Registration opened Tuesday, April 8, 2025, for the Blue Ghost Firefly Event Tour in North Carolina. You really should see this stunning display! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime, enchanting experience.
Read on to learn about the event and what to expect.
A special night
The Blue Ghost Firefly Tour celebrates one of nature’s rare spectacles. (Note: This isn’t to be confused with the Synchronized Firefly Viewing Event at Congaree National Park in South Carolina. The Blue Ghost Tour is unique to Western North Carolina. It offers a guided, educational experience with nature experts on hand. Better yet, you don’t have to enter a lottery and hope to score a ticket!)
The elusive Blue Ghost fireflies are tiny insects (only 1/4 inch in length!) that glow with a unique blue-green light. They appear for only a few weeks each year in the woodlands of Transylvania County in Western North Carolina.
Unlike typical fireflies that blink, the Blue Ghost fireflies emit a steady glow. The unusual sight has been described as “fairies carrying blue candles” through the forest. It’s both mesmerizing and beautiful.
Details
Location: Cradle of Forestry in America, 11250 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC
Ticket sale date: Tickets go on sale to the general public on April 8, 2025
Event Dates: Several nights are scheduled throughout the season (May 19–20, May 22–25, May 27, May 29–31, June 1–3, and June 5–7)
Timing: Gates open at 8:00 p.m., the program starts at 8:45 p.m., and the tour wraps up by 10:30 p.m.
Cost: General Admission is $55 for adults, and $27 for youth (ages 4–12)
Capacity: Each night is limited to 150 participants to minimize the impact on the fragile habitat
What to expect
Once the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll join an educational presentation in the outdoor amphitheater at the Cradle of Forestry. Following the briefing, you and your fellow adventurers will take a self-guided hike along a paved forest trail—armed with a special, red-filtered flashlight (or one provided on-site). This will help your eyes adjust to the dark without disturbing the fireflies. Expert team members will be stationed at key points along the trail. They’ll share fascinating insights about the fireflies’ behavior, habitat, and conservation needs.
Tips
• Arrive early: Although the tour begins at 8:45 p.m., arriving a little earlier gives you time to explore the indoor exhibits at the Cradle of Forestry and use the restrooms.
• Dress appropriately: Bring a rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes. Since the event takes place in the dark on a paved but natural trail, sturdy footwear is a must.
• Leave your cameras at home: To protect the fireflies and preserve everyone’s viewing experience, cameras and mobile phone photography are discouraged.
• Follow instructions: Staying on the designated trail is crucial for both your safety and the conservation of the fireflies’ habitat.
A scenic getaway
For those traveling in your RV, Western North Carolina offers not only magical nights with the unusual fireflies but also plenty of excellent camping options nearby. Here are a few campgrounds to consider:
• Pisgah Forest RV Park & Campground: Located just a short drive from Pisgah Forest, this RV park offers full hookups and scenic views. Its proximity makes it an ideal base for attending the Blue Ghost Firefly Tour.
• At The Ridge Campground at Balsam Grove: With its tranquil atmosphere and well-maintained sites, Balsam Grove offers a great alternative for RVers who want to experience the region’s natural beauty before or after the tour.
Each of these campgrounds gives you the chance to explore more of Western NC’s scenic drives, local trails, and other family-friendly attractions like waterfalls and historic sites.
You should go!
Reserve your spot for the Blue Ghost Firefly event. While you’re at it, make RV campground reservations, too! The beautiful scenery, firefly event, local history, and friendly people of North Carolina are sure to make your trip one of the best ever!
You may remember those “kegger” events of your youth. A few high school kids got together somewhere out in the brush. Somebody cranked up the music on the eight-track. Along the way, some local sheriff’s deputy turned up and made everyone pour their beer out on the ground and sent them home, tails between legs.
Out in Utah, BLM officials recently got dubbed major party-poopers when they shut down “The biggest party Utah has ever seen”—before party-goers even turned up.
Ah, social media! The party’s “organizers” used multiple social media posts to try and draw in participants—and their money—by advertising musical groups, DJs, a huge bonfire, and “an insane light show.” For $20 partiers paid through a website, they could come and have access to the stage.
BLM stops party—You need a permit
The party-throwers didn’t count on BLM law enforcers seeing their social media posts. Nor did they factor in that when you want to throw a party on government land, you need a permit.
When the first of the party-goers turned up, they didn’t find singers and instruments—they found BLM officers. No stage. No signs. Just cops.
It wasn’t the first party put-down. Back in March, organizers promoted a big event on the Salt Flats—again by social media. In that case, the BLM was proactive, letting the erstwhile event folks know that bonfires and the Salt Flats weren’t compatible. If they wanted to party, the fire was “out,” and a permit was “in.”
Permit? Permit? Who needs one of those? The group simply changed the location, publishing the geographic coordinates to their followers. The BLM reckons hundreds or perhaps even thousands would turn up near Kelton, Utah, to the relocated site.
BLM officer greets early party wannabes. ksltv.com photo.
BLM officials and other law enforcement types didn’t buy tickets. They just showed up before the show, which “would have been” last Friday.
“Don’t want to rain on anybody’s parade”
“Our hope is to contact the event organizers to educate them on why this event is illegal, why they can’t continue, and then issue the necessary charges associated with that,” said BLM West Desert District Chief Law Enforcement Ranger Camm Stephenson in a story carried by ksltv.com.
“We don’t want to rain on anybody’s parade, but we do want to make sure if people are going to do things like this, they do it the right way,” he said. “[Here], there’s very limited resources for things like medical emergencies, fires, traffic accidents. The roadways in and out are not equipped to handle the kind of traffic that may be attracted to this type of an event as well.”
Did those folks who want to encourage people to do things right get any respect? It wasn’t long after the first party-goers got turned back that a new post appeared on the party promotion site. This time it was a picture of some of the BLM officers, framed with a caption that read, “#whosnitched.”
Undeterred, the rowdies then advised partiers that the site for the big shindig had been changed again. Those who wanted to come should send a private message to get the new location. Duh—do ya think that will stop the cops?
