Road Trips – Page 2 – Bankston Motor Homes Blog

Best Parks in New Mexico to Visit in the Winter

January 28, 2021bankstonmotorhomes

While you won’t escape the frigid temperatures, you’ll get to hike and camp to your heart’s content in some of the best parks in New Mexico.

Why not take your RV out on an adventure?

There are plenty of options. New Mexico is a beautiful state with nature all around. We have a few favorite New Mexico parks for you to take a look at for your next New Mexico RV trip.

Get out your map and get ready to take notes!

City of Rocks State Park

City of Rocks state park is in Silver City, NM. It’s the site of a 35-million-year-old volcano eruption, so you’re sure to see stones and formations that show you how lava settled in the past.

There are plenty of fun things to do in this park. You can explore plenty of trails, go hiking, go biking, or check out the Chihuahuan Desert botanical gardens. The park offers a visitors’ center for you to warm up and you can reserve a camping spot ahead of time.

Cimarron Canyon State Park

If you travel out to Eagles Nest, you’ll find Cimarron Canyon state park. This park is in a beautiful area and there’s a lot to explore.

While now isn’t the time to be sticking your toes in its small waterfalls or creek, it’s a great time to hike around and look at all of the unique flora and fauna that make New Mexico beautiful.

There are plenty of places to camp and overnight visitors have the option to use on-site bathrooms if they need them.

Hyde Memorial State Park

Do you want to take a quick trip to Santa Fe and still want to see beautiful landscapes? Look no further than Hyde Memorial state park.

This was the first State Park in New Mexico, so it’s a historical landmark. You can do things like snowshoe and sled which are sure to warm you right up on a cold winter day. Check out this winter wonderland when you’re on your next New Mexico RV trip.

White Sands National Monument

Are you interested in a landscape that you won’t see anywhere else in the United States? Check out the White Sands National Monument in the Chihuahuan Desert area.

It’s famous for the Trinity site, or the area where the first atomic bomb took place. You get an important piece of history alongside your camping adventure.

As expected, walking through sand doesn’t make for the most fun hiking experience, but the views are worth it. After a long day on the sand, you can see an unbeatable sunset and retire to one of the developed campsites in the nearby recreation area. You will also want to check the park updates page, since White Sands Missile Range conducts tests that can require park closures.

These Are the Best Parks In New Mexico for Campers

When it’s time to take your RV out for some winter recreation, visit some of the best parks in New Mexico to see unique landscapes and historical places. You can’t outrun the cold, but you can enjoy it with fun recreational activities and beautiful sights.

Are you in need of a new RV for your next adventure? Check out our new RVs. Regardless of what features you’re looking for; we have something for every RV traveler.

4 Best RV Parks in Arizona to Visit This Winter

December 17, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot about the world, including the way we travel. As more people start to look for ways to safely enjoy their vacations with families, the popularity of RV trips is skyrocketing!

As the winter weather hits, it’s a great time to plan a trip to a warmer climate. Need some inspiration? Check out our round-up of the four best RV parks in Arizona.

Distant Drums RV Resort

Located right in the middle of the state, Distant Drums RV Resort is quite popular due to its convenient location. Driving an RV here means that you’ll be just a short distance from some of Arizona’s biggest cities.

Distant Drums is only 24 miles south of Sedona and 40 minutes east of Prescott. It’s also less than a two-hour drive from the center of downtown Phoenix.

This year-round park has 157 RV sites and a whole host of amenities.

Desert Shadows RV Resort

The sheer size and incredible amenities make Desert Shadows RV Resort a must-visit location for RV enthusiasts. It has a whopping 638 spots, full hookups, and multiple clubhouses. You’ll also enjoy the indoor pool and jacuzzi, billiards tables, shuffleboard courts, and more.

Grand Canyon / Williams KOA Park

If you’ve been dreaming of a Grand Canyon trip, you’ll want to pack up all the essentials and take your RV to The Grand Canyon / Williams KOA Park.

This Kampgrounds of America (KOA) park is known for creating parks that are more than just a place to park your RV. Instead, they create the ultimate RV resort experience. It’s just two blocks from Route 66 and a short drive from the Grand Canyon.

When you’re done with your adventure, you’ll love coming back to this RV oasis where you can relax in the hot tub, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, and play outside with your dog. That’s right. This is also a pet-friendly park!

