I Went UNDERCOVER In An RV Park | Lessons Learned
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 8 фев 2025
- Join me as I uncover the truth about the RV lifestyle and RV parks. Get an exclusive look at what full-time RVers really think about living on the road, and discover their honest opinions about RV parks and the RV lifestyle in general. Don't miss this eye-opening undercover investigation!
Maxchock Amazon link: amzn.to/4d3JBUB
🛒 Want ideas for MUST have RV gear and accessories ?www.amazon.com...
✔️Get high speed, unlimited internet on the road or rural with Connecten Use code "DESIGN35" to save $35 -connecteninter...?ref=liferedesigned
💌 Looking for the BEST in mail services for RV life?
gomyrv.com/lif...
🛑 Join Our Channel, Members get some awesome perks!
/ @liferedesigned
✔️ Subscribe for more great content: / @liferedesigned
🤔What is Life Redesigned? Glad you asked - You can check out our Channel Intro video here: • This is Us | Life Rede...
🧗Bob & Karri are 2 ordinary, 50 somethings that decided to sell everything and say goodbye to traditional living in favor of RV Life. They started making videos for friends and family and posting to RUclips. After meeting several “RUclipsrs” they were disgusted with what they were clued into. They now make videos to dispel all the nonsense and call out FAKE RV LIFE. They share honest advice and a clear love for the RV lifestyle, all with an underlying message that YOU can do this!
✅ If you’d like to learn more, we suggest starting with this playlist from the very beginning of our Full -Time RV Life journey: shorturl.at/alO46
📸 Instagram: / life_redesignedrv
💻 Facebook: / liferedesignedrv
📳 Tik Tok: / liferedesigned
📧 Email: liferedesignedrv@gmail.com
💲Paypal: paypal.me/liferedesigned
📫 Physical correspondence can be sent to:
Bob & Karri c/o Life Redesigned
5753 Highway 85 North
Box 5827
Crestview, FL 32536
#rv #rvliving #life
Join me (Karri) on my first "Solo" video - Thank you everyone for your support and don't get used to it 😁 A special Thank You to MaxChock for sponsoring this video - Amazon link here: Maxchock Amazon link: amzn.to/4d3JBUB
We are seasonal/permanent parked campers. Our campground is designed with the office/barn/bathrooms/parking out front. There is an entrance on each side of the parking area. This keeps the weekenders and seasonals separate. The campground is also split with the 2 groups separated by trees. There is absolutely no problems at all between the 2 groups.
We're glad to hear you have a good setup, and most importantly that you're not experiencing any issues. Thank you for the assist in proving that RV parks keeping things separate promote harmony between the groups.
Safe Travels
Solution to seasonals/annuals is to design the park to have an area for just them and other areas for all the short timers. That way the seasonals/annuals can be together and have there little cliques.
Agreed!!
Several RV parks we go to around our area have the seasonal in their own sections.
Love this!
Im in a park in Maine right now thjat does exactly this. They have two outer loops that are seasonal only and the inner loop ( which is was nicer) is for us transients.
So true.
I am just becoming a seasonal camper AND the park where I'm at has two separate areas, this is one BIG reason I chose the park I did.
Fellow New Jerseyan here (HI Tony & Alisha from Trenton!) we want you to know that we have had trouble with staff at a Thousand Trails in Hershey PA. He stalked my kids who were simply walking to the store (“due to activity that they had the previous week”. We were not there at that time). He actually said to us “I’m the sheriff in this town!” 😂😂. And in Moody Beach, Maine, (a Thousand Trails RV Resort) we had a fellow RV’er yell at my son bc she thought he was rolling the sewage hose wrong in her opinion. He wasn’t done doing the stuff and she felt she needed to come over to our site (my husband myself in plain site also packing up) & yell at my son. Nope that will never work well for us. She threatened to call the office on us and we volunteered to stay until the store opened (an hour later!) to speak to staff. She didn’t want that. Lol. And Echo Farms in Oceanview NJ (another Thousand Trails) is just horrible. Broken glass all over the campground. IF (and this is a HUGE if) you can find staff, they are ignorant and rather disturbing, the campground is filthy and we will not return to that park.
Karri, you did a great job! I can't tell you how happy we feel when we hear the life redesigned music and see your videos! We are learning so much from y'all!
Thank You so much! This comment means so much to us - thank you for making my day!
RV parks are not camping. It's HIGH PRICED RENT. And you can't pick your neighbors.
Yes and amen.....we stay at national parks..state parks or coe...just us..
Have a great night
But the good thing is you can go somewhere else, unless u have permanent site and I guess u r stuck
Hows it high priced lol?
@annie-ed1hm Absolutely! Full timers are NOT campers but are full time travelers. Seems to be a concept that a lot of people have a hard time comprehending, Just because we own an RV does not mean we want to hang out by the fire every night on a piece of government land. We chose to be full time to explore and see everything this beautiful country has to offer. Great Point!
Love these types of videos! Boots on the ground, not based on one person's opinion, but more "informal research" Nice job Karri!!
Glad you enjoyed!😍
For ll the years I RVed I always avoided commercial campgrounds, going to govt. facilities especially Corps of Enginer facilities. I never expected anyone to "wait on me" in a campground.
I'm MWR Pensacola NAS Blue Angel RV Park
We use State Forest rustic campgrounds, thins out the crowds and more privacy.
Campground staff: I've got to give a shout out to the staff at the Pasco, WA KOA. I can't remember his name, but the guy that works outside there is just great. He leads you to your spot, helps hooking up hoses (the dump connections are at ground level and somewhat difficult to hook up the hose if you don't have a good connection). He even took my propane tank, filled it up, and brought it back and hooked it up. I thanked him several times and gave him a bear of honey from my apiary. I'm not a full timer, but my trips last for several months. This fall I'm going for three months out west. But my stops are for specific reasons and specific locations. I go where I want to explore. I don't just sit around the campground.
