With five national parks, Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park may see fewer visitors than its more popular siblings, Zion, Arches, and Bryce, but it’s still one of the more awe-inspiring parks in the state. RVing Capitol Reef National Park is one of the best ways to see the park, either as a grand tour of Utah’s ‘Mighty Five’ or as a standalone trip.

Located in the south-central desert of Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is fairly isolated from any big cities. The nearby towns of Torrey and Hanksville are small, and getting here may be a bit of a trek. However, it’s definitely worth the journey.

Why Visit Capitol Reef National Park in an RV?

Photo by Peter Wey via Shutterstock

RVing Capitol Reef National Park is a great experience, especially when touring other parts of the Utah desert. Capitol Reef has spectacular scenery that leaves visitors feeling like they’ve wandered into another world. It is a remote and rugged landscape, which gives a new appreciation for the desert.

There are some amazing hiking and off-roading trails in the park. Capitol Reef shines for RVers who travel in rigs around or under 27 feet or those towing a four-wheel drive-capable vehicle to access remote areas in the park. Visitors in longer RVs may find themselves limited in what they can do in the lesser traveled areas of the park, though there are sites that are still accessible along the main corridors.

When to Visit Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is open year-round – 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. The visitor center hours change depending on the season, and parts of the park may close due to inclement weather like snow or floods.

A little more than a year ago I won a 2021 Thor Freedom Elite 22HEC from an Instagram giveaway hosted by @UsTheRemingtons on Instagram. The giveaway was sponsored by GoodSam and, as my old 1979 Coachmen had just blown its engine, the new RV could not have come at a better time.

When Camping World reached out to me to ask me to review life in a Freedom Elite, I was stoked. As someone who’s experienced both extremes of RV dwelling– from a very old vintage RV fixer-upper to a brand new model – I feel confident and qualified to review this experience. I hope my review helps you determine if a Thor Freedom Elite is right for you!

Learn more about the Thor Freedom Elite here.

What I Love About the Thor Freedom Elite

First, let’s start with the good. There is, after all, a LOT of good with this RV.

Fuel Efficiency

It’s relatively inexpensive on gas which was an absolute delight as gas prices surged over the summer. Sure, it’s no Prius, but when compared to diesel vehicles or Class A RVs with lower mpg ratings, driving the Freedom Elite is a relatively economical way to see more of the country without leaving the comforts of home behind.

In southwest Alaska, where the Alaska Mountains meet the Aleutians, lies one of the world’s most diverse regions. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is home to active volcanoes, rushing salmon-filled rivers, glaciated valleys, and nutrient-rich tundra.

This diverse landscape supports many brown bears, caribou, bald eagles, moose, and Dall sheep. It is here that nature envelopes visitors in overwhelming landscapes and unbelievable wildlife viewing.

Why Visit Lake Clark National Park in an RV?

Photo Credit: NPS by C. Lindsay

Your RV or travel trailer will have to sit this one out, as Lake Clark has no road accessibility. Leave your RV in a town where bush flights into the park are available, like Anchorage, Kenai, or Homer. Plan to spend several days exploring the immense landscapes of the park and watching brown bears devour sedges, clams, and salmon. 

Several lodges can be booked for summer visits. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is one of the last truly wild places on the planet. Travel here is reserved for the adventurous, those looking for experiences larger than life itself.

Sensory perception is overloaded in this corner of the world, where glacier-capped mountains erupt, fish too numerous to count color the water bright red, and the landscapes are so vast that you will think you are the only person left on earth to exult in them. With 4 million acres of space, you just might be.

If camping throughout the year is what you love to do, don’t miss these cold weather RVs! Below, we’ll show you the best options for camping in any weather and all the amenities you’ll need. Find more reasons to love these incredible RVs in this review.

Find more RVs for sale at incredible prices when you shop at RVingPlanet.com.

