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Is the 10-year rule getting stricter? RVers report a 7-year cutoff

Nanci Dixon
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Is the 10-year rule getting stricter? RVers report a 7-year cutoff

RV sales have slowed and fewer people are buying RVs. Most costs across the board have risen. RVing is evolving. Has that changed how people are RVing? Are there still some areas that are crowded with campers? Are people more or less content with RVing?

RVtravel.com readers discuss their experiences and offer tips to help other campers find that perfect spot.

Yikes! Are RVs over 7 years old now considered “old”?

A reader sent in an email about a new RV park in Texas where 7-year-old rigs are considered too old! Our motorhome is 8 years young now, and we have no intention of trading it in. I love the interior, the design, and all the real wood trim. Plus, we just about have all the bugs worked out and are just starting on fixing the round of things that break as we roll down the road. Not to mention, we have six new expensive tires!

My husband is definitely into getting it washed and hand-waxed often, and it looks practically brand-new. The “almost brand-new” is because of the numerous rock dings we just got going down eight miles on a gravel washboard road. Another professional wash was required!

We had been turned down once in the past for an RV that was 11 years old until I sent in a photo of our new paint job. We stayed at that exclusive, gated, Florida RV park, and although it was definitely a luxury site, it wasn’t all that! No amount of the unused amenities were worth the hassle or the price to me. We don’t use a clubhouse, swimming pool, spa, or bar, so we’re happy in a bigger site in a state park, even if we only have power.

But that being said, we do stay at RV resorts. Looking toward our upcoming six months of travel, I do have to wonder if 7 years is now going to be the new 10-year rule? Continue reading to see what other RVers are saying about this.

Here are a few observations from our readers. These do not necessarily represent the views of RVtravel.com.

“Old” RVs over 7 years are not allowed!

Paula P. wrote to us about a new RV park that does not allow old RVs. “We live in central TX. There is a new RV park that has just opened. I went online to see how much the sites were going to cost as we have friends coming to visit. The first thing I learned was that there was an ‘old RV not allowed’ rule in place. All rigs over SEVEN years old not allowed!!! Nope, I am not going to support a park with this rule!! I don’t know that many people who can afford, or want, a new RV every 7 years. I know you can call and you can send pics, but why?? Yep, I’ll just pass on this one!!”

Changes plans due to the 10-year rule

Dave M. has recently had to change their travel plans. He wrote, “We have RV’d for more than 20 years now. We recently returned from our last trip. Five states, 14 RV parks in six weeks. We did not experience any overcrowding, but I plan and make reservations usually two weeks in advance.

“In the past couple of years, we have had to make changes in our RV travels due to the 10-year rule, higher cost to stay in parks. We are usually on the road for three to four months a year.”

Can see why there is the 10-year rule

Sarah W. writes in that she understands why there is a 10-year rule. “We’ve seen a lot of overcrowded state parks in Missouri and Illinois. A lot of no-show people are reserving spots in advance. We have had better luck at private parks. We have definitely seen a lot of full-timers and can see why many parks have the 10-year rule because of this. It’s one thing to have a nice retired couple in a $100K RV vs. some bum doing drugs in a piece of junk from 1978. But we have seen some nice younger working folks, too. Travel nurses and contractors. They tend to have the newer, more expensive 5th wheels like the retired folks.

“My husband does remote work so we try to take our 2018 Thor Axis out when we can find a spot with our small chihuahuas in tow. I think state and federal parks could benefit from an overhaul of their online reservation systems. The private parks do a much better job.”

The 10-year rule is ridiculous!

Andrew H. writes that the 10-year rule is ridiculous! “My wife and I never have any trouble getting sites with short notice in the USA or Canada. We are, however, fairly flexible, and we always avoid busy holiday times. I do have to comment on the 10-year rule. The age of your unit does not affect us yet, but it will in six years. This rule is ridiculous. Many of the units that are much older are well looked after, cute, well-built, and totally retro; no unit should be refused because of its age. My thoughts.”

People keeping their RVs longer; 10-year rule is going to harm RV parks

George G. adds that RVers are keeping their rigs longer, and the 10-year rule will not only harm them, but it will harm the parks, too.

