Issue 1234
Free edition
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Today’s thought
“Some luck lies in not getting what you thought you wanted, but getting what you have.” —Garrison Keillor
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Cappuccino Day! You know what you need to make the perfect cappuccino? This!
On this day in history: 1895 – While experimenting with electricity, Wilhelm Röntgen discovers the X-ray.
Major Google Maps update could doom RV trip planner apps
The day of paying for an app to help you plan your trip’s route or find places and services along the road may soon be over. Google Maps is getting a major update that uses artificial intelligence to make it easier for RVers to navigate unfamiliar towns, find fuel or groceries near a campground, or safely guide a large rig through tight turns and avoid routes with low bridges. And it’s free! Could this doom RV trip planning apps? Read more.
RVers stunned as “lifetime” campground memberships are canceled overnight
For years, families thought they had secured a permanent getaway at Roaring Run RV Resort in Pennsylvania. Many paid $10,000 or more for what they were promised was lifetime RV campground memberships, a one-time fee that would let them park their rigs year after year. But after a recent sale of the property, hundreds of RVers received an email declaring their memberships were canceled, leaving them shocked and scrambling for answers.
California installing cameras to catch speeders in construction zones
Motorists traveling in California should be prepared to slow down in construction zones, as the state is expanding its use of automated speed enforcement. Traveling just 11 mph over the often severely reduced speed limit will land you a fine. And if you go faster—as many motorists do through construction zones—the fine could be lot higher. Read all about it.
Featured news
Did Camping World mislead investors? Two law firms are investigating Camping World after a stock drop of nearly 25 percent following the company’s disclosure of an accounting mistake. The company said it had found errors in earlier financial reports involving a tax-related figure and corrected its 2024 results, adding $43.8 million to its reported assets. Now, the law firms are reviewing whether Camping World or its executives misled investors or violated securities laws. Both are encouraging shareholders who lost money to contact them about potential legal action. Here’s the story (yikes).
If you’ve ever squeezed into a crowded truck stop with your RV, you know how stressful it can be. Overland Oasis aims to change that. The new company, founded by veteran traveler Adam Corlin, is proposing to build a network of RV-only service centers designed to give road travelers a one-stop solution for all their needs. This could be good.
Some U.S. cities couldn’t be less friendly to RVers if they posted “No Motorhomes Allowed” signs at the city limits. In fact, several places routinely show up on lists of the least RV-friendly cities in America. Tight streets, parking bans, and sky-high campground fees make some destinations nearly impossible for RVers to enjoy—or even visit without a headache. These are the cities some RVers say they’ll never visit again.
Speaking of Camping World… A Camping World RV lot fire destroyed 11 RVs at the dealership at 1201 N. 98th Street in Kansas City. Around 11:35 p.m. on Nov. 4, KCKFD crews were called to a report of a fire in the parking lot. When firefighters arrived, they found 11 RVs fully engulfed in flames, parked close together. The fire was intense enough that crews had to call in mutual aid. Continue reading.
If you have an RV parked on a public street in Santa Cruz County, Calif., you might want to keep an eye on the tow truck coming up the road. A new California RV towing law could let towing companies immediately demolish RVs and other vehicles they remove, skipping the usual waiting period. Lawmakers say the current 15-day holding rule “discourages operators from towing—and undermines rules on abandoned and illegally parked vehicles.” Learn more.
You’ve probably seen it: a flashing light on the shoulder, a tow truck assisting a stranded vehicle, or a police car parked on the roadside. Knowing how to respond isn’t just common sense—it’s the law. Slow Down, Move Over laws for RVers and other travelers exist to protect emergency responders, roadside workers, and stranded motorists. Yet confusion and state-by-state inconsistencies leave many drivers—and their rigs—at risk. Here’s what to know.
It was supposed to end last week. Or was it the week before? Now, who knows how long the government will remain shut down? Many folks (including RVers) are stepping up to help. We love our local, state, and national parks, and we appreciate the park workers, too. Regardless of the reasons behind the current government shutdown, there may be a small silver lining.
CAN YOU HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS? If you’re able, please consider donating to your local food bank. Whether you donate money, food or your time, everything helps, especially now with so many people uncertain about their SNAP benefits. And if you are in need of food assistance, here is a list of food banks near you.
RV review
2026 Jayco Eagle SLE 24MLE—Finally a lightweight, full-size 5th wheel
Looking for a full-size fifth wheel that stays light without feeling stripped down? The Jayco Eagle 24MLE hits that sweet spot. It keeps weight in check, packs smart storage, and offers a cozy layout that works for couples or small families. We get a quick walk-through of why this model stood out at Jayco’s 2025 Homecoming event. Check it out.