2023 Forest River Cherokee Alpha Wolf 26RL-L

There are so many things to love about the Forest River Cherokee Alpha Wolf 26RL-L travel trailer that features sleeping for up to four. The dual opposing slides give you more space for entertaining in the living room when the weather is too chilly to be around the fire. You’ll love that the coffee bar makes it easy to get your cup of Joe in the morning.

Additional Features:

Dual Opposing SlidesCoffee BarFree-Standing Table w/ChairsHome Theatre SeatingKitchen IslandJuice PackThe free standing table and chairs are great for sitting around for a game of cards.

2022 Crossroads Cruiser Aire CR33BHB

Save big on this bunkhouse RV that offers plenty of space for your whole family. This CrossRoads Cruiser Aire CR33BHB travel trailer is on clearance now, so you can save up to $21,000 today! Enjoy features like the outdoor kitchen, plenty of slides for maximum living space, and a fully equipped kitchen.

Additional Features:

You might think selling a used RV is easy, but it can be a real pain as a private seller. From repairs to advertising to negotiating the terms of a sale, there’s a lot to consider if you’re selling a motorhome or travel trailer on your own. 

Luckily, there are resources to help you sell a used RV and ways to improve your RV’s resale value so you can get the best return possible. Let’s discuss best practices for selling a used RV. 

Why Sell your Used RV?

Photo by Camping World

Maybe your RV is starting to feel cramped, and you’re ready for a larger RV. In this case, you might consider trading in your RV in search of a new unit. Trading in at Camping World allows you to deduct the value of your trade-in from the taxes owed on a new unit. 

Possibly you’re concerned about winterizing your RV and storing it properly. Or you want your RV off your hands so you can focus on other things. Consigning your RV can be a good option in this case, as your RV can live at a Camping World dealership until it sells, at which point they write you a check minus a consignment fee. 

Or maybe life circumstances are making RV adventures difficult for you right now. You can sell your RV and get a check in hand to spend on whatever you wish, although you don’t get the tax benefits that come with trading in your RV. If you do sell outright, you can always rent an RV down the road.  

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time camper, one of the most incredible things about owning an RV is turning it into a recreational reward that you look forward to camping in. You don’t have to be an expert nor do you have to hire an interior decorator to make your RV look cozy, fun, and stylish! An RV can be your canvas to express yourself, the seasons, and more.

Although gutting and renovating an RV can be fun to imagine, it requires creative and practical to give your RV a new look and achieve the best results on any budget. Check out our top tips for how to decorate an RV for every budget.

Keep It Simple

Image: Shutterstock

A common mistake most new campers make when they are eager to decorate their RV is shopping for a surplus of knick-knacks they believe will look good inside their RV. This can easily lead to an RV appearing cluttered. When in doubt, remember less is almost always more. With simple ideas, any RV can be decorated and look fantastic regardless of the budget. Look for items that due double-duty and have more purpose than one, like a cutting board that doubles as a sink cover.

Swap Out Fixtures

Image: Shutterstock

Disguise an older camper with new fixtures or hardwar to give it a modern look or a theme. Try using lightweight parts, or interior items designed specifically for RVs to stay within the safe weight limits for RV travel. A visit to the nearest hardware or recreation store allows a great opportunity to see the size and installation requirements of fixtures before buying them. Check out these easy RV interior lighting updates.

Throw Blankets

Image: Camping World

Throw blankets can make any bed or sofa look stylish (and comfortable!) within seconds. If you are not sure what kind of bedding set will look most appealing in your RV, try a throw blanket on a white comforter set and see how you feel about it. Give it a few days or weeks before making the plunge for all-new bedding. Who knows? The layered look might be more your style in the end. 

Route 66 RV Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico, puts a modern and luxurious twist on a historic road trip. Located off the legendary “Mother Road” (also Interstate 40) the resort brims with state-of-the-art luxuries, including a resort-style pool and luxury sites with 100-amp hookups. Guests can hop on a shuttle to the neighboring Route 66 Casino Hotel, which bustles with slot machines and high-stakes tables.