“I’m a big cockeyed optimist. I try to accentuate the positive as opposed to the negative.” —Betty White
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Empanada Day!
On this day in history: 1918 – World War I: Actors Douglas Fairbanks and Charlie Chaplin sell war bonds on the streets of New York City’s financial district.
Tip of the day 10 smart ways to repurpose empty tissue boxes
By Gail Marsh
RVers are always on the lookout for clever storage solutions and creative hacks. Here are some unusual ways to repurpose empty tissue boxes.
Before you take your boxes to be recycled, consider these ten unique ideas to give your tissue boxes a second life.
1) Tired of the clutter from loose reusable grocery bags? Use your empty tissue box to neatly store and dispense plastic or reusable bags. Add a bit of Velcro to the bottom of the box and its companion piece to the inside of a kitchen cabinet. The bags will be easily available as needed. Continue reading.
Ask Dave Why does toaster oven trip the GFCI in RV bathroom?
Dear Dave,
I am new to this camper and although most things are going well, I had a problem when I tried to use a toaster oven in the kitchen. After turning it on and trying to make some toast, it ran for about 30 seconds and then turned off. My multimeter was not handy, but I soon realized that the bathroom GFCI had tripped. There were no other appliances in use at the time. I had an electric toothbrush plugged into the bathroom outlet, but it was not in use…. Read the rest of Mark’s question and Dave’s answer.
Video of the day Five clever camping beds you can build for a custom sleeping space
By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, the team from Maker Pipe showcases their products to make five clever van lifer beds. Building your own camping bed can be a game-changer. It lets you create a comfortable and custom sleeping space that perfectly fits your needs and vehicle. And the best part? You can do it yourself using affordable and easy-to-work materials like EMT conduit and Maker Pipe fittings. Check these out.
Featured article This is one way to NOT haul your ORV—Youch!
Some RVers are just too clever for their own good. Give ’em a bungee cord, they’ll haul the world. This character has found the “ideal” way to carry that cumbersome extra vehicle. No tow hitch is required. This novel way to haul your ORV is NOT one we recommend.
Reader poll (and article) When RVing, do you collect souvenirs?
When I visit a new area, I like checking out the local food and atmosphere at mom and pop restaurants. I skip the burgers and pizzas and go for the specials. The best way to find these spots is by asking other campers or locals.
I avoid chain restaurants like Olive Garden or Outback—they taste the same everywhere. I’m after local flavor and a little adventure.
7 Exhilarating Motorcycle Road Trips Around the U.S.
Did you know about 22 percent of our readers own a motorcycle? That’s quite a few of you! If you own one, check out these incredible drives to take with yours.
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? We couldn’t pick just one (you’ll see why), but these could really come in handy! Ooooh, boy. These things really make us excited to hit the road!
And the survey says…
We’ve polled RVtravel.com readers close to 5,000 times in recent years. Here are a few things we’ve learned about them:
• 9 percent of people say they could never give a speech in front of 100 people, even if it was on a subject they were passionate about!
• 18 percent video chat with friends and/or family on a regular basis.
• If offered top dollar for their RV right now, 37 percent would jump at the opportunity to sell.
Pigs have been domesticated for thousands of years. They are used for meat, lard, leather, brushes, heart valves, and paint products. Since they can’t sweat, pigs require a nearby water source to cool down. That’s why they love rolling around in the mud. They are sociable and intelligent, the 5th most intelligent mammal after humans, primates, dolphins and whales. They are very sensitive emotionally, and can even get their feelings hurt.
Readers’ pets of the day
“Mylo (left, now 9) and Buddy (right) are (Shih Tzu) brothers from litters three years apart. They were best pals until we sadly lost our Buddy two years ago. They loved traveling all over America with us and making new friends everywhere they went. Mylo had a hard time adjusting to life without his brother but is doing better and still loves to travel. ‘Mylo’ actually means ‘my little one’ as he was just 2 lbs. when he came into our lives.” —Richard Pendleton
Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. We publish one each weekday in RV Daily Tips and in our Sunday RV Travel newsletter. No blurry photos, please! Please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!
Dear Dave,
I am new to this camper and although most things are going well, I had a problem when I tried to use a toaster oven in the kitchen. After turning it on and trying to make some toast, it ran for about 30 seconds and then turned off. My multimeter was not handy, but I soon realized that the bathroom GFCI had tripped. There were no other appliances in use at the time. I had an electric toothbrush plugged into the bathroom outlet, but it was not in use.
I reset the GFCI outlet and the kitchen outlet was back live. I made a pot of coffee (on the same outlet) with no problems. Later, I disconnected the tooth brush, and tried the toaster oven again. Same thing happened. It ran for 20-30 seconds and then tripped the bathroom outlet again. Should I replace the outlet, the toaster oven, both, or look elsewhere? —Mark, 2016 Highland Ridge Open Range Light 215RBS
Distribution center GFCI
Dear Mark,
Just to clarify, the button on the bathroom outlet GFCI tripped, not the circuit breaker you provided in the photo? As I have posted earlier, the GFCI outlets used in RVs are the cheapest possible. There is typically only one with the test/reset button and the others are what we call “dummy outlets” ganged and protected by the single outlet with the test/reset button.
GFCIGFCI dummy
Replace GFCI outlet
The first thing I would do it replace the GFCI outlet with a quality outlet that is hard-wired rather than the spade connections (below) often found in RVs. I would also change the kitchen outlet with a hard-wired outlet, as well, to ensure a good connection.
GFCI spade
Next, purchase a watt meter to figure out what your toaster oven is doing. You can find one on Amazon here.
Watt meter
According to the Energy Star website, toaster ovens can use from 1,200 – 1,800 watts since it uses a heating element that is an electric resistance coil. Plug the watt meter into your kitchen outlet, then plug in your toaster oven and turn it on just like you did previously. Watch the wattage being used. My guess is the toaster oven starts off with a moderate wattage and then in 20-30 seconds ramps up the temperature and the wattage goes up.