Rancho Sedona RV Park

One thing that sets Rancho Sedona RV Park apart from all of the other RV parks in Arizona is that it’s fully shaded! This makes it perfect for enjoying vacations with families. It’s also an ideal location if you’re hoping to enjoy some hiking in Arizona.

You’ll love the cool, tranquil setting created by the many cottonwood trees and grand sycamores. The park has all the basic amenities you would expect and even has a fenced-in dog park so you can enjoy some time with your furry friend.

Start Exploring RV Parks in Arizona Now

If this list of the best RV parks in Arizona got your heart pumping, it’s time to start planning your next vacation! Whether you want to rent or buy an RV, Bankston Motor Homes is here to help.

Check out our new arrivals today! We’ve got six locations in Alabama and Tennessee, so choose the one closest to you and come visit us.

7 RV Parks to Check Out in Michigan

November 16, 2020November 16, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

With over 58,000 square miles of land and over 38,000 square miles of Great Lakes water, Michigan is a beautiful destination to explore. RV travel offers you the flexibility and freedom that will allow you to discover the adventures that a state like Michigan has to offer.

Don’t know where to start on your Michigan adventure? Check out these seven RV parks you won’t want to miss!

1. Platte River Campground – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are as old as the last Ice Age. You’ll find miles of sandy beaches and bluffs that tower 450′ above Michigan. Views across the lake are amazing from the tall dunes.

The Platte River Campground offers year-round access. There are back-in and pull-through campsites available with electrical hookups. You’ll enjoy the amazing views that can be taken in through this campground.

2. Lake Macatawa Campground – Holland State Park

One of the popular destinations for camping in Michigan, Holland State Park, offers sandy beaches perfect for watersports, suntanning, and swimming. You won’t want to miss the Big Red Lighthouse either. Plus there are two play structures for campers, a sand volleyball court and a horseshoe area.

Stay at the Lake Macatawa Campground to stay within a short walking distance from the beaches. There are 211 campsites and lots of camping options.

3. Bay Furnace Campground – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Visit America’s very first National Lakeshore for great beaches, hiking, and beautiful forest and water views. There are year-round activities for those traveling with friends and family. Even in the winter, you can try their fun winter sports like skiing or ice fishing.

Bay Furnace Campground offers scenic views of Lake Superior with amazing sunsets and sunrises. You might even catch the northern lights.

4. Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island KOA – Mackinac Island

This National Historic Landmark covers just 3.8 square miles in Lake Huron. No vehicles are allowed on the island, making it a sight to see in the modern age. Ferry boats and Victorian architecture make this island great.

You won’t be able to camp on the island because there are no cars allowed. However, you can stay close by at the Manicaw City/Mackinaw Island KOA. They offer free shuttles and ferries to the island.

5. River Road RV Park – Lake of the Clouds

Located near the Porcupine Mountains, the Lake of the Clouds is one of the most amazing natural beauties of the state. Visit in the fall to see the amazing colors of the surrounding trees and the sky mirrored in the lake’s calm waters.

A beautiful place to visit in your RV, stay at the River Road RV Park for year-round access and full RV hookups. You won’t be feeling too out of your element with Wi-Fi and other modern amenities.

6. Lake Fanny Hooe Resort & Campground – Isle Royale National Park

Find yourself immersed in nature at the Isle Royale National Park near the Canadian border. You can hike the 40-mile Greenstone Ridge Trail at this park, or enjoy the beautiful water.

This island is also not accessible by vehicle. Therefore, you’ll want to park your RV at the nearby Lake Fanny Hooe Resort & Campground. Campers can rent canoes, row boats, & kayaks for a half or full day to explore more on the water.

7. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

At this historic area on the Keweenaw Peninsula, you can find an 1844 military outpost, outdoor activities, a lighthouse, and more! During the warmer months, you can enjoy a glimpse into the 1800s with a living history experience.

You’ll be right in the action with the state park’s 159 RV sites and three campgrounds!

Enjoy Your Michigan Adventure With These RV Parks

There’s nothing like the wild outdoors and the freedom of RV travel. These RV parks in Michigan will provide plenty of opportunities for fun! You’ll want to include a few when planning your next RV trip.

Need help finding the right RV for your next adventure? Contact us today!

The Best State Parks in Colorado to Visit in Your RV

October 20, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

As an RV owner, you’ve probably always got the travel bug. Adventure is your middle name. You’re packed and ready to get out of town at a moment’s notice.

