In this weekly roundup, Togo RV shares the top stories and features that are impacting and shaping the RV community. We cover everything from news and travel updates to gear and gadgets, and all the good stuff in between.
Why Were National Parks Underwater This Summer?
You probably saw the headlines all summer long: Roads closed in Death Valley, catastrophic flooding in Yellowstone, and suspension bridge damage in Mount Rainier. Why did it seem like the summer of 2022 was filled with flooding in the national parks? While this year’s extreme rainfall events might seem like an aberration, climate scientists predict the U.S. will continue to face these types of powerful storms as the climate continues to warm. As wildfires hit the West, subsequent rainfalls cause more damage due to the lack of vegetation. More funding and planning will be required for national parks to handle these once-rare weather events.
Read more from Outside OnlineMove Over Shark Week, National Parks Week is Coming
National Geographic is planning a week-long celebration of public lands with its new series America’s National Parks, debuting August 29. Each night, a new episode will air, showcasing the grand landscapes and wildlife of five national parks including Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Big Bend, Badlands, and Hawai’i Volcanoes. Country singer Garth Brooks narrates the series, which will also be available to stream on Disney+ starting August 31.
Watch more from National GeographicIs It Possible to Create Water Out of Thin Air?
Instead of bringing along bulky water jugs or filtering from natural sources, off-grid travelers can now create fresh water from thin air. Living Vehicle debuted the Watergen LV Water Generation system that functions by pulling water vapor from the air—on days with at least 20 percent humidity—and converting it into liquid. Sub-micron filters and UV light then cleanse the water to make it potable. This $26,000 upgrade is offered on Living Vehicle’s off-grid trailers.
Read more from RV Magazine
Make Your Way to Michigan for This Luxury Treehouse Rental
The Winding Springs Treehouse is a sight to behold, perched in the treetops 13 feet above the forest floor. The creators were inspired by the Treehouse Masters television show and wanted to build a unique getaway that would be a bucket-list destination. Inside, you’ll find a spiral staircase, panoramic windows, and a true treehouse vibe, thanks to the natural woods that cover the surfaces. Outside, guests can relax by the fire pit and enjoy easy access to the Grand River and nearby trails.
Read more from USA TodayRV Rentals On the Rise for Labor Day Weekend
High gas prices and inflation didn’t scare away holiday travelers for the upcoming Labor Day weekend, according to stats from Outdoorsy. The RV-rental company saw a 9 percent increase in rentals. Outdoorsy attributes the growth to rental fees only increasing by $5 year over year, on average, versus hotel accommodations, which saw a 40 percent increase in pricing. According to the report, Denver, Colorado; Seattle, Washington; and Portland, Oregon topped the list for rental destinations, while the most affordable rentals can be found in Atlanta, Georgia; Orlando, Florida; and Bend, Oregon.
Read more from Woodall’s Campground MagazineDash Cam Technology Comes to Garmin GPS Navigators
Garmin is bringing dash cam technology to its series of RV GPS navigators. The new RVcam 795 will feature high-definition video recording and a 140-degree view range, which will allow the camera to serve as an “eyewitness behind the wheel.” Video clips are easy to save and share after critical incidents. The RVcam 795 includes traditional features like GPS routing that takes vehicle size and length into consideration, preloaded campground images and information, and roadway warnings. An RV 795 version without the dash cam technology is also available.
Read more from RV ProCalifornia Cracks Down on Renegade Campers
California is cracking down on illegal camping along Highway 1, increasing the fine to $1,000, as the number of tent and car campers has increased in pull-outs along the famed roadway. Illegal camping has led to problems like dumped garbage, human waste, and illegal fires, which can spark wildfires. One official said that more than 200 renegade campers were found within 12 hours in Big Sur. The original fine of $200 wasn’t a deterrent since campsites can run that much per night. Officials urge visitors to make campground reservations in nearby state parks and RV campgrounds well in advance.
Read more from SFGATE