Wattage does not trip GFCI
The wattage is not what trips a GFCI outlet as these are designed to protect by tripping when it detects a small amount of electrical current “leakage”—typically at 4-6 milliamps. It should, however, help determine why it takes 20-30 seconds to create the issue.
We ran into a similar situation with the Winnebago motorhome tripping the GFCI circuit breaker in storage in this post.
In that article, we referenced a post by electrical expert Mike Sokol, who went into further detail on leakage issues within RVs.
According to Mike, appliances are allowed to leak current to some degree and RV components are typically above average. However, you have identified the issue is the toaster oven.
This description by Fluke can help identify how much:
A GFCI uses a current transformer to detect the difference between the line current supplied to the load and the neutral current returning from the load. Ideally, this difference should be zero because both currents cancel. If there is a current differential, it becomes the input to a comparator within the GFCI, which changes states when the differential is around 6 mA. When the comparator changes states, it triggers a silicon-controlled rectifier, which disconnects the power from the output of the GFCI.
Here, also from Fluke, is another description of why the GFCI trips and how to diagnose the issue:
Leakage Current: Another term for a ground fault is leakage current. All insulators, including wiring insulation, have some conductivity which can cause leakage current. If insulation is old or damaged, its resistance is lower and leakage current could become substantial.
Diagnosing GFCI trips
Start by measuring the leakage current and then identify the source. Use a leakage current clamp meter to make these measurements. Leakage current clamp meters are similar to clamp meters used for measuring load currents; however, leakage current clamp meters perform much better when measuring current below 5 mA.
Test single-phase circuits by clamping the phase and neutral conductors. Test three-phase circuits by clamping around all phase conductors. If a neutral is present, clamp it too. The measured value will be any current flowing to ground. To measure the total leakage flowing to the intended ground connection, place the clamp around the ground conductor.
Measure leakage current
Measure the leakage current on each leg of the circuit to identify which one has considerably more leakage than the others. If one leg has a suspiciously high leakage current, ensure that the equipment is operating properly. Remember that surge suppression filters and capacitors on the power input of some electronic equipment can increase the overall circuit capacitance, which can increase leakage current. Determine loaded circuit leg leakage with the equipment “on”—switching the equipment “off” allows you to determine just the circuit wiring leakage.
If equipment on all legs is operating properly and the wiring is acceptable, it could be that the cumulative leakage current due to electronic equipment input filtering is just high enough to trigger the random GFCI tripping. In this case, consider redistributing the load on each circuit leg or adding circuits to provide more capacity.
As Mike stated in his post, this is beyond what you and I would be able to test. If the toaster oven continues to trip the new GFCI outlet, it would seem you will need to find a new method of making toast.😉 Or it might be possible to find a smaller toaster oven or one that is more efficient.
You might also enjoy this from Dave
Powering your RV: Essential 120-volt electricity tips and gadgets for every RVer
This is Part 3 of Dave Solberg’s “Everything you need to know about RVing” series. Today, Dave looks at 120-volt electricity and tells you just about everything you need to know. In our homes, we plug in the vacuum, heat up cold coffee in the microwave, and turn on the air conditioner without thinking about where that power comes from. It’s easy—it comes from the local municipal company and is wired throughout the house. In an RV, we use 120-volt AC, 12-volt DC, and even liquid propane (LP) for the various components. It is important to understand what powers what and how much power everything uses. Continue reading.
By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, the team from Maker Pipe showcases their products to make five clever van lifer beds. Building your own camping bed can be a game-changer. It lets you create a comfortable and custom sleeping space that perfectly fits your needs and vehicle. And the best part? You can do it yourself using affordable and easy-to-work materials like EMT conduit and Maker Pipe fittings.
What are EMT conduit and Maker Pipe fittings?
So, what exactly are these materials we’re talking about?
• EMT conduit: This is a type of steel tubing that’s readily available at most hardware stores. It’s a popular choice for DIY projects because it’s strong, lightweight, and easy to manipulate. You can bend it with a handheld pipe and tube bender, and cut it with a handheld rotating pipe and tube cutter.
• Maker Pipe fittings: These are connectors designed to work specifically with EMT conduit. They allow you to easily join pieces of conduit together to create all sorts of structures, from greenhouses to furniture.
Five DIY camping bed ideas
Be sure to watch the video to see how these five clever camper beds went together.
#1. Tim’s extendable RV bed: Tim came up with a clever way to extend the existing bed frame in his RV. He used EMT conduit and Maker Pipe connectors to create a sliding extension that could be easily pulled out when needed. The result is a bed that can be easily extended for sleeping and retracted for more space during the day. You can find out more by checking out the original forum post with Tim.
#2. Rob’s simple Honda Pilot bed frame: Rob built a simple yet effective bed frame for his Honda Pilot that’s all about ease of use and portability. To use the bed, Rob simply removes the second- and third-row seating in his Honda Pilot and places the bed frame inside. The one-hole straps and paracord help keep the slats in place while driving.
#3. Custom couch slide-out bed: This design takes versatility to the next level. This bed can be used as a couch during the day, then slide out into a full bed at night. It can even be folded up against the wall to create more space.
#4. Jim’s fold-away bed for DIY toy hauler: Jim needed a bed for his DIY toy hauler, but it also needed to fold away when he was transporting ATVs. His solution? A fold-away bed made with EMT conduit and Maker Pipe connectors. The bed folds in half, making it easy to store when not in use.
#5. Jason’s slide-out Honda Element bed: Jason from Element DIY created a slide-out bed for his Honda Element that maximizes space and functionality. This bed slides out for sleeping and retracts for more space during the day.
These are just a few examples of what you can do with EMT conduit and Maker Pipe connectors. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize your bed to perfectly fit your needs and vehicle size.
Jayco, Inc. (Jayco) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Entegra Anthem, Aspire, and 2025 Reatta XL motorhomes, equipped with Cummins L9 diesel engines. The remote fuel filter hose may separate from the fitting, causing a fuel leak and an engine stall. The recall was announced on April 2.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Cummins will replace the fuel hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 30, 2025. Owners may contact Jayco customer service at 1-800-283-8267.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
You will enjoy the results of these RVtravel.com polls:
“Courage isn’t having the strength to go on – it is going on when you don’t have strength.” ―Napoleon Bonaparte
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Coffee Cake Day! And if you’d rather celebrate in the evening, it’s also National Beer Day!
