Where We Are Now

We landed this afternoon at Ely KOA Journey, pretty much right in the middle of Nevada, elevation, 6500 ft. This is just a stop-over for a night, but it really is a nice campground. We plan to drive around this after and check out the town.

   Ely KOA our site

Where We Are on the Map

Where to Next

From here we're heading north to Idaho. Our first stop is a place called Anderson Camp. We plan to spend a couple of days there so we can check out Shoshone Falls and what's left of Twin Falls

 Anderson Camp Stock Photo

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Friday, 01 November 2024

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Natchez Trace RV & Camping Resort, Hohenwald, TN

Our Visit

Thousand Trails      Our original thought on choosing Natchez Trace to camp at was to visit Nashville, but we never made it there.  We had planned on staying for six days and moving on toward Memphis, but the couple (Bud and Melanie) next to us at Diamond Caverns were heading there the day after us so we added four more days to spend more time visiting with them.  (Also, Melanie was sewing us new curtains.)

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Natchez Trace on the map blue burned

Another couple (Ron & Glenda) that we had met at Diamond Caverns also joined us a week later.  On our first day there we checked out the store/cafe and met some of the local people who invited us to join them at their table for breakfast.  That wound up being a daily thing.  We also met three other couples there, one park ranger and his wife (Thomas & Pam), the other two (Bob & Debi) & (Rick & Kim) had also been at Diamond Caverns while we were there but we hadn't met them yet.  With all the truly great people there, we added another four days to our stay.

     When we arrived at the campground we went off in search of a full hook-up with 50 amps, but the only one available was in a bad location in the sun and at the time our AC wasn't working.  So we then looked for a 30 amp full hookup site and found only a few of them, but they were also in full sun.  So we found a great spot under the trees (I had to trim some branches while standing on the motorhome for us to back in)  It was 30 amps and no septic hookup, but it was a great spot and there was a full hookup 30 amp spot that Bud and Melanie could use when they came the following day.  Our park ranger friend (Thomas) set us up with a pumping service, so after five days we ponied up $10 bucks and got pumped out.  When Ron & Glenda showed up, there were a few full hookup sites at the beach and we all moved over there.  We occupied four of the seven beach sites for the Labor Day weekend.  It was camping at its best.  Thomas offered up his pontoon boat to use while he was working and once we took him up on his generous offer, we drove it back to the beach and picked up the rest of the clan and enjoyed a couple of hours out on the lake.

    The weekend before Labor Day the campground hosted a charity auto show which featured mostly "Rat Rods".  It was an interesting take on restoring old cars.  The campground is also located right next to the Natchez Trace.  The Natchez Trace is a 444-mile long national park.  It's a road starting from Natchez, Mississippi extending north almost to Nashville.  No commercial vehicles are allowed on the road and it has a 50 mph speed limit throughout.  It followed a trail that pioneers used as they traveled north through the area.  The site where Meriwether Lewis is buried is pretty close to the campground.  That, and the Amish community nearby are just about the only thing to see near the campground as Nashville is about an hour and a half drive.  

    From what we understand about the campground is that the previous owners were going bankrupt when Thousand Trails picked it up.  There are over 500 sites and it's very spread out.  Because of the park's age, most of the sites are 30 amp without septic.  Most of the facilities are run down and are in need of a lot of work.  There are only seven sites at the beach that are near the lake that are available for "transients", the rest of the lakefront sites are annual sites.  Hopefully, with enough annual sites, the park will be able to make the improvements that it desperately needs.  The campground also has a lot of cabins, which we didn't learn much about.  I think the number one draw to the campground is the people who live there, work there, and live nearby.  Everyone we met was so nice.  The other nice feature is the cafe that serves three meals a day with the best prices.  Jackie and I both ate breakfast there every day for around six dollars together.  I'm sure that the campground will continue making improvements and we're looking forward to our next visit.

Campground number one hundred twenty-one. 
  • August 21, 2018 - (14 days)
  1. Resort Information
  2. Their Description
  3. Amenities
  4. Policies
  5. Rentals
Website:
  www.rvonthego.com
Type: Thousand Trails
Address: 1363 Napier Rd, 
  Hohenwald, TN 38462
Phone: (931) 796-3212

Thousand Trails

Natchez Trace RV Camping is a beautifully wooded RV camp in Tennessee that offers camera-worthy lookouts and a relaxing getaway environment. Located right off the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez Trace makes RV camping an adventure. Its position within an 830-acre forested preserve means fewer crowds and more privacy. This nature-focused RV camp features some of the best outdoor resources and recreation in Tennessee: a large 3 mile long lake, pontoon tours, and excellent fishing for bass, shellcracker, crappie and more.

