RV YOUR SABBATICAL + CAMPSITE GOOD/BAD NEWS

Copyright Janet Groene 2026

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RV PARK  GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS

Burned Out? Seven Tips on 

SCORING A SABBATICAL

Do you need a break from your job to take an extended RV adventure?

Taking time off is one thing.  Getting a sabbatical leave is another. It is a real benefit offered by more and more employers. Depending on company policies, it may be paid or unpaid, lengthy or limited.

It may come with requirements such as taking a course or otherwise improving your value to the employer. A science teacher, for example, may be required to visit museums with science exhibits. An English teacher may have to write a book. 

    A sabbatical is usually offered every seven years but rules vary. Some employers now offer them more frequently. The advantage to a sabbatical compared to other leaves is that this lapse in your employment  doesn’t affect your other rights to, say, a pension, promotions, retirement, job title or seniority. 

1. Don’t rely on office scuttlebutt. Sit down with your Human Resources contact and ask if  a sabbatical is available. Find out if you are eligible for this benefit and exactly how you can get it. 

2. Get  details on paper so you’ll have a to-do checklist, budget and timeline. There may be deadlines for submitting your request and other milestones along the way.  

3.  Start planning months and preferably a year ahead. There is an application process that may require a detailed description of how you will spend the time, where and what costs will be.  It also gives your employer time to plan for your absence. 

4.  What arrangements have to be made with your room mates, landlord and personal and family duties while you’re away? 

5. Make campground reservations where possible. They are very hard to get at many private, state and national parks.. Advance reservations are also a must if you’ll be taking a Caravan or Road Scholar trip in your RV. 

6. Establish contact with key players you’ll meet during your sabbatical. For example, as a teacher you may be required to visit certain museums, historic sites or archaeological digs.  If you contact say, the public information office or docent or project manager in advance you’ll have an “in”. On the other hand, if the sabbatical is to be for self fulfillment, totally unrelated to your high pressure job, you may need to sign up for a writing or art course. 

7. Prepare your RV for the kind of trip this will be. You may need a different roadside service policy, trip insurance, maintenance schedules. If you are about to be due for new tires, batteries and other renewables, get that out of the way before the meter starts ticking on your precious sabbatical time. 

Many guides are available online and in book stores to shepherd you through the personal,  financial and legal aspects of this wonderful work benefit.  The journey begins with your own employer and the exact terms that apply. 

GIVE THE GIFT OF FREEDOM TO a Retiree, Empty Nester, Suddenly Single, New Graduate or Burned Out Colleague

  We full-timed for 10 great years. We describe it, warts and all,  from early beginning to a happy RV  ending when we became part-timers again.  

 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 the time comes. Order at any book store or let Amazon gift wrap and ship it for you.  https://amzn.to/29XFEkq 

 

NEW AND FUTURE RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

Southern Roots RV Park and Campground is coming to La Grange, North Carolina. The 80-acre, family-owned campground will have electric hookups but no bathrooms nor showers, at least not yet. Future plans call for a dog park, a sandy beach on the Neuse River, walking trails and a gathering ground to be known as The Yard, where live music will be offered.  We couldn’t find a website nor an opening date. Learn more about this historic area and the many things to do and see here at LaGrangeNC.com/

Newly opened in Arizona, the Flagstaff Mountain RV & Campground has full hookups, free high speed Wi-Fi, a convenience store and private bathrooms with shower. (928) 393-4652 

New since late last year in the Panhandle, Pike Pond RV Park in Alford, Florida is a 20-acre spread with a motocross track and 12 full hookup sites for RV’s.  Planned activities, hiking trails and , cliff-top lookouts.  A Dollar General is just across the road.  Contact PinePondRVPark@gmail.com/

A new county campground opened April 1 in Freehold, New Jersey. Turkey Swamp Park has 64 shaded campsites, most of them reserve-able (two night minimum). A dozen sites are saved for first-come arrivals. The park also has cabins, modern showers and laundry and a dump station. Campsites have a fire ring and picnic table.  The park has a lake, fishing, playground, picnic areas and paddleboat rentals. Campsite reservations (732) 462-7286.