On this day in history: 1933 – Prohibition in the United States is repealed for beer of no more than 3.2% alcohol by weight, eight months before the ratification of the Twenty-first Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Hence, why we celebrate National Beer Day today!)
Tip of the day How to clean the inside of your windshield in under 2 minutes
By Cheri Sicard
Traveling RVers and especially RVers with pets have no doubt experienced the frustrations of a dirty inside windshield. Dogs especially like to leave nose prints everywhere. Fret no more. Rebecca from the Tiny House Creations DIY at Old Country Cooks (formerly Good2Know) YouTube channel is here to show you how to clean the inside of your windshield quickly, easily, and with no streaks.
Ask Dave Looking to buy recalled RV. Should I offer less, or run?
Dear Dave, We are thinking about purchasing this unit at ~$95k (35,000 mi., sales price $99k), but recently found out it is a warranty buyback unit from Jayco. Almost ALL of the recall/warranty issues were electrical, several re the Renogy battery/inverter system. We went to the dealer (Buda, TX) yesterday and the unit was on shore power. We noticed SoC on panel was at ZERO, so I have BIG concerns about the Li battery and system in general. Should I walk away completely, or throw out another offer (maybe $90k?) and hope for the best? Thank you! —Tom Read Dave’s answer. (It may surprise you.)
In the RV shop with Dustin How an RV suspension works, plus upgrade tips
In this “What’s In The Shop?” video, Zach takes you along to inspect a typical fifth wheel RV suspension system. He explains the typical suspension system and gives examples of suspension upgrades and the benefits of having them. During this inspection, he found a worn shackle link that was almost broken. If this were to come loose during travel, it could cause serious damage to the unit and those behind you. You do not want this to happen to your RV! This could be life-saving information!
RANDOM RV THOUGHT: Make a habit of stopping at visitor centers. Sometimes the coffee and Wi-Fi is free and even road maps, too. Pick up lots of literature about where you are headed: You will likely find some discount coupons. Sometimes, if you ask nicely to stay overnight in the parking lot, they will say yes.
Video of the day Exploring a 1960s abandoned RV park
By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, the team from Travels with Lucky stumbled upon a place that felt frozen in time. A little time capsule into Apache Junction, Arizona’s past, where the echoes of the 1960s linger—an odd, abandoned RV park. Check this out.
Featured article A heart attack at Love’s Truck Stop: RV trips don’t always go as planned
By Gail Marsh [originally published in January 2024]
I’ve learned so much over the past couple of weeks. We were only four hours into our long trek to Florida when my worst nightmare unexpectedly became a reality. While parked at the fueling lanes at a Love’s Truck Stop, my husband, Keith, began to experience pain in his left arm. The pain quickly escalated and persisted, so we called 911. Continue reading.
Reader poll When RVing, do you rely on income from employment to afford to travel?
“While the sight of a bald eagle has thrilled campers for generations, the sight of a bald man does nothing for the eagle.” —Submitted by reader Jim Schrankel
Quick tip Fresh water fill mod keeps you dry
“I was having no success with the fresh water fill. I’d get more water on me than in the tank. I think there may be a dip in the fill hose and/or vent hose acting as a water trap. In any event, I cut three or four feet off the end of a garden hose and snaked the cut end down the fill hose and right into the fresh water tank. Now I connect my supply hose directly to the garden hose and no more mess. I probably should have used one of those white hoses that’s made for drinking water. But we keep the water chlorinated and don’t drink it anyway. After a little whittling on the plastic fill housing, I was able to stuff the hose coupling far enough back to close the hatch.” From jeff-z.com.
Website of the day
The Best Camping in Oregon, From Crater Lake to the Oregon Dunes
If you’ve never camped in Oregon, there’s no way you won’t plan a trip after reading this and seeing these photos. It sure is a beautiful state… [CAVEAT: If you want to visit Crater Lake before the only permitted trail to the lake is closed (from 2026 to 2029), better go this year.]
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? Will you win a million dollars next year? Will you lose those 50 pounds? Will you finally discover the Fountain of Youth? Will you finally get that golden retriever puppy you’ve always longed for? Well, here’s how to find out…
Trivia
North Dakota’s Lake Sakakawea has more shoreline than the California Pacific Coast.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Buddy is right at home in the RV, especially when the heated floors are on.” —Leslie Bergmann
Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!
Leave here with a laugh
Click to enlarge.
Today’s weather forecast across the nation THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
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Dear Dave, We are thinking about purchasing this unit at ~$95k (35,000 mi., sales price $99k), but recently found out it is a warranty buyback unit from Jayco. Almost ALL of the recall/warranty issues were electrical, several re the Renogy battery/inverter system. We went to the dealer (Buda, TX) yesterday and the unit was on shore power. We noticed SoC on panel was at ZERO, so I have BIG concerns about the Li battery and system in general. Should I walk away completely, or throw out another offer (maybe $90k?) and hope for the best? Thank you! —Tom
Warranty Buyback Notice (Sorry this is fuzzy.)
Dear Tom,
Recalls are common and happen in every manufacturing industry from batteries to the recent Tesla recalls. They are often not a huge safety issue or reason not to purchase a unit that has had one or more recalls. However, you indicated it was a “warranty buyback,” which indicates it might be a lemon law issue, as most manufacturers will not buy back a unit due to recalls.
Buying a buyback unit
Whether to consider a “buyback” unit can be a real hit-and-miss, depending on the state, dealership, manufacturer, and the actual defects. There are several states that have a very strict law regarding the time it takes to correct the defect. If there is a scheduling conflict within the service center, or delay in parts due to supply chain issues, then it would need to be repurchased even though the defect might be minor and not a cause for concern. That would make this type of unit worthy of consideration.
