Issue 249 of RV Travel. Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more. This newsletter is funded through sales at RVbookstore.com, the World's Largest RV Bookstore specializing in books and DVDs about RVs and the RV lifestyle.
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RVer's Guide to Corps of Engineers Campgrounds
Learn about more than 600 Corps-managed campgrounds suitable for RVs on nearly 200 lakes around the USA. These are among the best public campgrounds in America. Click here.
Editor's Corner
By Chuck Woodbury
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| Highway 49 south of Angels Camp |
California State Route 49 travels from near Yosemite in the south to near Lake Tahoe in the north. In between, it passes through rolling hills with oak and pine trees and through the mining towns created by the California Gold Rush. The highway is numbered 49 in honor of the 49ers, the wealth-seekers who swarmed here in 1849 after gold was discovered in Coloma. For the last week, I have traveled this marvelous route, through California's Gold Country. It's a slow two-lane route, and an easy drive in all but the very largest RVs, which may find about two percent of the highway too narrrow and curvey to negotiate without a little nail biting.
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| Amador City |
Nevada City, to the north, is the prettiest of the towns. It was once the third largest city in California. Its neighbor Grass Valley was home to the giant Empire Mine, the region's largest gold producer. Today, visit Empire Mine State Park and its beautiful grounds and walk into the main shaft. Nevada City is studded with Victorian homes and the state's only public gas-lit streetlight system. Coloma is an hour drive south. Here, in 1848, James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter's Mill, sparking a frantic western migration of mostly single men. Sacramento and San Francisco sprang to life in this period. Coloma is a state historic park today. An RV park is right across the American River.
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| Frogs everywhere in Angels camp thanks to a story by Mark Twain. |
Farther south, little Amador City, with its 200 residents, is California's smallest incorporated city. A garden railroad with a quarter mile of track is fascinating. The mostly-two lane highway continues south through Sutter Creek and tiny settlements like Chinese Camp, some near-ghost towns. A few miles south of bustling Angels Camp, detour one mile to visit the cabin where Mark Twain wrote "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," the story that launched his career.
There are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds along the route. In the far north beyond Nevada City, choose from beautiful Forest Service campgrounds in beneath pines, cedar and Douglas Fir. Visit Lower Sardine Lake outside Sierra City, one of the most magnificent alpine settings in America, but little known. Near Angels Camp, detour 25 miles to Calaveras Big Trees State Park and camp in one of the most majestic groves of redwoods in the world. Stay a few days here soaking up the splendor and walk the one-mile trail beneath a canopy of the world's largest and oldest living things.
California Route 49 is nearly 300 miles from top to bottom. Take at least two days to drive it, or stay a week or longer and enjoy it properly. Best time to visit: spring and fall when the temperature is mild and the tourists at a minimum.
By the way, I have been writing more often in my blog. If you haven't read it or haven't read it lately, please take a look.
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New blog about fifth wheel trailers
If you own a fifth wheel trailer or may someday, you may want to check out Jerry Brown's new blog Fifth Wheelin. Jerry is a full-time RVer who travels with a fifth wheel trailer and he will keep you abreast of news and information about this popular type of recreational vehicle. You can also learn more about fifth wheels or share information about them in special area of the RV Travel Forum.
ROADTREK MOTORHOMES:
The Fuel Efficient Motorhomes You'll Love to Drive! Learn all about them here.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Starting your holiday shopping? Send your favorite RVer a book or DVD from RVbookstore.com. Largest selection of books and DVDs about RVs and the RV lifestyle in the world!
New entries: Read RV Travel editor Chuck Woodbury's blog.
Did you miss last week's RV Travel newsletter? Read it here.
Pot of Gold Contest
Check each weekday to see if you live in the day's randomly selected Zip Code. If you do, and you're the first to tell us, you win the cash prize, which increases every day there is not a winner up to a maximum prize of $1,000. The contest runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Pacific Time). The current pot is $110.00. Check the Pot of Gold here.
