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.
Utah’s Busiest State Park Gets a Campground Update
With more than 1 million visitors last year, Sand Hollow State Park is ranked as Utah’s most-visited location in the state park system. To help accommodate the increased crowds and events hosted at the park, a 127-site campground was added to the property. The Lakeview Campground features eight full-hookup sites, 22 partial hookups, and a shower and restroom facility. Campers will have views of the park’s reservoir and Pine Mountain, and the location is only 1 mile from Sand Mountain, a popular off-roading vehicle area.
Read more from St. George NewsUnwind at a National Park From the Comfort of Home
While the best way to experience a national park is by visiting one in person, the Headspace app now lets its users unwind with national park-themed sleep stories and meditations. The mindfulness app has partnered with the National Park Foundation to provide users with the many mental health benefits of escaping to nature, even while they’re at home. Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and Zion national parks are featured in the app’s first release of locations. Headspace subscriptions start close to $6 per month, with a 2-week free trial period.
Read more from USA TodayThis Rotating Rig Isn’t Your Average Trailer
There’s no need for an awning when your rig comes complete with a covered outdoor deck space. New Zealand manufacturer, Romotow, is bringing its futuristic, rotating travel trailer to life. With a sleeping capacity of four to six campers, a spacious dining area, wraparound windows, a main bedroom, and a dry bath—on paper, the Romotow sounds like any other RV. What sets this rig apart from the crowd though is the automated hydraulic system that swivels the rig 90 degrees to create a covered deck in less than 90 seconds. Currently retailing for more than $265,000, RVers in New Zealand and Australia can now pre-order the rig, as plans to bring it to the U.S. are still unknown.
Read more from RV BusinessA New Study Shows the Changing Demographics of RVing
The RVing landscape continues to shift, as younger generations take to the camping lifestyle. A new report from the RV Industry Association (RVIA), shows that first-time RV buyers in 2022 were younger and more diverse than in previous years. Millennials currently account for 65 percent of the market, which has a median age of 32. Travel convenience and affordability were the primary reasons people made the switch to RVing. The average amount spent on a new RV last year was slightly more than $92,000, with 77 percent of those purchases taking place at an RV dealership. The survey also reports on campsite preferences, aftermarket products, travel frequency, and more.
Read more from RVIAAn Electric Campervan You Can Rent Before Buying
Looking for an electric RV, but can’t afford the hefty price tag? A new startup company is making it possible to rent its electric campervan before deciding to buy. Grounded’s G1 RV is available for purchase with a starting price of $125,000, or you can “subscribe” to the RV for a year-long rental period costing $2,300 a month. This option makes it possible to test out RVing and the EV lifestyle, without committing to the upfront investment. Rental companies can also lease the campervan for commercial use. The G1 is built on a Ford E-Transit platform with an estimated driving range slightly more than 100 miles. It’s also equipped with a 650-watt solar power system and a simple, sleek interior with modern amenities and sleeping space.
Read more from GearJunkieWhich National Park Costs More in 2023?
Travelers should plan to pay more this year when visiting Acadia National Park in Maine. The popular park announced that weekly and annual entrance fees will increase, beginning April 1, 2023. A 7-day pass for private vehicles, motorcycles, pedestrians, and bicycles will all increase by $5 respectively. The park’s annual passes will also increase from $55 to $75. The added revenue will go toward expanding the park’s bus services to help alleviate traffic congestion.
Read more from Mass LiveGear Check: The Dirtiest Job in RVing, Made Easier
Whether you’re parked too far away, or simply don’t want to wait in line with your rig at the dump station, this portable RV tote tank lets you transport your tank’s waste with added ease. Designed with a 21-gallon capacity, you can empty your tank right into the tote, and then haul it manually (or tow it with the included adapter) to the campground’s dump station. The portable tote is easy to clean and store, making this a must-have RVing accessory.
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