To the west of Route 66 RV Resort, Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, treats visitors to charming neighborhoods with historical buildings, many from the route’s golden age. There’s also a dynamic art scene and restaurants that serve up the finest Tex-Mex food in the Southwest. Food lovers can discover new flavors from centuries-old recipes passed down through the generations or delve deep into Native American history. 

The Route’s Roots

Connecting Chicago and Santa Monica, California, the “Main Street of America” was made famous in part by the homey diners, colorful neon signs and quirky hotels that greeted motorists in every town. Albuquerque was no exception, and the stretch of Route 66 that runs through the city keeps this vibe alive. Along this corridor, which follows Central Avenue through town, several shops and restaurants celebrate the route that has guided motorists across North America since the 1930s. 

The last thing anyone wants to consider when planning an RV vacation is the possibility of fire. However, a little prevention goes a long way to ensure a safe and trouble-free holiday. It’s worth it, so take the time to ensure you’re protected.

The video above covers the essential safety equipment for all RVs. Below, we’ll discuss the causes of RV fires and provide a few safety tips for fire prevention.

RV Fire Safety On the Road

According to FEMA, approximately one in eight fires responded to by fire departments in the United States is a highway vehicle fire, which includes recreational vehicles. After accidents, mechanical failure in one of the following areas contributed to most of these fires: the engine, running gear, or wheel area of the vehicle.

The most important prevention for mechanical fire is to maintain your RV or tow vehicle’s electrical system and mechanical components. Here are a few critical things every RV owner should check before each trip to reduce the chances of a fire while traveling:

Ensure all hoses are tight and there are no cracks to avoid flammable liquids igniting in the engine area.Keep the engine compartment clean of excess grease and dirt that increases the chances of fire under the hood.Ensure there is adequate insulation around electrical wiring.Overheated tires and brakes can also cause fires.Check for proper inflation of all tires and utilize a tire pressure monitoring system.Refer to your vehicle’s service logs to verify you’re up to date on all service items, including brake inspections and axle maintenance.Do not drive with the propane on. It can increase the danger if an accident or other mechanical fire occurs.Ensure your fire extinguisher is securely mounted within 24 inches of your main entry/exit and isn’t expired. RV fire extinguishers must be replaced every 12 years.Check RV electrical extension cords for proper polarity (especially when brand new).

It is equally important to know what to do in case a fire occurs while you’re driving to your destination.

Travelers from all over the world marvel at the red rock formations and sandstone arches that dominate the Mars-like landscape at Arches National Park. 

Located in southern Utah in the town of Moab, the park covers 76,500 acres and has over 2000 arches within its borders – the highest concentration in the world. The surrounding Moab area is a destination for rock climbers, mountain bikers, off-road enthusiasts, and geology buffs. 

There is something new (or, rather, very old) and exciting waiting around every corner of the Colorado River that runs along the park’s southern border. Arches National Park sees over one million visitors each year. Because of its popularity, a trial timed-entry permit system was implemented for April – October 2022.

RVing in Arches National Park is an experience like none other. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Why Visit Arches National Park in an RV?

Photo by LHBLLC via Shutterstock

With 18 miles of scenic driving within the park and its location in Moab, Arches National Park is the perfect RV base camp for a classic American southwest adventure. There is a campground within Arches National Park that accommodates RVs up to 40 feet in length, but it can fill up quickly.

Picture this: you’ve planned the perfect getaway with your significant other or your family while the kids are on a break from school. You’ve scoped out the most romantic destination with a wine tasting for two, or landed on a family-friendly spot that has an adventure suitable for all ages.

It’s far enough away to require traveling but not so far that you have to spring for airfare or worry about carry-ons. In fact, the journey itself begs for an RV road trip. There are sights to see and miles to collect along the way, making the location the cherry on top once you arrive.