But where should you go next?

Colorado is a fantastic option for any RV owner. With 42 state parks throughout the state, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for scenic hiking trails, water sports, or primo skiing options, we’ve found some of the best state parks in Colorado to visit in your RV.

The parks we’ve picked out have everything from high desert to snowy mountains to calm lakes to rushing rivers. Where you choose to camp will depend on the scenery and activities you’re most interested in.

And with your RV, you’re ready to camp in any setting. Read on to find your ideal RV camping destination.

Cherry Creek State Park

If you’re someone who likes to combine your camping with easy city access, then Cherry Creek State Park is the place for you. This park is right outside Denver so it’s ideal for those who like to split their time between nature and urban environments.

It also offers an 800-acre reservoir for swimming and boating and 35 miles of hiking trails. This is absolutely the best RV park near Denver, Colorado so you will want to make reservations early.

Navajo State Park

If you love water then Navajo State Park is a must-visit. It’s Colorado’s version of Lake Powell (Utah) and boasts 15,000 surface-acres of water, making it ideal for boating, water skiing, or tubing if you enjoy a more relaxing on the water experience.

It also features hiking and mountain biking trails. And because this park caters to boating, it has a robust RV camping culture.

Eleven Mile State Park

If you’re looking for a great winter camping option, then Eleven Mile State Park is the place to be. It has ice fishing, winter boating, snowshoeing, and hunting options. Witchers Cove is a popular campsite for RVs due to its close proximity to both the lake and hiking trails.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Colorado is famous for its mountains, and Golden Gate Canyon State Park features more than 35 miles of hiking trails up slopes that reach an elevation of 10,200 feet. You can also hunt throughout the fall and winter months. Like Navajo State Park, it’s ideal for camping and offers a multitude of options such as RV camping, tents, and even yurts.

For all of these parks, camping reservations are mandatory so you will want to plan accordingly.

Ready to Go to the Best State Parks in Colorado for RV Camping?

Now that you know the best state parks in Colorado for RV camping, we’re sure you’re ready to hit the road. And we’re here to get you started on your journey. Are you still hunting for the perfect RV?

Then contact us today to find the right RV for your travel lifestyle.

Top 4 RV Parks in Arkansas to Visit This Fall

September 18, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

If the thought of flannel shirts, crisp chilly days, and pumpkin spice make your heart sing, your season is right around the corner. It’s never too early to plan a fall vacation! Why not enjoy camping in Arkansas?

Nearly every town with a wealth of fall fun has a campground nearby.

We’ve made it easy to find a place to park your rig and lay your head. Read on and explore the top four RV parks in Arkansas.

1. Eureka Springs KOA

You can’t go wrong when you set up camp at a KOA campground.

Fall is the ideal time to visit the Ozarks. Leaves begin their color change in early October and peak from late October to early November.

If you’re into taking vacations with family, Eureka Springs KOA offers a full menu of family-friendly activities. On Halloween weekend, the park celebrates in style with RV decorating, pumpkin carving, and trick-or-treating. A short ten-minute drive to Eureka Springs lets you shop to your heart’s content.

This is a big rig friendly RV park, and all sites include cable TV, fire pits and grills, and Wi-Fi. Traveling with a furry friend? There’s even a fenced-in dog park!

2. Catherine’s Landing RV Resort

If you’ve never visited Hot Springs in the fall, you’re in for a treat! The Spa City features Hot Springs National Park, where shutterbugs will love the many opportunities to capture the fall colors on film.

Catherine’s Landing offers RV sites with full hookups, including 30, 50, and 100 amp service. Depending on where you park your rig, you can enjoy lake or mountain views. Some sites offer both!

Whether you’re traveling with kids or you’re young at heart, you’ll discover a wealth of fun in the Hot Springs area. Why not master ziplining or enjoy a horseback ride through the Ouachita National Forest?

3. Tom Sawyer’s RV Park

Another popular destination for RVs is the Mississippi River area. If you love watching boats and the rolling waters, you won’t want to miss this RV park, located in West Memphis, Arkansas.

The park features pull-thru sites with full hookups and 30- or 50-amp electric service. For campers with fifth wheels, don’t miss out on the special riverfront section where your rear picture window will thrill you with views of the river.

If you’ve always wanted to visit Memphis, you’ll only have 10 miles to travel. Graceland is 20 miles away.

