America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 1258
Ads have been removed in this newsletter
for our much-appreciated volunteer paid subscribers.
Today’s thought
“An arrogant person considers himself perfect. There is no greatness where there is no simplicity, goodness and truth.” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Hug A Plumber Day!
On this day in history: 1901 – New York becomes the first U.S. state to require automobile license plates.
Featured news
Two RV parts giants may merge—and RVers could pay the price
A possible merger between RV suppliers Patrick Industries and LCI Industries (Lippert) has the industry buzzing. Together, they already supply a huge share of the parts that make an RV, and a deal could mean even fewer companies controlling more of the supply chain—raising fresh concerns about competition, which could be a big deal for RVers.
Gas prices may have peaked, but RVers shouldn’t expect relief anytime soon
Gas prices RVers are watching may have finally stopped climbing—but don’t mistake that for good news. After weeks of volatility tied to tensions in the Middle East, there are signs the worst of the spike may be behind us. But between global oil risks, political crossfire, and long-term forecasts, the road ahead still looks expensive—and uncertain.
Grand Design rolls out a “worry-free” RV roof, promises fewer leaks
Roof maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important—and most dreaded—parts of RV ownership. Now, Grand Design RV says it has a better idea. The company is expanding what it calls a “worry-free” roof system to more of its lineup. Here’s what that looks like.
Starlink satellites are becoming a problem in space
Starlink has been a game-changer for RVers, bringing internet to places cell service can’t reach. But as thousands more satellites launch, experts warn space is getting crowded fast—with growing concerns about congestion, collisions, and what comes next overhead. Continue reading.
California announces major expansion of its State Parks system
California just announced a major expansion of its State Parks system, and RV travelers should keep an eye on it. Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled State Parks Forward recently. It’s a plan that would create three new state parks in the Central Valley and add thousands of acres to existing parks. Learn more.
Carrying a gun in national parks? The rules change when you step inside a building
If you’re carrying a firearm in a national park, the rules can change faster than you might expect. Guns in national park buildings are treated very differently from guns out on the trail—and that’s where many RVers can get tripped up.
Charlie Sheen’s old tour bus could be your new RV for “cheap”
A used Prevost bus conversion that once cost around $500,000 just went begging at auction. The 1998 Marathon-built coach, originally owned by Charlie Sheen and later converted into a band tour bus, stalled at $84,525 with the reserve unmet. So what’s the deal?
RV review
Explore the 10 best 2026 fifth wheels under 30’
Small fifth wheels solve a common problem. Many campers want the road manners of a fifth wheel, but they do not want a giant rig that limits campsites, parking, or travel days. To help solve the problem, Josh the RV Nerd at Bish’s RV rounded up 10 models that stay under 30 feet tip to tail. The mix includes budget picks, luxury layouts, and a few smart travel-focused floor plans that keep the bathroom, bed, and kitchen usable with the slide closed. Here are his picks.
FACTOID: The first flush toilet was invented in Crete (Greece) in 1700 B.C. Impressive!
Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel
What does a Lippert–Patrick merger mean for RVers?
If you haven’t read Russ and Tiña De Maris’ article yet, know that RV suppliers Lippert (LCI Industries) and Patrick Industries announced that there were discussions about a potential merger between them. As usual, Russ and Tiña did a great job with the details, but since this column is “Beyond the headlines,” I thought I’d reach out to my friends in the RV industry and see if they had anything to share. Everybody I spoke with, from decision makers to line workers, had the same comment…
Tanner Toons
With Tanner Woods
News briefs
Think rookie mistakes only happen to first-timers? Rangers say even seasoned RVers still make the same national park errors—from getting too close to wildlife to assuming cell service and road conditions will cooperate. Experience can create the biggest blind spots.
Glacier National Park is reminding visitors about important changes for the 2026 season. They include the elimination of vehicle reservations anywhere in the park this year, as well as a new reservation-only shuttle system and three-hour parking limits at Logan Pass.
National Park Service archaeologists have identified the burial site of a 19th-century Army private inside Fort Jefferson, a massive coastal fortress in Dry Tortugas National Park about 70 miles west of Key West. Officials say it is the only known service member buried within the historic fort’s walls.
New data from The Dyrt shows campers are warming up to AI trip planning. About one-third say they trust AI to recommend a campground, yet only around 1 in 10 have actually used it to plan a camping trip so far—suggesting curiosity is growing faster than adoption.