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,

The new Twin City RV Park IS next to the fairgrounds in Centralia, Washington. The park has 47 RV sites. Walk to nearby restaurants and a shopping center. See TwinCityPark.com/

CHANGES, UPGRADES, NEW OWNERS

Loon Lake RV Park in Chestertown, New York has new owners. Proceed with caution. When I went to the old website I received a privacy alert and did not open it. Check with local tourism sites such as  VisitAdironsacks.com/

A big expansion is in the works at the Jellystone Camp Resort in Cavendish,  Prince Edward Island. An additional 62 sites, a swimming pool and upgrades at existing sites will be added to the park, which has 280 campsites and planned activities every day. Reserve at JellystoneParkPEI..com/ 

The good news is that improvements will go on all summer in the campground at Wild Horse State Recreation Area, Nevada. The not-so-good news is that some facilities, such as showers and the fish cleaning station, may be closed  or limited while work goes on. The 34-site campground has no hookups but water and a dump station are available. The year-round campground, 65 miles north of Elko, is on a first-come basis. Details at (775) 385-5939;  whsra@parks.nv.gov/

SCUTTLEBUTT

That empty space on Fort Myer Beach, Florida that was the Red Coconut RV Park until a hurricane destroyed it, will probably never be a campground again but it is for sale again. The plans to fill it with high rise condos has fallen through. The old site is rich in memories for generations of RV-ers and snowbirds. Stay tuned to learn its fate. 

Lynches River  Park, a county park in Coward, South Carolina has been a favorite pet-friend family campground and now it’s horse friendly too. Equestrian campsites, trails and a show arena have been added. The existing campground has 22 pull-through sites with water and electric. The park has a dump station, environmental education center, climbing wall, dog park, archery, fishing,  boat rentals and disc golf. See lynchesriverpark.com/ (843) 389-0550.

EVENTS

Four Washington state parks will offer summer concert series this year in July and August. They are  Cape Disappointment, Lake Wenatchee, Lincoln Rock and Deception Pass. Check schedules and camping details at each park. 

(See Lynches River Park above.) Come to the Lynches River Community Park’s community building on August 1 for a free indoor Shop and Stroll vendor market. See local vendors selling hometown products from artisans and artists, farms and foodies. The park in Coward, South Carolina has a 22-site campground with water and electric hookups.  (843) 389-0550.

 

Choosing an RV Base Camp + Latest RV Park Good/Bad News

Copyright Janet Groene 2026. To ask about rates to reprint this content email janetgroene@yahoo.com

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On the Road Again?

How to Choose an RV Base Camp

Copyright Janet Groene

One of my favorite campsites was a sooty, stinking, trackside patch of gravel in New Jersey. Trains roared through all night. Our neighbors were shady looking characters in  shabby travel trailers. Yet it was perfect when I needed a base camp for business trips into Manhattan. 

It was cheap, It had full hookups. It was on a a bus route that served the city from very early to late nights after the shows closed.  For me as a full-time RV-er and a professional writer and author who had editors to visit and contracts to sign, it was ideal.  Rather than spending hundreds of dollars nightly for a hotel and meals in the city, I came home to my own bed-on-wheels base camp for a fraction of the cost.     

As RV-er travelers we can be “at home” in any season for any reason. One RV trip may be a splurge vacation in a swanky RV resort with swim-up bar, concierge, spa and golf pro. It could be a family weekend with a water park and food trucks. When we want to cover a lot of miles we need only a safe spot to sleep overnight at a truck stop.

Then there are times when we want to visit a major attraction for many days at a time but without spending a fortune to stay within the attraction itself.

Destinations that come to mind include national parks, Colonial Williamsburg, beaches and beach communities such as Virginia Beach,  major  theme parks, the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn , the Smithsonian in Washington. D.C. and Mystic Seaport. All these and many more are worth lengthy, multi-day visits. 

How can you find the right base camp for your next RV adventure?

+ Location, location, location. How handy is the campsite to the place you plan to go each day?  Many parks advertise “just outside the national park” but is it “just outside” the park entrance you actually need?  However, you may also want to spend time in the many attractions in the surrounding area. 