I enjoyed this video! 😀
Sounds like you use campgrounds the same way as us! Safe Travels
I think you did an awesome job on your first solo video!
When we think of an rv resort we think of their being activities and amenities where you can enjoy the place without having to leave if you didn't want to. Great video! ❤️
Thank You!
I agree!!
We are in full swing getting ready for the RV life. We pick up our new fifth wheel this weekend and we will be upgrading the truck next week. We have been planning our redesign for years and decided not wait for retirement to make the move. I have heard all the reasons to wait and or you should not do it at all. We say to heck with all the LaLa, we are chasing our dream!
Congrats! 🎉🍾 love it!
so happy for you consider filming
This is so exciting! My husband and I are planning to do this in a couple of years if we can wait that long! We just need to figure out remote jobs, and then we will join y'all! ❤
When I see the words “RV RESORT” I think I’m about to lose my wallet. I stayed at the Las Vegas RV resort over $900 for the month. Only to have police helicopters flying over at night shining the lights down. Gunshots every night and airplanes fly over every 15 seconds. I don’t wanna ever go back there.
Probably not a place I would visit for sure!
Few places actually earn the right to call themselves an RV 'resort.' Never thought Vegas was much of a beauty spot anyway.
I pay $1800 plus electric for a seasonal spot. They open April 15th and close Oct 15. It is the best money we ever spend.
@@ClearwaterKB Smart. Great wherever you can find it.
Oh my, we've heard helicopters on occasion, but it's taking patience to the hospital nearby! We always go to a resort, and pay well in access of your $900. but we feel safe, and the amenities are immense, and shopping, doctors, hospital and restaurants are a short drive away, so we enjoy our seasonal trip there for sure.
The owners and crew at the KOA in Grants, NM is top notch. Very helpful. We broke down when we pulled in to the lot, and they did not stop trying to help us get repaired and on the road. I highly recommend The Grants KOA Journey.
Love seeing comments like this! Thank you for sharing!
Grants, NM KOA was awesome and helpful when we were there also.
every KOA I have stayed at has been wonderful
We stopped there a month ago and couldn't agree more. The food was also great and they deliver to your site. The best thing was it was away from the Hwy and very quiet enjoyed our stay. The Lava Field was interesting as well when I first saw the sign I figured it was another warning about rattlesnakes LOL
You did a good job! We don't do resorts for those very reasons. Too close, no room, kids yelling, fighting with neighbors, neighbors coming in late, loud and drunk with no concern for anyone. We do state parks.
Thank You!
Karri, great to hear your voice, great job.
An item that became a CLICK was full-time folk buying their "permanent " space, it was for content. Also some were buying land in the mountains of different states that allow RV hookups. They wanted to build a permanent residence, and rent out rv sites!
They became CORPORATE!
Oh my goodness! Karri you are the STAR!⭐️ Great Video my friends! Ok ok Bob you did good at the end. 😂
lol, thank you
I have been living in a 93 24’ Aljo Sky-liner RV, 90% FT for twelve years. I’ve lived in multiple locations from Maine to Florida, Pennsylvania to Arizona. The worst problem that I’ve had is the age rules that many campgrounds have now.
Otherwise, I’ve no regret’s.
Debating freshening up this one because I do believe that it is better construction than those newer models.
That is a tough choice for sure.
Just get a snazzy paint job & slap a re-adjustable year sticker on the sides. 😄
My wife and I are part timers. She is retired and I'm still working. After covid, all my work has been remote. We don't get out as much due to fuel cost. We use the thousands trail camping pass, mostly to Florida. We do have our favorite parks and have made good friends with some of the people that live permanently in them. We also camp with our two huskies, they keep us moving. Keep up the good work with the videos and safe travels.
Thanks for sharing! Safe Travels
Thank you so much, im retired .. have neen since 32.. but lately, I have been doing research for about about a year or two. We arent scared, but plan to go full time next year.. thank you again
Great job!
I think you two are honest and genuine people!
Wish you both the best!
Thank you ❤️
Awesome & honest video! Full timer here for 9yrs ending in 2004. The lifestyle is what you make it. But to truly understand the lifestyle you need to try owning or managing a Rv Park. It will give you a whole new perspective of why some rules and fees are in place. Thanks for sharing and be safe. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Well said!
As a manager of a campground we dont have the check in and out fees. However since we are not a resort our monthly rate is one of the lowest around and it covers 100% electric water sewage dumpster. We do have fees if there are more than 2 adults. We never charge for children.
I have made reservations twice, and never will again. I agreed to a site at $40. Electric only. I had been driving and truck stops for nights, I just wanted a quiet place for a reasonable price. This place ask $40, and agenst my better judgment I agreed to that price. I could just keep going, and I need peaceful rest. I get to this park, that looks like it hasn't been updated since the 1930s it had screw in fuses on 30amp only. This type of outlet is illegal and was no sold after 1985. So I wasn't up to moving on, so I was going to pay the high price. So I arrive at 9pm, inform the camp host, I think. First thing they say after I give my name, is there is a $10 charge for after hours arrival. I don't want to argue I want rest. So then I'm told that there tax, and state fees. I haven't paid yet, and ask why I made a reservation? It did absolutely no good to do so. My rules, no service, just a place to park should be free ! Electric only I will not pay more than$25. Electric and water $35 sewer is worth$45 +tax. If I get there and am told of anything about hidden fees. I promptly tell them they are trying to fraudulently trying to extort me for extra . I then leave and make the phone call with the location, name, and address, to the and report illegal activity, and extortion. The place had to go to court, and after a verdict agents them they were ordered to pay restitution of $37,000 of witch I found out they didn't pay a dime, and the owner is in prison. Until it is paid, or 10 years. So a year went by and I pull up the case, he was released after 9 months. His family had made regular payments just over $10,000 he is out, payments have stopped. I just happen to drive by 4 weeks later. That campground is a ghost town. The state closed it for toxic waste threatening ground water (oil) no mention of out of code electrical.
Wow!