4. Downtown Riverside RV Park

For a fun-packed fall vacation, you can’t beat Little Rock, Arkansas. The Downtown Riverside RV Park puts you right in the center of the excitement!

Enjoy the fall views of the river from the Arkansas River Trail. Then, take some time to explore the capital city. For a bit of history, visit Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site. Then head over to the William J. Clinton Library and Museum.

The RV park features water, sewer, and 50-amp power. There’s also a convenient dump station.

Campers love the on-site management, free Wi-Fi, and the clubhouse where they can take care of laundry.

Ready to Visit the Top RV Parks in Arkansas?

We hope our sampling of some of the best RV parks in Arkansas to visit during the fall season inspires you to get out and see the many attractions in Arkansas.

For more articles on RV destinations, packing for family RV trips, or other topics of interest for RVers, check out the archives here on the blog!

Family RV Packing List: Essential Items to Pack for Family RV Trips

August 24, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Going on a family RV trip is one of the best ways to spend some quality time with your loved ones. Once you arrive at your camping location, everyone can get out, stretch their legs, and enjoy the great outdoors with one another. Taking an RV trip alone or with adults only can much different than traveling with little ones.

If you’ve never taken a family RV trip, then you’ll want to do some research on what should be included in your RV packing list. To ensure the kids are kept entertained throughout the drive and the camp experience itself, you’ll want to continue reading for some solid advice on how to prepare.

Here’s a few things you’ll want to add to your RV camping list when traveling with children!

1. Favorite Items

Everyone can become homesick at times, but a trip away from home might be even more difficult for your little ones. If you pack a few favorite items from home, it’ll help make your children feel more comfortable. Plus it helps them make their ‘space’ their own!

Do they have a favorite stuffed animal that they sleep with at night? Is there a favorite blanket they like to use or a favorite toy they always play with? You may also want to take along a small battery-operated lantern to help them feel more cozy in their bunk, or tucked away on the sleeper-sofa?

Give your children the option of choosing their own favorite toy to bring along with them to make them feel close to home while away.

2. Board Games and Card Games

Board games and card games will come in handy during the road trip. Select a few different board games and a few different card games. This will give kids plenty of options while on the road.

If you have some games that normally take a long time to finish, then this would be the perfect time to play them. If you don’t have many of these games at home, then be sure to pick some up on the way.

3. A Variety of Electronics

Electronics can come in handy while on the road as well. You might not want them to bring out the electronics once arriving at the campgrounds, but you may want to have then available to use during the drive.

Laptops, portable DVD players, tablets, cell phones, and other electronics are all great ways to stay busy and distracted during long road trips. And for those parents trying to limit screen time, audio books are always a great option too! You can find audio books on-line to download before the trip, so spotty internet connections won’t be an issue. And for teenagers, make sure they download their tunes before you leave your internet behind. You’ll also want to be sure there’s a device for each child to eliminate arguing.

4. Water Toys and Outdoor Activities

If the campgrounds have a lake, a river, or a swimming pool, you’ll want to have plenty of water toys for the kids to play with. Be sure to add all your pool floats, water blasters, swim floaties, and more to your RV packing checklist as well!

Walkie talkies, binoculars, games of horseshoe, and other outdoor activities should be brought along as well. You’ll want your children to enjoy as much time outdoors as possible and bringing these kinds of toys along will provide a variety of options.

5. First Aid Kit

While we certainly hope you don’t need a first aid kit, it’s better to be prepared! When you have little ones along for the trip, you don’t want a scraped knee or a pesky mosquito bite to hamper your fun. Having a basic first aid kit stowed on-board your RV is always advisable. And there’s no need to go buy one- you probably have everything you need at home to make a suitable kit to take with you. First, make sure you get a bag that is big enough to hold all your supplies- and label it accordingly. Next, make sure everyone in the family knows where it is & what’s inside to minimize frustration if someone is asked to go get it. Third, stock it with the basics you feel best suit your family. If you’re not sure what to include, check out this list from trip savvy.

What’s on Your Family RV Packing List?

What family essentials will you include on your own RV packing list? Be sure to grab the items listed above in our guide above and you will have a head-start on your next family RV trip!

Looking for a new RV to safely transport you and your family?

Check out our new RVs available right now!

