America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 1257
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Today’s thought
“The impulse to travel is one of the hopeful symptoms of life.” —Agnes Repplier
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Columnists’ Day! A big thank you to our incredible team of writers and columnists—we are so lucky to have you!
On this day in history: 1930 – The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) announced that “there is no news” in their evening report. (Hah! Can you imagine?)
Featured news
Google Maps rolls out biggest upgrade in over a decade with new AI and 3D navigation
Google is making a major push into AI-powered travel and navigation, announcing what it calls the biggest upgrade to Google Maps in more than a decade. The update brings two major features that could significantly change how RVers and road trippers plan and navigate their trips: a new conversational tool called “Ask Maps” and a redesigned driving experience known as Immersive Navigation. Learn more here.
Ford recalls 1.3 million trucks
Ford is recalling more than 1.3 million 2015-2017 F-150 trucks. A loss of signal between the transmission range sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into second gear, resulting in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Learn more.
Amazon launches Health AI, bringing medical care to RVers anywhere
Amazon has launched a new Health AI assistant designed to answer medical questions, guide care decisions, and connect users with real providers—all from a phone or laptop. For RVers, it could help solve a common problem: getting reliable health guidance while on the road and far from home. Learn more.
Got a Norcold fridge? Here’s what the Norcold bankruptcy could mean for your warranty
If you have a Norcold refrigerator with an active warranty, there’s growing uncertainty about whether it will be honored. Following the company’s Chapter 11 filing and shift to liquidation, owners and technicians say the outlook isn’t promising. Here’s why.
DEF sensor failures stranded RVers—Now the EPA is stepping in
DEF sensor failures that sidelined diesel trucks and motorhomes have now prompted action from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. New guidance removes the requirement for the often-failing DEF quality sensor, targeting a common cause of breakdowns for RVers. Here’s the story.
Josh’s RV industry outlook for April: a mixed bag
Here’s an excellent look at the current state of the RV industry from Josh Winters of Bish’s RV. In our minds, Josh is the most honest voice in the industry who can explain what is going on, and how it affects RVers and RV buyers. We do not always believe the sugar-coated reports issued by the RV Industry Association, which are generally mumbo-jumbo to promote sales. We do believe Josh.
New Starlink hybrid plan not as cheap as it looks
That cheap Starlink hybrid plan RVers were just starting to get excited about? It turns out there’s a clock on it—and the real Starlink hybrid plan cost for RVers may be higher than it first appears. In our earlier coverage of the new bundle from US Mobile and Starlink, where we looked at when RVers might actually be able to use it on the road, we noted that timing was the big question. Now we have another piece of the puzzle, and it answers a different one: what it really costs.
Brinkley factory tour highlights push for better RV build quality
Loose wiring, buried plumbing, and hard-to-reach components are common RV complaints—but a new factory tour suggests one builder may be trying to fix those issues at the source. A behind-the-scenes look at Brinkley RV shows how the company is approaching build quality differently on the production line. Is that… hope?
Good news, bad news: public lands camping near Zion National Park may change
RVers could soon see more developed camping options along the busy corridor between Hurricane, Utah, and Zion National Park, as federal officials consider changes to how camping is managed in the area. This will be viewed by RVers as good news or bad news, depending upon how and where they camp. Read more.
FACTOID: Arachibutyrophobia is the fear of what? Answer below.
RV review
The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA hits a sweet spot
By Gail Marsh
The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA is one of those travel trailers that hits the sweet spot that I think many RVers are looking for right now. It’s compact enough to tow without stress yet designed to feel open and livable once you step inside. If you’re someone who values smart storage, a modern interior, and manageable towing weight, this trailer makes a strong case for itself.
STAY COOL THIS SUMMER!
Run your RV’s air conditioner when you normally cannot! Learn why our publisher, Chuck Woodbury, raves about this.
Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel
Bad behavior crackdown, risky road trips and Zion camping restrictions
From potential camping restrictions near Zion to the hidden dangers of long hours behind the wheel, this week’s stories highlight how RV travel is changing—and not always for the better. Some of it might surprise you. Take a look at what’s unfolding and what it could mean for your next trip.