Getting outside of Natchez Trace RV Camping can be just as exciting. Nashville offers many sports and entertainment attractions including music, theme parks, and interesting museums. Other noteworthy day trips include Loretta Lynn's Dude Ranch in Hurricane Mills and the home of President James Polk in Columbia, both of which can be easily accomplished from your home base at Natchez Trace RV camp in Tennessee.

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  • Clubhouse
  • Shuffleboard
  • Swimming Pool
  • Store
  • WiFi
  • RV Storage
  • Pets Welcome
  • Restaurant
  • Store
  • Nature / Hiking Trails
  • Mini Golf
  • Restroom/Shower Facilities
  • Laundry Facilities
  • Picnic/BBQ Area
  • Playground
  • Volleyball
  • Basketball
  • Horseshoes
  • Game Room/Billiards
  • Dog Park
  • Tennis Court
  • Picnic/BBQ Area
  • Library
  • Dog Park

General Policies:

  • RV Check-In Time: 11 AM
  • Rental Check-In Time: 4:00 PM
  • Check-Out Time: 11:00 AM
  • Upon check-in, you may be asked to provide a valid ID and a certificate of insurance and registration for your unit. Members should also have their membership card on hand.
  • Minimum Check-In age is 21 years old.
  • Pets are allowed.
  • The rates displayed do not include any applicable service fees or charges for optional incidentals.
  • Ranger Station Hours: August-May: 8am-5pm CST; June-September: 8am-8pm CST.
  • For late arrival arrangements, please call (931) 796-3211.

Reservation & Payment Policies:

  • Your credit card will be charged Itinerary Total prior to arrival, up to a maximum deposit of $250.00. Any remaining balance will be due on arrival.
  • If you cancel your reservation 14 or more days prior to arrival, you will be charged a $25 administrative fee.
  • If you cancel your reservation within 14 days of arrival, you will forfeit your deposit, up to a maximum of $250.
  • In the case of multiple sites booked, cancellation penalties apply to each site that is canceled or changed.
  • Prices and site type are subject to availability.

Helpful Information:

  • All of our sites are 30amp only.
  • Country Store: (931) 796-3422
  • Business Office: (931) 796-3212

We do not allow pets in some accommodation types; however, we do allow service animals and a service animal may have stayed in a non-pet rental.

We currently offer the following rental accommodations:
Alabama Cabin (Sleeps 4)

The Alabama cabin is the perfect getaway for the Crimson Tide fan. This newly remodeled cabin has everything for you to completely unwind. This cabin has 2 full beds and a nice size bathroom with a shower and is nicely decorated in Alabama colors. Be sure to enjoy the wildlife here while sitting on your deck.

  • Linens
  • Fully stocked kitchen
  • Refrigerators
  • Stove
  • Microwaves
  • Coffee maker
  • toaster. AC/heat
  • Flatscreen TV
Deluxe Cabin (Sleeps 4/No Pets)

The deluxe cabin sleeps 4 people and is located near the beach. These rentals include two full size beds. The back porch has a ceiling fan and patio table and chairs overlooking the lake. No pets.

  • Full bathroom
  • Dinette set
  • 19' color TV with satellite
  • Stove
  • Refrigerator
  • Coffeemaker
  • Toaster
  • Pots and pans
  • Silverware and dishes for 4
  • Heat/AC
  • Back porch
  • Patio Table and chairs
  • BBQ grill
Deluxe Cabin (Sleeps 4/Pet Friendly)

The deluxe cabin sleeps 4 people and is located near the beach. These pet-friendly rentals include two full-size beds. The back porch has a ceiling fan and patio table and chairs overlooking the lake.

Fishing Cabin (Sleeps 6)

Welcome to the Fishing Cabin! Your perfect getaway for making memories. Screened in deck overlooking Chief Creek Lake right next to Natchez Trace Parkway. Fully stocked cabin: Towels, linens, pots, pans, stove, refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV. Sleeps 6 and 1 1/2 bathrooms

Hunting Cabin (Sleeps 6)

The newly remodeled Hunting Cabin is a perfect place for the family. It sleeps 6 and has 2 full bathrooms and the deck on the cabin overlooks Chief Creek Lake. Pack up the kids and food. The rest of your supplies is furnished in this cabin. A fully stocked kitchen, linens and towels, stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, and a flat-screen TV are here waiting on you. You and kids will make lifetime memories here.