He writes, “A lot of RV parks are using the 10-year rule, which is actually going to hurt their business because people are keeping their RVs longer. I guess the RV park owners don’t realize that the RVs they are turning away are generally in better shape than they (park owners) think. For this simple reason, the RV owners have to keep their rigs in tip-top shape in order to keep them on the road. I personally own a 23-year-old RV that is in better shape than some 5-year-old rigs because of all the upgrades I’ve done over the years.”

Now, some questions for you:

  • Has the ten-year rule been a problem for you?
  • Are you finding campgrounds booked up or is finding a site not a problem?
  • What do you like best about RVing?
  • What are your pet peeves?
  • Are you seeing more permanent and seasonal RV parks?
  • Are rising costs affecting your camping style?
  • Do you have favorite campgrounds or RV parks?
  • What is the most memorable experience you have had RVing?
  • Do you have any tips or secrets you’d like to share?

Please use the form below to answer one or more of these questions, or tell us what you’ve experienced with campground crowding in general.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

Read last week’s Crowded Campgrounds column: The biggest issues we’re seeing as camp hosts

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Letter to the Editor: RV erupts in flames on I-10—longtime reader loses everything

Emily Woodbury
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18
Letter to the Editor: RV erupts in flames on I-10—longtime reader loses everything

Longtime reader and supporter Cathi Stark recently wrote in to share some difficult news. After years of RVing and following RVtravel.com, she and her husband, Mike, suffered a devastating RV fire earlier this year. Fortunately, no one was injured, but their experience has led them to take a step back from RV life for now.

“I have been a reader for many years and a monthly contributor via PayPal for a year or two,” Cathi wrote. “On January 5, 2025, our 2016 Nexus Bentley (37′ DP) was destroyed by fire while we were underway. No one was injured, and we were able to disconnect the toad before it was too late.”

At the time, they were westbound on I-10 heading to a Beaver Ambassador Club rally in Indio, California. What initially appeared to be dust swirling in the sun turned out to be smoke, first from the heating system intake, then filling the RV. There was no smell of burning at first, no visible flames—just dense particles. Once safely outside, they watched flames erupt from the refrigerator vent and quickly consume the coach.

“Mike pulled over, and we grabbed what we could—phones, wallets, keys. We didn’t have a go-bag, something fellow RVers had recommended many times,” she noted.

The fire department arrived within 20 minutes, but by then the damage was irreversible. The flames hit the awning and propane system, launching fireballs across the road. Tires exploded. Black smoke billowed. Their full-time RV home from 2016 to 2023—nicknamed Big Blue—was gone.

rv fire starts with smoke

rv fire starts in fridge ventrv fireIn the days that followed, Cathi did what seasoned RVers often do: she adapted. She still helped coordinate the rally, found emergency housing, replaced medications, bought clothes, and began contacting insurance. She also began thinking about the lessons learned:

• Back up important documents and data. Most of their RV records were lost, though Cathi had backed up her computer files to the cloud.

• Understand your insurance. Their RV policy through AAA covered only attached items. Contents were covered under their home policy, but capped at just 10% of its value.

• Carry only what you need. Many items destroyed didn’t need to be onboard in the first place.

• Create a go-bag. They didn’t have one ready, and wished they had.

Despite the ordeal, Cathi expressed deep gratitude for the RV community. “We are very thankful for the quick Beaver communication lines,” she wrote. “So many people contacted us with offers to help and kind words of support.”

As of now, Cathi and Mike haven’t decided what’s next. “We probably won’t purchase a new Class A, B, or C, but we may end up with a bumper-pull trailer,” she said. “If or when we get back to living with an RV, I will reinstate my subscription.”

We’re grateful to Cathi and Mike for their years of support, and we’re deeply sorry for their loss. Their story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life on the road can change—and how important preparation and community really are. We hope to see them back on the road someday soon.

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How long is your RV?

RV Travel
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How long is your RV?

We wish Dr. Seuss would write a book about RVs. We can only imagine how hilarious it would be to read out loud “… Some are big, some are small, some go fast while others fall! Some you drive, some you tow, some ride high and some ride low!” Oh, the places you’ll drive… (Hey, that was pretty good for making it up on the spot, wasn’t it?)

RVs come in all shapes and sizes. Some want mansions on wheels, others want beach shacks on wheels. It all depends on the person and how you want to use your RV.

