Category: Blog

We are in peak spooky season and if you’re looking for some scares, check out these Haunted RV Parks that will leave you questioning those scary noises in the middle of the night

1. Fort Worden State Park, WA?

First up is Fort Worden State Park – nestled in the quiet small town of Port Townsend, this iconic State Park was once a military base. There have been reports saying that this base is the most haunted place in the entire state of Washington. The fort was once home to a jail, that was a treatment facility for “troubled youth,” and even had an onsite military cemetery. It sounds like a recipe for a spooky place to camp!

Those who’ve spent time at the campground couldn’t help the feeling they were being watched. Some guests and hikers even claim they’ve heard moans coming from the former barracks. To top is all off there’s even been a distinct smell of burning coal, rubber, and sulfur coming from the main house. Visiting this place alone is spine chilling, we can’t imagine staying the night at their campsite.

2. Lake Morena, CA

Up next is Lake Morena County Park which is just about 42 miles east of San Diego. This border city has seen a countless amount paranormal activity throughout the ages. Campers have also reported feeling a cold and eerie presence while hiking in the woods, some have even caught a glimpse of a young lady wearing a white dress wandering throughout those woods. But it doesn’t stop there, people even said they’ve heard footsteps around their tents or saw strange orbs in pictures they took around the campground. Many believe the ghosts are from a 1916 flooding of Morena Reservoir that killed more than 50 people. And if that wasn’t scary enough, some guests report seeing levitating bodies at night, floating 10 feet or more above the ground.

3. Holy Ghost Campground, NM

Located just outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the small town of Tererro lies Holy Ghost Campground, managed by the Santa Fe National Forest. If you’re brave enough to make your way to the campground, you’ll have to venture down a narrow road that eventually requires turning off for a two-mile drive down Forest Service Road 122.

Now there’s quite some debate about why the campground is haunted, both sides involve a priest and the Pueblans during the 17th century. One version of the argument states a priest killed the Pueblans for settling on the land. The other side says the Pueblans were defending themselves and killed the priest. Whatever the case may be, it has resulted in paranormal activities involving car accidents, fights, and even state troopers disappearing. There’s even many reports of shadows moving in the trees throughout the night.

4. Antietam Creek Campground, MD

Antietam Creek Campground is just a few miles from a well known site during the Civil War where 23,000 soldiers had died. Campers claim to have seen ghosts and heard guns, cannons, and even drumming from the lives in the civil war. If you want to test your limits further, there are locations like Bloody Lane, Burnside Bridge, and the Antietam National Cemetery, known for paranormal activity.

5. Braley Pond, VA

Home to six campsites in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, this popular destination draws in professional and amateur ghost hunters because it’s known as one of the most haunted places in the U.S.

Campers have reported hearing laughter and seeing spirits during their stay. There’s even one rumor that floats around of a paranormal investigator going insane after camping there at the site overnight. Other campers say that the paranormal activity they experienced was too much for them to make it through the night and even some guests experienced vivid nightmares for weeks following their time at Braley Pond.

While a haunted RV park may not be for everyone, it can make for a memorable way to spend Halloween. You can gather around the fire and let the paranormal activity around you replace the spooky story.

Would you stay at a haunted RV park or campground?

Since winter is vastly approaching, it’s almost time to say goodbye to our beloved camper until spring is finally in the air and its officially camping season again. But, if you’re a full-time RVer, you don’t have to worry. Now, covering your RV and protecting your investment should be top a priority when your camping season winds down. It may seem time consuming and pretty expensive, but it’s a good idea for many reasons, here’s why:

Why Should You Cover your RV?

• When your camper is just sitting outside in the sun, the UV rays can cause damage to paint, decals, seals and other RV components.
• Even the inside of your RV can get up to a whopping 144°F.
• If heavy snow builds up on the top of your roof, by the time the snow melts you’ll have a huge pool of water that weighs heavily on your roof structure. It even can cause water to crawl into a seal creating a leak plus a huge expense.
• The RV’s paint, graphics, and trim will fade, crack, and deteriorate.
• Also, dirt and debris collect on your RV’s roof, leaving unsightly black streaks on the side of your camper when rain rinses it off.

How Does a Cover Protect Your RV?

And here’s how an RV or trailer cover can extend the life of your RV:

• It helps protect and repel UV rays.
• Keeps the interior of your camper a lot cooler.
• Protects your RV from rain, sleet, snow, and ice, which reduces the risk of leaks.
• Guards exterior paint, graphics, and trim to minimize fading and cracking.
• Reduces build-up of dirt and debris, leaving your RV without any black streaks.
• Reduces the need for RV washings, waxing, and roof treatments which ultimately saves you money.
• Protects and preserves your investment so when it comes time to resale, your value hasn’t decreased by a lot.

Finding the Right Cover

There are countless RV cover sizes out there for you to choose from. Here at Walnut Ridge we carry Adco UV Hydro Covers they offer plenty of award winning features like:

• Protects against all elements.
• There’s even a zipper entry on both sides so your slides can still be extended for easy access.
• Provides a super snug fit to resist even the toughest winds.
• It’s very user friendly with its color coded accent points for easy installation.
• Reduces temperature build-up.
• Promotes cleanliness and reduces moisture build-up
• They even have a 3 year manufacturer warranty.