Lodge (Sleeps 15+)

Gather up the family and friends for a one of a kind experience at our lodge. Overlooking Chief Creek lake, this huge lodge has five bedrooms and three baths. With eight full-size beds, you can sleep 16+ people. Be sure to spend time out on the large gazebo right on the lake. With the gazebo's gorgeous, wrap-around deck, the lodge is the perfect place for outdoor weddings, family reunions or just making memories.

  • Towels
  • Linens
  • Pots
  • Pans
  • Dishes
  • A flat-screen TV with Dish Network satellite
  • Outside deck for entertaining
  • Gazebo
  • Small fishing dock
  • BBQ grill
  • Picnic tables
  • Ample parking
  • Secluded wooded area on the lake

Phone Reservations Only - Please Call 888-551-9102 to Reserve Today .

Nashville Cabin (Sleeps 4)

The Nashville Cabin is the perfect place to get away and just relax. It has all the amenities of a home decorated in the music industries motif. Fully stocked kitchen, stove, refrigerator, towels, linens, microwave, and a flat-screen TV. Screened in the deck for you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife surrounding Chief Creek Lake located next to the famous Natchez Trace Parkway. Sleeps 4 with a large handicap bathroom.

Pavilion by the Pool (Seats 75)

The Pavilion has tables and chairs to seat 75. With a kitchen area, sink, refrigerator and more, it is an ideal location to host your wedding, reunions or party.

Premium Cabin (Sleeps 8/No Pets)

These three-bedroom cabins sleep 8 people and include two queen beds, two full-size beds in each room as well as one twin bunk. The large screened back porch has a patio table and chairs. Linens included. No pets.

Red Barn (Holds 75)

Steps away from the lake and near a large grassy expanse, the big red barn is a great option for your wedding, reunions or party. This unique barn comfortably holds 75 and has a bonus loft space.

Route 66 Cabin (Sleeps 4)

Venture back to the days of Route 66. This newly remodeled cabin takes you back to when times were more relaxed but has all the modern amenities. Lay back and relax on the 2 full-size beds that sleep 4 people, while watching your favorite movie on the flat-screen TV. After your shower in our spacious bathroom, go out on the screened-in deck and enjoy your favorite beverage.

  • AC/heat
  • Fully stocked kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove
  • Microwave
  • Coffee maker
  • Toaster
Standard Cabin (Sleeps 4/No Pets)

These rental cabins sleep 4 people and are complete with linens and kitchens. Numbers are limited, so reserve one today. Call for availability.

  • Kitchen
  • Linens
Standard Cabin (Sleeps 4/Pet Friendly)

These rental cabins sleep 4 people and are complete with linens and kitchens. Numbers are limited, so reserve one today. Call for availability.

  • Kitchen
  • Linens
Tennessee Cabin (Sleeps 4)

Escape to the newly remodeled Tennessee cabin next to Natchez Trace Parkway. Perfect for the dedicated Vols fan!! Decorated with official orange and white Vols furnishings. The Tennessee cabin has 2 bedrooms with queen beds and sleeps, 4 people. The extra-large bathroom includes a full-size closet and a large handicap walk-in shower. This beautiful cabin features, AC/Heat, full kitchen, w/refrigerator, stove, microwave, toaster, coffeemaker and all necessary utensils to cook up a meal. After watching the game on the flatscreen TV, gather on the screened-in deck overlooking Chief Creek Lake. Memories made here will lure you back again and again.

Rick

Rick

Monday, 20 May 2019 22:30

Pine Lake RV Park

Pine Lake RV Park

     Pine Lake was a stop-over park on our way to Disney World so we didn't disconnect the car and explore the area.  We checked in on a Sunday and there was no one in the office, but after leaving a phone message, I received a return call directing me to take a site in a general area and check-in the day.  That was fine, there were lots of great sites and the park is really beautiful.  We took advantage of the small laundromat and did some walking around, but that was it. I'm sure that we will visit this park again and perhaps stay a bit longer to explore the area.

 

Type: GNP - Good Neighbor Park

Good Sam Rating: 7.5/8.5*/7

Address: 
21036 Hwy 231
Fountain, FL 32438

Phone: (850) 722-1401

Fax: (850) 722-1404

Reservations Phone: (850) 722-1401

Reservations Fax: (850) 722-1404

Resort Information: Pine Lake RV Park located in Florida's Panhandle near Panama City Beach and Emeralds Coast's pristine beaches with 5 state parks, Falling Waters, Florida Caverns, Ecofina, Panhandle Pioneer Settlement, St. Andrews, in addition to numerous attractions within 30 minutes.