How long is the RV you currently own? Do you wish it was longer? Shorter? Taller? Smaller?

It’s funny how what seemed “just right” when you bought it can start to feel too cramped… or maybe too big to park without breaking a sweat. One day you’re dreaming of a tiny teardrop trailer for weekend getaways, and the next you’re eyeing a 45-foot diesel pusher with room for your dog, your hobbies, and maybe even your in-laws (if they behave).

No matter what size RV you roll with, there’s always a story behind it. Maybe you chose small so you could sneak into cozy campsites, or maybe you went big to bring along your kayak, grill, and 14 pairs of flip-flops. Tell us your RV size—and your style. Please vote in the poll below. If you’d like to leave a comment, we always enjoy reading them.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

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California recreation area and campgrounds close due to short staff

RV Travel
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California recreation area and campgrounds close due to short staff

Three recreation areas at Black Butte Lake will temporarily close for the 2025 recreation season on May 19, 2025, due to limited staffing availability. The lake is northwest of Orland, Calif., off of busy north-south Interstate 5.

Without sufficient staffing, measures must be taken to ensure the safety of visitors, protection of environmental resources, and to maintain the well-being of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel and assets. The three recreation areas impacted by the closures include:

• Buckhorn Recreation Area and Buckhorn Campground

• Eagle Pass Recreation Area

• Orland Buttes Recreation Area and Orland Buttes Campground

“We understand that the impacts of temporarily closing these facilities will be felt by the public and apologize for any inconveniences,” the park noted on its website. “Our goal is to provide safe and sustainable recreation experiences. These temporary closures will also allow us to focus our remaining staff at this critical site on the primary mission of operating and maintaining Black Butte Dam and Lake.”

All existing camping reservations at the impacted campgrounds will be automatically canceled and fully refunded. Refunds may take 4–6 weeks to process.

For questions related to the status of a reservation, please contact recreation.gov at (877) 444-6777.

“USACE is committed to reopening these areas and resuming full operations at Black Butte Lake as soon as conditions allow and appreciates the continued support and understanding of its visitors, volunteers, and partners during this time,” the park noted in a news release.

Burris Creek and Grizzly Flat recreation areas as well as Observation Point will remain open. As a reminder, visitors should recreate responsibly and always wear a life jacket when on or near the water.

Black Butte Dam and Lake is one of ten U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District recreation sites. To find a USACE facility that is open, visit spk.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation.

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California State Parks offers free Memorial Day admission to vets, military

RV Travel
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California State Parks offers free Memorial Day admission to vets, military

California State Parks is honoring the service of veterans and active and reserve military members by offering free admission to 142 participating state park units on Memorial Day – Monday, May 26. The full list of participating park units can be found at parks.ca.gov/MemorialDay2025.

“We are proud to welcome our veterans and service members on Memorial Day as a gesture of gratitude for their dedication and sacrifice,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “For those who have stood watch, carried burdens, and protected freedom, may California’s incredible landscapes offer rest, connection and peace.”

Veterans, active duty, and reserve military personnel must show a valid military ID or proof of discharge, other than dishonorable or bad conduct, to receive free admission.

Participating parks include California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside County, Clay Pit State Vehicular Recreation Area in Butte County, and Pismo State Beach in San Luis Obispo County, as well as 139 other state park units offering free admission to veterans and active and reserve military members on Memorial Day.

You might enjoy the results of these RVtravel.com reader polls

• For couples: How many times a day do you kiss your partner?
• Do you lock your RV when you take a 10-minute walk around your campground?
• How would you describe the quality of workmanship on your RV?
• Should drivers with RVs 40 feet or longer need a special driver’s license?
• How far away do you store your RV when not using it?

• Do you see yourself still RVing in five years?
• Do you still enjoy RVing as much as when you first started?
• Have you ever had a problem with a slide-out that delayed your travel?
• Have you ever stayed at a nudist resort with your RV? Would you?
• Have you spent a free night in a parking lot with your RV in the last year?

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Camping World claims top spot in RV sales

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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3
Camping World claims top spot in RV sales

Camping World is reporting strong sales numbers this quarter, stating that it has outpaced all other RV dealers in retail registrations—a key measure of actual consumer purchases.