Last week's winning Zip Codes were 00735, 93740, 62572, 08008 and 72913. If you live in one of these locations and had told us so the day the Zip Code appeared, you would have won at least $100 cash.
Win $50 in Sunday's Knowledge Quiz
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Get Your Free Autumn Lover's Guide
With all the delights of a Tennessee autumn - bonfires, snuggling, cider, hayrides, colorful rustling leaves, warm pies, and the season's first hot chocolates - falling in love with Tennessee is a sure thing. Learn more and get a free vacation guide here.
This Week's Reader Survey
Do you plan to head south with your RV for all or part of the winter? Answer here.
Last week's survey question
Have you ever ordered a takeout pizza delivered to you at a campground? Read the results.
Past reader surveys and results
Stay free in Wal-Mart parking lots
Learn where to find Wal-Marts, most of which allow RVers to stay overnight for free in their parking lots. It's not "camping," but it's free. Get driving directions to every store in the USA. New in the 2006 edition: Stores that sell diesel fuel! Retail price $24.95. Order now at our Everyday Low Price of only $19.83 -- the best price anywhere!
Former RV dealer arrested for suspected scam
The former owner of Jan Weilart RV Rentals in Temecula, Calif., was arrested last week on charges he victimized a half-dozen people in a half-million-dollar scam. Jan Eric Weilert, 58, was arrested on suspicion of six counts of grand theft and two counts of being a non-caretaker who steals from an elderly victim, authorities said. He is accused of preying on six people who came to him between 2002 and 2005 to sell their motorhomes -- either on consignment or as a trade-in for a newer RV. According to detectives, Weilert would agree to pay off the outstanding balance of the seller's outstanding loan on the motorhome, but then wouldn't actually do so. He'd then sell that RV to an unsuspecting buyer who would be unable to register or get insurance for the vehicle because they didn't have clear title. SOURCE: The Californian
RVers Guide to Solar Battery Charging
RVers who yearn for independence from generators and RV park hookups will find this an guidebook to selecting, buying and using a solar electric system. The authors are veteran RVers and solar experts and provide everything an RVer needs to know to enjoy the comforts of household power through the power of the sun. Learn more or order.
Articles from the RV Travel family of websites
At quieter history sites you can hear the ghosts
To stand where history happened, where emigrants on the Oregon Trail corralled their wagons for the night, where soldiers of the Blue and the Gray fought hand to hand--what modern traveler could fail to feel a sense of awe and reverence? Gerry Bruder reflects on what it means to him to visit such places.
Porsche Engineering helps redesign custom motorcoach
Newell Coach Corporation, a manufacturer of custom luxury motorcoaches, recently collaborated with the Huntington Beach, Calif., design studios of Porsche Engineering to update the exterior design of Newell's luxury motorcoaches. Read more.
The best club for motorhome owners
If you drive a motorhome you should join the Family Motor Coaching Association, the largest and best club exclusively for motorhome-owners. Many benefits including rallies, local chapters and thick monthly magazine. Special new member price of $35 to RVtravel readers. Click here to learn more or join.
Check out our RV Travel Forum discussions
What's the best size motorhome?
Our dream motorhome has always been a diesel, 35-feet long, with two slideouts. But we love the outdoors and dry camp a great deal. If we were to limit ourselves to a say 30 to 33 footer with two slideouts would we be limiting ourselves too much?
Best place for TV in a rig
We are looking for that very elusive "perfect" Class A motorhome. In looking around, I see most of them have the TV in front center, usually high up. I would be grateful to hear from you where your TV is and if you find that convenient.
A question about security
My two grandchildren will be with me this summer, and this will pretty much be my first experience with state park, Forest Service, Corps of Engineers and KOA camping. Can I safely leave my expensive cooler, sleeping bags, air bed and camp chairs zippered in the tent while we leave to go sightseeing, or should everything but the tent be re-stowed? Offer advice.
Driving from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
I'd really appreciate hearing from anyone who has done this trip or who has information to share. We are especially concerned about our safety.