I like that you don't sugar coat everything- you tell it like it is! YEAH! Karri you are doing fantastic. You admit you and Joe don't always agree. Keep up the good work!!!!!!
Thank you so much!!
You did great solo Karri. I joined a FB group about a year ago for RVr's 60+, it's a great group for learning from the experience of others. As people join the group & share their stories it's obvious that there is an abundant amount of people buying RV's or planning on buying as they approach retirement. I appreciate your honest reviews, thank you!
Thank You!
I need to find that group asap! Planning solo RVing in spring 2025. Retired.
At the campground in Minnesota where I have a seasonal site all the seasonal sites are separate from the short term RVers. Bingo is every Friday and is very popular. Many Saturday evenings they offer teen night which is a movie night at the lodge. Every Saturday morning they have a kids activity at 10 am, the bathrooms are cleaned daily and great shower heads, laundry facilities, and they have a great large clean pool, . You did a great job giving out this info.
In MN soon. Where is this RV site please?
It's nice when a camp has events during the week to keep things interesting. As an example PA Dutch had a Chopped cooking competition that was an absolute blast. It was a comedy competition that had people laughing so hard they almost had to break out the oxygen....
That sounds fun
That's the one thing I miss in life. Laughter. Its been over 2 years since I even chuckled. Life has gone too downhill and problems are getting bigger. But that is live as you grow older.
I live in the Houston, TX, area and I've traveled a lot in various rigs through the years. It's hot down here in the summer. When I camp, whether it's in a state park, or in a private RV resort, I look for shade. I have a big, black dog, and I want the camping side of my motorhome to be in the shade in the afternoon so we can sit outside. Trees are great if they don't drop leaves and twigs on the roof and slides. I keep waiting for an upscale RV park to offer covered parking spots. Wouldn't that be a fabulous luxury? I'd pay extra. The summer heat is kind of miserable. A level spot in the shade is what I look for. I also enjoy activities at RV resorts -- any day of the week.
We love RVing and we plan to RV for as long as we can physically handle it.
Same with us!
We are setting up to go full time RV life. Your content is great, and honesty goes a long way.
Thank you and congrats!🎊🎉🎈
We purchased a small propane fireplace weveral years back. Best purchase ever! No more endless wood schlepping, or smoke going into our clothes. If it rains we can still pull the fireplace up close to the rv under the awning and enjoy the evening. There are a lot of places where a wood firepit area was placed at the back of the RV site and everyone is practically staring at each other only "feet" away. We can move our little propane fireplace anywhere with our chairs and do so, according to privacy issues. :)
Love ours, click on and click off when time for bed
Howdy Bob and Karri.
What a great job you did, Karri.
I really enjoyed this video and all the information you provided.
Have a great day, be safe, and have fun.
Love the postcards😊 thank you.
Howdy Charlie! Thank you - I was very nervous making this video so the feedback makes me feel a lot better !
I think it is refreshing to hear the honest opinions. We just purchases our North Point fifth wheel and I basically live in my spare time on RUclips for tips and tricks to make this lifestyle more enjoyable and a truly viable option. Thank you and please don't ever compromise who you are.
Thank you so much for the kind words! Really appreciate it!
Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Excellent video Karri I hope you do more videos.
You've come along ways!!
Thank you Mike!
Karri, you did fabulous! 😍 I am on a few FB groups for RV living . . . specifically for budget friendly campgrounds and it is mind boggling how much "hate" (I do not like using that word for anything, but it is fitting for this), and resentment I got when I posted, that my husband & I are starting our journey FT. I believe we live in a free country, right??? I was told that I would be wasting my time & money as it is not what people think it is. That it was meant to be for retirees to enjoy their golden years, and I need to do my time before I can be elevated to that status. Whaaaat??? 🧐 I can't believe how people are so disconnected today. 😅 There is enough room for all of us. 1,000,000 to the ratio of 367,000,000+ people in the US is not a lot. It truly boils down to economics & generational divide. I am working on 54 (shout out to my Gen Xers!), and I will leave it at that. Life is too short . . . Live life like it is your last. Haters are going to hate. 🤷♀️ ❤
Thank You for the kind words :) Yep, the "hate" is real. Whenever we do research for a video we are still shocked by people interjecting their opinions but have learned that most is due to old fashioned jealousy.
safe travels!
I have valued my interactions with “annual/fulltimers” in a number of parks/resorts. Good parks are well-planned that may have an “annual” section only and SS they add parcels they may be around the outskirts of the short-term sites. In poor planning they are interspersed throughout the regular campsites which can be a problem. It’s all planning for maximum enjoyment for all.
And if I’m paying the high price for a resort I Do expect at least some regular organized activities throughout the week. Doesn’t have to be really fancy. You can participate if you want. But it’s there.
You did great! Nice to hear you talk without being interrupted. We avoid "resorts". They seem to have much less space and lots more loud teens. We take our grandkids sometimes but they are respectful of the close neighbors.
HI Debra, been making videos for 4 years with my husband and never once felt I was interrupted. Safe Travels - Karri
Loved your video and Karri, you did an awesome job. I agree wholeheartedly when you said do your research before venturing into this lifestyle. I took over a year learning everything I could: watching all the RUclips videos, searching for the right rig for us, vetting the dealers, and most importantly getting a third-party certified inspection before purchasing (new). In two and a half years I have not had an issue that I couldn’t resolve myself. We own a 2022 Forest River Sabre 36BHQ 5th wheel. Keep bringing us great videos, and maybe we’ll see you on the road.
Thank You! Safe Travels
Thank you for being so honest. For a veteran homeless looking for a good rv life to work and go to job to job. This is a God-Sent cite.
Hopefully 🙏 I will be able to get a Winnebago FLX. Alpha Wolf found a problem with his heater system and I hope the design flaw gets fixed
Organized activities are not so important, because I am an introvert and have my own hobbies that keep me occupied. If the locals do not wish to socialize with me; so be it. Would probably be my preference to entertain myself most of the time.