Directions: From I-10 and Hwy 231 (Ex 130): S 15 mi to park. From Jct of Hwy 98 and 231: N 29 mi on Hwy 231. Resort on E side of Hwy 231 just N of an overpass.

Reservation Requirements:

Web Site: pinelakerv.com

EMail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Full Sites: 83

Partial Sites: 52

Pull-through Sites: 124

RV Site Minimum Stay: 1 night

Open: Jan 1 to Dec 31

Maximum Electrical Service: 50 amps

WiFi Available: Yes

Maximum RV Length: 60 feet

Elevation: 0

Amenities: Recreation hall, pavilions, laundry, horseshoes, picnic tables, propane, gift shop, tenting, RV supplies, TV lounge, hot showers, phone hook-ups each site, hiking trails, fitness center, library, dump station, group activities, fire rings, handicap access, business office, fishing available, fishing nearby (deep sea charter), nearby festivals, 5 state parks, tourist attractions nearby.

RV Notes: Special discount rate for Coast members. Rate includes 2 adults, 2 children (under 12 yrs), 30 amps, partial hook-up. Additional charges: Extra adult $4/night, extra child $2/night, additional vehicle $2, tax 6.5%. No pop-ups or buses.

Accepts Pets: Yes

Pet Restrictions: Must be less than 50 lbs. No Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, or Dobermans.

Visitor Mail Accepted: Yes

Monday, 20 May 2019 22:29

Paradise RV Campground, WA

Paradise RV Campground, Silver Creek, WA

     We pulled into the campground while the gate ranger was working up on top of the water tower.  (The camp had a water shortage and was buying more)  He greeted us via a radio and told us to go find a spot.  (We could see him while we were talking) Paradise is built on a hill so that almost all the sites are pull-throughs carved perpendicular to the hillside leaving tiers.  Unfortunately, once you rig is pulled in, there isn’t really much of a level area for a picnic table.  The campground offers campsites in the thick woods as well as out in the open.  There are also campsites that offered more seclusion because they were located at the bottom of the campground and I just don’t think that most people ventured down there looking for a site.  There are a lot of sites that just don’t get much use.
Paradise deck     The pools are nice, with the adult pool located next to the family pool and hot tub.  The hot tub was big but seemed to be populated with kids who can’t read.  There are tennis courts, horseshoes, a basketball court, and there once was shuffleboard.  There are two lakes to fish from or to just row around in.  The campground has a small store, laundromat, family and adult centers and a large room and area for group activities like bingo and barbecues for lots of people.  Overall, the campground was good and one we’ll visit again.  We also were able to use our phones and have the internet through AT&T.
 
 
Thousand TrailsFrom:
     Washington is known for its great RV resorts, and Paradise RV Resort is certainly counted among them. Two stocked lakes are perfect for fishermen, while the nearby mountain ranges offer majestic views. Bring your camera! You will want to capture the beauty of the tulip and daffodil fields. Additionally, this beautiful Washington RV camp is located within an easy driving distance of Portland, Oregon and Tacoma, and Yakima in Washington. We are also surrounded by the majestic beauty of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens.
Monday, 20 May 2019 22:28

Paradise Campground, Utah

Paradise Campground, Panguitch, Utah

     Paradise Campground is a small graveled RV park just north of the town of Panguitch, Utah.  From there, it was about a thirty-minute drive to Bryce Canyon.  While trying to make reservations I was never able to get anyone on the phone at the office, but they did call back.  When we got there, the office was closed.  A note on the door told us the rates of the sites and to pick a site and then put money in an envelope and slide it under the door.  Over the weekend, no one ever did come to the office.  The park was in good shape and looked as if someone had spent a lot of time and money into making the campground really nice and then just stopped, not quite finished with the renovations.  Speaking with another camper who had stayed there several times in the past, I guess the park has been this way for years.  We found the sites very close together, but there were enough empty campsites that people spaced themselves out.  We had no neighbors on either side so it wasn't bad.  With the campground being above 6000 feet and it being late September we did wake up to below freezing temperatures.

      We arrived at the early enough that we decided to head up to Bryce Canyon that day so that we could leave the cold and head south a day earlier.  On the way to Bryce, we drove through Red Canyon and stopped at the visitor's center.  Red Canyon is separate from Bryce Canyon and has many hiking trails.  Don't make the mistake of asking questions about Bryce Canyon at the wrong visitor's center.  When we arrived at Bryce Canyon, we parked at the shuttle bus center outside of the park.  We then rode the shuttle into the park, stopping at the visitor's center and then at Bryce Point.  From there we could view the main cathedral.  The other shuttle stops we more points along the rim of this same cathedral, so we walked most of the rim.  There are several trails that lead down into the canyon.  Had we more time, better shoes on, and better weather, we would have done more hiking.  The rim is over 8000 feet and with the wind, it wasn't very warm that day.

