RV Camping in our National Parks

We are all more than eager to start planning vacation time now that the good weather is finally here.  A popular destination for enjoying our highly diverse, beautiful country is to travel to one of the National Parks, but before you go, be sure to research what each park offers in terms of RV friendly sites.  This is where the Internet can be a great help in providing all kinds of information and tips.  You can even download a free copy of the National Park Service's complete guide to every park, national landmark, and historic site in their system. 

You want to keep in mind that most of the National Parks offer a variety of different camping options.  Some campgrounds accept reservations in advance while others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis (or a combination of the two).  Furthermore some National Park campgrounds do not provide electric, sewer or water hook-ups.  These offer a wonderful rustic camping experience for the whole family, but you will want to be aware of that beforehand so you know what you are getting into and are prepared.

One the easiest way to make your plans is to use one of the online reservation sites for the National Parks.  Reservation.gov handles advance reservations for camping and lodging as well as activities for the National Parks or the U.S. Forest Service that includes 2,500 federal areas and over 60,000 facilities.   The handy search parameters allow you to put in a state or a particular park you wish to visit, the length of your RV, and the dates of your stay.  It brings up a description of each campground in your criteria and tells you whether it has hook-ups, RV sites, available openings, and much more. 

Once you narrow down your selection of a campground, you can read all about the park and the natural features and activities in the area.  There is a map that shows the layout of campground and lets you take a look at a short description of the different campsites.  

Pikes Peak Traveland has been one of the top Colorado Springs RV dealers since 1982 and a partner in the national Route 66 RV Network. Whether you are in the market for a new or used RV, want to consign one, or need parts or service, we can help.  We only sell the top names in RVs and offer some of the best prices around.  Please come out and take a look at our extensive inventory of quality RVs for sale. 

Considering a Class A or Class C Motorhome?

Motorhomes are a preference for many RVers and truly offer a “home” on wheels.  The luxurious amenities available on today’s motorhomes are magnificent and will more than please the most discerning buyer.  Since it is such a sizable investment, it is smart to stick with a quality, brand name and to use a reputable dealer.   

One commonly asked question from those new to RVs is “what is the difference between a Class A or Class C motorhome?”  The easy answer is that a Class A motorhome is considered to be the top-of-the-line and resembles a sleek-looking bus with plenty of windows.  It is the largest sized motorhome on the market and can typically range from 26 to 45 feet long.  Class C motorhomes mostly have a van cab which gives them the appearance of a camper, and they generally range in length from 20 to 32 feet.   

Determining which style best suits your needs depends on several things.  If budget is your primary concern, then a Class C may be the better choice as they are usually more economical than a Class A motorhome.  Another question you might want to consider is how you plan to use the motorhome.  If the motorhome will be used for long, extended stays, then you may want to consider the more sizable Class A that is equipped with features that can provide all the comforts of home. 

Just as there is a difference in size, there is a difference in fuel economy.  Class A motorhomes weigh between 15,000 - 30,000 lbs. while Class C motorhomes are lighter in weight and range from 10,000 to 15,000 lbs.  The weight difference alone gives Class C the edge in better fuel economy.  Other questions to ask yourself are where you are likely to take the motorhome to as many State and National Parks have small campgrounds with narrow access where size may present a problem.  Also do you want a fully winterized vehicle for all-year use?  These questions are just a start of what to consider before you buy, which is why it is a good idea to work with a trusted RV dealership in your area. 

Pikes Peak Traveland has been one of the top Colorado Springs RV dealers since 1982 and a partner in the national Route 66 RV Network. Whether you are in the market for a new or used RV, want to consign one, or need parts or service, we can help.  We only sell the top names in RVs and offer some of the best prices around.  Please come out and take a look at our extensive inventory of quality RVs for sale. 

Get the Best MPG from Your Motorhome

Now that your motorhome is ready for the season, you may want to think about some easy-to-do and mostly inexpensive tips to help improve your RV’s mpg when you are on the road.  The good news is that the motorhomes of today are built with more fuel efficient engines but there are things you can do to make it even better.   

For starters, think about reducing any unnecessary weight that you are carrying in the motorhome.  Bring what you need for the trip you are taking and be aware of letting the clutter in the RV build up overtime.  Just like your home, periodically go through it and declutter. 

Another inexpensive thing to do is to periodically check the air filter, and if it is dirty, replace it with a quality high-flow filter.  Experts cite a clean air filter can help to improve fuel economy by up to 10%.  Along the same lines, routinely check the air pressure of the tires as properly inflated tires can increase fuel economy by up to 3% as well as help to save on wear and tear of the tires. 

Be sure to maintain your motorhome’s engine just like you do on your car.  Follow through with all scheduled tune-ups and change the oil frequently using a good quality or synthetic oil.  Furthermore use the recommended type of gas for the RV, and if it doesn’t require premium, don’t bother. 

Lastly be aware of your driving habits.  Take care in how you accelerate and use cruise control whenever possible.  Most importantly watch your speed.  It is estimated that for every 5mph over 60mph you go, it can increase the amount you pay for a gallon of gas by as much as 10 cents. 

Pikes Peak Traveland has been one of the top Colorado Springs RV dealers since 1982 and a partner in the national Route 66 RV Network. Whether you are in the market for a new or used RV, want to consign one, or need parts or service, we can help.  We only sell the top names in RVs and offer some of the best prices around.  Please come out and take a look at our extensive inventory of quality RVs for sale.