I laughed when I heard about "annuals." There is an rv park on I-5 near Wilsonville OR that doesn't accept rv rigs over 10 years old. We stayed there once years ago. The entire south end of the park was annuals with rigs well over 10 years old. In most but not all of my rv campground experiences I never got a site between or even near annuals. Yes, they pay the bills during the slow months. We have a Sun Country park in Bend OR that is obviously at least half annuals as is our local Thousand Trails. I think that is part of the reason I prefer state and county parks over commercial rv parks. Cost can be about the same but there are no annuals there.
I lived fairly comfortable out of a sports car for just over a month earlier this year. It's completely doable on a pretty tight budget.
Great job, Karri! I'm sure you received more honest answers from folks by just having a conversation with them without having a camera in their face.
When I was growing up, we had a travel trailer on a seasonal lot at a local campground. The seasonal sites were somewhat separate from the non-seasonal sites. There were probably cliques with the adults but we kids had a good time.
Lots has changed since the 70s- we must have been more easily entertained then. Lol
It was such an eye opening experience talking to people and having real genuine conversations.
Great job Karri and good topic idea. Always appreciate the genuine sharing of info! I find myself humming your opening tune in my head while at work - (waiting one more year to be full time rving with my husband)🤞
Thanks!
Our favorite part is our opening. We originally were going to make a new one each year but we love this one too much !
Thanks for the positivity! Disaster is not waiting around every corner but some youtubers would make you think so.
Omg that is so true!
Great video, girl you’re a natural! People don’t know how to treat others nowadays, it’s very easy to be nice unless you’re being treated ugly!
Thanks Walter! Appreciate it
They are getting over priced at campgrounds. I realize there are cost for having a campground, but now you can stay in hotel cheaper than in RV park.
We are seeing that more and more - it’s a shame.
Thanks for the shoutout truth about what’s going on out there! We newbies REALLY appreciate it!
Hi Karri, we are not fully timers, but have our Tiffin diesel pusher which we use fairly extensively, with 3 months in the winter months, a month or so trip about June, and then other 'camping' trips with the grandchildren. Yes, my wife and I play Pickleball, which out of all the amenities is one of the most important to us, as we both love the game, the exercise and the social aspect, of meeting others that enjoy Pickleball, and the many many other amenities in the RV Resorts. The one we go to in Arizona (Palm Creek) has full timers, but we've never had an issue with them, and if anything seem to be very nice, in that if we're out riding our bikes, they wave with a big smile....but, this is a resort, not a park, so that may be a distinction! To date, we've had no issues at parks or resorts, but with our RV getting older, we're hearing there is an age limit at some locations? I keep our rig looking as new as possible, and well maintained, as do most in the more costly 'resorts'. Where we are they have a golf course, and a full sized baseball diamond, as well as a conference centre, where we go to dances or comedy shows. My wife has made a whole kitchen dinner plate set in pottery, she loves sewing so she makes quilts there and other things of course, there is a full size wood shop, several pools, one specific for pool volleyball, and on and on. I go to Photography classes, and Apple/Mac computer classes. Across from where we have Photography, Country line dancing is being taught, amongst many other classrooms along the Segway. It's a long haul from here in western Canada to southern Arizona, but one we always look forward to! I'll mention, once we pull in, we're in a holding pattern, as they have staff show you where to go, and make sure getting into your site is successful. Sewer is within 10', water is about 20' and I set up my water softener as well. Electricity and cable vision is all in the entrance price, and since I have to hook up my towable prior to leaving, they have a location with 50A service, where I can leave my site the night before and go to a site near the exit, where long slots are set up so we can be hooked up, for a quick exit early in the morning, all on level spots, so I don't even put my levellers down. I believe there are about 20 or more of these spots, which can also be used if someone has stopped in to check the location out and only staying a day or so. Also, they have security, driving around throughout the night as well. Because of the hard water situation, they have 'on site' water dispensers for a very reasonable amount, and several laundry facilities on site. I take two 5 gallon containers, and 4 one gallon jugs, which last us quite some time, as they are mainly for drinking water and coffee only. Whether there for 1 week or 3 months, like us, we all get a mailbox & key, so all mail goes there where you can pick it up. Amazon & UPS comes in, and drops your purchases right at your door, which we like as well. Most folks ride bikes at the resort, as it's so large you can get a pretty good workout in, just riding your bicycle. We did hear of one bike that got stolen last year, but for the most part, most people don't even lock them up (albeit I still put my 4 different locks on ours). Thanks Kerri, you did a fine job for your first solo effort!! So, 2026 must be a big year for those in the age group ready to retire, if it's going to be a banner year for RV sales?
That’s great to hear that you’ve found a place with so many things to do! Really great resorts take care of their clients in the manner you have laid out - we love hearing about these great places!
That is crazy. I really appreciate you. Everyone is entitled to live their life and freely speaking what ever they want respectfully without anyone nasty comments. Don't know why people are so very mean. I guess as a full time RVer (necessity) I have to say. Thank you for the information and insight you provide. It helps someone like me understand that life is different for a "nomad" and God said that we should be kind to all. 😊. Be Well
We have learned over the years to have thick skin and that most negative comments are just lonely people looking for attention. We usually just delete and move on - life is to short to allow others to drag you down in their misery! Safe Travels and have fun!
We are full time and winter in central California. We leave every other weekend to the coast or the hills but love it here.
Riverbend RV Park in Sanger Ca
No drama, at the foothills that lead up to the Sierra’s and Kings Canyon/Sequoia NP’s as well as close to Yosemite NP
No drama and no BS
Electric is a little steep but cheap monthly rates
BTW the chocks lasted a month of traveling, pinion gears stripped
Right back to our standard X-Chocks and a Ratchet Wrench
Yep. everyone has a favorite brand. We have gone through 4 pairs of X-Chocks since we started full time - MaxChocks have worked flawlessly for us.