Campground crowding, comments & concerns
“RV parks are for the rich or senseless; barely within reach for budgeting retirees”
This week, Nanci Dixon shares more of RVtravel.com’s readers’ experiences regarding advantages of membership RV resorts, and advice to have a Plan B and C for camping. There are complaints regarding campgrounds turning into monopolies when bought by hedge funds, and COE campgrounds being leased out to private individuals and seniors thereby losing discounts. And what’s up with so-called “site lock fees”? All those and more here.
Book is a must-have for state park campers
This book, “50 States: 500 State Parks,” is a must-have for all state park campers. It’s a beautiful visual journey through America’s best state parks. Whether you’re looking for stunning vistas, rare wildlife, a dose of history, or an enjoyable hike, this guide is for you. Learn more or order.
News briefs
This is nice! When the government shutdown closed Muir Woods, interpretive ranger Adrian Boone found a new way to stay busy. He’s now part of a furloughed park ranger program that brings rangers into local classrooms, letting them share their love of nature with preschoolers—and earn a paycheck while doing it.
Chrysler (Stellantis) has issued a new recall for 320,065 model year 2020-2025 Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and model year 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid electric vehicles due to a risk of fire while parked or driven. Owners should park their vehicles outside and away from structures and other vehicles. Learn more.
Love’s Travel Stops has opened a new location in Trinidad, Colorado, along Interstate 25 at 1001 Moro Road. It includes 10 RV hookup sites and three other RV parking spaces.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) predicts that 28 million Americans will choose RVing as their holiday travel choice, up 33 percent from last year. Nine million Americans will use their RV at Thanksgiving and 7 million at Christmas.
New research reported by Expedia Group Advertising revealed that video content influences travel decisions nearly three times more than static images. 71 percent of travelers say video influenced travel decisions versus 24 percent static images; long-form videos spark the most emotion.
LETTERS SENT… DEAD OR ALIVE! Maine’s largest healthcare provider, MaineHealth, accidentally sent letters of condolence to more than 500 living people to inform their next of kin of their reported deaths. A computer glitch was to blame, not a sudden statewide zombie apocalypse. MaineHealth apologized and assured everyone the error’s been fixed—no need to double-check your pulse.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging the public to report any black bear den locations in the state to help with a black bear reproduction study. Anyone who comes upon an occupied den is encouraged to report their findings without approaching or disturbing the animal.
Roaming Trails RV Retreat, a new gated long-term RV community, opened November 1 just south of Fort Worth in Burleson, Texas. It’s the first of three Roaming Trails destinations to open over the next year, with San Antonio and Killeen to follow in 2026.
Forbes has recognized two KOA parks as among the best RV campgrounds in the U.S. The Mt. Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch (SD) and the Crescent City/Redwoods KOA Holiday (CA) were both named for their excellent guest experiences.
California and Colorado State Parks will admit active U.S. service members and veterans and their families free on Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11. Other state park systems will do the same. Check your state park’s website for information.
Wisconsin’s Markquart RV has announced the acquisition of Appleton Camping Center, marking its expansion into the Fox Valley and its tenth location across Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Gas prices remain relatively stable as November kicks off. The national average for a gallon of regular went up nearly 5 cents since last week to $3.08. Still, the national average is lower than it was this time last year, and AAA says gas prices should remain on a quiet path as we get closer to Thanksgiving.
Good news for Grand Canyon fans: Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground at the bottom of the canyon reopened to overnight visitors on November 1, 2025. This restores access to two of the canyon’s most iconic inner-canyon spots, but not to RVers. Learn more.
Campgrounds at Indiana’s Charlestown State Park closed yesterday and will remain closed until March 1, 2026, for drainage and asphalt repairs.
In honor of Veterans Day, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife is inviting veterans to visit and shoot for free at one of its premier public shooting ranges on Saturday, Nov. 15.
Fees in 2026 for 12-month parking permits in Oregon State Parks will increase from $30 to $60 for residents and to $75 for out-of-state visitors, and a fee will be required to use dump stations.
Walmart has decided that a single 24-hour Black Friday sale in November isn’t enough this year. Two Black Friday Deals events have been scheduled beginning mid-month.
Jayco is recalling certain 2026 Entegra Cornerstone Reserve, and 2025-2026 Cornerstone, Aspire, and Anthem motorhomes. The slide-out room can be deployed without the parking brake engaged, allowing the room to extend while the vehicle is in motion. Learn more.