Question about body panel repair
On my maiden voyage in my 29' Coachmen, I had the fiberglass panel blow off. I was able to secure it with duct tape. Now I want to fix it for good. Any ideas on how to do this to make it last?
And in the FreeCampgrounds.com forum
. . .find out about propane use when driving. Read the posting
Wonder what there is to do along Hwy 95 in Nevada?
Horseback Riding- Air Shows- Outdoor Boxing- POW WOWS- Craft Shows- Community Picnics- Chili Cook-Offs- National Parks- Desert Wildflower Arrays- Sand Dunes- Prospecting- Antelope-Meteorite Hunting- Off-Roading- Star Gazing- Bicycling- Wild Burros- Rural Celebrations- Fine Dining- Gaming- Museums- ...and much, much more. Find all your options here!
All the Stuff You Need to Know About RVing
Advice for new and novice RVers
Use a small storage tub tucked back somewhere to hold kitchen gadgets that are occasionally needed but rarely used. Consider this for the grater, knife sharpener, and meat cleaver to name a few. This tip is one of more than 500 in All the Stuff You Need to Know About RVing by Ronald Jones and Robert Lowe.
Listen to great RVing songs
Have you ordered your copy of Cliff Boyd's hilarious collection of RV songs? What are you waiting for? Learn more about this best selling album and hear 30-seconds of Cliff's hilarious hit tune "Waltzing Through Wal-Mart."
Lost Lake Resort
Secluded RV living in the Northwest. Beautiful lots. Private trout lake, athletic club, clubhouse, park models, indoor/outdoor pool plus easy drive to Tacoma and Seattle. See available lots and prices. Learn more.
Bill's Hint
Your internal water system is rated for only about 50 pounds of water pressure. Unless you are certain that you have a pressure regulator built-in, always add one to your host before connecting it to your pressure fitting. Install it on the water source end of your hose. From Motorhomes Made Easy.
Now at Camping World! Tandem Tyre Gards
Cover your RV’s tandem wheels to protect against UV and environmental hazards. Extend tire life on your travel trailer or 5th wheel with heavy-duty, flannel-backed vinyl covers designed for best fit on tandem wheels. Get all the details here.
Riddle:
A cowboy rode to a ranch on Friday, stayed two nights and left on Friday. How could that be? Answer below.
Xtreme Vent - Odor Eliminator
Take a 200+ year old Physics Principle...Cross it with futuristic design and you have a simple but effective solution to bothersome holding tank odors! Learn more and buy here.
Bumper Snicker
"Marriage: Post romantic stress syndrome."
Read other funny bumper stickers or buy them.
Read the new RV Travel Magazine
If you like this newsletter, you will love the new printed RV Travel Magazine. It's packed with great articles, columns and photos, and edited by RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury. Wonderful reading! Only $9.95 for one year! Hear the editor talk about the new magazine or subscribe
Finally, a book about how to drive a motorhome!
Drive Your Motorhome Like a Pro tells and shows you how to drive a motorhome. Written by a bus driver and trainer for Gray Line Tours. First book of its kind. Only $9.95! Learn more or order.
Boondocking Tip
By Russ and Tina De Maris
TV space saving
It seems like boondockers use nearly every available inch of space in their rigs. When travel time comes, the floor looks like a riot broke out at a garage sale, with stuff normally on counters camped out on the floor to prevent damage from falls. Consider leaving your TV on the shelf without fear of falling. Pick up a set of "grips" at an RV store like Camping World. Sold as "TV Grips," "Super Grips," and "Max Grips," these nylon strap sets use a special bonding tape to strap down heavy items, typically TVs, but can be used on other appliances as well. A buckle system allows you to "disconnect" the item from the counter or shelf, and return it later.
-- Russ and Tina De Maris are the authors of the book RV Boondocking Basics and the eBook Boondocking Tips for RVers.
Join the Good Sam Club
Only $19 a year. World's largest RV club. Save on camping fees plus free RV magazine and much more.