Lived in my Ram promaster cargo van for 12 months. Mid July 2023 - end of July 2024. Stayed in Quartzsite Oct15th - April 15, except for short trip trip to Yuma and Havasu. Stayed through 2024 big RV show in Q. My daughter has a 2019 or 2020 5th wheel. Super layout, excellent quality, cabinets, floor furniture etc. When l went to the Q RV show the doors where open on most of the new RVs. A lot of ppl walking through the vendors and PAST the RVs. You could see the cheap, pressboard cupboards, door framing etc. Awkward floor plans, furniture that looked like Ikea or Big Lots etc. AND online sooo many ppl saying they bought an expensive new RV and they havent been able to hardly use it bcuz it's always in the dealer having someting fixed ! Plumbing thats not hooked up right and floods the floor, problems with refrigerator, toilet roof and wall water damage if its rained, walls separating etc. They were thrown tog bcuz of the high demand and a fast buck made. Thats why no one trust the RV industry any longer. Sad.
When we see comments like this THAT HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH OUR VIDEO TOPIC, we actually laugh because it usually is from someone that feels superior because they made a different choice. The fact is - you did you, something that most RVer’s applaud and recommend. When you critique others will BS stats and one sided observations - you are not part of the community and just come across as sad.
If you truly believe the dribble you wrote - turn off RUclips, you are watching the wrong channels
Karri, I loved your video. Thank you for the truth. I was a annual, or full-time RVer in Florida, in an over 55 park. Let me just say I was the youngest one in the park. I still have to work, full time and part time. I don't go to the activities because I am working. When I get home, I am exhausted. I will tell you, being a single, working women, living alone in an RV park that caters to mostly full timers or 6 and 6"ers, I was basically shunned. The cliques are real. I had been living there for over 2 years and over heard two ladies at the pool ask who I was, and if I was a guest. I guess I surprised them by telling them they could just ask me instead of talking about me. Told them I did in fact live there and had for a while.
I will say the park I lived in was nice and the staff were wonderful.
Now, as I travel, my biggest problem is not being accepted because of the 20 year or less rule that a lot of places are adopting. Your RV can't be more than 20 years old.
Hi Robin: Thanks for the kind words. That rule about older RV's sadly has to do with insurance companies and we are seeing that more and more across the country. Keep smiling and safe travels!
You're amazing. Rock on!! Everything you said is so true. I won't pick any one thing. Once in Glacier National Park, the ranger got yelled at for the family coming from the east coast, and they didn't see ANY wildlife. The ranger should have arranged for the animals to be seen. LOL
sadly we have heard that before from Rangers. Crazy how some people can be!
RV parks in the Pacific NW can be very expensive. The summer season is full most nights in state and private parks. TT parks are reserved many months in advance. Some people reserve out 120 days in advance. Most stays are 14 days max unless you have a different contract. Some improvements have been made. Don’t expect the cable to work at all sites. There are limited sites for longer RV”s. Some sites are full timer sites. Yes! You will meet members that think they own the place and don’t follow rules. Generally, people are pretty nice. Rangers do try to keep the peace. There is charges for extra people, dogs and even short term lunch guests that only stay 1/2 hour. Charges for extra vehicles also. The bathrooms are small as are the showers. State parks charge coins to use their showers. There is one private campground that charges $90. Per night or more. Cancel and loose your $. Most casinos have nice spots and amenities but it is advised to reserve way in advance. The Mill is nice, Chinooks Winds, 7 Feathers are all nice RV facilities.
Camping grounds are not a RV Resort, or RV Park. I have spent more time in camping than most people do in the leisure time. My van is my favorite place and it is minimal. RV parks sometimes have water and electricity hookups, but not necessarily have dump stations. Resorts, according to my RVFriends are supposed to have everything on site, including bathrooms or bath facilities. Then again, with surge of RV living, many more are going to travel coast to coast, expecting to see the “works” when they arrive. I was happy to find a park table and fire ring for cooking while camping. I know that the weather and food are limiting on camping, but the same applies to the newly built RV parks. Just my $0.02.
Good job and I think you did good on your own. I like a lot of others have seen the videos about RV's and we did have a few issues with ours but then we took it from Chesapeake Virginia to Porterville California with two side trips and back. I attribute the issues to some of the roads we were on construction everywhere so it took a beating. I would say though it held up pretty darn well for what we put it threw. Had one piece of trim we had to put back up and our power panel had popped out three of the four screws so we had to reinstall it not a big issue but like I said it took a beating for 7000 miles. I do want to give a shout out to the staff at the KOA in Sunbury Ohio just north of Columbus Ohio they were very helpful. I needed some air in two of my tires and they brought an air compressor out to me and took care of it. Then there is one other honorable mention. I had an issue with my truck and needed it serviced so we stopped in Kingman Arizona, I called the Dodge Dealership and at first they said it would be the midlle of the next week before they could get me in. I then told them I was just passing through and that changed everything I was told if I could be there when they opened the next day they would get me in and get it taken care of, Amanda is now my new hero she made it happen had my truck back before noon.
We added the KOA to our list and will definitely make it a point to give Amanda a high five!
Addressing the fees- as someone who's worked in a campground, checking in early and checking out late creates work for the employees. I'll take this as an opportunity to mention that I've seen some popular RUclipsrs mention toon they're always late checking out and laugh like it's not a big deal. It is. And most any place charges you for going over your allotted time. Return your rental car later than you said? You get charged a fee. Want to check into your hotel early? There's a fee. As to having to pay to lock in a site, many places have what's called site optimization. If there's an 8 day opening and someone books 2 days in the middle of that opening you now (possibly)have 3 days on one side and 3 days on the other. Say the campground is mostly full or only has 2 days here and 1 day here etc. The system moves that 2 day reservation (if it's not locked) into a 2 day opening between other reservations and opens up that 8 days. Now someone new comes along and can book for 7- days. So while yes, it essentially makes the campground money, but it also opens up spots for campers who wouldn't have been able to come otherwise.