5 Family Friendly RV Parks to Visit

July 17, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

With summer well under way, we know that many RVers are still looking for more great family friendly rv parks to take the family! Whether you are looking for kid-friendly parks, or pet-friendly parks, we have a few options on this list that are sure to please. So if you are craving natural beauty & hiking paths, we have a park for that. If you are looking for a lake and fishing, we have a park for that. Or maybe you are tired of State Parks and want to try an RV park for a change, we understand that too. For those of you that are itching to make the most of these next few weeks of summer- read on and discover five family friendly RV parks to make some fantastic memories!

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center RV Park

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center RV Park is often a top pick for families because it’s right next door to the Space & Rocket center in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition to offering awesome traveling exhibits every summer, the Space & Rocket Center is also home to Space Camp! So for parents that want to be nearby while their kid is exploring the astronaut world, this RV Park is a great way to be on-location. Beyond the space experience, there is a large, open, grassy field nearby that is great for a game of kickball or frisbee. With plenty of local attractions nearby, like the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Huntsville Art Museum, and Early Works Children’s Museum, this RV Park is a fun-filled stop for families with kids of all ages.

Website: https://rocketcenter.com/RVPark

Address: One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Contact number: 1-800-637-7223

Green River Oaks RV Park & Campground

The all-inclusive Green River Oaks RV park offers themed weeks throughout the summer. That means visitors can expect a unique experience each time they stay at this family RV campground. Relax in the two heated swimming pools, go fishing in Lake St. George, rent a kayak, or borrow a campground bike. There are not any additional charges for campground activities, like the camp-wide hayride. Reviewers say the playgrounds here are fabulous, and they love the fact this campground is centrally located to top golf courses.

Website: https://www.greenriveroaks.com/

Address: 1442 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Amboy, IL 61310

Contact Number: (815) 638-2088

Campground at James Island County Park

South Carolina’s 643-acre Campground at James Island County Park features miles of hiking, skating, and biking trails. The 16-acre lake is a great place to go fishing. Please be advised that, due to construction, the Fishing Dock at James Island County Park will be temporarily closed starting June 15, 2020. Construction is expected to last into the summer. An inexpensive shuttle makes going to activities in Charleston easy. Reviewers say they love this campground for its water park and its dog park. The park also boasts a climbing wall that is scheduled for a phased reopening, and the waterpark is also open at this time. There are 116 spaces with full hook-ups and the campsite is open year-round. This park is rated 4.5/5 on Trip Advisor with 294 reviews, and a certificate of excellence from Trip Advisor.

Website: https://charlestoncountyparks.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=CHST&parkId=1240020&tti=Campsite

Address: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 2941

Contact number: (843)795-4386

Whispering Pines Campground

Nestled within Douthat State Park in Virginia, this campground has something for everyone! Amid some of Virginia’s most breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors can explore four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked with trout, a sandy swimming beach with snack bar, boat rentals, a gift shop and camp store, and more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. Plus, there are playgrounds, an amphitheater, picnic areas, along with tent and trailer camping. There are 23 spaces with electric & water hook ups (no sewer, the campground has dump stations) and can take RVs up to 50’ long with parking for tow or towed vehicles on-site. This park is rated 4.5/5 on trip advisor with 192 reviews.

Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/douthat

Address: 4239 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro, VA 24460

Contact Number: (540) 862-8100

Devil’s Garden Campground

Located within Utah’s Arches National Park, Devils Garden Campground is shaded by juniper and pinyon pines. Roads nearby allow visitors to see many of the 2,500 unusual natural rock formations. Numerous hiking trails run right through this campground. Devil’s Garden offers breathtaking views, camping, backpacking, stargazing, and hiking for all skill levels. Many families also love to go mountain biking here. There is truly something for everyone in this popular area of the park.

Devil’s Garden is located at the very end of the park road, 18 miles north of Arches Visitor Center. Reviewers have noted that the ‘road’ to the park is actually a dirt road and can be a bit bumpy. In addition, parking lots can be very busy during peak season and during holiday weekends. Devil’s Garden Campground is available by reservation from March through October and in the winter months on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, please check the park website for updates as the NPS has been working on a phased re-opening for the 2020 season.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/devils-garden.htm

Address: Arches Entrance Rd, Moab, UT 84532

Contact Number: (435) 719-2299

These parks are just a handful of the options available to RVers this summer. We hope you find this short list helpful, and encourage you to stay safe and have fun!