     On our second day, we decided to drive up to Cedar Breaks National Monument.   The drive up there was beautiful.  The birch trees were bright yellow mixed in with the dark evergreens.  When we arrived at the rim, we were above 10,000 feet and looking out to the west was a thick cloud cover below us.  We were able to view most of Cedar Breaks despite the clouds.  At the park's visitor center a couple of young ladies thought it would be cool to have photos taken while standing on top of a fence with a drop of several thousand feet behind them.  From what we've seen, it's a wonder more tourist don't lose their lives from trying to get that perfect photo shot.  Just down the road, we pulled into Duck Creek Village for lunch.  Duck Creek is a haven for ATV'rs and around the area are scores of trails to ride.  The area east of Cedar Breaks was made up of several individual peaks and the geography of the land formation was a combination Cclaron Limestone (like Bryce Canyon & Cedar Breaks) and black lava rock.  Like we found in Oregon and Washington in places the liver of lava flowing through the cooler rock forming lava tubes.  After our visit to Duck Creek, we stopped at one of these tubes, Mammoth Cave.  

   We left there on a Sunday morning heading further south to warmer weather, to get there we had to cross a mountain pass that was covered in a dusting of snow.  Two hours later we were setting up camp in Leeds on a sunny 70-degree afternoon.

From their website:

Paradise RV Park & Campground
2153 N Highway 89
Panguitch, UT 84759
Open May 1st - Oct 31st
(435) 676-8348
(800) 648-2268
The Beautiful 10 acre Paradise RV Park & Campground, located in Panguitch UT. is a perfect location for your next vacation. Within 15 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park and 70 Miles from Zion National Park, this location is perfect for your journey into Beautiful Southern Utah. 
Surrounded by the picturesque and awesome beauty of mountain vistas, while luxuriating at our Paradise Park, as everyone else is baking in the Hot SouthWestern Sun. You will remain cool where the summer temperatures are always moderate leaving hardly ever the need for Air Conditioning.
Paradise RV park has 60 large full hook-ups with up to 50AMP power, that can handle any size rig. Along with 5 Camping Cabins and 30 dry tents sites.
Located on the premises is a fantastic Laundry with triple Load Washers for your convenience. We have a wonderful Gift Shop which has rare collections and beautiful Indian Jewelry, representing the ART DECOR of this amazing breathtaking World of Southern Utah.
The area is great for Hunting and ATVing for you outdoor enthusiasts. And most importantly we are on the Grand Circle which is the Greatest Drive anywhere on the Planet featuring 10 National Parks, 4 National Forests, 11 National Monuments, and 8 State Parks.
Within 3 miles from Paradise RV Park, we are stationed just outside a full-service town, which has Restaurants, Grocery stores, and a nearby Hospital, all within 3 miles from the park!
Thank you for choosing Bryce-Zion Paradise RV Park for your next trip!
Monday, 20 May 2019 22:27

Palm Springs RV Resort

Palm Springs RV Resort

     Palm Springs RV and Camping Resort has become one of our favorite places to visit. The campground is split down the middle, on the west side all the sites are 30 amp pull-throughs, and on the east side, all the sites are 50 amp back-ins. All the roads are paved and the sites vary from all sand to partial asphalt, to total concrete (which are saved for ‘annuals’) Sites are assigned on a first come, first served basis, however, there are a few smaller sites reserved for tents. Palm trees are the name of the game here, whichever site you choose, you’ll have to navigate around at least one or two palm trees. On our site, we couldn’t open our awning because of a tree, which wasn’t a big deal as it was on the north side of the RV.
     The best part of the resort was the people we met there. We walk our dogs two or three times each day and we found that walking up and down each row came out to be about two and a half miles, during which we never failed to meet new people or run into friends we had previously met. Almost every evening we found ourselves at someone’s campsite visiting with people from all over. The park was very welcoming and didn’t give us the feeling that we were visiting someone else’s park like some parks do when there are too many people living there month to month.
    The amities are fairly good. There are six pristine pickleball courts, several horseshoe pits, a pool, a hot tub, an activity center, and more. Every morning there was a volleyball game happening in the pool. There are activities such as barbecues, pickleball events, a weekly craft sale, water aerobics, and so on. We found the mail system a bit different, UPS & FedEx delivers right to your site and packages sent by USPS are delivered to the office and a fee is charged when picking up your packages. Not a bad system, if you know beforehand what it is. The park could use some fixing up and a bit more servicing. Things like having someone check site once vacated and making sure that they are ready for the next camper, maybe paving more sites to keep the sand and dust level down, or at least ensuring that each site has a concrete pad with a picnic table. (most do, but not all) We also noticed at least three different RV wash companies in the campground, we also saw other outside services in the park, including oil changes and some fiberglass repair.
     Another great aspect of the park is its location. It is just minutes away from shopping, casinos, street fairs, and scores of golf courses. We were in the park most of the month of December and we had the great fortune of pretty much perfect weather the whole time. However, I do understand that the park is closed during the summer months because of the heat, but I’ve heard rumors that may change. (not the heat, but closing during the summer months) We are very much looking forward to returning here. We love the whole Palm Springs area.