People can agree or disagree with me but working in a campground has opened my eyes to understanding why all the rules exist. It's not because the campgrounds don't want you to enjoy yourself and just want to make money. Most of them exist for a good reason.
Understandable but only if the actual campground is doing something during turnaround of sites. Most do not do anything which is another problem.
If check out is at 11am and check in is at 3pm, then the site should be turned over properly and ready to go - most times, the fire pit is full of cigarette butts and litter throughout the site.
Sadly, since the pandemic MOST campgrounds have become lazy and addon charges are indeed a money grab which is why travelers are voicing their concern.
Oh and if RUclipsrs are bragging about always being late for check out, that is simple - don't support them and stop wathcing their channel! If they do not have enough respect for others and are willing to mention that in a video continuously .... imagine what kind of crap they pull off camera that doesn't get mentioned!
@@liferedesigned I'm not saying no campgrounds are guilty of neglect (and yes, they should be held accountable) but not every place is just shirking on their responsibilities. Have you worked at a campground before?unless you have, I don't think you can truly grasp it. There's so much going on that campers don't see. One time when I was unable to clean a site it was because the camper didn't leave until well after checkout and then I was pulled in 20 other directions and by the time I could get back to it the new camper had checked in. It'd be great if campgrounds could have 20 people working at any given time but unfortunately that's not reality.
And there is the exact reason people are upset with the fees. Yes, everywhere else charges similar (Hotels etc) the difference is that when you check into a hotel the room is clean and ready - staffing issues are a park's problem NOT a camper. As a friendly reminder, these were opinions of people we polled in an RV resort, not our opinions. If the topic came up over and over it was used in the video. That all being said, if numerous people keep having the same opinion (also read any Facebook group about RV parks experience) then it most definitely is a problem that needs to be addressed.
I really think that people would better receive some of the issues with the units if the dealers delivered better quality of customer service, warranties were understood and easier for dealers to work with manufacturers and things like shuttle services were offered. 3 years full time in our Thor Class B. We have had some warranty issues and we are lucky to have a great dealer …yes….but when you spend 200 k you expect great customer service and a shuttle service at the minimum. We wouldn’t change a thing.. tho …2 galz in our 50’s living the dream on Vancouver Island. Love your channel :)
Great job Karri….7 months and counting and cannot wait to be full time!
Thank you and congratulations!
You are great people and I appreciate your effort to educate us that are curious about rv. Alone or with Bob I enjoy your videos.
Thank you ❤️
Ditto!
Just wanted you all to know that we love your videos. We haven’t had many disappointing RV parks. We have had a lot of good ones so far. We only had one semi bad apple. Your 1st video, well we think you did great. 😊
Thank you so much for the kind words! We have only run into a couple in 7 years (2 years full time) there are so many good ones out there!
We are a fulltime live aboard cruising family considering selling our sailboat to join the RV community fulltime. We love the adventure and sense of community. We our trying to research the topic as much as possible as though it sounds similar its also very different.
It’s an amazing community!
Thank you so much for this video. All I seem to hear is about the negative side of rv life. This was very refreshing.
Thank you for watching :) We try to present the lifestyle in a fair manner - too much negativity already on the platform !
You should know about Wanderlust RV park in Eureka Springs AR. Fantastic owners Jef and Cindy Lewis. Work kampers assist in the park and most are full timers so they understand the plight. Very very helpful and energetic. They also deliver ice and firewood, help you back into sites, and understand the shortcomings of some RVers. Such a super group of people! I can’t wait to go back again.
Thanks for the tip! We have added Wanderlust to our list! Safe travels
Been to many rv parks where all sites are pointed south? When asked why. "My wife thought it looked better", Ridiculous. , I tell them goodbye.
Do your homework and research, ask questions, go to RV shows or dealer ships. Rent an RV for a week or4 day weekend. HOWEVER if you donot have your shit tohether, if your not happy with your relationship, or your life as a whole, you will only bring that bagage with you and your life on the road will only amplfy your issues and create more for you. Take your time making your decisions and most of all, if you are in a relationship, do all of this together. Learning from other mistakes does not mean that you need to do everything the same way. LIFE IS NOT A ONE SIZE FITS ALL NO MATTER HOW YOU CHOOSE TO LIVE!!! Think for your self and don't sweat what others think!!!
Pretty much summed up our entire channel and what we represent.
Wonderful video! We have noticed different people "attitudes" at different parks. Resort in the name, I do expect more! If it has unlevel spots and broken RV'S or cars around, it is not a resort. Grass growing around as tall as a vehicle is not a resort.
Our first perception of a park is when we walking to check in with the staff. We have had one really bad experience concerning this and it took a couple days for my husband to get over that. So first impressions mean alot!
So true!
Shoutout to Chauntel and Stan at Arrowhead Campground (Thousand Trails), Wisconsin Dells, who maintain the grounds with enthusiasm and treat everyone like they are their best friends!
Love seeing this! Thank you for sharing 😀
Good job with you video. Liked the issues you brought up. Would like to see you boondocking in and around the national parks. I have found it more peaceful in a walmart parking lot than a pay camp ground, but my favorite camp ground was in Grand Tetons. Gros Ventre Campground. We saw moose every day...
That gets tough for us to do as Bob works full time remote and needs several backups to ensure his work is uninterrupted. While Boondocking is great for vacations and retirees with lots of advantages for them, for us it is not something we would feel comfortable with- the job pays the bills ya know? :)
well my wife and I are living in our RV due to loosing our house we had rented for 8 years and the owner had passed away and they need to sell quick so we had 30 days to get out we had planned on buying the house but not at the price the family came up with was double our discussed amount prior to her passing so we are now living in a KOA in Maine getting ready to spend our 1st Maine winter in the RV a 2002 cross roads all American 36 foot 5th wheel that I bought 3 days prior to the date we needed to be out so I am grateful for your videos I have been watching you and enjoying the video content, I wanted a big RV so as to get my wife more onboard with this displacement or at least make it easier for her well right in the middle of all this and before being displaced she had to undergo open heart surgery to repair a type 1 aorta rupture that was 6 moths ago and she has to have another open heart procedure in a couple weeks well back to the 5th wheel it has 3 axles and weighs 13k but it came with washer dryer its in really good shape for the year and my tow rig is my over the road international semi so i do not really feel it much at all well back to my reason for chiming in is I am shocked at the full time RVers here in Maine in November 2024 I would love to run into you on the road some day be safe and keep pumping out the quality content I love it Brian Ryder
Thanks for the kind words - Maine full timing in an RV can be extremely dangerous and difficult. Please use caution!
