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.
Wildlife Abounds When People Are Absent
It’s not uncommon for bears and bison to cause traffic jams on national park roadways. But with roads and sidewalks empty, wildlife has enjoyed free rein during one of the longest shutdowns in park history. Greater numbers of animals have been sighted in places where their numbers are usually sparse. “I think the big surprises are going to come when those areas reopen,” Colleen Cassady St. Clair, a biologist at the University of Alberta, told CBC. As parks across the country begin to reopen their gates, the resurgence of wildlife is bound to be on a collision course with visitors. In fact, just two days after Yellowstone reopened, a woman got too close to a bison and was “knocked to the ground” near Old Faithful. Keeping in mind that normal wildlife patterns have been disrupted, visitors heading into national parks should be extra careful.
Source: Smithsonian With Humans Away, Animals in National Parks are Having a Ball
Give the Gift of Grilling for Father’s Day
Father’s Day is the perfect time to help Dad improve his grilling game with barbecue gear and gadgets. NBC News rounded up 17 gift ideas, starting with the grill itself. Flat-top propane griddles are a hot trend, so consider the Blackstone Adventure Ready Grill or the Cuisinart Griddler Elite, which can be used indoors as well. Or, get back to the classics with an iconic Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill. Combine Dad’s love of technology and grilling with a new wireless thermometer, like the ThermoPro TP20 or the New MEATER+. For the adventurous chef, the Man Crates Grill Master Crate is an intriguing mix of spices, sauces, and wood chips. Some budget-friendly gift options include upgraded stainless steel tongs, a BBQ tool kit, a grill cover, or a personalized apron.
Source: NBC News 17 Best Father’s Day Grilling Gifts
RV in the Lap of Luxury in the 2020 Airstream Atlas
According to Airstream, “A well-traveled life begins with the best.” Aiming to be the best Class B+ motorhome on the road, Airstream partnered with Mercedes-Benz to create the 2020 Atlas. On the outside, you’ll find a shiny, 24-foot Airstream body enveloping a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis. Inside, high-end materials create a luxurious living space that has sleeping space for two, a kitchen, a full bathroom, and ample storage. Slide out the walls to amplify the floor space and make room for the convertible Murphy bed. Amenities include a sunroof, tankless water heater, 300-watt solar system, and motion-activated lights. Impeccable design details and opulent finishings are reflected in the $238,000 price point. (Photo courtesy of Airstream, Inc.).
Source: Business Insider Airstream Just Unveiled the New $238,000 Atlas Camper
Disclaimer: Togo RV is part of a joint-venture, partially owned by Thor Industries, Inc. of which Airstream Inc. is a subsidiary.
Revolutionize the Campfire Routine with the Solo Stove Ranger
While RVers love gathering around a campfire, many don’t love the messy ashes, smoky clothes, or time-consuming effort involved to actually build a fire. The Solo Stove Ranger requires no electricity, propane, or other special equipment. Instead, the unique double-wall design increases the airflow at the base, making it easier to spark and maintain a fire. Wood burns more thoroughly in the Solo Stove Ranger, creating less smoke and ash. And its small size—measuring less than 13 by 15 inches and weighing 15 pounds—makes it easy to tote from campground to campground. (Photo courtesy of Solo Stove).
Source: Solo Stove Ranger
Where the Country Club Meets the Campground
Offering all of the esteem of a country club on a campground budget, Motorcoach Country Club was named the nation’s best luxury RV resort. Located just outside of Palm Springs, California, this park offers mountain views and waterfront sites. While the resort presents an impressive list of amenities (including navigable water channels, multiple pools, and a golf course), individual sites are personally developed by lot owners. Purchasing a lot ranges from $50,000 for an undeveloped site, to $800,000 for a well-appointed retreat. But don’t be discouraged by the price tag: Renting a site is surprisingly affordable. Depending on the site and amenities included, rental rates range from $114 to $236 per night—the higher price being for those who have a Class A motorhome (30 feet or longer).
Source: Business Insider Take a Look Inside the Top Luxury RV Resort