Staying outside a national park means long waits to enter each time

+. Getting there from your base camp. Some RV parks offer free or low-cost shuttles to major attractions. Others are on city bus lines. Know how you will get to and into the destination each day. I like the “Rails to the Rim” package at Grand Canyon National Park, where a trail runs from a campground to the heart of the park while drive-in visitors wait in long lines at entrances. 

+ Package deals. Check both the campground and local tourism websites to see if package deals and tours might include, say, a Gray Line tour or a multi-day campsite plus admission tickets to the attraction. 

+ Driving in. Getting there is one thing. Parking there is another. Is parking available for your car? Motorhome? Big rig? Is  parking t free or fee? At Walt Disney World , for one, you’ll pay a hefty parking fee, then have to take a shuttle to the entrance.

+ Access. Does the RV park allow 24-our access? In and out privileges? 

+ Bottom line: Carefully look at total costs for a base camp handy to all the area attractions versus a campsite within one destination. 

GIVE THE GIFT OF FREEDOM TO a Retiree, Empty Nester, Suddenly Single, New Graduate or Burned Out Colleague

  We full-timed for 10 great years. We describe it, warts and all,  from early beginning to a happy RV  ending when we became part-timers again.  

 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 the time comes. Order at any book store or let Amazon gift wrap and ship it for you.  https://amzn.to/29XFEkq 

 

         RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

             GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS

Here's what's new or going to be new, just in from our local sources. The news may be incomplete for travel planning but is presented here to give you a heads-up on campground happenings soon and sooner. Verify and update all details for yourself. 

    Dates are in red. Locations are in boldface type.  There is no charge to be listed here when you have news, real news. No endorsement of any place is event is implied. 

NEW AND FUTURE RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

Newly open In Fergus Falls, Minnesota is a totally rebuilt and upgraded campground in DeLagoon Park. The city-owned campground now has new hookups (10 sites with full hookups and 32 with water and electric), a modern shower/bath house and an RV dump station. Several of the new RV sites are on the shore of Pebble Lake.  The public park offers softball, archery, hiking and a BMX track. Reserve at campspot.com/book/DeLagoon-Campground/

SCUTTLEBUTT

Keep an eye peeled for sneaky new or higher camping fees everywhere. Oregon just added 22 state parks to its list of parks that charge a parking fee. The state’s dump stations now charge a fee. Cancellation fees and rules are changing.  A Midwestern city just added campgrounds to its list of accommodations, such as hotels and B&B's that impose a city tourism "bed" tax on top of state and local sales taxes. In some states this adds up to 20 to 27% on top of basic campground rates. The money goes to governments, not the campground. 

We thought the 28-site Sandy Pines Campground in Kennebunkport, Maine had new owners but the deal snarled. Now we hear it’s on the market again. Stay alert for news. 

CHANGES, NEW OWNERS, UPGRADES

Now under the KOA flag is the Shelby/Broad River KOA Holiday in Mooresboro, North Carolina.  The park has Wi-Fi, a dog park, firewood, seasonal swimming pool, a hot tub/sauna and back-in sites that can accommodate rigs to 44 feet. (828)  338 9598. 

An old hotel and campground site in Manistique, Michigan is being turned Campfire Shores, a combination campground, glamping park and event venue. The new look will include a bathhouse, hiking trails, yard games a picnic area, outdoor bar and the renovated hotel. See campfireshores.com or call (906) 254-1384.

New owners at the Webster/Douglas Forest KOA in Webster, Massachusetts have brought the campground back under the KOA flag as an upgraded KOA Journey. 

A ribbon cutting signaled the recent opening of Paradise Acres RV Resort, Dayton, Texas. The former Liberty RV Park is now owned by a couple who have added a dog park, fish pond, family game room, frisbee golf, basketball hoops, tetherball and full hookups at 50 RV sites. Cabins are in the plans for the future. 

The new data center in Abilene, Texas, is building another RV park with 40 RV sites. It should be open by mid-August. The center welcomes its work force with an on-site dining room, gym, and RV campgrounds. 

                                                +++++++

Jellystone Camp Resort News

Formerly Camp Cedar in Cincinnati, Ohio, this campground near Kings Island is now a Jellystone park. 