So, how will you get there? The best way possible, of course — in a sprinter van.

What is a Sprinter Van?

Image: Ewa Studio / Shutterstock

Chances are you’ve seen a sprinter van on the road without even realizing that’s what you were looking at. A light commercial vehicle designed to carry passengers or cargo, a sprinter van can be used in a variety of ways, with the goal of getting from point A to point B in style and comfort.

Ranging in size depending on passenger or cargo capacity, a sprinter van marries luxury and convenience like nothing else on the road.

In 1932, outlaw couple Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow fled to Carlsbad, New Mexico, to find sanctuary from the cops. Granted, most of us would disapprove of how they made a living (robbing banks), but you have to admit: they had good taste when it came to picking a hideout.

Most visitors to the region would agree. The area surrounding Carlsbad, in particular, consists of scenic desert hills with legendary historic sites and state and national parks in every direction. Ninety years after Bonnie and Clyde’s visit, the small city, nicknamed the Pearl of the Pecos, continues to thrive as an oasis in the desert. The town has pleasant, treelined streets with friendly residents and the wide Pecos River flowing through it. Excellent restaurants, water recreation and microbreweries keep visitors busy.

Bonnie & Clyde’s RV Getaway RV Park

Bonnie and Clyde’s RV Getaway RV Park, named after the infamous couple, puts travelers close to everything this region offers. Located eight miles north of Carlsbad and nestled in a 30-acre ranch, the park surrounds visitors with sweeping views of Southwest scenery. The 40-space park treats guests to roomy spaces that accommodate slideouts. Guests enjoy friendly service and ample picnic shelters, grills and tables. 

The park is kid-friendly, with a safe environment and a playground for burning off energy. Anglers can hone their skills in the park’s fishing pond. A coin-operated laundry is available, and full-hookup sites powered by 30- and 50-amp power keep RVers comfortable. The Wi-Fi supports streaming and is available for two devices per overnight site.

Want to get more out of your RV? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

Propane is an essential fuel source for RVs. It is used to operate appliances like your water heater, furnace, refrigerator, oven, and cooktop, and it’s especially vital when you’re boondocking without electrical hookups. 

Because it’s a flammable liquid, you need to know how to connect propane and safely turn it on, and that’s true whether you’re renting an RV or you own a new motorhome. So let’s cover the basics of RV LP systems and how to use them. 

The Different LP Containers and Their Locations

Cylinder Location on Travel Trailer Photo by Camping World

There are two types of LP containers: DOT cylinders and ASME tanks. DOT cylinders are the removable type on most travel trailers and fifth wheels. ASME tanks are the type that are permanently mounted to the frame or floor of motorhomes and accessed through an exterior compartment door.

DOT = Department of TransportationASME = American Society of Mechanical Engineers

On travel trailers, you’ll typically find DOT cylinders mounted to the trailer’s tongue or, in rarer cases, to the rear bumper. On fifth wheels, the cylinders will usually be found inside a storage compartment.

As long as wheels have been around, people have been living in vehicles — or out of them. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, “van life,” has become the newest iteration of this tradition. Many wanderers are taking to vans, school buses, and RVs to live out the life of their dreams.

These days, van life is more about taking control of your life, carving out space to pursue your curiosities on your own terms. Ultimately, van life is more than a lifestyle — it’s a mindset.

Step One to Living Van Life: Find the Right Rig

Jupiter in front of their Freedom Elite RV

Full disclosure, this process can be time-consuming and stressful at the beginning. However, it’s best not to rush it. It’s an important decision and you want to choose the right van for you.

Make a list of the things that you need in a tiny space — the ability to stand up, bed size, kitchen space, etc. — and weed out any options that don’t meet those. If you’re stuck or torn between a few, try some on for size. Good Sam’s RV rental platform will allow you to try different types of RVs, from Class B’s (the most “van” like RV out there) to big ol’ Class A’s. 

