In the world of RVing and camping, the scenery changes rapidly, from vehicle sales to state park fees. This week brings several noteworthy updates, from a legendary truck losing its top spot to shifts in residency policies for RVers. Plus, there’s news on state park fees, a national park reservation system, and the latest in mobile connectivity. Let’s dive into the details.
A rough road for Ford: F-150 dethroned
Ford’s F-150, a staple on American roads for more than four decades, is no longer the country’s best-selling vehicle. The Toyota RAV4 has taken the crown for 2024. While F-150 sales dropped by 5 percent, RAV4 registrations rose by 9 percent, highlighting a shift in consumer preference. Ford is also grappling with other challenges, including an uncertain outlook for its electric vehicle strategy and a recall of 72,000 vehicles due to a rearview camera defect. These issues have contributed to a 28 percent decline in Ford’s stock value over the past year. Along with these troubles, thefts of taillights from Ford’s F-250 and F-350 trucks are on the rise, particularly in Texas.
Residency changes loom for South Dakota RVers
South Dakota, a popular domicile for full-time RVers thanks to its lenient residency requirements, may soon tighten its rules. Two bills progressing through the state legislature could impose new residency restrictions. Currently, RVers only need to spend one night in South Dakota to establish residency. The new proposals would require residents to stay at their address for at least 30 consecutive days to vote, a requirement challenging for those always on the move. This change could impact RVers’ ability to renew driver’s licenses and maintain legal residency.
Yosemite halts reservation plans
Yosemite National Park has paused its plans to implement a permanent timed-entry reservation system. Initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to ease crowding, the system faced mixed reactions. While some appreciated the reduced congestion, others found it inconvenient, particularly for last-minute travelers. The park is awaiting further guidance from federal authorities before finalizing the plan. Details about this year’s system are expected early in 2025, with park officials aiming to balance visitor access with sustainable management.
Exploring Wind Cave National Park again
After a year-long project to modernize its elevator system, Wind Cave National Park has resumed cave tours. Visitors can now book their tickets up to three days in advance. The project saw significant improvements, ensuring safer and more efficient access to the world’s seventh-longest cave, enhancing the visitor experience.
Arizona State Parks fee update
Arizona State Parks will see increased fees starting February 25th as part of efforts to support park operations and enhancements. The annual pass, now priced at $200, offers entry to all state parks without restrictions. Camping fees will range from $25 for rustic sites to $75 for full-hookup sites. Day-use fees will now be between $10 and $30 per adult. Park officials believe these updates will help maintain and improve the quality of park facilities and services.
T-Mobile tackles mobile dead zones
Big news for those seeking connectivity in remote areas: T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX’s Starlink to provide satellite-to-cell service launching in July for $15 a month. This service will bridge mobile dead zones, initially supporting texting, with voice and data capabilities to follow. Offered at no extra cost for some T-Mobile plans, and even available to other wireless users like AT&T and Verizon, this innovation promises to improve communication in areas previously out of reach, benefiting both recreational users and those in emergencies.
The Escapees Escapade awaits
Mark your calendars for the Escapees Escapade, a major event in the RV community, happening March 16-21 in Tucson, Arizona. This annual rally features seminars, entertainment, and social gatherings. It’s an opportunity to connect with fellow RVers, exchange tips, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. If you’d like to attend, here’s a $25 discount.
Learn more about these news stories in this week’s update from RV Miles.
More articles you might really like
• Alternative to Quartzsite: Low-cost AZ desert boondocking at Imperial Dam
• A new take on the offensive neighbor in the RV park
• How to protect your RV’s decals from fading and sun damage
• RV Tire Types 101: Selecting the correct tire for your RV or other vehicle
• Be careful how you wash your rubber RV roof
• A step-by-step guide to applying self-leveling sealant on your RV’s roof
##RVT1196b
The trouble with Fords F150 is they’re too expensive and don’t offer automatic AWD unless you buy the $70,000 Lariat and above. Then you add the high interest loan rate or lease. plus constant recalls and mechanical issues.
Not only that, 10% tax on top of the sale price.It would be easier to swallow if the tax $$$$$ went to take care of our roads and highways, not all those other wacky money grubbers.
Oh well, somehow I have thankfully gotten too old to have it harm me and my Winnnebago. Not many miles left on the two of us..
Sure been a whole lot of fun for the last 200,000 miles or more.
YaHoo, USof A…..Love ya!!!
And any of the alternatives are better? Better leave those torpedoes alone.
If you don’t approve of Musk’s DOGE aggressive antics, not being transparent and have access to your personal information. Then don’t subscribe to Starlink or buy a Tesla.
There are diplomatic ways to cut costs within our government. It’s not the employees wasting taxpayer money, but the upper management and politicians passing down programs and policy’s that are a waste of our money.
Yep.
Who was it that let Musk into the game to start with?
About time to stop enjoying Arizona’s parks, pricing me out.
And Idaho, Oregon..etc….They give discounts, for Vets but only if they are from those states…..Geez……I went in 1968 till 1971, US Army..I had no clue it was just for the state I was born-living in..
Anyone see something wrong with this picture?
Ratz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will know better next time…Naw..not going to happen. Think about it you US loving youngsters…
Those of us that live in Oregon have to constantly deal with over crowded campgrounds and RV parks filled with out of staters…worst of those being Idaho people. Enough is enough…want play…then pay.
Arizona needs to price site’s for out of state people. Most states do. State parks only use money generated from their park. No tax payers money.
Arizona is becoming as bad as Michigan State Parks. $75 for hookups? I’m out…
Geeze Louie….I’m sitting here at near zero temps planning to hit the highways in a few weeks and now places want more of my SSN money…(States)….Not going to happen now you greedy xx33888###’ers….
Really Sad….Watching SNLive now..so..they say “BITE-ME!!!!!!
We are full-time and registered to vote in SD. In my opinion, instead of the legislation now going through the process in the SD legislature, a better idea is to restrict those ‘residents’ with postal mail boxes from voting on local and/or state issues and allow them to vote only on national issues.
Thank you for the summary, RV Travel! Have a great week and safe travels!