Great American Backyard Campout

Posted on June 14, 2013 by admin

Everyone, mark your calendars because the Great American Campout is coming up on June 22. Woodall’s Campground Management reports that this annual event is an initiative of the National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF) Great Outdoors Month, which has the intent of getting 2 million more children to spend at least a little time outdoors every week.

Karoline Hunt, the chief manager of special events for NWF, says they want kids to slow down and get a reprieve from their overscheduled lives. The goal is to get them outside and unplugged as well as to enable them to learn about nature, she adds.

Any form of camping will do, whether it is a backyard, neighborhood park or balcony, Hunt explains. “It’s just getting outside and looking at the stars. There’s a lot of free things you can do if you’re an urban camper.”

The efforts of this organization are to be lauded, as children miss out on so much when they don’t spend time outdoors regularly. Once they are removed from electronics, they can learn a different way of interacting with their environment. While filling their lungs with fresh air, they can also discover simple pleasures like sitting around a campfire telling stories.

Check out Access Camping website frequently for camping industry news.

Source:

http://www.woodallscm.com/2013/06/june-22-great-american-backyard-campout/

 

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KOA Segmenting Parks into Three Brands

Posted on June 7, 2013 by admin

Kampgrounds of America (KOA), the iconic American camping company, will be dividing their 485 parks into three different brands – Journey, Holiday and Resort. Tony Hedges, Vice President of Marketing, announced that the rebranding to come about over the next few years will help campers select parks that suit their particular needs. While each campground is unique, the parks within each of the three categories will have amenities and services in common, says Hedges.

KOA Journey Campgrounds will have the distinction of being located near major highways, a factor that makes them a convenient place for travelers’ overnight stays. KOA Holiday Campgrounds will be characterized by being ideal getaways for short vacations and good home bases in which to explore the community. KOA Resorts will provide resort-style vacations, offering campers the finest amenities such as patio RV sites, luxurious pools and specially trained recreation staff.

The Billings, Montana, KOA will become the first park to be rebranded. As of June 7, 2013, it will become the Billings Holiday KOA Campground.

Visit our Access Camping website regularly for camping club news.

Source:

http://rvdailyreport.com/News/ctl/ArticleView/mid/427/articleId/28493/KOA-launching-first-KOA-Holiday-Campground.aspx

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The Rewards and Realities of Being a Campground Host

Posted on May 31, 2013 by admin

Have you ever thought of being a campground host? The Gazette in Colorado Springs reports on some of the rewards and realities of this lifestyle. A casual observer may think it is a dream job, but although it has some considerable pluses, it is also hard work. While the rewards include getting paid to camp and living amidst what is often breathtaking scenery, the job involves multiple duties and often exceeds 40 hours of work per week. Moreover, some of the duties are not pleasant, such as cleaning latrines and scooping ashes from fire pits.

In certain areas of the country, the job only runs from late May to Labor Day, so it attracts retirees who are looking for additional income. Anyone considering such a prospect should love the outdoors and be a people-person, as the lifestyle involves much interacting with campers.

Despite the work, it can indeed be a dream job. Ruth Williams, a campground host in Colorado remarks that although she has a TV in her motorhome, she rarely watches it because nature puts on a better show. As she drinks in the sight of the lake, hills and snow-capped peaks, she expresses how wonderful it is to have such a view in her own backyard.

Check our Access Camping website often for camping industry news.

Source:

http://gazette.com/campground-hosts-hard-work-but-still-a-dream-job-for-many/article/1501132

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Motorhome Safety Tips

Posted on May 24, 2013 by admin

A wonderful motorhome trip can turn into a tragedy in the blink of an eye if certain precautions are not taken. SellMyRVToday.com provides the following safety tips to keep in mind when traveling.

