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RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS
Adding the right awning to your RV
is like adding a whole new room
RV TRAVEL EXPERT Janet Groene Interviews awning expert Kevin Ding
Copyright Janet Groene
Adding an awning to your RV is like adding a room. It provides shade for people on the patio and cools that entire side of the rig. That alone can be a huge energy saver.
On the other hand, awnings cost money, need maintenance and are subject to wind damage. How to make a wise choice? I went to Kevin Ding, Senior Technology Manager at Awnlux for expert advice. Here’s what I learned.
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| Measure for awning size and for placement of and installation of fixtures |
JANET: I just bought a new RV. How do I begin shopping for the right awning?
KEVIN DING: First, the awning size should be proportional to your RV. For larger Class C motorhomes or travel trailers, a 3.5-meter (or longer) awning is generally recommended to provide sufficient shade coverage. For smaller Class B models, a 2.5-meter awning is typically more suitable, offering a balanced look and practical use.
Next, consider your usage habits. If you travel frequently, an electric awning offers greater convenience. If you only use it occasionally, a manual awning can be a cost-effective option. Finally, for off-grid camping, solar awnings are an excellent choice, combining shading with power generation.
For first-time RV owners, I also recommend contacting your RV dealer before purchasing. Obtain the vehicle’s structural drawings to confirm whether reinforced mounting points are available. If you don’t have the measurements, measure the available installation width and height on your RV, avoiding obstructions such as windows and doors.
JANET: You’ve given me something to think about. I see now that It’s more than just choosing a compatible color scheme. What are the most common mistakes a buyer makes when installing an awning?
KEVIN: (Adding) an aftermarket awning is acceptable, but it may require replacing mounting brackets and the awning sail, where original factory awnings often allow direct installation with existing hardware. However, OEM accessories are usually more expensive, so cost-effective alternatives are also a good choice.
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| The right awning with the right supports in the right place(s) |
KEVIN: Based on our experience here at Awnlux, the most common issues during installation include:
1.Incorrect sizing — in the RV industry, awning size refers to the distance from arm center to arm center, not the fabric width. This is a very common misunderstanding.
2 .Incorrect positioning during installation — misalignment of the support arms can prevent the awning from retracting smoothly.
JANET: That’s a good point. You’re saying that I need an installer who knows RV’s and also knows awnings. What common mistakes do awning owners make in everyday use?
KEVIN: The first mistake is using the awning in strong winds or heavy rain. For safety reasons, retract the awning during these conditions. Awnings are primarily designed for sun protection. However, in light rain, adjusting the tilt angle helps water drain properly.
The second misstep is retracting the awning while the fabric is still wet. That can lead to mold and mildew. Third is failing to fully retract and secure the awning before driving. Serious damage can result. Lastly, don’t force the awning to open or close. If it doesn't work smoothly, look first for the underlying issues.
JANET: A lot of expensive products for cleaning an awning are out there. Please give me some tips on cleaning and maintenance.
KEVIN: Use mild soapy water for cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the fabric coating. Make sure the fabric is completely dry before retracting the awning. If necessary, you can also use an awning cover to protect the fabric from direct sunlight and help prevent premature aging.
JANET: Let’s talk about damage. Can rips and tears be mended?
KEVIN: Small, central damage (such as holes or tears under 15 cm can usually be repaired with professional repair tape. However if the tear is along the edge, exceeds 30 cm (about 11 inches) or forms an L- or cross-shaped pattern, we recommend replacing the entire fabric.
JANET: I do a lot of waterfront camping and I know that ocean air is tough on metals. How can take care of the awning's mechanical parts?
KEVIN: After exposure to (salt air) rinse mechanical parts with fresh water. Regularly check bolts and mounting brackets. Keep moving parts clean, and lubricate them as needed. Proper usage—especially retracting the awning during harsh weather—is also key to longer awning life.
JANET: I try to avoid gadgets and accessories but I’m tempted by some of the new options.
KEVEN: Every accessory can make a difference, but I particularly recommend the following:
1.Wind sensor: Automatically retracts the awning in strong winds, preventing potential damage.
2.Protective cover: Shields the fabric, extending product life and improving appearance.
3. LED lighting: Enhances nighttime usability and creates a more comfortable camping atmosphere.
4. Center support arm: Improves stability, especially for awnings over 16 ft.
JANET: Thank you, Mr. Ding.
For more information go to service@awnlux.com. Hotline: 800- 820- 4000 or wnluxpro.com/
WHAT IS FULL-TIME RV TRAVEL REALLY LIKE?
Here's our story, start to end, warts and all.....
We traveled full-time for 10 great years.
Do you dream of living and traveling in a complete home on wheels? Living Aboard Your RV, 4th Edition by Janet Groene & Gordon Groene is a total guide to the full-time life on wheels. Should you sell the house or rent it out? Downsize possessions or put them in storage? Too young to retire? See our chapter on ways to make a living anywhere. Kids on board? We cover home schooling and also an exit strategy if and when it's time to settle down. Order at any book store or let Amazon gift wrap and ship it for you. https://amzn.to/29XFEkq
RV PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS
This late breaking news is gathered from our local sources and may be premature or incomplete for travel planning. It's up to the reader to follow up as the story develops. No endorsement of any place or produce is implied.