In this phase of the journey, you can determine what the van life will look like for you. Will you be a part-timer, full-timer, or weekend warrior? Are you planning to build it out yourself, or do you want something move-in ready? Will you need to tow another vehicle for grocery grabbing and excursions?

Want to get more out of your RV? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

When you get to an RV park or campground, one of your first steps requires knowing how to stabilize your RV. Properly stabilized, your recreational vehicle won’t sway back and forth when the kids jump around inside after too much sugary dessert. 

Travel trailers are stabilized using jacks, fifth wheels utilize what’s called landing gear, and many motorhomes are equipped with leveling systems that both level and stabilize your RV. 

Remember, stabilizing jacks and landing gear are NOT meant for leveling your RV. Leveling an RV must be completed before stabilizing your RV and requires leveling blocks and the proper orientation of your tongue jack. 

So, before you learn how to stabilize your RV, watch this quick video on how to level your RV first. 

When you see a large luxury RV driving down the road, it’s natural to wonder, ‘do you need a special license to drive an RV?’ With modern motorhomes being comparable in size to semi-trucks, it’s a legitimate question to ask. 

For most RVs, you’ll only need a valid driver’s license to rent an RV and drive it legally, but some states or RV types will require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or another type of special license. 

Whether you’re looking to rent a class A motorhome with Good Sam RV Rentals or you’re shopping for a sizable RV yourself, here’s what you need to know about driving and maneuvering recreational vehicles.

What Are The Different Types of RVs?

If you’re new here, let’s begin with an overview of the various RV types and classes:  

Motorized RVs

Class A RVs: The largest motorhomes, sometimes stretching up to 40 feet long. Class B RVs: The most compact motorhomes and the best options for van life.Class C RVs: The “Goldilocks” of motorhomes. Most are easier to drive than class A RVs while offering more amenities and room than class B RVs.

Towable Campers

Towable campers include travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-up campers. Truck campers are kind of in their own category, but they still rely on you having a truck that can handle the camper’s weight. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious way to give your family a home away from home without spending a fortune on building a vacation home, these destination trailers for sale today are the best option. You’ll find each unit is packed with amenities and features that you’ll love! Plan your next big vacation with your family in one of these luxurious destination trailers.

There are more destination trails for sale at a dealer near you.

2022 Crossroads Hampton HP364MBL

You’ll feel like your family is spending a weekend in the Hamptons no matter where you park this CrossRoads Hampton HP364MBL destination trailer. Inside, you’ll find sleeping space for up to eight, with a private bunkhouse that features a set of bunks and plenty of storage space. There’s even a loft over the bunkhouse for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

Loft AreaPrivate BunkhouseTwo Bunk BedsKitchen IslandFireplaceExterior KitchenThe master bedroom features a bay window that will make it easy to enjoy the view.

2023 Crossroads Hampton HP388FKL

Another excellent option for weeks away from the buzz and bustle, this CrossRoads Hampton HPFKL destination trailer offers a double loft with plenty of sleeping space for the kids. You’ll love that the front kitchen features a bar with stools that are ideal for a quick breakfast before heading to bed. In the master bedroom, you’ll get a great night’s sleep in the king bed that’s set into a slide for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

When it comes to your RV, leaving it plugged in for long periods of time may not be the best idea. It can cause issues with certain appliances (see RV refrigerator basics) and leave your RV susceptible to electrical issues if you’re not protecting your system with a surge protector.  

Whether you’re renting an RV or have decided to purchase one, RV power can be confusing for even the most advanced RV enthusiast. Fortunately, you’re in the right place to break through that fog of confusion.

Should you leave your RV plugged in all the time? No. Well, “not quite,” is the short answer. The longer answer? Read on for more details to ensure your RV continues to run smoothly.

Understanding the Basics of RV Power

PC Camping World

It’s important to know how your RV is powered and how to ensure that power is used and maintained. There are two power systems that supply power to an RV: DC power which uses 12-volt direct current, and AC power which uses 120-volt alternating current.