How to Plan the Ultimate RV Staycation

June 16, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

With many people choosing to combine staying at home with road-trip style vacation this summer, we thought it would be good to share some tips to make the most of your ‘staycation’ if you haven’t planned this kind of vacation before. The staycation has been a staple for families that cannot take a full two or three month extended vacation for years.

Whether you own an RV for personal travel, or live in one full-time, here’s how to prepare for the ultimate RV staycation.

Treat Your Staycation Like a Vacation

The recent events have set the world on what seems like a weird on-again, off-again type of stage, forcing many to rethink their highly anticipated getaways. Though you may not live on a tropical paradise year-round, consider what you were hoping to accomplish with your vacation. Was it to relax and rejuvenate? Was it to spend more time with your family? Was it to start a new creative endeavor?

Whatever the reason, treat your staycation with similar respect. Those that work from home can have a hard time separating free time and work time. Though you are still in your hometown, start your own digital detox, unplug from the world, and treat it like you’re a million miles away.

Build anticipation by saving the date on your calendar.

Explore Your Locale during your Staycation

RVers are used to hitting the road for lush campsites by lakes or parking at the seat of soaring mountains. During the tourist season, these places become over-crowded. If you’re practicing physical distancing, explore areas in your hometown for availability. You may be able to find secluded areas that allow you to get away without leaving home.

Also, consider traveling to a campsite in the off season when tourism is low.

Your hometown could be a treasure trove of campsites , RV parks, or things to do just waiting to be discovered.

Plan Your Staycation Adventure

Sometimes, driving your RV to another location isn’t in the cards. In those cases, your backyard is your best friend. Plan your activities to center around the comfort of what your home has to offer. Staying in your RV could be a fun adventure for your family.

Activities like hiking, sleeping under the stars, and setting up for a picnic are all great for that outdoor camping feel. Delineate a ‘kickoff’ activity. One that designates the beginning of your staycation. This could be watching a movie, sharing a drink with your partner, or lighting up the fire pit.

Remember time not planned for, even leisure time, is time wasted. Creating a themed itinerary can offer a unique experience your family will remember for years to come. Consider fun themes like “Wacky Science”, or “Think like an Artist” if you have kids. It’s not hard to find loads of ‘science experiments‘ that are fun & entertaining and can be done with common household supplies. Or for the artsy types, maybe turn your RV into a ‘studio’ to allow family members to explore their artistic talents! You could feature an artist each day, and let your family try their hand at Kandinsky inspired painting one day, try Jackson Pollock the next, and so on. If you need more ideas, check out Pinterest for great projects that are inspired by famous artists.

Oh the Places You’ll Go

A vacation doesn’t have to be lavish to be rejuvenating. Choosing the right activities and making a plan can make even the simplest efforts into lasting memories you cherish with your family for years to come. Determine what is important for you and have that be the center of your focus during your ‘vacation’ time and you’ll have a wonderful “staycation”!

What makes for a great RV vacation is spending time with the people we love creating memories together.

6 Western National Parks That Are a Must-See

May 11, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Everybody and their aunt already has a Facebook album dedicated to their trip to the Grand Canyon. Not to take away from its splendor; it’s absolutely breathtaking.

However, for today, we would like to switch it up. There are many lesser-known western National Parks that are just as special to the appreciative eye.

Read ahead to learn more about some of the most beautiful national parks in the US.

Six Western National Parks You Need to See

Here are six of the best National Parks in the US that represent the west. They are great options for a visit!

Olympic National Park

A quintessential west coast national park, this gem of Washington state has it all.

There are not many places in the world, let alone the USA, where you can enjoy mountains, forests, lakes, and the ocean in one place.

You can hike in the magical Hoh Rainforest, the largest temperate rainforest in the country.

Mesa Verde

If you know Mesa Verde is Spanish for ‘green table’, you are ready for a middle school-level Spanish class.

Jokes aside, Mesa Verde, located in Colorado, is home of the Ancestral Puebloan Cliff Dwellings.

These structures were essentially carved from the cliff well over 500 years ago. The cultural and anthropological importance is immeasurable. Thus, the area has National Park status and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Petrified Forest

This park offers some of the stranger curiosities for travelers. Located among the desert badlands, the Petrified Forest consists of the remains of ancient trees that underwent a process known as petrification.

This chemical process resulted in the preservation of logs that were living with the dinosaurs.