Public tours of Nevada’s Great Basin National Park’s Lehman Caves will resume on Friday, May 22, in time for the Memorial Day weekend.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers responded to three bear‑related incidents at Ramsey Cascades Trail last weekend, including two encounters in which a bear approached visitors and took two backpacks, and a third in which a bear briefly chased a group. Ramsey Prong Road and Ramsey Cascades Trail are temporarily closed.
Speaking of Great Smoky Mountains… Enter the lottery NOW, April 24 through April 27, for a chance to see the famous synchronous fireflies at Great Smoky Mountains National Park this May.
Timed-entry reservations are no longer required at Arches. Visitors may enter the park at any time during operating hours. Vehicles may be diverted from park entrances when areas become too congested. Reservations continue to be required for Devils Garden Campground and self-guided and ranger-led Fiery Furnace hikes.
Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts is expanding pet-friendly amenities, stays, and activities at more than 75 locations across the U.S. and Canada as more RVers hit the road with pets. The company says it’s now as pet-friendly as it is family-friendly.
Washington State Department of Natural Resources will close four campgrounds for the 2026 season and reduce access at others after more than $8 million in recreation budget cuts. The affected parks include sites near Elbe, Conconully, and Forks, as demand for public lands continues to rise.
Alabama’s Gulf State Park has opened reservations for its new RV resort, giving travelers first access to a highly anticipated campground on the former golf course property. Officials expect strong demand for the modern new sites and are urging guests to book online early.
Hurry! If you have a Maine library card, then you may want to head over to your favorite state park or historic site today. Admission is free until closing time.
Indiana Department of Natural Resources is offering free annual entrance passes to foster families, giving them no-cost access to Indiana State Parks properties statewide. Eligible families can apply by submitting a simple form.
Totally weird news
New Chinese passenger car would include hidden, built-in toilet
A proposal for a built-in toilet in a passenger car is way too weird to ever get into production. That’s what we think. But who knows? A toilet that magically appears so you can do your business without leaving your seat. This is a joke, right? Nope. It’s a real deal! At least in theory.
Bumper snicker
Reader poll
Would you avoid a park if cell service is poor or nonexistent?
TAKE A GUESS: Do the majority of RVtravel.com readers prefer a dark campground or a well-lit campground? Find out here (and cast your vote).
The countdown is on…
- 29 days until Memorial Day weekend
- 47 days until Route 66 turns 100
- 57 days until summer officially begins
- 70 days until Independence Day
- 140 days until scenic fall road trip season
- 161 days until the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Upcoming RV shows & seminars. Click here.
Brain teaser
Sometimes I am born in silence. Other times, no. I am unseen, but I make my presence known. In time, I fade without a trace. I harm no one, but I am unpopular with all. What am I?
(Answer in tomorrow’s Sunday RV Travel newsletter.)
Trivia
According to various accounts, Walmart founder Sam Walton’s last words were “I blew it.” These words reportedly reflected his regret over spending too much time working and building his business empire, rather than spending meaningful time with his family.
Laugh of the week
Top scams RVers should watch for right now
Travel season is heating up—and so are scams aimed at people on the move. Here are three more RV-related scams to watch for this week:
- Fake mobile RV techs: Someone offers fast same-day repairs online, asks for payment upfront, then never shows.
- Fuel pump distraction scams: While you’re fueling, someone distracts you while an accomplice grabs a wallet, phone, or card info.
- Package delivery texts: Messages claim a campground delivery or package is delayed and ask you to click a link to update details.
Miss The Perfect Scam podcast? You can find the latest episode here.
Today in history
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
Headed on an unfamiliar highway? Learn if it has low bridges you might not fit under.
Learn current road conditions in every state. This is a very handy resource.
RVtravel.com All Star Staff
Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.
Yeah! Rain. Glad that I’m not paying for the beach this week-end.
I think I know the answer to the Brain Teaser … but I hope I’m wrong. 😵💫
Do the initials SBD describe your guess?
I was thinking the same!
Was thinking a bruise.
The countdown is on… and just 8 months until Christmas day.
Oh yea, my immediate answer to the trivia question. Smiling‼️
Thank you, Emily and Diane, for your ceaseless efforts to educate and entertain through the plethora of RV Travel newsletters. Have a great day and safe travels!