In Fremont, Indiana, the Yogi Bear-themed park will get a new splashground, water slides, laser tag and sports courts. In Plymouth, Indiana, the new splashpad, mini-golf paddle boats and other fun at the Jellystone resort are expected to open by Memorial Day.

The Ogemaw County, Michigan Jellystone will let kids dig for dinosaur bones June 5-7 while the Dino Dig at the South Haven, Michigan park is scheduled for May 29-June 4.  In Bath, New York the Jellystone resort plans to have its mega slide going by July 4 and there’s a new swimming pool and future archery tag at the park in Endicott, New York. 

The Jellystone resort in Nelsonville, Ohio also has a new swimming pool and snowless tubing slide is being added to the park in Brandon, South Dakota and Burleson, Texas.  

Reserve any at CampJellystone.com/

                                                ++++++++

EVENTS

Also see dated events at some Jellystone resorts above. 

Learn more yoga moves at the Yoga Festival on June 6 at Letchworth State Park, Castile, New York.  The website reports that a family-friendly Dragon Festival, also on June 6, will be all about dragonflies. The campground is open mid-May to mid-October. All sites have 30/50 -amp hookups. (585) 493-3600

Ohio’s foremost country music festival is scheduled for June 17-20 at Clay’s Resort Jellystone Park, Lawrence, Ohio. Headliners for the four days are Jordan Davis, Treaty Oak Revival, Zach Top and Kane Brown.  Get details of the full lineup, a long list of package options,  tickets for Country Fest and campsite reservations. See countryfest.com/ 

 

Tickets are on sale now for the rousing  Rockin’ the Island rock festival June 26-27 at the Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Welch, Minnesota. Single day tickets start at $59 (camping requires a two-day concert ticket)  and the Platinum Package with a long list of perks is $4.950. Get the fulll story at rockintheisland.com

June Jam is a community event with focus on family, friends and good times

Since 1979 the June Jam has been a community tradition in Houston, Delaware. The music and food festival to be held June 20 benefits local charities. It’s kid friendly and run by volunteers. It’s held at the G&R Campground but tickets and campsite reservations must be made at (www.) JuneJam.com/

    SCROLL DOWN TO SEE SAMPLES OF PAST POSTS

 

Let's Talk RV Awnings + RV Park Headline News

  Copyright Janet Groene 2026. 

SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THIS WEEK'S  

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.

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.

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 or awnluxpro.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

   GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS AS OF MAY 1

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. 

Zoning has been approved in Homosassa, Florida for a big change in plans for Stillwater Estates, which was to be a 55-cabin  community. Now it’s destined to be a 110-site RV park with a storage area for RV’s and boats. Stay tuned as this project proceeds

.

                                                       ++++++++

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

                                                              ++++++++

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.  

NEVER MISS ANOTHER NEWS BREAK.  To receive a quick email when the final edition goes up here, usually once a week, email janetgroene@yahoo.com and put RV News in the topic line. Your email will never be shared nor sold. 

See Janet Groene's money saving homemade trail mix and snack  inspirations at https://createagorp.blogspot.com  Make a big batch and package by the cupful for portion control, freshness and ease ease of eating on the trail, around the campfire, at your desk or in that dreaded middle seat on the airlines. 

WHERE ARE ALL THE NEW RV PARKS?

RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS

This is current news from our local sources, presented hot off the press so you can follow up on your own as the story develops. No endorsement of any event, park or campground is implied. Locations are in boldface; dates are in red. 

NEW AND UPCOMING RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS

Southern Roots RV Park and Campground is coming to La Grange, North Carolina. The 80-acre, family-owned campground will have electric hookups but no bathrooms nor showers, at least for now. Future plans call for a dog park, a sandy beach on the Neuse River, walking trails and a gathering ground to be known as The Yard, where live music will be offered.  We couldn’t find a website nor an opening date. Learn more about this historic area and the many things to do and see here at LaGrangeNC.com/

UPGRADES, NEW OWNERS

Cheboygan State Park, Michigan is getting a new shower building and renovated toilets but they won’t be open until late July. Cabins, the lodge and rustic campgrounds remain open during renovations.