In a recent media release, Camping World Chairman and CEO Marcus Lemonis credited the company’s focus on used inventory and affordability for driving growth. “The team’s strategic focus on used inventory procurement and customer affordability continues to drive growth, putting us on pace to exceed our 12% new and used unit market share goal for 2025,” Lemonis said. “Our combined unit share hit an all-time high in March, and we are pleased with our forward momentum, finishing April with stronger-than-expected unit sales and accelerating trends thus far in early May.”

The release also noted that Camping World’s Coleman brand of travel trailers remained the top-selling travel trailer in the U.S. by unit volume year-to-date through March 2025.

Camping World grabbed a big piece of market-share, selling more new and used rigs as a portion of total U.S. RV sales than it has had in any previous March or comparable early-year period. It does not necessarily mean more RVs sold in total than ever—just that its slice of the overall market was the biggest it’s been. The crown—Camping World top seller.

Camping World credits its success to acquiring used RVs (typically more affordable) and offering them at prices that appeal to budget-conscious customers.

And the company is beating its own goals. Camping World set a goal to reach a 12% share of all RV sales in the U.S. by the end of 2025. They’re saying they’re on track—or even ahead of schedule—to beat that goal.

Coleman sales speak volumes

That the company’s Coleman brand continues to be the top-selling travel trailer in the U.S. for the year through March is an interesting tell. While more people are buying Coleman trailers than any other brand in that category, it does speak volumes about RV buyers pocketbooks and, to some, their common sense.

Here are some views lifted from the internet:

“Coleman used to be a company that made a lot of good products… For whatever reason, things changed and not for the better.” —Mudfrog, iRV2 Forums

“All the Coleman/Dutchmen engineers got together and asked: ‘How can we make the cheapest trailer possible, yet still charge a high price?’” —Xavier Michael, RV Insider

“It’s only the Coleman name that is licensed—Coleman has nothing to do with design or manufacture of those trailers.” —Gary RV Wizard, The RV Forum Community

Camping World top seller—For some these are mutually exclusive terms.

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Food-conditioned grizzly bear trapped, killed in Yellowstone

RV Travel
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Food-conditioned grizzly bear trapped, killed in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park staff trapped and killed an 11-year-old male grizzly bear on May 14 after the bear repeatedly sought out human food sources in developed areas of the park. Between April 3 and May 13, the 400-pound grizzly bear overturned several large, bear-resistant dumpsters and gained access to human food and trash near Old Faithful, the Nez Perce Picnic Area, and the Midway Geyser Basin parking lot.

In addition to developing a strategy to flip over 800-pound dumpsters, the bear also uprooted smaller bear-resistant trash cans from their concrete bases to gain access to human food and garbage.

As a result, the bear became increasingly food-conditioned and posed a risk to public safety in one of the busiest areas of the park. The decision to kill the bear was made to ensure public safety and reduce the chances of other bears becoming habituated to human food.

The last grizzly bear killed in a management action in Yellowstone was in September 2017, when the park removed a grizzly bear that was damaging tents and accessing human food in backcountry campsites at Heart Lake.

“It’s unfortunate that this bear began regularly seeking out garbage and was able to defeat the park’s bear-resistant infrastructure,” said Yellowstone Bear Management Biologist Kerry Gunther. “We go to great lengths to protect bears and prevent them from becoming conditioned to human food. But occasionally, a bear outsmarts us or overcomes our defenses. When that happens, we sometimes have to remove the bear from the population to protect visitors and property.”

In accordance with Yellowstone’s bear management plan, the park provides bear-resistant food storage lockers in all campgrounds, food storage devices in all backcountry campsites, and bear-resistant garbage cans and dumpsters. Yellowstone reminds all visitors that utilizing these bear safety measures remain crucial in ensuring public safety and preventing wildlife from developing dangerous habits.

More articles you might really like

• Lessons learned from the theft of our RV in storage
• Camping World owes many RVers big refunds. Just apply
• Epic dump station design failure: Gross!
• Is it time to quit RVing? Our readers respond
• RV electricity: How to install a 30-amp RV outlet at home
• Elon Musk is not launching a $17,000 e-motorhome
• Don’t try staying with your RV at this RV park

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Some Entegra Coach motorhomes to transition to Tiffin from Jayco

RV Travel
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Some Entegra Coach motorhomes to transition to Tiffin from Jayco

THOR Industries, Inc., has announced a strategic partnership between Jayco, Inc. (“Jayco”) and Tiffin Motorhomes (“Tiffin”) to shift production of Entegra Coach Class A diesel motorhomes from Jayco to Tiffin’s Red Bay, Alabama facilities. This move is designed to help Jayco increase capacity while maintaining Entegra’s premium branding.