Most of these recall issues look to be a simple update of firmware or wiring and connections that would not warrant a lemon law case, in my opinion. However, if they were not taken care of in a certain time frame, it would. This does not mean it is a lemon, rather it was not addressed immediately and fell into the time frame which was a common issue due to supply chain issues and getting into a service center.
State of charge issue
I would talk with the service manager regarding the state of charge (SOC) being at zero when the unit is connected to shoreline power. It may just be a switch on the inverter or something simple.
I cannot advise what to offer in price. However, I wouldn’t necessarily run away without discussing the issue with someone as it seems to be a good price.
With all the new technology being installed into these units and combining lithium with inverters and chassis components, we have seen a high number of recalls—and not just with Jayco. I would be interested in what the service manager has to say.
I’m not saying these recalls were trivial and the issues were not a safety concern; otherwise, there would not have been NTSHA recall. It’s just that these seem to be an easy fix that did not require extensive parts and long repairs.
However, if you don’t feel comfortable with the response and the fixes, offering less money is not the best solution, in my opinion.
Breakdown of recall issues on this RV
For those of you that would like to dig deeper into the recall issue and the repair, let’s take a look at the recalls listed on this Warranty Buyback Notice.
Recall 23V-081 MB Update Park Lock Function
According to the bulletin provided by Mercedes-Benz and Jayco, here is the description of the defect:
A component of the vehicle’s park lock system might fatigue, which can cause the parking pawl not to engage and result in a vehicle rollaway. This may increase the risk of a crash. Mercedes-Benz reminds drivers to always follow the parking instructions in the vehicle’s operator’s manual, including setting the park brake.
Here is the recall service required:
An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the software of various control units (Direct Select Module, Electronic Ignition Switch Module, Electronic Stability Program Module, and Transmission Control Unit) on the affected vehicles, free of charge. The repair will take approximately 1 hour.
According to the recall documentation, this procedure was performed.
Recall 24V-160 Renogy Battery Pack 24E-005
The Renogy 210Ah Smart Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery relay contactors may become stuck in the closed position. Relays that are stuck in the closed position increase the risk of a fire during battery charging.
Here is the recall service required:
The remedy is now available and consists of an inspection and software update of the Renogy battery that will prevent the battery relay contactors from becoming stuck. If the battery already has a stuck relay contactor, the battery will be replaced. The remedy will be performed at no cost to you and should take less than one hour to complete.
TSB 22-075 A/C Electrical Connection
WAGO connector installed instead of Blue wing-nut connector inside the roof air conditioner.
The WAGO connector is a slide-in and push-on connector. My electrical technician contact stated that although they are much faster to install and look more advanced than the old school wire nut, they have a tendency to provide less contact surface. That could create an issue with high amp draw components such as a roof air conditioner.
What is confusing is the terminology in the Jayco recall notice. The WAGO connectors are either a 221 or 231, depending on the number of wire slots. You can see the two versions in Fig. 3, below, from the Jayco recall bulletin.
The confusion comes from the description of the blue wire nut, which is called out in the parts description but is referred to as a Blue Wing Nut throughout the procedure. These are 120-volt wires and the blue screw-on wire connector is available in the standard wire connector or one with tabs on the sides which are referred to as “wings”. So, the technical description should be Blue Wing Nut Wire Connector.
Blue wing nut wire connectorBlue wire nut
TBS 22-076 Firefly Terminator G4 Tap Connection
Communication error within the lithium battery.
Here is the recall service required:
Replace with new terminator G4 Tap
Firefly tap
TSB 23-101 USB Flash Drive
This one is confusing, as the official NHTSA recall for TSB 23-101 and the Jayco recall bulletin has the description of Front Spotlight Electrical Update. I am not sure what a flash drive would have anything to do with an RV. However, I never say never when it comes to RVs.
According to the recall, here is the issue:
Current on the spotlight is pulling higher amps than acceptable causing issues with Firefly.
The recall service requires removing the driver seat and upgrading the wiring and connectors to the front spotlight with the following parts.
Renogy recommendations on updated Inverter Settings:
The service required is resetting the inverter parameters.
TSB 23-123 Alternator 200A Fuse
Issue reported on recall bulletin:
Replace 300A MRBF Fuse with a 200A MRBF Fuse.
Part required – 1 FUSE,200A MRBF
TSB 24-015 Renogy battery firmware update
Issue reported on recall bulletin:
Renogy Battery Firmware Update to address alternator not charging battery.
Service required:
Renogy sent an analyzer and jumper cable to dealers to verify the firmware version and a link to download the Renogy firmware file to upgrade.
You might also enjoy this from Dave
What advice would you give to someone buying a used RV?
Dear Dave, We are about to purchase a Starcraft Launch Ultra Lite travel trailer to go full-time. We’re in our 60s. We need alllllll the information on what to know before buying this used unit, please. What are the most important things to check out in order to buy this RV? Thank you! —Lynn
By Cheri Sicard
Traveling RVers and especially RVers with pets have no doubt experienced the frustrations of a dirty inside windshield. Dogs especially like to leave nose prints everywhere. Fret no more. Rebecca from the Tiny House Creations DIY at Old Country Cooks YouTube channel is here to show you how to clean the inside of your windshield quickly, easily, and with no streaks.
I am talking less than two minutes and you will have a clean, clear, sparkling interior windshield! And it works!
What is needed for Rebecca’s interior windshield cleaning process?
A mop that uses disposable cloths such as a Swiffer
Paper towels
Glass cleaner
That’s it!
Rebecca uses the paper towels that allow you to select sizes. She says to use four pieces, but she actually uses five in the video (which she does admit to). This shows how you can fashion your own cleaners the way you need them. If you were using regular paper towels, it looks like you could use two.
How it’s done
Watch the video to see how it’s done. Rebecca folds up a section of three paper towels and puts it over the mop head. She uses the section of two paper towels to affix these to the mop head. Easy!
Spray your newly fashioned windshield mop with your favorite glass cleaner (or a mixture of vinegar and water), and you are ready to clean.
Using the mop with its long handle makes it easy to reach every inch of the windshield, even the places you would normally struggle with. Genius!