A Popular RV Camp in California
    This RV camp in California is equally perfect for a weekend getaway or a long-term hiatus. Situated in the beautiful Coachella Valley, this 25-acre California RV campground boasts an unbeatable location near lakes, canyons, and national monuments. Whether you're looking for the perfect winter vacation or a golf retreat, Palm Springs RV Camping is a win-win choice.
   This desert community truly offers something for everyone. Known as a golfer's paradise, Palm Springs has a variety of well-groomed courses. Opportunities for fishing are just a short distance away at The Salton Sea and Lake Cahuilla. Additionally, nearby attractions like Joshua Tree National Park, Thousand Palms Oasis, and the San Jacinto National Monument await. Don't forget the most breathtaking sight of them all! Take in views of the mountains and the Coachella Valley from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway as it lifts you up 8,000 feet to the peak of Mt. San Jacinto!

Monday, 20 May 2019 22:04

Pacific Dunes Ranch

Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort, Oceano, California

     We had an uneventful drive to Pacific Dunes, always a plus. We arrived at the campground at noon and were assigned a site up on the hill.  The location was great even though it was rather narrow.  The campground is located up against the dunes, however, the ocean was quite a hike.  The dunes are spectacular and massive.  I noticed in the amenities listed for the campground, sand-sledding was among them, unfortunately, our schedule during our short visit didn't give us the opportunity to give it a try.  The campground is located just south of Pismo Beach, so there is a lot to do and see there.  The park is a part of the Trails Collection and is $20 per night for members.  Given its location, I feel that it is worth it.  

     The other plus to its location is our good friend Destry lives in Pismo Beach and it gave us time to visit with her.  

     Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort is the most unique RV resort in California's Pismo Beach region, with rolling sand dunes and rollicking waves in the beautiful Oceano Preserve. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you'll enjoy an RV resort that highlights breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach. In California, we call this a winning combination - secluded and quiet but not remote.
    With its coastal location, Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort lends itself to numerous water sports and activities. Swimming, boating, fishing, and surfing are popular forms of recreation at our RV resort in California, and biking and hiking are at the top of the list for those without their sea legs.
Monday, 20 May 2019 22:03

Pacific City RV Campground

Pacific City RV Campground

      We arrived on a Saturday morning of the 4th of July weekend.  The campground was almost full and trying to find a campsite big enough for us was a bit of a task.  TT has a first come, first serve policy, after you reserve a site, however, there is nothing that prevents small RV’s from taking the larger sites.  I really don’t know a solution to the problem.  The other small issue that I have, is that the few sites with the “spectacular ocean views” are sites rented out to full-timers, so people who travel don’t get the “view sites.”  However, the campground has a lot of nice wooded sites so it wasn’t a big deal.  The other fun thing about the campground is that there are bunnies everywhere.

      Pacific City Campground is a campground with defined campsites, so you really get the camping feeling.  To add to the camping feeling, there isn’t any cell or Internet service.  (at least not AT&T) There is a lodge with pool, ping pong, TV and what you’d expect to find in a camp lodge.  There is a poor Internet signal there, but enough to check your emails.  There is also an enclosed pool and an adult hot tub.  Also, there is a small store that is open four hours a day and only on weekends.  From the campground, there is a trail that takes you to a beautiful beach.  Oregon beaches are all public which is great, but most also allow cars, which limits your ability to let your dogs run.  To me, it also takes away some of the beauty of the beach.   Overall the campground was pretty nice and I’m sure that we will revisit someday.