“Entegra Coach has built a strong reputation for luxury and performance,” said Ken Walters, President of Jayco. “Tiffin shares our commitment to excellence, making them the ideal partner.”

Tiffin Motorhomes is recognized for premium craftsmanship and a customer-first approach. “We’re honored to bring our quality standards to the Entegra Coach brand,” said Leigh Tiffin, President of Tiffin Motorhomes.

Bob Martin, THOR Industries President and CEO, added, “As the Class A diesel market evolves, this shift allows us to leverage Tiffin’s expertise, streamline production, and maintain exceptional customer experience.”

Jayco will continue building Model Year 2026 Entegra diesel models through 2025, including Cornerstone, Anthem, Aspire, and Reatta, and will support them with service and warranty. Starting in 2026, Tiffin will produce successor models, incorporating select Entegra design elements into its 2027 Class A lineup, marketed exclusively as Tiffin products.

Jayco will retain production, service, and warranty for all Entegra Class C, Class B, and gas Class A motorhomes.

The information above originated as a news release from THOR Industries.

MORE POSTS REGARDING THOR

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Staff shortages shut down dozens of Army Corps campgrounds, but RVers can help

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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15
Staff shortages shut down dozens of Army Corps campgrounds, but RVers can help

Uncle Sam has plenty of RV camping opportunities. National Parks, BLM lands, and the Forest Service offer lots of “spots.” But some of the most beloved “near the water” government camping areas are overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The Corps has more than 400 lakeside campgrounds, and each year, more than 370 million folks camp in them. But this year, a number of Corps’ campgrounds are shut down “due to staffing shortages.” There may be something RVers can do to help with Army Corps campground closures.

Army Corps campground closures widespread

As of May 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced multiple campground closures and service reductions across several states. These actions are primarily due to staffing shortages, budget constraints, and necessary maintenance. Here are the ones closed because of staffing and budget issues:

Idaho

  • Springy Point Recreation Area

Kansas

  • Canning Creek: Entire park is closed.
  • Kanza View: Camping is closed; day-use areas remain open.
  • Kit Carson Cove: Entire park is closed.
  • Neosho Park: Only the boat ramp is open; all other amenities are closed.
  • North Richey Cove: Only the boat ramp is open; all other amenities are closed.
  • Outlet East: Entire park is closed.
  • Richey Cove: Entire park is closed.
  • Santa Fe Trail: Only the boat ramp is open; the rest of the park is closed.

Nebraska

  • Harlan County Lake: 25 primitive campsites closed.

North Dakota

  • East Totten Trail Campground
  • Wolf Creek Campground
  • Hazelton Campground
  • Cattail Bay authorized camping area
  • Beaver Creek Campground: Partial loop closure.

Oklahoma

  • Birch Lake: Twin Coves (Sites 3–12 closed)
  • Canton Lake: Fairview Group Camp
  • Eufaula Lake: Gaines Creek
  • Kaw Lake: McFadden Cove
  • Pine Creek Lake: Turkey Creek
  • Oologah Lake: Spencer Creek
  • Sardis Lake: Sardis Cove
  • Tenkiller Lake: Horseshoe Bend & Standing Rock
  • Webbers Falls: Hopewell Park, Bluff View, Brewers Bend, Overlook
  • Robert S. Kerr: Little San Bois Creek, Cowlington Point (Winter loop closed)

Pennsylvania

  • Raystown Lake: Seven Points, Susquehannock, and Nancy’s Boat-to-Shore
  • Cowanesque Lake: Tompkins Campground
  • Tioga-Hammond Lakes: Patch, Axios, and Modern Campground

South Dakota

  • North Shore Campground

Washington

  • Blyton Landing
  • Fishhook Park & Class A Campground
  • Lambi Creek Recreation Area
  • Little Goose Dam and Lock (Little Goose Landing)
  • Lower Monumental Riparia Recreation Area
  • Willow Landing Recreation Area

And then, one reopens

Just how many actual RV sites at these campgrounds closed by “staffing shortages” isn’t clear. For the RVers affected, the closures surely hit home. But the experience of one South Dakota campground raises hope. At the Big Bend USACE project near Fort Thompson, the North Shore Campground reopened earlier this week.

