S’more Good Stuff: Alternatives to National Parks and Other RV News

Keep Your RV Safe with These Security Tips

While campgrounds are generally safe, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take basic precautions to increase your RV security. Many RVs share similar keys for storage bay locks, so add an extra level of security by replacing your rig’s locks with a digital keypad. Add hitch locks and wheel chock locks to make it harder for someone to drive off with your rig. To keep an eye on your campsite and belongings, add a wireless security system. And, if you store your RV offsite, pick a storage location with enhanced security. Find more security tips and gear recommendations on Togo RV.

Favorite Campground Games for RVers

Games are perfect for campground entertainment because they’re typically inexpensive and easy to store. Plus, they provide family fun—both inside and outside of your RV. When deciding which games to purchase and pack, consider the size and ages of your group, the length of your trip, the expected weather conditions, and your space limitations. Don’t forget to enjoy all of the recreational options available at your campground, as some have game checkouts and outdoor activities. Check out Togo RV’s guide to campground games for great recommendations for all ages.

You Can Still Find Memorial Day Campground Reservations

While you might be out of luck at popular national and state parks, there are still plenty of ways you can make a last-minute campground reservation. With a bit of research and flexibility, you can find last-minute reservations through peer-to-peer platforms like Harvest Hosts, Hipcamp, and Tentrr, according to The New York Times (you can view a free preview of the article here). To make your camping trip planning a bit easier, we found some campgrounds with availability for Memorial Day weekend. As an added bonus if you’re a Togo RV Plus member, you even get discounts on some of these bookings. 

Plymouth Rock Camping Resort in Plymouth, Wisconsin, still has RV sites available for the long weekend. Located minutes from Elkhart Lake and a short drive from Lake Michigan. 

Leisure Landing RV Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is located just 20 minutes away from Hot Springs National Park and still has availability starting May 28.

Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing in Bayard, Nebraska, has availability for RV sites starting May 28 and epic views of Chimney Rock. 

Source: The New York Times How to Reserve a Campsite, Even at the Last Minute (Content may appear behind a paywall)

Photo courtesy of RoverPass

Check Out These Scenic Alternatives to Popular National Parks

During a normal summer, parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite see millions of visitors. When those parks get too busy, check out these beautiful alternatives instead. Avoid the crowds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by chasing waterfalls at North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest or Transylvania County. Skip the hassle of trying to get a reservation at Yosemite by visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. If you’re hoping to spot wildlife in Yellowstone, put the National Bison Range on your itinerary instead. And with 15 percent as many visitors, Bryce Canyon National Park is a quieter alternative to Zion.

Source: The Washington Post 6 Alternatives to America’s Most Popular National Parks

This Electric Pickup Converts to a Nifty Camper

Electric vehicle manufacturer startup Canoo recently debuted its first pickup truck. Set to hit the road in 2023, this unique electric truck has appealing features, including a bubble windshield, extendable cargo bed, and pull-out work table. RVers will want to check out the variety of camper accessories that easily convert the cargo bed into functional camping space and provide a base for a rooftop, pop-up tent bed. Entering a competitive market of new electric pickup trucks, Canoo’s model is expected to go 200 miles on a single charge (depending on the cargo load). 

Source: CNBC Start-up Canoo’s New Electric Pickup Truck