  • The most fundamental rule is for all passengers to buckle their seat bests. This one practice can make the difference between being uninjured in a crash or sustaining serious injuries.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your motorhome, as tourists are popular targets for thieves. Remember to lock your vehicle at night.
  • Exercise precautions to avoid a fire. If you smoke, it’s best to do it outside. If you build a campfire, keep the door and windows of your vehicle closed, so that embers can’t drift inside.
  • Be sure you know exactly how much overhead clearance your motorhome has. Exercise extra care when driving under bridges, gas station canopies, tree branches and fast food drive-through lanes.
  • Be aware of swing clearance as well so you won’t run into anything when you turn.
  • Get help when backing up. Regardless of how experienced you are, it’s a good idea to have someone guide you by standing at the driver side rear corner.

Don’t fall victim to the common belief that an accident or mishap can’t happen to you. Slow down and be extra careful when driving under structures or backing up.

Visit our Access Camping website regularly for camping tips.

Source:

http://rvdailyreport.com/News/ctl/ArticleView/mid/427/articleId/28208/SellMyRVTodaycom-releases-list-of-motorhome-safety-tips.aspx

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Helpful Camping Gadgets

Posted on May 17, 2013 by admin

Gear is always coming out on the market that can make your camping experience more convenient, pleasant and comfortable. Whether or not the items are worth the price depends on your particular needs and how much time you spend camping. In any case, it’s always interesting to see what is available. Here are some suggestions by the Idaho Statesman.

S’mores Grilling Set

This may be handy for those who travel with several children or grandchildren, as it can mass produce s’mores and be used on a charcoal or gas grill.

Disc-O-Bed Cam-O-Cot

This makes an instant bunk cot bed, a nicety that can be helpful if space is limited.

Coghlan Tent Peg Mallet

Use this instead of a rock to pound tent stakes into the ground. The $5 cost is worth the investment.

Camp Chef Griddle Stove

This combination stove, griddle and grill can handle any cooking need, ranging from boiling water to making pancakes to grilling a steak.

Trash Ease

Attach this portable trash bag holder to a picnic table or similar surface to have a stable trash receptacle.

Cabela’s Bunkhouse

This is a camp apartment that sleeps nine people.

Check our Access Camping website often for the latest in camping news.

Source:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2013/05/16/2577904/gadgets-and-gear-you-need-to-check.html

 

 

 

 

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RVers Find Benefits in Social Networking

Posted on May 10, 2013 by admin

Social networking is a hot topic these days, with the concept infiltrating many segments of our society. Now, it appears that RVers have hopped onboard the social networking bandwagon and are enjoying its manifold benefits. When they join recreational vehicle groups, they learn more about the RV lifestyle as well as meet people with similar interests.

While RV networking is a nice idea for any camper, it is especially advantageous for widows and widowers who can join RV caravans traveling to various locations. Not only is there more safety in numbers, but camping trips are made immeasurably more enjoyable through the friendships that form during these excursions.

Aside from making trips with others, RVers can join the cyberworld camping communities of forums. When they logon, they can exchange ideas about many things and before long, a tightly knit group has formed that feels like a family.

RVers can also join camping clubs that offer members a monthly magazine and discounts on motorhome insurance, along with other benefits like mail forwarding and trip routing. The yearly membership fee is in all likelihood well worth the investment.

Visit our Access Camping website regularly to get the latest camping news.

Source:

http://www.aberdeennews.com/farmforum/life/wheels/aan-ff-05-03-13-wheelsrvarticle-20130503,0,5047028.story

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Spring 2013 Camping Club News

Posted on May 2, 2013 by admin

Recently, Good Sam announced that it plans to launch an auto buying program, giving its members savings on automobiles, boats and ATVs. The plan will feature haggle-free pre-arranged pricing on different vehicles through relationships with more than 2,000 dealerships. Members of the service can choose their vehicle and get a discounted price that is guaranteed, eliminating the hassle of negotiating. Marcus Lemonis, CEO of Good Sam, feels the program will complement the RV lifestyle of the members. Scheduled to launch on July 1, the service is already generating much interest.

KOA announced a partnership with Hungry Jack for a summer program. During the three holiday weekends during this time, Hungry Jack will give KOA campers a free sample carton of hashbrowns. Also, campers will be offered online information on creative cooking ideas that address the challenges of preparing meals when camping, such as a lack of refrigeration and limited supplies.