12-volt DC power from your battery bank (whether lead-acid, AGM, or lithium) can power things like lights, fans, your tongue jack (if it isn’t manual), and water pumps.

An out-of-this-world scene awaits those interested in RVing Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. You’ll find yourself surrounded by miles of giant cacti covering a starkly beautiful landscape. A forest of 60-foot-tall saguaro cacti stands as sentries across the Sonoran Desert, like soldiers in an army of colossal succulents.

These amazing plants take hundreds of years to grow and can only be found in southern Arizona and a small part of southern California, making this place a truly magical destination that must be seen to be believed. It’s an unusual landscape of living wonder, full of spine-covered vegetation in a harsh setting, but in need of preservation for the generations still to come.

To help you plan your visit, here’s our guide to RVing Saguaro National Park in Arizona.

Why Visit Saguaro National Park in an RV?

Photo Credit: Nate Hovee/Getty

The park is split in half by the city of Tucson. The east side exists within the Rincon Mountain District and receives more moisture than the west side in the Tucson Mountains.

Both areas protect an amazing desert environment that includes prickly pear, cholla, ocotillo, barrel cactus, and, of course, the giant Saguaro cactus. It’s also home to an astounding variety of wildlife. Roadrunners and rattlesnakes are common here, but so are bobcats, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.

Like most things in life, you can’t learn all there is to know about RVing until you give it a try. When you do, you’ll learn that some myths about RVs and the RV lifestyle are greatly over-exaggerated or downright false. The truth about RV living is that it’s different for everyone. But debunking these common RV myths will help you create realistic expectations if you’re thinking of buying your first RV or renting an RV for the first time.

RV Lifestyle Myths

Most aspiring RVers are attracted to the lifestyle over everything else – the freedom to roam and explore. While others question the RV lifestyle, influenced by myths about RV living that just aren’t true.

Myth 1: Full-Time RVing is Hard

Truth: Depending upon your definition of hard, this one could go either way. Is RVing more difficult than maintaining a sticks-and-bricks home? No, but it’s not necessarily easier, either. When you’re living on the road, your lifestyle is different than when you’re in a stationary house. Traveling in an RV takes adjustments, like having to downsize your belongings or limit long showers if you’re boondocking, but we think they’re well worth it for the ability to travel with the comforts of home.

Check out more information about becoming a full-timer before hitting the road:

An Authentic Budget Breakdown of Full-Time RV LivingEssential Camping Gear According to Full-Time RVersFull-Time RV Life or Part-Time RV Life: How to Know Which is Right for You

Myth 2: RVs Aren’t Good Living Spaces for Pets

Truth: Not only is this false, but it’s unfair. Our pets crave a life of adventure just as we do. It’s important to create an interior space that your pet will love and research pet-friendly campgrounds before you arrive. With a little effort, your RV will be more than a good living space for your pet — it will be great.

Good Sam has added 53 new Good Sam Campgrounds to its network, expanding your chances of finding savings and value on the road. Good Sam members can save big with the 10 percent discount, and while you’re exploring, discover all of the RV campgrounds in the Good Sam Network.

If you’re not a member, joining is simple: Purchase a membership at any Good Sam Campground, or sign up online. Check each campground’s link to determine seasonal availability and to make reservations.

Arizona

Grand Canyon Oasis RV Resort & Glampground, Flagstaff

Immerse yourself in the world of glamping, an approach to camping that seamlessly blends luxury with the great outdoors. Located near the east entrance of the Grand Canyon north of Flagstaff, this resort has ample RV spaces in an awe-inspiring setting.

Village Camp Flagstaff, Flagstaff

Surrounded by national forests and beautiful views of Humphreys Peak — the highest mountain in Arizona — the 10-acre park offers an escape into cooler temperatures during the summer months or playtime in snow during winter days.