We live in a park full time. Almost all the spaces are rented all year in the parks around here as we have a lot of snowbirds who spend the winters in the desert and pay for their spots all year. We have the opposite experience as short timers tend to be loud as most are "on vacation" and for some reason don't pick up after their dogs, etc.
The full time RVers are not the same as the "vacationers". Full timers are much more like the year rounders in my experience than the weekenders. In reality though, almost all the RVers are decent folks. Its always the few bad ones you notice the most.
I wish I could use those X blocks but my tires only have an inch between wheels so I use two plastic choke blocks and use a ratchet strap to tighten them down.
well said about the bad ones - we agree 100%
Great video, do more of them from the better half of the team.
You are lucky 😂. I will check back in after the video 😜👍🇨🇦
🤣🤣
As an OTR truck driver I have noticed throughout the lower 48 States, many of these "RV parks" aren't being utilized for recreation. No, they've become suburbs, due to our current economy."
Much like the Hoovervilles of the Great Depression era, people have lost their homes, & way of life. It breaks my heart to talk to these families who have had to live wherever they can park their RV trailers, or motorhomes.
Let us all pray things change soon. Until then get training, & conceal carry everywhere you go! It's crazy living on the road...
we understand your position, there is a time and a place for everything.
Safe Travels.
@@liferedesigned Yeah, I hear ya. Safe travels to you as well.
@@liferedesigned I edited the politics out...
we used to camp in Death Valley at Stove Pipe Wells, Mojave Desert, High Sierra's where the only annoyances were cute wild donkeys and bears at night rocking the camper. Star gazing at night telling stories by teh camp fire, trecking down wild trails - simple fun! These Camping resorts look like a nightmare. Wouldn't the proper term be Glamping? Not appealing at all. But for y'all have FUN. and Play BINGO because it is fun!
There is a huge difference between camping and full time RV life for sure! Safe Travels
First time watching you guys. Great job. Will be staying at Crooked Oaks in a week and a half and Terra Cera for the winter. Terra Cera we will be in the new section that I feel is not full of annuals, that’s more the old section. We did run into a similar situation as you in a Florida park and had the same feeling of not feeling welcomed. Very clickly.
Crooked Oaks is a great park, hope you enjoy it!
Great job Karrie. First time watching you video. I just subscribed to your channel. You gave us great information. Keep it up. I’ll be watching. Have a great day. God Bless
Thank you❤️ Welcome to the journey
Annuals! Cannot agree more. Casa Grande Trails Collection park, I had just retired from teaching, and I told my husband I felt like the freshman in the lunchroom. I would have written them up for bullying in a heartbeat!
Lotsa Cheezy videos of would b comedians...YOURS informative ,genuine an̈d GREAT .THANK U
I appreciate that
I stayed at a TT that turned me off to ever considering buying that. It was dump. The full timers had weeds all around, covering the junk, as tall as the underbelly and higher. It was so trashy. There was a pond that was smelly and gross. Most of the bathrooms were broken. I just talked to someone who stayed there last week and they said it certainly hasn't changed in the past two years.
TT was kay for our first year but like you, we started seeing the not so pretty side more and more. We see the value for those that don't care but we prefer to be in nicer places and don't mind paying for it. Safe Travels
Hey Guys cool video we live in Pensacola Fla so go to splash a couple times a year my grandkids love this place so true what you were saying about camp grounds save travels 👍
I made it woohoo. I don't know what you were worried you did a tremendous job. K see you in the next one 👍 🇨🇦
Thank you! ❤️
Thank you. 👋😃
I appreciate you both for your honesty and sharing your experiences. I believe you are good people
We try to be - thank you for the kind words!
We are in a private campground from April 1st to October 31st every year for less than $700 a year and that includes water and electricity. We are probably staying in one park for the rest of this year for $600 a month and electric extra.
We stayed at an RV park here near Springfield Ohio. It was the worst experience we've ever had. Seasonal campers were constantly tellling us the rules while they broke them. Constantly yelling, go 5, go 5 as the speed limit was 5 mph. They sat in their golfcarts on the roads 3 wide and wouldn't move. They would drive fast on their golf carts, and some were trying to do donuts in the gravel. Our daughter came to visit and pulled up to drop off her autistict kid before parking in the over flow spots and at least 3 different seasonal campers complained to us about the number of vehicles allowed at the sites. The list goes on and on. The final straw was the manager drove up to our site at about 25 mph and slid to a stop complaining that one of our kids was seen climbing up the basketball hoop pole. He was going to kick us out, but I didn't argue with him and agreed with all of his points of why it was wrong. He stood there fuming because I didn't give him lip. He let us stay. We had booked additional stays prior to this but canceled them because of this. The need to change their name from ********* stars to ********* HOA
Rules should apply to everyone… I’m sorry you had such a horrible experience.
Doing great in the video. Bob blew the video somewhat with the sponsor clip. Lol. Keep living the Rv life. We have our Newmar and will soon be full time
That is the price we pay I guess for donating that sponsor revenue. Bob has donated over $11k since February to mental health charities- all from honest product reviews and sponsor donations.
The word "RESORT" is over used and typically it cost you more!!!
I agree. I've seen so many fantastically laid out and constructed RVs, especially this year. I call BS on all the RUclipsrs that are saying RVs are garbage. I've full timed for 6 years in a small travel trailer and now a big Class A . I still love it and can't see any reason to be tied to one place again.. However, I guess this lifestyle isn't for everyone.