Army Corps campground closures
North Shore Campground — USACE photo

In a surprise announcement from the Army Corps, North Shore swung the gates open on May 15. In government-ese, the news release from the Corps said, “The campground had previously been identified for closure as part of temporary adjustments to recreation operations due to seasonal staffing constraints across multiple U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District projects.

“The Big Bend Project will now be able to safely reopen and maintain the campground for public use this season due to the addition of new volunteer support.”

Could volunteers come to the rescue?

We spoke with Andrew Nystrom of the Army Corps, who explained the reopening. Nystrom told us that the staff cutbacks didn’t allow for routine maintenance, and so the agency felt it simply had to close the campground. But volunteers stepped forward, taking on groundskeeping, bathroom duty, and other needed work. That allowed the Corps to direct its now-limited staff to handle assignments like security.

We asked Nystrom if other closed Army Corps’ campgrounds might be reopened if other folks would volunteer their time and labor. While he couldn’t speak for other Army Corps areas, he said interested, potential volunteers could “contact the individual project sites” and ask if volunteering were possible.

Army Corps campground closuresThe reopened campground, North Shore, is a smaller campground. The number of volunteers needed was relatively small. The equation is obvious—the larger the campground, the more help is needed. “Back in the day” when Good Sam Club chapters had plenty of members, such groups might offer to “adopt” campgrounds in need. But similar moves might still be possible with social media followers who could stimulate one another to fill the void.

It might not happen this year. But with no end in sight to the “staffing shortage” crisis, Camping Season 2026 might see more campgrounds reopened because of the efforts of volunteers stepping up.

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Scientists predict active 2025 Atlantic hurricane season

RV Travel
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Scientists predict active 2025 Atlantic hurricane season

Colorado State University (CSU) researchers predict an above-average Atlantic hurricane season in 2025, driven by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the subtropical Atlantic and Caribbean. These warmer waters weaken the subtropical high and trade winds, which leads to continued heat buildup and favorable hurricane conditions, including lower pressure and a more unstable atmosphere.

The team forecasts 17 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) from June 1 to Nov. 30. Their predictions use a statistical model and several global models based on 25–40 years of climate data.

Weak La Niña conditions in the Pacific are expected to shift to ENSO-neutral. [From climate.gov: El Niño and La Niña, the natural climate pattern collectively known as ENSO, the El Niño/Southern Oscillation.] The probability of El Niño, which suppresses Atlantic hurricanes by increasing wind shear, is just 13%, suggesting supportive conditions for storm development.

Hurricane activity is expected to be about 125% of the 1991–2020 average, slightly less than 2024’s 130%. Last year’s Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused more than 250 deaths and $120 billion in damage.

Screenshot

The forecast also uses a newer metric, Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) west of 60°W, which correlates more closely with landfalling storms. ACE is projected to be high in 2025 due to the likely absence of El Niño.

This marks CSU’s 42nd annual forecast, started by the late Professor Bill Gray. The 2025 outlook was developed by Phil Klotzbach, Michael Bell, and Levi Silvers. Updates will be released June 11, July 9, and August 6.

Major Hurricane Landfall Probabilities for 2025:

U.S. coastline: 51% (average 43%)
U.S. East Coast: 26% (average 21%)
Gulf Coast: 33% (average 27%)
Caribbean: 56% (average 47%)

The forecast includes detailed storm probabilities for coastal regions in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. CSU emphasizes the need for preparedness: “It only takes one storm near you to make this an active season,” said Michael Bell.

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RV Daily Tips. Friday, May 16, 2025

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Friday, May 16, 2025

Issue 2645

Today’s thought

“Never leave a friend behind. Friends are all we have to get us through this life—and they are the only things from this world that we could hope to see in the next.” ―Dean Koontz

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Barbecue Day!

On this day in history: 1842 – The first major wagon train heading for the Pacific Northwest sets out on the Oregon Trail from Elm Grove, Missouri, with 100 pioneers.