        Oceanfront RV Campground in Oregon, you will never tire of the spectacular ocean views with a trip to Pacific City RV Camping in Oregon. Nature trails, fishing, clamming, surfing, beachcombing and more can all be found at this RV campground in Oregon, located along the beautiful Central Oregon coastline. Explore Pacific City RV Camping year-round with activities tailored to specific seasons. Enjoy the water in the summer, picking huckleberries in the fall and whale watching in the winter. After an exciting day of fun, sit back and relax around a crackling fire.  And…  On the coast, amid towering spruce trees and spectacular ocean views, this tranquil campground offers nature trails, beachcombing, dunes, whale watching and more.”

Monday, 20 May 2019 21:58

Oasis RV Resort

Monday, 20 May 2019 21:57

Niagra's Lazy Lakes Camping Resort

Niagra's Lazy Lakes Camping Resort, Lockport, New York

     Our drive into Niagra's Lazy Lakes was a long one from Vermont.  We opted to take I-90 to save some time knowing it was a toll road.  It set us back $45 dollars to do so.  Driving into the campground coming from the east was a bit tricky as we had to watch bridge heights and weight limits.  Once at the campground all was good.  We were able to pick a site (in half the park as we're not members of the park, but can camp here for free through our Coast to Coast)  a found a good one with plenty of grass and shade.  Also, not being a member caused us to cut our visit shorter than we would have liked.  The weekend we hoped to stay was a Canadian Holliday and the campground was blocked out for non-members.  The campground itself is beautiful with nice sites, two pools, two lakes, and all the amenities you would expect to find in a camping resort. (no pickleball)  It also only has 30amp sites with no septic available to non-resident campers.  The park is located just twenty minutes from Niagra Falls which was very convenient for us.

 

     Having just two days to explore, we decided to first visit the Canadian side of the falls.  It is much more touristy and built up than the American side.  So we took a tour to the base of the falls and behind it.  We also went to the Imax theater to see "Legends of the Falls" (it was disappointing)  We took a few minutes out for lunch and tried our luck in a Casino and didn't do very well.  On the second day, we stopped off at Whirlpool State Park on our way in.  We learned quite a bit of history about the falls and the Niagra River from a park volunteer.  Then we drove back to the falls and visited Niagra State Park.  The park is exceptional and is worth a visit.  We got out to the observation tower to see both falls, then made it to Goat Island (which is between the two falls)  From there we could get right up to the edge of the Canadian falls.  We decided that we would walk around the island and took a few minutes to walk out onto the three sisters islands which are small islands above the Canadian falls, where several signs were posted for the really stupid.  On the other side of Goat Island, you can walk out onto "Hell's Half Acre".  It's another island right above the American Falls which divides the river forming Bridalvale Falls.  Below Bridalvale, people can walk out onto decks and get the full falls experience.  I sort of wished we had taken the time to do so, maybe on our next visit.

 

 

Address:4312 Church Rd. Lockport, NY 14094

Phone: (800) 874-2957

Fax: (716) 433-2625

Reservations EMail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Resort Information: Niagara's Lazy Lakes Resort is in the heart of Niagara and is known as "Western New York's Best Kept Secret". Only 15 minutes from the Canadian border, plan on visiting many of the local and Canadian attractions such as Niagara Falls, Lake Ontario (salmon fishing) and Old Fort Niagara, Toronto.

Web Site:lazylakes.com

EMail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Partial Sites: 265

Pull-through Sites: 25

Check-In/Check-Out Times: Noon - 6:00 p.m./ 11:00 a.m.

RV Site Minimum Stay: 1 night

Open: May 1 to Oct 31

Open: Nov 17 to Dec 31

Maximum Electrical Service: 50 amps

WiFi Available: Yes

Maximum RV Length: 45 feet

Elevation: 300.0000

Amenities: Recreation Hall, laundry, dump station, boating available, paddle boats, horseshoes, outdoor pools (heated), fishing available (catch & release), shuffleboard, canoes, ice available, RV supplies, propane, grocery store, picnic tables, group activities, fire rings, beach, church service, gift shop, game room, hot showers, playground, handicap access, firewood, basketball, boating nearby, shopping nearby, golf nearby, fishing nearby, casinos nearby, tourist attractions nearby.

RV Notes: Additional charges: 50 amps $4/night, Arrival dump station fee $25, honey wagon $10. No sewer sites.

Rental Notes: Rental units available. Trip Points not accepted. Contact the resort directly.

Accepts Pets: Yes

Pet Restrictions: 2 pets per site. Must show vaccination papers.