Dates are in red. Locations in the U.S and Canada are in boldface.
NEW RV PARKS, CAMPGROUNDS, TRAVEL STOPS
In McConnelsville, Ohio, Jesse Owens State Park has a new visitor center and a new campground with cabins and 50 full hookup RV sites. The park's Big Muskie Campground has a camp store, modern showers and a playground. See OhioDNR.gov/
The newest Love’s Travel Stop is in Quinton, Alabama, at Exit 70 off I-122. The stop has RV hookups, a dog park, eat-in and take-out foods, showers and a laundry,
CHANGES, NEW OWNERS, UPGRADES, EXPANSIONS
Near Keremeos, British Columbia, new owners are sought for The Eagle R.V. Park & Campground.. The year-round campground has 50-amp sites, showers, a gym and a coin laundry · +1 250-499-5439
The campground at Knob Noster State Park, Missouri has undergone extensive renovations, and the campground’s back loop officially reopened April 16, according to a press release. The campground had been closed for renovations, but is now open . This project included 50-amp upgrades to 20 campsites as well as a new pit latrine. Call (877) 422-6766 or see https://icampmo1.usedirect.com/MSPWeb/
Formerly Cape Kiwanda RV Park, Hart’s Camp is a luxury RV getaway in Pacific City, Oregon. The resort has full hookup RV sites as well as coastal cabins and cottages. Enjoy fine dining, music weekends, craft, beer, hiking, , biking and Pacific views. (503) 965-7006
`The only family campground on Martha’s Vineyard is now owned by a national chain. However, the policy at new owner Northgate Resorts is to continue family-owned campground traditions, at least for a while. This means no changes for now at the revered MV Family Campground in Tilbury, Massachusetts.
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WISCONSIN CAMPGROUND CHANGES, UPGRADES
Here in alphabetical order by location is news from the Badger State.
In Cambria, Glacier Valley Campground in Cambria will add up to 20 new campsites by2027. Present inventory at this family resort is 150 sites. About half are seasonal, so reach out now for next year. See GlacierValleyCampground.com, (920) 348-5488.
Keyes Lake Campground, Florence, will grow its 45-site campground this summer by 15 sites, an expanded menu in the ice cream shop and a new coffee bar. Call (715) 528-4907 or go to KeyesLakeCampground.com/
Emrick Lake Campground & Resort, Oxford, is no longer a camp just for Boy Scouts but the same, family-proud values remain with safety first and a full menu of age-appropriate activities on land and water. Reserve early for theme weekends like the fabulous Father’s Day weekend. (608) 254-7516
In Shell Lake, the family-run Red Barn Campground is adding 50 seasonal sites, which are sure to go quickly. The swimming pool is being expanded,, the camp store is remodeled and you can count on the same, family-friendly fun, potlucks and games in the barn. See RedBarnCamground.com or call (715) 731-0032.
The 62-site Maple Bear Campground, Tomahawk, will add 30 more campsites by late summer. Some will be seasonal, some nightly. There will also be a new, heated swimming pool and an outdoor bar and grill. Contact MapleBearCampground.com or call (715) 453-5103.
In Wild Rose, Rose’s Enchanted Forest Campground plans to add 30 new campsites by the end of May. More sites will now have sewer hookups and some sites have winter water hookups. (920) 622-3500
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EVENTS for RV TRAVELERS
Walkabout Camp and RV Park in Woodbine, Georgia brings a big of Australia to the Deep South. Mark your calendar now for the Brad Wells concert to be held here LIVE on February 13, 2027 The resort has par 3 golf, basketball, volleyball a swimming pool, a gym, nature trails, a dog run and a bar that is open on weekends. Reserve early to save a spot during tconcerts. (912) 729-4110
Meet the new owners of the 80-acre Pioneer Campground atop Sunestown Mountain in Muncy Valley, Pennsylvania at an opening reception on May 2. Food and drink trucks will be on hand while you tour the hiking trail, playground, activities pavilion, camp store cottages and swimming pool area, Children can try the bounce house. The Bare Bones BBQ will be on site permanently and the family-friendly ambience provided former owners will stay the same. Reserve at PioneerCampgound,com now through October.
In the heart of Amish and RV country, the new North Trace RV Resort is now open in Syracuse, Indiana. The resort has all the latest amenities as well as an events center that is perfect for RV rallies. (574) 325-1500, northtraceresort.com/
New at Tar Hollow State Park, Laurelville, Ohio are RV sites with full hookups. Also new is the shower house, playground, education center and flush toilets. The park near Chillicothe offers hiking paths through deep ravines and dense forests, boating and fishing on Pine Lake, a general store and more. (740) 887-4818
The former Liberty RV Park in Dayton, Ohio has reopened as the fresh new Paradise Acres RV Park. New amenities include a dog park, full hookups at all 50 RV sites, frisbee golf, horseshoe pits, basketball hoops and tetherball. Email info@paradiseacresrvresort.com or go to paradiseacresrvresort.com/
The 158-site county campground at Flint Creek Water Park in Wiggins, Mississippi will grow by 26 spaces, all of them for RV’s and all accessible. The new name is Tallulah Campground and the project is expected to be finished by the end of the year.