Families who stay at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Resorts during Mother’s Day Weekend will be treated to some special activities to celebrate the holiday. Additionally, in some parks mothers will receive a little pampering with spa-like events.

Check our Access Camping website regularly for camping club news.

Sources:

http://www.woodallscm.com/2013/04/lsi-parks-announce-mothers-day-activities/

http://www.woodallscm.com/2013/05/koa-partnering-with-hungry-jack-on-holidays/

http://www.woodallscm.com/2013/04/good-sam-to-launch-auto-buying-program/

 

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Tips for Choosing a Family Campsite

Posted on April 25, 2013 by admin

School will be out soon, so many families will be planning summer camping trips. In choosing where to stay, here are a few tips provided by Out & About Live to keep in mind that will enhance your family’s enjoyment of the camping experience.

  • Look for places that have spaces to play ball games as well as hiking and biking trails.
  • Since kids love water activities, find a park that has a lake, pond or some kind of swimming area.
  • Check to see if the park permits campfires, so the family can have the pleasure of roasting marshmallows.
  • See if the park has rainy day option like an onsite recreation room.
  • Choose a park that has organized activities, as they can be fun for the entire family.
  • Make sure the site is a safe distance from the road to prevent traffic concerns.
  • If you are bringing a baby along, check and see if the park’s restroom has a baby-change area.
  • In addition to looking for kid-friendly campsites, find a park with a beautiful view the adults will enjoy.

Visit our Access Camping website often for camping tips.

Source:

http://www.outandaboutlive.co.uk/Camping/Features/Handy-guides/Top-tips-for-choosing-a-family-campsite/_ch3_ft900_pg1

 

 

 

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National Park Week: Free Entrance April 20-28

Posted on April 19, 2013 by admin

The National Park Service and National Park Foundation will offer the public free entrance to all parks during the week of April 20 through 28. “Did You Know” is the theme of this year’s National Park Week, which will present a golden opportunity for Americans to discover fascinating things about the 401 parks in the system.

A full itinerary of events is planned that provides something for every taste, including bike tours and whale watching, along with concerts and living history encampments. The event is a good time to explore a park near your hometown or perhaps visit one across the country that you’ve always wanted to see.

Submit your entry to the National Park Week Giveaway Getaway so you can have a chance to win an 11-day tour of the West. The trip will feature breathtaking park landscapes and historic sites, as well as wildlife and museums, encompassing an area from Denver to Salt Lake City.

Check our Access Camping website regularly for industry news.

Sources:

http://www.woodallscm.com/2013/04/national-park-week-free-entry-april-20-26/

http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/get-know-your-national-parks-during-national-park-week-2013

 

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4 Money-Saving Camping Tips

Posted on April 12, 2013 by admin

Unexpected expenses can hike up the cost of camping trips considerably. The key to keeping costs down on vacations in the great outdoors is careful planning.

Make a List and Check it Twice

Think carefully when you make lists of things to pack because buying essentials on the road can be expensive. Spending some time thinking about contingencies that may arise can prevent trips to a convenience store to buy batteries or aspirin.  Also consider the activities you may want to participate in, so you’ll remember to bring the clothing and equipment you will need. For example, if swimming might be on your family’s agenda, pack your bathing suits so you won’t waste money buying them on your trip. Also, planning simple but filling meals like chili can save money on meals out.

Choose Campgrounds Wisely

Parks that come with extra amenities and perks are often most costly than those that don’t. Unless the perks are especially important to you, choose the campgrounds that don’t have the frills. Check out government campgrounds because they frequently offer decent facilities at a lower cost.

Do You Really Need Fancy Camping Gear?

Instead of buying a sleeping bag, just bring blankets and pillows from home. Also, if you need cooking equipment, you can pick up a couple of cast iron skillets from the thrift store.

Cheap Entertainment is the Best Option

A finial tip is to bring board games and a deck of cards to save money on entertainment. These time-honored camping activities provide you with the simple pleasure of enjoying the company of those you love.

Keep up with all the latest camping news at our Access Camping website.

Source:

http://traveltips.usatoday.com/camping-tips-save-money-14202.html

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