You are a perfect example of why we love this life too!
This is why we just boondock and do quiet beautiful private site state parks.
That is the best part of this lifestyle, there is a way for everyone to enjoy it.
I think you are only partially correct on your last point. As a primitive camper, i go out of my way to avoid the RVers. Outside lights on all night, kids running around yelling like insane people untill midnight, laughing and talking outside until 2am (my last trip), generators running, and dont even get me started on the elitist entitlement. I know not every RVer is like this, but there are enough that they ruin the RV image. My last trip to the lake convinced me that when i do finally purchase a small travel trailer I will only boondock in the most remote areas. RVers can be a lot to handle sometimes
As a full timer, I can say the exact same thing about "boondockers" many have superiority complexes and love to exclaim that they are "real campers" because they spend thousands on solar arrays and loud obnoxious generators. The reality is, is you are in a true RV Park - RVer's are plugged in and not using generators, Parks have quiet hours. (usually 10 or 11pm) If you are experiencing any of what you listed, most likely it is a State Park or BLM land - quite a difference from the RV Parks that we discussed in this video.
Safe Travels
@liferedesigned Interesting. I've never been kept awake by a solar panel, but I've spent many sleepless hours listening to a generator drone on at the RV across the field. You are correct about hookups, but I do not and will never stay in a true RV park. It's not my style. I camp for solitude, wilderness, peace, and quiet, not to stay 10 feet from the camper next to me. I do enjoy your channel for tips to use as I age and contemplate switching to a more comfortable camping style in a small travel trailer, but I will never be an "RVer".
Just as with any aspect of life - there is always a way to do it as you see fit. enjoy!
I follow a number of full time travel channels. Almost all have had a problem with their unit. Some simple, some that put them off the road for months. It's the latter that have the loudest voices here on YT. From what I've watched for a bit is that since around 2018, availability for purchases have surpassed factory output. That has made the manufacturers dumb them down, make them cheaper and lighter so lighter trucks can pull them to fill sales orders. Along with fast production goes fastrack after-build inspections and that seems to be the big problem. Once people have sold their home, gone full time RVing, where to live when it's broke? I love camping and my go to is my motorcycle and pop up camper trailer at mostly off grid sites.
I don't imagine that if a couple spends $80 or 100K on a new RV and then has everyone tell them it's garbage that they're gonna be very happy, and maybe a little distraught,
Exactly
@@liferedesigned That doesn't mean however that its not true. The new rigs that I've been in lately are really poorly done. All you have to do is sit down and look around a bit, doesn't take long before you say, "WTH is that?!?! as you look at a cabinet, drawer or door that's falling apart. Put 3 screaming rug rats in it for a couple weeks a year and in 5 years it's gonna be destroyed. My favorite is the shower stalls made of the same plastic that the trays that come in a box of donuts, one slip and you'll rip the soap tray right out of the wall.
If they got an RV inspection from the get go then they should have no worries & can happily ignore 'em! I'm guilty of saying "newer RV's are trash now" too (things really _were_ built better pre-covid) but I don't rub it in the faces of new RV owners.
We were at the KOA in Shelby Ohio when my son and three of his friends were in a horrible accident that left his best friend dead and his girlfriend in the trama hospital for weeks. They refunded some of our stay because we had to leave obviously. Turned out that one of the young men who worked there was my sons girlfriends sisters fiance. The park there is clean and beautiful and they have great pull thru sites as well as cabins for rent.
Great video. As a full timer and an ex-work camper, I echo all of those points. I am not a fan of long term tenants in parks (more than 3 months). I feel it brings down the quality of the park. If a review says that there are long term tenants i keep scrolling for a different park. Also, the way people treat the workers is like 2nd class citizens. Workers/staff cant control the weather or the bugs its nature. Also, they leave the bathrooms a mess. People ate disgusting and disrespectful. I would hope they dont live like that in their own homes. Lastly, greed fees! I just paid over $100 in resort fee, registration fees and taxes for a 4 day stay. It has gotten too expensive.
Thanks Brian! Karri had mentioned that numerous RVer's said the same thing about annuals - if they are mentioned in a park review, they move on to the next rv park. The bathrooms - OMG the horror stories we had heard!
Absolutely. Only 1 place. After 9 years vacationing in our RV. Some things were coming up missing at a campground we were staying at and they kept pointing fingers at me. I kept hearing, you aren't from here. Everyone else is. They are regulars. I don't steal. I donated items there prior to knowing there was a problem. One regular there would sit outside my RV in his car. I had my elderly mom on oxygen with me. Seldom left my RV area. They had the whole campground rubbernecking at my campsite. Hands down, the worst RV campground I have ever been to.
We stay at a KOA which is almost exactly halfway between point A and point B on an annual trip. about 360 miles. There are 4 concreate spots that we always book because they are right at the entrance. We always stay just 1 night sometimes lass than 12 hours. This last trip we arrived and when I was checking in she asked if I knew how to find our site? I said yes site 4, we have stayed in it before. She said no and that we are in site 22. I questioned her and she asked if we locked it in? I said no but I have a conformation. She said that we were moved because we hadn't locked it in a $20 fee. I was so tired I just didn't feel like arguing but my wife on the other hand was not as understanding. Site 22 was level at least but gravel, our neighbors fire ring was about 3 feet from our slide. I asked them if they had plans for a campfire and they said no that they were just there one night as well. Not sure if we will ever stay at a KOA again.
I can see why you'd be frustrated with that!
I haven’t seen these you tubes of the negative about RV’s. My husband and I have Rv’ed a lot and were full time for about two years and last year we took a long trip,of 12,000 miles.
Great job Karri!! My only issue with annuals is all too often they just don’t keep their sites neat and orderly. Resort gets used very very loosely by RV campgrounds. Unfortunately there’s no criteria that defines what makes an RV Resort a Resort. All to often they leave out last as in The LAST Resort 😂
I totally agree!