Since new owners took over the Buckboard Marina a year ago in Flaming Gorge, Wyoming,

  Improvements are made to the RV park, store, lodging units, boat slips and storage units.  The 40 RV sites are pull-thru and have full hookups. Rentals are nightly, weekly, monthly or seasonal. See BuckboardMarina.net/rv-park/

.New owners of Keyes Lake Campground in Florence, Wisconsin plan to expand the ice cream shop with baked goods and pizza.  In the upcoming season the park will have golf carts and boat rentals including fishing boats, kayaks and paddleboards.  The campground is open all year and ha access to UTV and ATV trails as well as Keyes Lake, just across the highway. (715) 528-4907

EVENTS

Save money when you book online in advance for an RV pass. The ROMP Bluegrass Festival in Owensboro, Tennessee is scheduled for  June 24-27. Music plays nonstop and there will also be late night jams, special events, kids' programs and food, The event benefits the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum.  Order tickets and see the lineup of performers and more at RompFest.com/   What does ROMP stand for? It’s a River of Music Party.  

 History buffs meet railroad buffs and families who simply love a day of outdoor fun will meet in Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania May 16-17 to relive the days when the East Broad Top Railroad went to war. A National Historic Landmark, the narrow gauge railroad brings together displays, activities and memorabilia–including train rides–from the Civil War through World Wars 1 and 11.  See costumed reenactors in their encampments and daily chores. Get details and advance tickets at EastBroadTop.com/ Seven Points Campground on Raystown Lake has electric hookups and a dump station. 814-658-3405

CLOSURES

In Washington, Sequim Bay and Anderson Lake state parks will close in June for improvements and will not reopen until sometime this fall. 

GIVE THE GIFT OF FREEDOM TO a Retiree, Empty Nester, Suddenly Single, New Graduate or Burned Out Colleague

  We full-timed for 10 great years. We describe it, warts and all,  from early beginning to a happy RV  ending when we became part-timers again.  

 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 the time comes. Order at any book store or let Amazon gift wrap and ship it for you.  https://amzn.to/29XFEkq 

 

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RV Mission: Springtime Florida + Latest RV Park News

Copyright Janet  Groene 2026. To ask about rates to reprint Groene content, email janetgroene@yahoo.com

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The Tallahassee area is know for its ancient live oaks

MAKE IT YOUR MISSION

Now restored on the original site, the mission church had dirt floors and no pews. 

Mission San Luis

It was 1607, the same year the Jamestown settlers landed in the wilderness known as Virginia. Far away in bustling Spanish Florida,  the chief of the Apalachee asked the governor  to send friars to teach his people about the white man’s god. 

From their mighty stronghold at St. Augustine, Spanish settlers  relied on agricultural  tribes like the Apalachee to  provide corn, squash and beans. A lively trade route existed from St. Augustine to Pensacola. By 1608 the first friars arrived at the village we now call Tallahassee.  To time travel there is the perfect springtime trip.

The council house could seat up to 3,000

Today restored on its original site, Mission San Luis is a living community with a blacksmith working at his forge, chickens roaming, householders sweeping or cooking or candle making. Come to spend at least half a day. Take a tour and for festivals, miliary drills and special sessions in old-time skills such as pine needle basket making.

Today the restored village is alive with people and plantings

Mission San Luis stood for almost 200 years. When Spain lost Florida to the British, the Apalachee people chose to abandon their village and escape with the Spanish to Cuba. Located just south of I-10 in Northwest Florida, the long-forgotten  archaeological site has become ione of Florida tourism’s best-kept secrets. See the giant council house, which can seat up to 3,000, the plank-and-thatch church, carefully tended fields of native crops  and Spanish houses built of wattle and daub. 

The council house is rebuilt on its original site. 

This is a busy city area now,  but ample parking is available for RV’s.  Don’t miss the gift shop. RV campgrounds are seven to ten miles away.   

For more information: Call (850) 487-3711, missionsanluis.org. Admission is charged.