One caveat. If you also use your mop to clean your floors (and why wouldn’t you?), Rebecca advises wrapping the mop head with some plastic wrap before applying the paper towels. This is to prevent streaking and leaving an unwanted film from any residual floor cleaner that might have been left on the mop.
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” —Dale Carnegie
GUEST ESSAY
Flickering embers and steaming coffee
By Dave Williams I can conservatively estimate that I have seen more than 12,000 sunrises in my life. No exaggeration.
My workdays began before dawn five days a week for most of 50 years. Now retired, I still greet the world at daybreak, rising with old Sol, steaming fresh coffee, and Amelia, my Yorkie snoozing next to me.
Sunrise is God’s greatest work. I love them all, no matter the weather or where they occur. They remind me of the long luxury of life I’ve been given and I do say thanks. Yes, I do.
The best sunrises find me in campgrounds beneath lodgepole pines and quaking aspens; the rich aroma of damp loamy soil or petrichor. Near a lake, stream, or seaside, I’m in my spiritual home where every day is Saturday filled with possibilities but no insistence.
I’m going to sit and just watch for a while.
The sunrise, by God, is gorgeous.
Dave Williams shares his thoughts through the week at his blog Saturday Morning Joe. We hope to feature him more here as we did years ago when he was transitioning between radio stations. Dave spent his career as a morning talk radio host. Among his many claims to fame is being Rush Limbaugh’s boss when Rush was developing his talk radio program. We urge you to subscribe (free) to Dave’s blog on Substack.
BEST CLUB FOR RVERS:Hands down, the Escapees is the very best club for RVers. Learn more or join.
The trailer menace: “Traveling city slums must be regulated” — but there’s a twist to this story!
With Chuck Woodbury
On April 1, 1935, U.S. Department of Agriculture plant pathologist E.P. Meinecke circulated a short paper he had written entitled, “The Trailer Menace.” It was not an April Fool’s joke, but a stern warning to managers of the nation’s forests and other public lands to brace for a new wave of motor tourism: enormous camping trailers. Continue reading this fascinating story.
How to avoid RV dealer sales fraud in 2025
By RV lemon lawyer Ron Burdge
After nearly 50 years of helping RV owners, we’ve witnessed some shocking dealer practices. Recently, a national magazine highlighted illegal tactics being used by dealers—practices we’ve seen all too often at dealers around the country. Even if you’re not planning on buying a new RV soon, read this anyway. It’s good info to know, and could save you big time!
An RV campfire horror story: Why to never burn fresh wood
By Gail Marsh
A recent incident at a campground serves as an important reminder: burning fresh-cut wood can have unexpected—and dangerous—consequences. A group of RVers settled in for an evening campfire. Adjacent to their RV resort, workers were busy clearing trees from the property line. The workers generously offered campers some freshly cut wood. The wood looked perfect for a fire, and the campfire turned out beautifully. But then…
Today’s RV review… The r-pod RP-206 is a big thing
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the 2025 r-pod RP-206 travel trailer. If the brand r-pod makes you think of those smaller, single-axle, teardrop-like trailers, this is going to be quite a surprise. While not huge, this trailer does measure almost 26 feet in length. Yeah, for an r-pod. It also has two axles. Continue reading.
RV service centers and repairs report When RV service centers and mobile techs cause more harm than good
This week Nanci Dixon relates RVtravel.com readers’ experiences with RV shops and technicians who did more harm than good when “repairing” their RV. Nanci relates an aggravating experience of her own plus shares some important lessons learned in the process. Read them here.
BUMPER SNICKER:Real RVs don’t leak … they just mark their territory.
Feel free to share.
Why you need a multimeter for your RV
By Mike Sokol
As an RV electrical expert, I’ve learned that a basic digital multimeter can save you a world of trouble on the road. In this article, I’ll show you how to quickly test pedestal voltage, check your battery’s state of charge, and find a blown fuse—simple steps that can prevent major problems. These are easy checks every RVer should know, and I’ll walk you through them.
How to deal with RV drain fly infestations
By Gail Marsh
Infestation? That’s putting it mildly! RVing friends called it an outright scourge. Their recently purchased “previously loved” RV was overrun with drain flies. Ugh! If you’ve ever noticed tiny, fuzzy insects fluttering around your RV’s sinks or showers, you’re likely dealing with drain flies, and they can be a real RV nuisance. Here’s how to keep them away.
Trash walking: A simple way for RVers to give back while on the road
By Nanci Dixon
I recently read an article about Anna Sacks, New York City’s designated “Trash Walker,” and realized what an impact RVers could have and how easy “trash walking” can be. The concept of trash walking has been emerging as a simple yet impactful way to give back to our natural surroundings, all while having fun and getting exercise. Learn more.
Times are challenging. Can you help? RVtravel.com readership has dropped dramatically. Why? Google no longer shows our stories in its search results, which has had a big impact on us. It’s the same story with a million other independent websites. We’re doing okay because of our large mailing list and our loyal readers, but we are hugely challenged to maintain our editorial integrity — and not sell out to advertisers or resort to click bait stories and headlines. Would you please become a voluntary contributor? It would help us hugely. Any amount helps. As a thank you, you’ll receive our Saturday and Sunday newsletters ad-free, forever. Thank you very much, and thank you for being a valued reader.
Yesterday’s top news for RVers IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
These are so neat! Put it on your RV and mark off (with a colorful sticker) all the states you visit. It’s fun to see where you’ve been and where you have left to go, and it’s fun for others to see, too.
RV gadgets and gizmos New RV gear, gadgets and upgrades that improve RVing
By Cheri Sicard
Jared Gillis of All About RVs has news of some exciting new RV upgrades available that he says make RV life even better! From practical gear to impressive tech, there’s something here for every RVer. Continue reading for his breakdown, then watch the video to see each gadget in action.
Travel destinations The hidden rocks in Montana you can play like musical instruments
By Gail Marsh
Nestled in Montana’s rugged landscape lies a geological marvel that intrigues visitors: the Ringing Rocks. Located approximately 18 miles east of Butte, north of Interstate 90, this unique formation consists of boulders that emit a bell-like chime when you do this to them.
