave, Gru, fluffy unicorns, and plenty of more familiar faces from the Despicable Me franchise. Super Silly Fun Land is a mini-waterpark where you can let the kids run wild for the day. From buckets of water splashing, sprayers in all directions, and water fountains cascading down – it’s impossible to stay dry. Plus, there’s picture spots all over to snap a selfie with your favorite character from the movies.
To find more information out about Super Silly Fun Land, click here.
The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
Discover the exciting world of Illumination’s The Secret Life of Pets when you’ll meet your favorite characters. Join Max, Duke, Gidget and Snowball on a journey through the streets of New York City as you get ready to be welcomed into your new home.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to do this one because the virtual line queue was full. We had no idea that this would be such a busy ride! This attraction is still relatively new so you may want to hop in a virtual line for this ride on the park app to save your spot as soon as you get there!
Check out what the pets are doing over on the official page.
CityWalk Hollywood
See what you can discover along the boardwalk – from shopping, to movies, to mouth-watering food and drinks. Cap off a great day at the park, or just have a great night in Los Angeles at Universal Studios CityWalk.
If you enjoyed the blog, please subscribe for more as we travel the United States. We’re currently in California, but you never know where we’ll end up next (we don’t either!)
Safe travels!
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So you just got yourself a brand new (or new to you) RV and want to start exploring the world. Or maybe, you just grabbed a cheap tent and some cases of beer with your friends at the local Wal-Mart. Either way, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve got a guide to help you out with all of the different types of campgrounds.
There are plenty of options for camping that range from roughing it in the middle of the woods, to resort and glamping experiences. Prices and amenities vary heavily depending on where you stay, and you can easily overpay. In this blog we’re going to go over camping options for every budget and also tips & tricks for saving big.
Estimated time to read:
8–12 minutes
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State Park Campgrounds
According to a study in 2009, there are over 6,600 state parks within the United States. These parks sprawl over a total of 14 million acres of land. State Parks are fairly common across the US and are VERY popular during the spring & summer months. I’ve seen typical rates for dry-tent camping sites ranging from $15-$25/night and RV/hookup sites ranging from $30-$50/night.
State Parks highlight beautiful & ecologically significant locations – they typically include bodies of water and trails sprawling through the local topography. Prepare for a great time in the woods with any of these campgrounds. Spots are typically spacious with a few trees in between you and our neighbors. Another trade mark of the State Park system is the eclectic on-site camping stores. Here you can grab stickers and t-shirts to say that you’ve been there and any essentials you may have forgotten last minute for your weekend in the great outdoors!
Keep in mind, not all State Parks offer camping. Some of them are just day-use, meaning you can have a picnic there, hike trails, swim in the lake, etc. but are expected to leave the park right before dark. Rhyming will definitely be my fall-back job one day if this doesn’t work out. What do you think about me rapping about campgrounds?
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National Park Campgrounds
There are 423 National Parks in the United States says the National Park Foundation. These are your big hitters. When you think of iconic spots for nature and camping, you think of places like the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National Park. These are premier destinations that people travel to from all over the world to see.
Typically, these are near IMPOSSIBLE to get a camping reservation for, unless you are an extreme planner who is ready to book a year in advance – or more. These campgrounds are usually remote and don’t include hookups, or even cell service in many cases. But being in proximity to some of the most beautiful places in the world is well worth the lack of traditional amenities. If you have the chance to snag a spot at any of our National Parks – take it!
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COE’s (Army Core of Engineers)
In our opinion, these campgrounds are some of the best, at least for how we like to camp. They usually have plenty of sites available at these campgrounds, ranging between 100-250 sites each. Often a portion of these spots are primitive (meaning no electricity, water, or sewer hook ups.) These are your cheap options to tent camp or boondock with your camper, typically ranging from $15-$25 per night to stay.
The other portion of these sites are for campers and RVs. These are usually electricity only, but they do a great job of positioning water fill-up and sewer dump stations near the entrance of the campground for camper use. These sites are usually between $20-30 per night making these some of the cheapest options to have access to electricity, water, and a dump station while you are enjoying the great outdoors. We’ve stayed for as cheap as $18/night at a COE with electricity.
Another great benefit of COE’s is that they are typically located on a large body of water like a lake or river where you can swim, kayak, or fish. These parks are very well thought out by Army engineers. They also offer shower houses and kid’s playgrounds in most cases.
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KOA’s (Kampground’s of America)
KOA sign – You can’t miss it!Activities and more!Cabins are available.Trademark KOA fun – this is what they are known for!
When it comes to KOAs, these are located all over the place. There’s about 480 of them spread across the United States and a few in Canada as well. See the comprehensive list of KOAs here if you want to plan your next family camping trip at a KOA.
They have done a great job of placing KOAs near a lot of the major travel destinations. Places like beaches, National Parks, and mountain ranges will typically have a KOA within driving distance. It’s hard to miss one of these kampgrounds with their highlighter yellow signs on the road. In our experience, it’s pretty costly to stay here. We’ve seen prices around $60-$100/night to stay here. KOAs typically offer amenities such as wifi, full hook ups, a pool to swim in, and dog parks. If that wasn’t enough – they’re espeically geared towards children and will include host activities, theme nights, and kid zones too.