Visitor Mail Accepted: No 

Monday, 20 May 2019 21:55

Nehalem Bay State Park

Nehalem Bay State Park

     After years of looking forward to camping at Nehalem Bay State Park, I finally got around to going there.  It was a beautiful weekend and we had just camped 50 miles to the north at Ft. Stevens and we were caught off guard by the wind.  It wasn't so bad, that it ruined the day, but it was noticeably stronger there than up the beach.  The campground was 100% filled with RV's lined up at the entrance hoping to get a spot.  The campground consists of several loops with some pretty tight sites.  The road is very narrow and paved and the sites on the outside of the loops are angled to more easily back in, but the inner sites are pretty much perpendicular to the road.  So if you're in a larger RV try to reserve a site on the outside.  Walking around we noticed that almost all the sites were the same.  Which makes it far easier to choose.  

       Once camp was set up, our first venture was to take the dogs to the beach.  There are several trails out of the campground leading up over the dunes and onto the beach.  The sand on the trails is very soft and difficult to walk in.  It's not too long of a walk, but it is a bit of work to finally get to the packed sand on the beach.  We found another trail that led toward the bay and around a small runway.  The loop was an easy mile or so on a wide trail.  Perfect for walking dogs.  The park also had some wildlife too.  We saw deer walking through camp, not the least bit bothered by people or dogs.  

        Overall the park was great!  We met the people camping next door who were from New Zealand and hopefully will contact us through the site as we travel in the future.  The people on our other side had just purchased a very large fifth-wheel and a new GMC truck and were on their first outing.  They had quite a time getting into their site but finally got in.  Having been there with my truck and fifth-wheel in the past I felt for him and am so happy to be in a class-A, where backing in is a breeze.  I spoke to them and told them for as long as it took them to get parked, it would have taken me longer.  I don't think I relieved the stress they were feeling from the ordeal.  

     Jackie and I made a second visit to the park as our last camping trip prior to hitting the road full time.  The drive over in the pouring rain was quite the adventure.  I decided to take Highway 53 to cut a few miles off the drive, big mistake!  The road is very windy and in poor repair, not a good choice for a motor home, pulling a dinghy.  Then we arrived only to find that we wouldn't fit into our reserved site.  Fortunately, the campground was pretty much empty and half of it is set up as first come first serve, so the ranger told us we could choose from any of the more than 100 plus sites that were empty.  On the second day, the sun broke up the rain.  So after a short hike with the dogs, we headed up to Seaside for lunch and something to do.  On the third day, the rain returned, leaving us with just a small window to take the dogs out on the beach and let them run.  Rain and all the campground is beautiful and very relaxing.  We've had a couple of deer and a lone coyote visit within just a few feet of the motorhome, along with some other area natives along the trail. 

Monday, 20 May 2019 21:53

Needles KOA

Needles KOA

 

     Originally, our plan was to stay at the Needles KOA for five days before heading to Las Vegas.  When we arrived at the campground, it was almost empty and was basically a rocky parking lot in a rocky desert.  There was the standard KOA store, laundry, pool, and rec room.  All of these services were well kept and in good repair, however, the rest of the campground had nothing to offer.  A few sites had some shade, but they were mostly taken by full-timers, (non-appeared to be living there at the time).  We picked a site that had a little shade and was as close to the facilities as possible.  Once we got set up we decided to check-out the campground next door, from the looks of it, there was at least more shade.  After meeting the owner and checking available sites, we decided to spend one night at the KOA and then move to the new campground.  The KOA camp host was very nice in refunding four of my five days.  The next morning, we did laundry there and moved our show next door.  The KOA just didn’t have a good feel to it.

From KOA

KOA burnedSee that lush oasis in the desert? It's no mirage, it's the Needles KOA. At the edge of the Mojave Desert, hand-laid rock walls grace this surprising spot bursting with vibrant bougainvillea, eucalyptus, mesquite and palm trees. Historic Needles is close to the casinos of Laughlin, Nevada, and the scenic ghost town of Oatman, Arizona. There's plenty of life at this KOA, where the clubhouse (with a stone fireplace) is a popular gathering spot for potlucks, bingo, card games, and holiday parties. The campground store offers award-winning salsa and red-chile marmalade. Stop by the gift shop for Route 66 items. Pool: Open all year. Max pull thru: 80 feet.

 Below is a link to the Thousand Trails Campgrounds that we have visited.

Indicates Trails Collection Resort

Campground Menu

 

Our Route

Travels 05 08 19 fast Click on map for a larger, slower view.

 

Our Travels

5 31 19 mappClick on map for a larger view.