The resulting ‘stone’ is beautiful but don’t be tempted to steal a piece. This can result in legal penalties and an unbreakable curse.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is one of the most unique US National Parks. Road trip enthusiasts must add it to their itineraries. Located in California, it gets its name from the tall rock formations that characterize its surreal landscape.

This park features many natural rock formations that are the result of multiple volcanoes that overflowed with lava about 23 million years ago. Those lava flows slid around and became the unique structures that populate this park. This park is primarily for hikers and climbing enthusiasts with trails that will satisfy families looking for light hikes as well as adventurers that are looking for more strenuous trails. Check the park website for overnight options- since reservations are required at this time.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

This is another California national park you might not have heard of but is more than worth the trip.

It is home to at least one of each of the four types of volcanos found on Earth, making it a science buff’s dream.

You can also enjoy the lakes, bubbling mud pits, and a large trail network.

Channel Islands

It’s hard to find a more special place than the Channel Islands. Perhaps, its relative obscurity adds to its uniqueness.

It consists of an archipelago of tiny islands featuring idyllic hidden beaches sheltered by sheer cliffs. It is also home to many types of endemic wildlife and a massive underwater cave.

A Park for Every One

We believe everyone should get out there and find their favorite park! You can support these parks by visiting them, making donations, and promoting awareness.

Most importantly, we encourage you to make plans to go see these amazing natural treasures. Exploring the east? Check out our list of the Best East Coast National Parks.

How To Optimize Your RV For Long-Term Travel

April 28, 2020April 28, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

As the temperature continues to warm up outside, there’s nothing better than making plans to hit the road and find adventure. And we know many of you are looking on-line to determine what is open and where are the best places to go at this point. Our friends at Campendium are keeping a list of what’s open available online. So whether you’re interested in National Park options or RV Park options, you can check their list to determine what your best options are.

It’s hard to beat traveling in an RV. After all, this is the perfect way to skip the hassle and expense of booking rooms along the way and keeping yourself safe. Your RV puts you in total control of where to go and where to stay.

This article takes a look at tips that will help you optimize RV for long-term travel. Keep reading to get the inside scoop that will make your trip as fun and pleasant as possible.

Plan Simple Meals

The fewer ingredients you pack for your extended time on the road the better. Keep in mind that complicated recipes will require extra ingredients that take up space and have special storage requirements. Therefore, it’s good to have a set of recipes planned out ahead so you can make sure your pantry & refrigerator are stocked with what you’ll need.

The key is to keep your recipes simple yet delicious.

Maximize Your Storage Areas

RVs have limited storage space. That means that every inch matters. So do yourself a favor and pack as little as possible.

Or if you are going to be staying where laundry options are limited, you can always pick up a portable washing machine to help keep your clothes clean while on the road.

Also, be sure to buy supplies that can easily be folded and stored.

Take an RV Toolkit

A good toolkit is a gift that keeps on giving. After all, things will wear out and need to be repaired, and there’s always something that needs to be tightened. Thus you’ll never regret investing in an RV toolkit that is designed to help you manage little inconveniences.

Keep Your Fuel Topped Off

Try to resist the impulse to let your fuel gauge drop below half a tank. You never know when you might have to take a detour and stay on the road longer than planned. Plus, you may decide you want to pull over at a scenic view and idle in place for a while so you can take some awesome travel pictures.

So get in the habit of topping off your tank every chance you get. This is a simple tip that will help provide peace of mind no matter what the day throws at you.

Pack a Weather Radio

Weather changes can happen fast. That’s why it’s important to be ready for sudden spring thunderstorms. Investing in a portable weather radio and plenty of fresh batteries will give you the ability to stay updated on the weather so that you can react quickly and adapt your plans accordingly.

Clean & Treat the Awning

Taking the time to clean and treat your awning will help keep your RV looking great. It will also make your awning last as long as possible. This means not only checking it for small nicks or tears, it means taking time to apply an RV silicone based lubricant to components that might not have been checked in a while.

Clean the Oven

You might not give much thought cleaning the oven inside your RV, but this is actually a very useful tip. The process takes only a few minutes and will help keep the interior of your RV from smelling like burnt food as you travel from place to place.

How to Optimize RV for Long-Term Travel

It’s almost time to pack your stuff and start exploring the highways and backroads of America. Fortunately, these tips will help optimize RV to make the most of your travel time in the future.

Click here to see 5 key benefits of owning an RV in 2020.