News briefs
Kampgrounds of America says more than 52 million North American households camped in 2025—beating pre-pandemic levels and driving $66 billion in local spending, according to its 2026 report. Camping continues to grow, fueled in part by first-time campers from 2020–2022.
If you’re rolling down I-22 northwest of Birmingham, there’s a new place to land for the night—and the Love’s RV hookups Alabama push just added another pin to the map. Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores has opened a travel stop in Quinton, and this one isn’t just a corner of the lot you negotiate with a row of semis. It includes a small, purpose-built setup for RVs. Learn more.
Campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park are shifting to hard-sided-only camping as bear activity increases, barring tents with little notice. The restrictions can force tent campers out while allowing RVers to stay put.
The idea of bear poop beer sounds like a bad campfire joke that went a little too far. Turns out, it didn’t just go far—it went commercial. A limited-run craft brew tied to an outdoor marketing campaign is making headlines for one simple reason: it involves bear scat. Yep, it’s true.
Attention Walmart shoppers: The popular big box store and RVer overnight stop plans to remodel 650 locations and open 20 new ones through early 2027. Updates will include wider aisles, refreshed layouts, expanded product selections, upgraded pharmacies and vision centers, and improved pickup and delivery options.
Grand Canyon National Park is gradually easing water conservation measures on the South Rim following recent progress in repairing the water pipeline and pumping to the area.
Next Saturday, April 25, vehicle entrance fees will be waived for residents and visitors at 73 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.
U.S. consumer sentiment dropped to a record low this week as Americans worry about the impact of the Iran conflict. The University of Michigan index reflected growing concerns about inflation, fuel prices and the overall economy. Inflation remains a major concern.
Now that’s good news! Quincy Gas, a gas station in Quincy, MA, turned heads recently with an unusual touch—live viola music at the pumps. Owner Harvey Kertzman, who previously put out a call for musicians, hired four violists to perform for customers as they filled up. It’s part of his ongoing effort to brighten the experience, alongside free water bottles and inspirational quotes posted around the station.
A new campground has opened at Deep Lakes Park in Muscatine County, Iowa, offering 22 full-hookup sites with 20/30/50-amp electric, water and sewer. The campground features paved pads, pull-through and back-in sites, and a modern shower house.
Escapees RV Club announced last week in a press release that it has surpassed 100,000 total memberships, with an estimated 160,000 total members. The club, founded in 1978, was acquired in July 2024 by Harvest Hosts.
Jayco is recalling some 2025-2026 Entegra Ethos motorhomes. The Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity and Tire Loading Information labels show the wrong number of seatbelt-equipped seats. Recall number: 9903653. Info: 800-283-8267.
Enders Reservoir and Buffalo Bill state recreation areas have joined Nebraska’s camping reservation system. Beginning Monday, April 20, reservations open for stays starting May 1, covering 50% of campsites; the rest remain first-come, first-served. Reservations can be made up to 180 days ahead.
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Reader poll
Would you feel comfortable relying on AI for medical advice while RVing?
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Trivia
In 1991, Wayne Allwine—who was then the voice of Mickey Mouse—married Russi Taylor, the voice of Minnie.
Laugh of the week
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Chefs, cooks, lovers of RV-related things, listen up! This here is your new favorite kitchen accessory. We’re sure of it!
FACTOID ANSWER: Arachibutyrophobia is the fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of your mouth. It’s rare, but terrifying to those who experience it.
Top scams RVers should watch for right now
Spring travel is in full swing—and scammers are getting more aggressive as campgrounds fill up. Here are three scams popping up more frequently right now:
• RV consignment and dealership scams: Some dealers are taking in RVs to sell on consignment, then closing up shop without paying the owners, or selling units without clear titles. Both buyers and sellers can get burned, sometimes losing thousands. (This really happened a few weeks ago.)
• “Hold this RV” deposit scams: You find a great deal on a rig or rental, but the seller says there’s high interest and asks for a quick deposit to hold it. Once you send the money, the listing disappears—and so do they.
• Campground Wi-Fi login traps: Fake Wi-Fi networks set up near campgrounds or rest areas look official (like “Campground_Guest”), but connecting can expose your personal data or redirect you to fake login/payment pages.
If you miss The Perfect Scam Podcast, you can find it here.
Today in history
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