All you have to do is give us a call and we will be more than happy to order the right size for you.

Choosing a campsite and campground can be just as hard as choosing the camper of your dreams! Don’t worry, we’ve made this guide for you to help when picking and choosing a campsite spot that will work best for your RV’s needs.

The first thing you’ll want to look for when researching a campground to go to is if they have RV sites, tent sites are too small even if you have a pop-up camper.

Next, check to make sure the campground and the campsite accommodates to your RV’s length. The bigger the camper, the more challenging it may be. The type of hookups, and the type of RV parking offered by that site will also help you choose an RV campsite site that’s right for you.

Rig Size

When researching which campground to use, you’ll find that most have physical or online maps showing all their campsites and how they’re laid out. There’s even some campgrounds that tell you the RV length of that particular site. Be sure to check on size restrictions because some campgrounds can only accommodate up to a certain length of an RV.

Your tow vehicle isn’t normally included in a campsite’s size restriction so double check before deciding your campground. Most travelers have an extra vehicle on their trips for errand or visiting the local town. So also keep in mind if you do typically have that additional vehicle since most campsites will fit just 1 RV and 1 vehicle.

Hookups

After picking a campground that best accommodates yours and your RV’s needs, now it’s time to think about hookups. Campsites are either a “Full Hookup” site, a “Partial Hookup” site, or “Primitive” meaning no hookups.

1. Full Hookups – This means you’ll have access to sewer, water, and electric hookups. Now lets break this down, a sewer hookup allows you to hook up your sewer hose so your waste can come right out of your RV. If you don’t have access to a sewer hookup, your waste will go into your black and gray tanks, then you’ll have to dump your tanks at the campgrounds RV dump station when they’re full. A water hook-up is a connection to the city water supply so you won’t have to rely on your fresh water tank for water. Finally we have the electric hookups. This one is pretty simple – your camper gets power! You just plug your camper into the RV pedestal and then you’ll have power to your electric RV appliances and components without using a generator, battery power, or solar power.
2. Partial Hookups – this when you have water and electric, but no sewer. These are the most common types of campsites you’ll see. There are rare cases when ‘partial hookups’ means the campsite has electric OR water. If there’s no electric, you’ll be relying on a generator, solar power, solar power charger, or battery power for use of your electric appliances. If water hookups are not provided you will be relying on your fresh water tank for your water. Some campgrounds have a location to get fresh water but it would be best to show up with fresh water in your tanks.
3. No Hookups – or primitive campsites, means you’re needing to be self-reliant on your water and electrical needs. This term can also be referred to as “dry camping” or “boondocking.” Just like the partial hookups with only electrical available, you’ll have to fill your fresh tank before arriving to your destination. Your power will have to come from a generator, solar and/or battery supply. A lot of your newer campers nowadays come either solar prepped or have a solar panel featured on it. There’s even some toy haulers that come with generators when purchased too. Just consult with your local RV Service Department or call us here at Walnut Ridge and we will be happy to answer your questions about additional power options.

We hope this guide has helped you on how to choose a campsite. Just remember always do your research before packing up and hitting the road. The worst thing you can do is show up at a campground and have your RV not accommodate the campsites requirements.

Football season has officially started so that means more late nights, more grilling out and more time to spend with loved ones. Whether you’re visiting your college kids or sticking to your tried and true camp spot, it doesn’t mean you have to host the tailgating events at your house – use your awesome camper! Today we’ve gathered a list of what we think are the best campers for tailgating season.

1. Paradigm 382RK

We are starting off strong with the Alliance Paradigm 382RK. A luxurious 41′ 6″, 13,343 lbs 5th wheel with even better luxury features! The rear kitchen floorplan creates and open-concept space perfect for hosting those big game nights. The kitchen itself provides an immense amount of countertop space for a buffet style of all your favorite appetizers. The living room gives you 6 premium seating options to view the TV, not to mention you can still see the game from the kitchen too. Just an overall awesome floorplan for any occasion!

2. Cougar 368MBI

Next up on our list is the Keystone Cougar 368MBI. This 39′ 3″, 11,847 lbs 5th wheel takes the kiddos into consideration. You still have the classic and spacious rear living room/kitchen combo but this particular floorplan comes with a complete spare room. So while you’re outside on the grill or inside, halfway through the game, the spare room can be a place for the younger ones to go and play. It’s even great for older kids or your friends coming to stay with you for the weekend.

3. Montana 3761FL

Ahhh the Keystone Montana 3761FL, a fan favorite for a reason! Coming in at 41′ even in length with a dry weight of 14,345lbs, this Montana has your separated front living and kitchen with your master bedroom in the back. One thing that always comes along with tailgating is having a nice cold drink, but with that being said you’re going to have people using your bathroom all evening. This unique floorplan has 1.5 bathrooms for you and your guests to use. If you don’t prefer to have a half bathroom next to your kitchen, there is an exact floorplan that replaces the half bath with a butlers pantry so the choice is yours.