GIVE THE GIFT OF FREEDOM TO a Retiree, Empty Nester, Suddenly Single, New Graduate or Burned Out Colleague

  We full-timed for 10 great years. We describe it, warts and all,  from early beginning to a happy RV  ending when we became part-timers again.  

 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 the time comes. Order at any book store or let Amazon gift wrap and ship it for you.  https://amzn.to/29XFEkq 

CAMPGROUNDS & RV PARKS;

GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS

Here is hot-off-the press news, just news.

It may be premature or incomplete for RV travel planning.

Check it out for yourself as the story develops.

CHANGES, NEW OWNERS, UPGRADES

New owners have taken charge at the f Theodosia Marina Resort on Bull Shoals Lake in , Theodosia, Missouri as the resort takes on a new lservice as an events center. The resort has a 95-unit RV park known as the Fort Cook RV Park plus  a large marina, gift shop, motel and restaurant.

The saga of Raptor Ranch continues in Valle, Arizona. The one-time Bedrock City theme park will be allowed to continue operator while changes are made to bring it into compliance. The park now has a campground, grocery store and diner. To be added are gas pumps, park model RV’s for rental, a dog park and spaces for vendors to set up market stalls. In the future are more retail outlets, restrooms and a larger restaurant. Check current status before you go. Raptor-Ranch.com/

The family-owned, pet-friendly Rivers Crossing RV Park in Branford, Florida, opened its first phase last November and is now into Phase 2. In the works are a new office, pickleball, another 45 full hookup RV sites in addition to the initial 95 sites, arts and crafts, a new dog park, Wi-Fi, boat launch and storage, laundry, swimming pool and more. 386-266-9087

NEW AND FUTURE RV PARKS, CAMPGROUNDS

New since late last year in the Panhandle, Pike Pond RV Park in Alford, Florida is a 20-acre spread with a motocross track and 12 full hookup sites for RV’s.  Planned activities, hiking trails and , cliff-top lookouts.  A Dollar General is just across the road.  Contact PinePondRVPark@gmail.com/

A new county campground opens April 1 in Freehold, New Jersey. Turkey Swamp Park has 64 shaded campsites, most of them reserve-able (two night minimum). A dozen sites are saved for first-come arrivals. The park also has cabins, modern showers and laundry and a dump station. Campsites have a fire ring and picnic table.  The park has a lake, fishing, playground, picnic areas and paddleboat rentals. Campsite reservations (732) 462-7286.

Also opening on April 1 is the new Twin City RV Park next to the fairgrounds in Centrailia, Washington. The park has 47 RV sites. Walk to nearby restaurants and a shopping center. See TwinCityPark.com/

EVENTS

Enjoy free entry to national parks and sites during National Park Week, August 22-28. Fees for camping and other extras still apply. 

Save the date. This year’s autumn  Apple Cider Festival in the Keystone State will be held October 4 at Prince Gallitzin State Park, Patton Pennsylvania.  Bring the family to press apple coder, learn about wildlife, try local food specialties, take a hayride and enjoy local live music all day long. The event is free; donations welcome. The park’s campground is open all year. (814) 674-1000, princegallitzinsp@pa.gov/

SCUTTLEBUTT

Reports continue to herald the spring, 2027  opening of the Sunset RV Park in Caseville, Michigan. However, we weren’t able to find a website just yet. The premier park is expected to have a grand clubhouse, 65 RV sites, a swimming pool, full hookups and more.  

Near Ely. Nevada, Kalamazoo Campground closed last year for a complete renovation, which is said to continue until June, 2028. Check out the current conditions at (775)-564-2073.   

WHEN TRAVEL EMERGENCIES HAPPEN IN YOUR RV

SURVIVAL FOOD HANDBOOK is a guide to survival when you're Out There and out of fresh provisions.  It's written just for RV travelers and campers who have limited storage space.

 Whether it's fridge failure, or you're broke  or quarantined or weathered in, stuff happens. See provisioning information, lists, tips and recipes made solely with stowed foods from supermarkets (not those expensive  doomsday rations).  Plan your personal three-day standby pantry with familiar, affordable staples for travel, home, boating and camping. 

Kindle or paperback, it's a great gift idea for yourself or a friend.  https://amzn.to/3mIfryC 

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