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Private Campgrounds
You can find GREAT private campgrounds all over the place. These aren’t affiliated with the parks system or government (city, state, etc.) in any way. They’re basically like you or I opening up our own campground and making our own rules and campsites how we like them.
A great example here is Hollywood RV Park which is where we recently stayed right outside of LA in Hollywood, California. It’s a super cool place that actually houses many film makers and production set workers for nearby film studios. It’s about $90/night in a place like this – mostly because of the prime location in one of the hottest real estate markets in the world – Los Angeles County.
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These private campgrounds can range all the way from $25/night hole-in-the-wall type of experience, all the way up to $150/night for your more premium look and locations. Sometimes, they even include things on site like yoga, church services, community events, art classes, or concerts.
Resort “Glamping” Campgrounds
Typically, “resort” or “motor-coach clubs” campgrounds revere themselves for being top notch. Sometimes, they only allow RVs or campers in their park that are models within the last 10 years (2013-2023), or may dictate the type of RVs welcome, to keep up with curb appeal. You will definitely be paying a pretty penny for these – let’s say $90+ and easily into $120/night. These are going to have the most amenities and activities and offer a resort-like experience.
Let me share a little secret with you. If you ever end up in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, then one of the best kept secrets is Ocean Lakes RV Resort. It’s incredible – and well worth the price of admission. Book early, because they generally fill up incredibly fast – months in advance.
Boondocking (BLM Land)
BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land is for staying over night with NO hook-ups. This land is actually provided by the government, for very small fees, to be used for camping off-grid or in the wilderness. Basically, if you want to get the hell out of society – you can grab a camper and have a blast in the great outdoors. These are most common out west, but can be found across the country.
BLM map provided by the Bureau of Land Management.
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A great resource to use for this is FreeRoam, it’s an app and also website that you can download on the App Store. With this, you’ll be able to pop up a map for finding the nearest off-grid land for you to rough it out in.
Harvest Host (+ Boondockers Welcome)
Harvest Hosts:An RV membership program that allows self-contained travelers to overnight at unique locations around the country including farms, wineries, museums, breweries, and more! With 4773+ of host locations inside of the ever-expanding network, there’s an amazing experience waiting for everyone.
Boondockers Welcome: Enjoy truly unique stay experiences often without any sacrifice to comfort as 70% of Boondockers Welcome hosts offer hookups. Escape the crowded and noisy campground in favor of a private spot on beautiful property and a meaningful connection with a friendly host.
We have a great partnership right now with Harvest Hosts and also Boondockers Welcome. We can save you 15% right now on EITHER subscription. They’re normally $100/year for each of them individually, but we can get you down to about $80/year. Make sure to click the green text above to get the discount! Important: You may have to use code BWFRIENDS15 at checkout for Boondockers Welcome to work!
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Military Campground/Army Camps/AFB
These are generally a cheaper place to stay, although you often have to be affiliated with the U.S. military in some fashion. These generally are your “on-site” living for most of the military branches: Army camps, Air Force Bases, etc. If you’ve heard of a family living on base in an RV with the member of their family that’s serving, that’s what this is.
You’ll typically see rates near $20-$25/night which is VERY inexpensive per night for full hook-ups and amenities. You can check with the local base campground if you can stay there not being military, but generally it’s for military and government personnel only.
Not Campgrounds – Wal-mart, Cracker Barrel
Oh, the glorious Wal-mart and Cracker Barrel. If you have ever heard of people living in a RV, you’ve probably heard of these two being common places to stay. We have stayed at a Wal-mart, but unfortunately not a Cracker Barrel – yet. If you are trying to save money and have a lower cost of living, than these are your best bets for the occasional stay.
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Make sure that you ask the local Wal-mart or Cracker Barrel managers if they are OK with you staying overnight. Sometimes, they will not allow this and may even have signs posted in the parking lots about no overnight stays. You probably don’t want to get that knock on your door by the police in the middle of the night!
Campground Costs Breakdown and Averages:
Types of Campground
Average Price ($/night)
Notes
State Park
$35
Generally hard to get into without 2-3 months out reservation
National Park
$40
Sometimes takes 6 months – 1 year in advance to reserve
COE (Core of Engineers)
$20
Easy to land a spot often
KOA (Kampgrounds of America)
$70
Somewhat easy to get into
Private Campgrounds
$60
Plenty of availability as there are so many options and price points!
Resort Campgrounds
$90
All of the luxuries you would expect at most hotels nowadays
Boondocking (BLM land)
$50/monthly
Small fee to use them, no hook-ups
Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome
Yearly subscription
Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome are separately $80/year
Military Campgrounds/Army Camps/AFB
$30
Generally have to be in the military or branch that the campground belongs to
Other (Walmart, Cracker Barrel, etc.)
FREE
Sketchy at times, be safe out there!
This chart shows different type of campgrounds costs and descriptions.
Thanks for reading! As they say in French, au revoir!
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No Place Like Gone 