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? We had no idea these existed, but wow would these be cool for RVers or really anyone who is in awe of our world! We’d go, shall we say… starry-eyed… for these! Check this out.
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
In the RV shop with Dustin An easy fix for a shower that won’t drain
If you’re showering in your RV and you’re standing in a couple of inches of water, or if the water just isn’t draining as quickly as it should, you have an issue that needs to be resolved. So why isn’t your RV shower draining? Let’s take a look at one of the most common issues that lead to a clogged RV shower and/or slow draining.
RANDOM RV THOUGHT: If you brew coffee or another hot liquid, put it in a Thermos or other insulated container rather than reheat it over and over. You will save propane or use of your generator.
Ghost towns Camp with the ghosts at this famous California ghost town
By Gail Marsh
If you happen to RV through Southern California, have a penchant for history, and love ghost towns, Calico Ghost Town should be on your travel plans. Nestled in the Mojave Desert, this once-bustling mining town offers a unique blend of Old West charm and modern amenities. It’s a perfect stop for RVers. And the neatest part? You can camp right in town. Learn more.
RV tire safety Must I use ST tires on my trailer, or can I use LT-type?
By Roger Marble
When it comes time to replace the tires on your RV trailer you may have limited options. Sometimes you may also be confronted with a limited supply problem that depends on your selection. What can you do? What are some options? Find out here.
Recipes of the day Easy lunch recipes to kick-start your week
If you’re doing your grocery shopping today or tomorrow, make sure to check out these recipes first because we guarantee you’ll see something here you’re going to want to make for lunch this week. These look delicious, and most of them you’d be able to make ahead of time for easy reheating.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Sunrise (Alaskan Malamute, age 7.5) loves to hike in Alaska! Or anywhere else it’s not too hot.” —Valerie D.
Want to see your pet in this newsletter? Please send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once.
DO YOU OWN A DOG? Do you walk your dog at night? Take him/her outside for a nighttime potty break? Then you need a light-up leash! Here’s a post from Gail Marsh explaining why.
Trivia
Only 5 percent of people wash their hands long enough to kill germs. A study from Michigan State University secretly observed 3,749 people in public restrooms and found that nearly all of them, 95 percent, did not wash their hands for a long enough time to kill germs. In order to kill germs, you must wash your hands for a total of 20 seconds. This study showed the average time people washed their hands was for six seconds. Well, shoot…
Sunday funny
Hit the road with a side dose of laughter from the team at Super Steer. In this video, they share some of their favorite dad RV jokes. (For those not in the know, a “dad joke” is a non-offensive, family-friendly riddle or pun.) Click here to laugh.
Today’s RV review is of the 2025 r-pod RP-206 travel trailer. If the brand r-pod makes you think of those smaller, single-axle teardrop-like trailers, this is going to be quite a surprise. While not huge, this trailer does measure almost 26 feet in length. Yeah, for an r-pod. It also has two axles.
I actually saw a few r-pod models recently and was surprised at a couple of things: that there are newer, larger models like this; and the way the company is able to balance interior functionality while remaining relatively lightweight.
One of the ways the company accomplishes this lighter weight is that these are a narrower-bodied trailer, measuring just 7’6” in width. Do know that the axles are still the full eight feet in width. But being a little narrower helps with weight and does a bit to reduce wind resistance, as well.
Something interesting: Like many RV companies with a successful product, these r-pods have a factory in Indiana and one on the West Coast. Oregon, to be specific.
The models built in Oregon differ from the Indiana models to a degree, and some of these changes may make a difference to some buyers. The Oregon models are referred to as Hood River Edition, and the Indiana models are just whatever the base model designation is.
Another distinction is that the Hood River models have a raised suspension. I suppose the thinking is that left coasters are more inclined to go off-roading. But you also get 12-volt holding tank heaters, which is a good thing.
Start at the road with the r-pod RP-206
Where the rubber meets the road, there are Goodyear tires on the Indiana trailers, which are part of a basic leaf spring suspension system. Again, the Hood River models have an off-brand tire, but one that is more aggressive in its tread pattern.
Which is funny to me, because a trailer really doesn’t need great traction. As long as it goes behind whatever you’re towing it with, you should be fine. Although more aggressive tires send a message that this trailer is meant for more rugged camping, even though I’d take the Goodyears any day of the week. But think of many tractors—the front tires have almost no tread on them. The business end of the tractor is where you want traction. That’s your tow vehicle.
The underbelly is enclosed, but something to note here: There are two sewer connection points. One of those is for the kitchen and one for the bathroom. Now something I don’t know and wasn’t able to ascertain—do the shower and bathroom sink drain into the black tank? This is not as uncommon as you might imagine. Since the kitchen has its own tank, I’m thinking that’s how this works.
That would be something to check into if this trailer works for you. You’ll fill the 30-gallon tank relatively quickly if you’re filling it with both yesterday’s taco treats plus shower water.
r-pod RP206 - 2025
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A couch that also features reclining sections in the r-pod RP206
A decent bathroom with rectangular shower in the r-pod RP206
A decent kitchen in the r-pod RP206
A dining bar under a flip-up dual-pane window
A true queen bed in the r-pod RP206
Honest review of the 2025 r-pod RP206
The flip-up window over the dining bar in the r-pod RP206
Theater couch and good storage in the r-pod RP206
What’s inside the r-pod RP-206?
This layout really works for me. Right as you walk in there’s a sort of cubby that could be used for a coffee station or something like that. Next to that is a pantry that has both a door and netted storage. This is like a belt and suspenders for all the adults who were pants’d as kids.
I like the kitchen in this. It is on the camp side and features a sink (of course), and also a two-burner in-line stove. As much as I use my own camper, I don’t think I’ve ever used all three burners on the stove. So this is a pretty logical solution as you get more counter space than you would with a three-burner model.
For baking and such, there is a convection-air fryer-microwave. So that means this is really meant for RV park use rather than off-grid use, despite those tires. See?