Explorer RV
Owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and medium duty tow vehicles save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from over a dozen options. Learn more or get a quote.
Trivia
A cockroach can live for up to a week without a head.
Check out these great titles from RVbookstore.com
RVers Guide to Casino Camping. Learn which casinos offer free camping, RV parks and gaming bonuses.
Guide to Free Campgrounds: Get the scoop about where to stay for free or nearly free.
This issue's
Knowledge Quiz
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Win $50 in this weekend's Quiz. Or win other swell prizes! |
Three Quizzes on Sunday
with fabulous prizes!
The prizes:
--A totally cool RVbookstore.com coffee mug
--A one year subscription (or renewal) to RV Travel Magazine!
--$50 in U.S. dollars (paid as a check from RVbookstore.com).
Prizes will not necessarily be awarded in the order shown above.
QUIZ QUESTIONS WILL NOT APPEAR until the actual start time of the Quiz.
Answer the first quiz here on Sunday, November 12 at 10:30 a.m, Pacific Time.
Answer the second quiz here on Sunday, November 12 at 11:30 a.m., Pacific Time.
Answer the third quiz here on Sunday, November 12 at 12:30 p.m., Pacific Time.
Knowledge Quiz official rules
Buying an RV?
Don't plop down your hard-earned cash without reading RV Travel editor Chuck Woodbury's new eBook, Buying an RV the Smart Way. For $9.95, you'll learn how to save money and avoid making buying mistakes that could cause big headaches later. The eBook is emailed to you immediately after ordering, and can be read online or printed out. Covers buying both new and used RVs.
RV Tech Tip by Mark Polk
Pay attention to brake laws to stay safe and legal
Most U.S. States and Canadian Provinces have their own laws on the requirement for brakes on a towed trailer. The word trailer also applies to a vehicle being towed behind a motorhome. These laws are normally based on the amount of weight being towed. One problem with this is that it might be legal to tow a 2,000 pound trailer with no brakes in the state where you live, but as soon as you cross the state line of a bordering state it is illegal to tow the same trailer without brakes. Add to this your insurance company may not cover you in the event of an accident involving a trailer with no braking system. Again, the most important reason is for your safety and the safety of others. Read more.
Books and DVDs about RV Technical Topics: Click here.
RVing Resources. . .
Visit the RV Travel Reader Forum to discuss everything to do with RVing with other RVers.
Upcoming RV Shows
Great RV Stuff
Learn about new and groovy products for your RV.
RV-Links
Loads of links to great websites about RVing.
RV Buying Tips: Spend five minutes here and help ensure you don't make classic RV buying mistakes.
RVing With Dogs: Got a pooch onboard? You'll love this website.
Life On Wheels
"Go to school" to learn about RVing. Five annual conferences.
Investigate a company with the Better Business Bureau before making a purchase.
Full Time RVing
RV Recalls
Workamping Information: Workamper News is THE best place to find jobs on the RV road.
Worth Pondering
"Flaming enthusiasm, backed by horse sense and persistence, is the quality that most frequently makes for success." -- Dale Carnegie
Read back issues of the RV Travel newsletter. Click here.
Random RV Thought
If you dream of traveling full-time in your RV, do not make excuses why you can't do it soon. It is easier than ever these days to be a full-timer. Putting off your dream might mean you never will. What if you or your partner gets sick before your "day" arrives? So don't make excuses. Set a date today. Then find a way to meet it.
New arrivals at RVbookstore.com.
Check them out
RV Travel staff
Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Contributors: Russ and Tina De Maris, Gerry Bruder, Gail Bennett, Mark Polk. Forum Administrator: Adrienne Kristine. Office Manager: Jody Allcott. Web Operations Director: Zoey Platt. Clapper Loader: Emily Woodbury.
Riddle answer: His horse's name was Friday.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We're just human! So don't go spending $10,000 on something we said was good just because we said so, or fixing something like we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. So be sure to check things out.
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