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. 

Tips Before You Take Your 1st RV Trip

Now that you have bought your beautiful new RV, there are some useful tips to consider that will help to ensure your first trip is trouble-free.  For a start, be sure to take advantage of all the information and advice your RV dealer can give you regarding maintaining and operating your RV.  Familiarize yourself with the different systems such as the propane tank, generator, and water pumps and learn how they work since you will be monitoring and maintaining them. 

Driving a motorhome or towing a travel trailer is not difficult but before you travel any distance with the new RV, take it out around the neighborhood to get used to the feel of it.  Practice adjusting the mirrors so you get the maximum viewing area and use them to park and maneuver the RV.  Remember that braking is different with a motorhome or trailer so you need to moderate your speed when preparing to stop.  Furthermore get used to how the RV handles while making turns as cornering a large RV does require more of a turning radius. 

It is important to keep tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, and it is a good idea to get into the habit of checking both the tread and pressure weekly to ensure optimal performance.  Also many experienced RVers suggest being prepared for the unexpected so pack the RV with a flashlight, candles, and matches as well as bring first aid supplies and insect repellant.

Lastly check with your RV dealer about any classes they may offer or can recommend regarding safety, winterizing, or de-winterizing your vehicle.  Even seasoned RVers can benefit from these types of classes.  Your dealer may even have some recommendations for good storage options in the 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. 

Smartly Stock Your New RV

You may recently have bought a RV or are thinking about purchasing one for the upcoming season and need to consider how to stock it.  One of the convenient things about owning a RV is the fact that you can have it always packed and ready to go with all the basics other than clothing and personal items.

That being said, since storage space is limited and you do not want to exceed the weight restriction you can safely tow, be smart when stocking your RV.  Items that go into the RV do not have to be new and can be purchased at thrift stores or yard sales.  Another idea is to take older things from your home to be used in the RV and repurchase new ones for the house. 

Some RVers even go so far as to suggest you load the RV with everything you think you may need for a trip and then spend a weekend in it on the driveway without going into the house for supplies.  This should give you an indication if you are adequately prepared. 

Generally you will want to plan on outfitting your RV with enough dishes to serve everyone who will be traveling with you.  Many suggest reusable plastic dishes since they are light-weight and do not break, and are more environmentally friendly than constantly using paper products.  Your few basic pots and pans should be easy to clean and is not the place for heavy cast-iron skillets.  Stock a small supply of condiments, plastic trash bags, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, can opener, and a coffee pot.  Do not forget about dish towels, soap, sponges, matches, utensils and a fire extinguisher.

Pack the RV with a set of bedding and bath towels for each camper and include a clothes line so you can hang wet towels outside.  The bathroom should be stocked with shampoo and soap along with other basic necessities.  Additionally it is handy to have a multiple-outlet surge protector, outdoor extension cord, bungee cords or tie-downs, and a hand-held vacuum cleaner.   

A small well-stocked tool box is a must and be sure to bring along leveling blocks and wheel chocks.  It is also nice to have lawn chairs for sitting outside, and if you have room, a small portable table.   

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.