Cool breakfast bar
But the coolest thing (to me) about the kitchen is the breakfast bar. It sits in the glow of a big dual-pane polycarbonate window. There are a couple of bar stools here that have enough back that you don’t feel like you’re going to go backwards in them.
The neat thing about this window is that it flips up and can be held open up to about 90°, so it’s almost like a food truck. Yeah, yeah, there’s a screen and a shade integrated into the frame. But the way this works is pretty cool. You could pass grub through the window— order at campsite 13!!
Another surprise over on the road side is the couch in the slide. It really works like a theater seat with reclining functionality on either side and then a drop-down armrest in the middle. This is a nice design.
Queen-size bed and wardrobe space
Something that might be a surprise is that the bed at the front is a proper queen-size bed. No shortie queen here.
The nose on this trailer is rather curved, so the wardrobe cabinets on either side of the bed don’t go all the way to the top of the ceiling, much like some folks’ personal elevators don’t reach the top floor.
But, seriously, the wardrobes are decent and, because they’re away from that curved nose, there’s a good amount of space behind them. There’s a household power outlet on either side, to boot.
Another surprise is that the windshield is also a polycarbonate dual-pane piece and, like the window over on the side, it also flips up and incorporates both a screen and a shade into the frame. It’s not common that a trailer’s front windshield opens up. I like that they’ve done this.
The last stop is the bathroom and, being a bit narrow, the bathroom is a wee bit tight around the toilet. But I was surprised to see a rectangular shower rather than the radius shower that’s common. So the bathroom makes up for the tight toilet space with more shower space. Ya’ give and ya’ get.
Oh, and something that’s common with r-pod offerings is carried over here, too. That’s the built-in vacuum system. This is one of those that has the “kick on” dust pan. Nice.
Boondocking and travel access in the r-pod RP-206
Even with the slide in, you have full access to the r-pod RP-206. The slide doesn’t block any of the functionality in this rig.
As for camping off the grid, well, you’ll have to consider the air fryer-microwave if you like to bake and camp without hookups. But that’s not unusual. The thing that I believe will bring you back to civilization is really going to be the holding tanks. That’s true of so many trailers anyway, but you couldn’t just sneak the shower’s contents onto the ground if they are sharing space with the black tank.
r-pod RP-206 specifications
My thoughts about the r-pod RP-206
I really like this trailer quite a bit. I like the dual-pane flip-up windows, and I think they work really well, the way r-pod has them placed and integrated. This trailer offers a really usable interior without being a huge rig, although you’ll still want to know your numbers before making a commitment to a tow vehicle, as always.
I think the assumption is that this being an r-pod you may be fine with some of the less capable tow vehicles like mid-sized trucks or, God forbid, SUVs. But this is definitely in the realm of pickup towing, as you’ll need to control a trailer of this length.
Still, r-pod is branching out to trailers that are larger than what they had been building in the past but still using some really creative floor plan layouts and features to make their offerings stand out.
More about these RV reviews
These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers along with our writer’s own research. They are based on information from a single unit and may not reflect your actual experience. Shop your RV and dealership carefully before making a buying decision. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.
Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a lifelong RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars.
I recently read an article about Anna Sacks, New York City’s designated “Trash Walker,” and realized what an impact RVers could have and how easy “trash walking” can be. The concept of trash walking has been emerging as a simple yet impactful way to give back to our natural surroundings.
What is trash walking?
Trash walking involves setting out on foot to collect litter and debris along popular walking routes, parks, and roadside areas. For RVers, whose lifestyle is defined by travel and connection with diverse landscapes, trash walking offers an opportunity to contribute positively to the environment while enjoying the great outdoors.
Trash walking is more than just a casual stroll—it’s an intentional activity that can turn a routine walk into a purposeful mission for environmental stewardship. The practice helps reduce pollution, protect wildlife, and enhance the beauty of our public spaces, all while getting our daily exercise!
Part of our job as park hosts was to pick up trash, not just in the ramadas and day-use areas, but we embraced the concept when hiking on the park trails. We got used to carrying a bag and gloves with us on our daily walks, even when off-duty. There was a sense of pride in being able to help keep the desert clean, and not just a little disdain for the litterers. I still do not understand how picking up after a dog and leaving the plastic bag on the trail is helpful…
The benefits of trash walking
Environmental impact
Every piece of litter picked up contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment. Trash walking helps mitigate the negative impacts of pollution on natural habitats. By removing plastic, paper, and other debris from the environment, we reduce the risk of these materials breaking down into harmful microplastics or harming wildlife that may ingest or become entangled in the waste.
Health and well-being
Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mood, and increased energy levels. Combining physical activity with a responsible task, trash walking provides a dual benefit: caring for the planet while taking care of your body.
Pack the essentials
A few simple supplies can make your trash walking experience more effective and safe. Consider packing:
• Reusable gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects
• A sturdy trash bag or a collapsible container
• Tongs or grabbers to pick up debris without bending over
• Hand sanitizer and drinking water
Plan your route
Identify a route that is both safe and scenic. While the primary goal is to pick up litter, choosing a trail or park with beautiful views or interesting wildlife can make the experience even more enjoyable. Many RV parks and campgrounds are located near nature trails or local landmarks, offering perfect opportunities to integrate trash walking into your daily itinerary.
Spread the word
If you’re part of an RV community, consider organizing group trash walks. A group activity not only multiplies the positive impact but also makes the experience more social and enjoyable. Coordinate with local RV parks or community centers to schedule regular trash walks, share safety tips, and discuss local environmental issues.
Tips for a successful trash walk
• Stay hydrated and energized: Bring water and snacks to ensure you’re energized throughout your walk.
• Be mindful of wildlife: Avoid disturbing animals or their habitats while picking up trash. Respect local flora and fauna.
• Follow safety guidelines: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas. Consider notifying someone of your planned route if you’re going alone.
• Leave no trace: Dispose of collected trash properly. If you’re in a remote area, pack the trash with you until you reach an appropriate disposal site.
• Educate and advocate: Use your experience to educate others. Share your journey on social media, or start conversations with locals about the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
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