Tip of the day
Save your RV’s refrigerator: Leveling tips for overnight stops

By Dave Helgeson
I read this tip:

Do you level? That’s a question repeatedly posted on RV forums, regarding leveling an RV when stopping at the end of the day. Here’s a typical response: “I try to get it relatively close unless it’s just for an overnight stop, in which case I don’t bother.” Unless it’s an overnight stop? ALWAYS level your RV. Another comment tells you why: “I’m on my second Dometic 4-door. I level METICULOUSLY every time I stop to camp and I check level every morning. I refuse to go thru all that replacement AGAIN.”

RV refrigerators need to be level to work properly, and to prevent damage. No absorption-type RV refrigerator has ever read the fine print that says, “Don’t count the damage caused by operating off-level if it’s only overnight.” Seriously, damage to an RV cooling unit is CUMULATIVE, and every “only overnight” adds up. Can’t level? Shut off the fridge.

I was rather shocked by people’s thinking that running an absorption refrigerator out of level overnight or for any length of time is an acceptable practice. It’s not! Continue reading.

Ask Dave
Why does water sputter out of RV’s faucets and gets worse as tank gets low?

Dear Dave, 
We always start with a full water tank while boondocking. We get a little air in the lines and the water will spurt some, but not much. As the water level in the tank gets lower, we get more and more air in the lines. I believe this suggests that the air is coming in the suction side of the water line in the tank somewhere. I am trying to figure out how to chase down the source of the air in the water line. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks. —Chuck, 2012 Heartland Cyclone HD 3612  Read Dave’s answer.

In the RV shop with Dustin
Reminder: Check that fridge drip tray before it floods into your RV

The below question was posted in one of my many Facebook groups. One group member, Alan, asked this question: “Any ideas where to start the investigation? 2022 Grand Design RV Solitude 380FL. Last night we noticed water collecting on the right side of the fridge on the flooring. The inside of the fridge is dry. … ” Continue reading.

Article and video
Smokeless fire pit showdown: Solo Stove, Slinky Stove, and BioLite compared

By Cheri Sicard
Campfires. Is there anything better? They bring warmth, light, and that unbeatable cozy vibe to any outdoor adventure. But let’s face it: Smoke can be a real buzzkill. That’s where “smokeless” fire pits come in. These nifty devices promise a fire with less of the eye-watering, lung-burning smoke we all dread. Portable fire pits are especially popular with RVers who want a contained and convenient campfire option. In this video, Jason Epperson of RV Miles puts three top contenders to the test.

BUMPER SNICKER: Stupidity ought to be painful! —Submitted by Jaye Jeffress

Featured article
Is BLM camping safe? Yes! Just look out for these signs and take these precautions

By Dave Helgeson
Is BLM camping safe? This was the core of a question posted on the BLM Camping Facebook group hosted by RVtravel.com. Unfortunately, the post was deleted before I could review the hundreds of comments. It drew such a response that RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury reached out to me and asked that I write an article on the subject. Upon further research, I determined the original question had a bit more to it, as it asked, “How to determine if a BLM camping area is safe or not for a lonely camper.” Continue reading.

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Quick tip
Automatic transmission trouble signs

  • Frequent need to add fluid (could be a leak at seal in gasket, or worse, a malfunction).
  • Fluid smells burnt, is dark brown (change it right away).
  • Late or early shifting, slipping, or unusual noises (get thee and your RV to a tranny shop).

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Website of the day

Ultimate Bunker
Okay, even if you’re not planning on building an underground bunker, this website is still totally cool. They build custom bunkers, safe rooms, custom shipping containers and more. You’ll want one of these as your man-cave or she-shed!

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Now THIS is fun! This would be a perfect rainy-day activity for a summer day. Wait, what? Oh, just click here and you’ll see.

Trivia

In 2025, Palm Beach, Florida, is the richest neighborhood in America. It boasts the highest average home value of $11,571,608.

Readers’ pets of the day

“Gypsy we have had since she was 9 weeks. Belle came to us almost a year ago as her previous owners were going to take her to a shelter. They are a German Shepherd and a Lab, and are both 4 years old. Hopefully Belle will become a great camping partner just like her sister.” —Kay Gale

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• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.

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