4. Carbon 398

Now we’re bringing on the toy haulers with first up being the Keystone Carbon 398! You got 43′ 11″ of length and 14,245lbs to work with, including your whopping 17′ garage! WOW! This Carbon floorplan had to make the list solely for that 17′ garage alone. There’s still a comfy sofa to relax on in the living room and lots of countertop space for food prep but the garage is really where the hosting can take place. The furniture in the garage is all convertible with 4 lounging sofa options to watch the game on. Leave it in its sofa position during the day and convert them to beds for your kids or guests at night. It’s a win/win for everyone! Oh, did I mention is has two full bathrooms too? It gets better and better!

5. Raptor 429

Last but certainly not least, the Keystone Raptor 429. A unique 44′ 6″, 16,023lbs dry weight toy hauler with a 13′ garage that has not one but TWO patios. Fall weather is a huge part of football season and with the two patios you can create a nice little outdoor living space to host in too. Plus like a lot of the other selections, there’s 1.5 bathrooms to take advantage of.

Labor Day — the perfect ending to an adventure filled and memory making summer! Even if you don’t have plans, don’t worry we’ve come up with some last minute roadtrips you can go on with your family! So what are you waiting for? Pick a destination and hit the road!

Anastasia State Park | Florida

Need one last beach vacation this summer? Well look no further than Anastasia State Park! You have the perfect blend of beach and wildlife here with opportunities to bike, hike, swim, star gaze, tube and more!

Jim & Mary’s | Missoula, Montana
This family-owned campground will make you feel right at home! With 70 full-hookup sites, restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, you’ll have everything you need. Only 10 minutes from downtown, where you can experience live entertainment and other social events right on site!

Bend-Sunriver RV Campground | Oregon
If you’re a water bug, this is the campground for you plus its the perfect mini vacation to wrap up these few summer nights we have left! You get the chance to take advantage of their boating, canoeing, kayaking and of course swimming!

Jellystone Park | Colorado
Just in-between Denver and Colorado Springs, Jellystone Park offers you more of that ‘glamping’ experience. They have just about every activity you can think of under the sun at their facility. from fossil digging and archery classes to a water park and outdoor theaters.

Red Gate | Savannah, Georgia

Red Gate gives you the best of that southern charm and hospitality. With it’s super pet-friendly and down-to-earth environment, your family will surely love it! They offer horseback riding, fishing opportunities, and a pool to enjoy some sun.

Labor Day Weekend is just one week away, which means summer is coming to a close. BUT after summer comes what I think is the best season to camp in – FALL! Fall is all about sweatshirts, warm comfort drinks and staying out by the campfire more. There are no bugs, no crowds, and the sun sets early for awesome star gazing and then there’s leaf-peeping. The peace, quiet and serenity of fall makes it a competing rival for the fast-paced summer sun and I’m counting down the days!

Reasons To Camp In The Fall

I know summer is definitely a fan favorite to most – but here me out. Here’s some reasons you might change your mind about camping in the fall:

• You won’t be a sweaty mess when you’re hiking, biking, walking- even in general! Cool fall temps means staying outside longer and spending less time indoors with the A/C.
• No mosquitoes! I repeat – NO MOSQUITOS. That reason alone should already have convinced you.
• Earlier campfires. With the time changing, you have earlier sunsets which means you can kickback at the campfire longer!
• To go along with the third bullet point, later sunrises.
• No crowds. Campsites during the summer are all jam packed full, that’s less of a worry during the fall and you generally get to choose from a variety of camp spots.

Where To Camp In The Fall?

Depending on where you are in the United States, some campgrounds close mid-October. However, there are so many national parks that are perfect for fall camping that are open. National Forests are great affordable options for fall camping, feature gorgeous landscape views and can be a check off your bucket list!

Some of our top national park picks are: Joshua Tree National Park in California, Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota and Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

If you’re looking for campgrounds that aren’t too super cold, we suggest going more down south. Parks like Glacier, Yellowstone, and the Tetons may already have snow. Be sure to do some research before heading out on your trip.

Fall Camping Activities

Camping is an activity in and of itself, but in case you need some more ideas for what to do on your fall camping trip, here ya go!

• Hiking – in the summer with the beating down sun, it may be miserable to get out and do some fun leisure activity. In the fall, you don’t have to worry about the super hot weather, stay out as long as you want!
• With the leaves changing, nature becomes this beautiful piece of art – perfect for whipping your camera out, playing around and experimenting pictures to take. You’ll just want to make sure you have waterproof gear in the off chance it rains.
• Go canoeing or kayaking. Be sure to pick a nice warm day since the water will be a lot cooler, but you’ll get the chance to see again, the beautiful trees
• Carve pumpkins. Fall and pumpkins just go hand-in-hand! Pick up some pumpkins before your trip or stay at a campground near a pumpkin patch and now you’ve got an awesome activity with the kiddos. plus, once you’re done carving you can make a delicious treat with roasted pumpkin seeds!

Fall really is an enjoyable season to camp in and hopefully these tips helped you make the decision to take your family on a trip this upcoming season!