Alberta has been named the most desirable region worldwide by Britain’s largest travel magazine. The annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards names the most desirable cities, regions, countries, and emerging destinations for Brits, while also celebrating the top destinations for adventure, culture, nature, culinary excellence and sustainability.
Campsites in the Netherlands enjoyed a record-breaking 10 million overnight stays for the first half of 2025. About two-thirds of the campers were Dutch, with the other third being international visitors.
Another reason to travel with an RV: Air travelers are facing mounting uncertainty over travel in the United States after a directive to decrease flights at dozens of major airports went into effect yesterday. The reduction is in response to air traffic safety concerns during the lengthy government shutdown.
Lap desk puts your back to rest!
If you use your computer on your lap, read your Kindle on the couch, or have a hard time holding heavy books, you need this lap desk! Emily uses this when she works and highly recommends it. It has 8 adjustable levels and a stopper to hold objects upright. Great for those with lower back pain or bad posture. Learn more or order.
Lucky you if you live in Texas
Reader poll
In general, do you reserve most of your campsites far in advance or book last-minute?
MORE POLLS FROM THIS WEEK:
- Do you own a boat?
- Are you a caregiver for another person?
- Do you think you’ll ever move to a different state from where you currently live?
- Do you have any international travels planned within the next year?
Have you seen these stolen RVs?
The 2021 Forest River Salem 30KQBSS on the left was reported stolen on November 4 from the Storage of America facility located near Route 6 and Route 29 in Mossville, Illinois, just north of Peoria. The trailer is approximately 30 feet in length, with license plate 427802TC and a VIN ending in 8288. Can you help?
The 2017 Keystone Outback Diamond Super Lite 277RL on the right was stolen from the property of Wild West Auto LLC near Market Street in Salem, Oregon, on Thursday or Friday, Oct. 30 or Oct. 31, 2025. Oregon Plate: R951495 VIN: 4YDT27720HB451286. Color: Dark Blue and Tan with “Outback” graphics. Can you help?
Now that’s funny…
Get ready to smile! The 2025 Comedy Wildlife Awards are here
In need of a smile today? You’re in luck because the 2025 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards are here to deliver. This annual contest showcases animals caught in delightfully awkward, expressive, or just plain goofy poses. These are the kind of photos that make you honk with laughter and cause your travel buddy to want to see what’s so funny!
Upcoming RV shows & seminars. Click here.
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
This is a little silly, a little ridiculous, but boy, we bet it’s good! Plus, it’s a limited edition, which means we (and you) haaaaave to try it… right? RIGHT?! (Say yes!)
Trivia
Every day, about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes—that’s one person every 42 minutes. In 2023, 12,429 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths. (SOURCE: NHTSA)
Please, please, please do not drink and drive!
Laugh of the week
FREE IS GOOD! The Museum of Flight—Free First Thursdays. If you’ll be in the Seattle area in early December, put this amazing must-see location on your calendar for Dec. 4.
The perfect scam
Criminals Threaten Jail Time in Jury Duty Scam
Jana always tries to do the right thing, so when she receives a call from the sheriff’s office stating that she missed jury duty, she panics. She doesn’t remember receiving a notice, but the officer knows all her personal information and says she will have to pay a $9,000 bond or face arrest. Jana spends the next several hours driving from the bank to various crypto ATMs, trying desperately to meet the payment demands. When Jana discovers that it’s a scam and calls 911, she learns that seven other people in her county were victimized the same day.
Today in history
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
Headed on an unfamiliar highway? Learn if it has low bridges you might not fit under.
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RVtravel.com All Star Team
Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.
Unfortunately, using your turn signal in some places seems to be a way of telling the people in the other lane that they have left too much space between them and the car ahead of them…
I always say “they didn’t put turn signals on the year or model” when people don’t use them. I really love when they put on a left turn signal and turn right or the opposite, I really cheer that one!
I’m glad Markquart rv out of Chippewa falls bought Appleton camping center. Bought a new camper from previous owner of Appleton camping center. The previous owner of Appleton camping center said we could not use our old sway bars on our travel trailer. Sold us a new sway bars. After we bought a new camper from previous owner of Appleton camping center. I called a different camper dealership in Wisconsin rapids and they told me. If you would have bought the same camper from us we would have installed your old sway bars. The only reason I didn’t buy the camper in Wisconsin rapids was the camper dealer in Wisconsin rapids wanted more for the same camper. If I find a camper in Appleton now that
Markquart rv has it I will reconsidered. I felt so burned by Appleton camping center and the previous owner.