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Camp Club USA eNewsletter, June 2008
Printer Friendly Version --------------------------------------------------------------------- Editor's COLUMN READ: It's A Family Affair By Brent Peterson There is no instruction manual when it comes to families. Some folks subscribe to the less–is–more school of thought concerning family bonding, especially when it comes to reconnecting with all those layers of cousins, uncles, and that aunt who still pinches your cheeks to the point of crying out. You may rather smack a hornet's nest with a stick than willingly accepting an invitation to hobnob with long–lost relatives at some reunion; a day spent discussing kids, jobs, and grandfather's days as a rumrunner. But I'm not asking you to go to the next family reunion – I'm asking you to plan it. Lose the excuses. You'll have plenty of time to watch football, clean the gutters, and browse through that stack of catalogs another time. Your family is waiting. They are your people – your past, present, and future. To understand them is to understand yourself, and unlike most anything else you'll be doing that weekend in July, they're irreplaceable. Admit it – aren't you just a tad curious what everyone is up to? Okay, enough said. As the family RVer, you're the obvious choice to organize the next little family ho–down. Why you ask? Because this year recreational vehicles are going to play a major role in your clan's fiesta. Here's how. A successful family reunion depends on two things: First, a place big enough and exciting enough in which to congregate; and second, suitable accommodations for the masses, including Uncle Maury and his gaggle of schnauzers. Campgrounds are better choices than, say, hotels because they're not only cheaper, but there's lots more to do as well. Ever rent out the ballroom at the Best Western? It's really expensive, but also a tad boring. You want to be outside, in the fresh air, barbecuing, swimming, throwing the Frisbee – you know, like families do. A well–chosen campground should offer everything you'll need, with the centerpiece coming in the form of a large pavilion or rec hall for meals, entertainment, and whatever social functions you want to devise. Just remember, every campground says they can handle groups, but not everyone can. Favor those with cooking facilities and/or catering, a diligent staff, and plenty of recreation for use during downtime. Choose one that's located equidistant for the majority of your guests and you won't hear a lot of complaining. Now, where to stay. True, not everyone in your group will own an RV, which is why you should favor campgrounds with cottages, cabins, or trailers for rent. Encourage members of the group to rent an RV for the weekend and drive it down. Don't worry, you'll tell them, you'll be there to help with hookups and troubleshooting. The perks of an RV, as you are surely aware, are many. Everyone has space to spread out, with room onboard for all their gear, food, and pets, if they can't bear to leave them at home. Who knows, you might even convert a few new members to the RV lifestyle. For sticklers, find a motel in town, but make the campground the hub of all activity. And don't forget to ask for a lower group rate, which will make everyone happy. Plan your reunion at least a year in advance unless you want to be stuck there all by yourself with a plate full of bratwursts. A weekend should do it, unless your family can't get enough of each other. The summer is the most popular time for such an event and easier for those with kids in school. Reserve campsites and facilities well in advance and check out the property in person beforehand, if possible. Avert a possible mutiny by delegating as much as possible. Let grandma write the invites. Get the family gourmet going on the menu. Encourage everyone to get involved and stay in touch via group e–mails, a phone network, or a family newsletter. Don't feel like you have to plan every minute of every day. By selecting a campground with lots to do – biking, fishing, swimming pool – that part is taken care of. A few interesting local attractions nearby wouldn't hurt, either. Plan to spend meals together, especially if your brood is of the eat–and–meet variety (whose isn't?). Provide just enough of a schedule to keep things moving along without running things like a deranged dictator. The goal is to have fun, remember? Now get going, you have some planning to do. Brent Peterson is an avid camper and RVer. He is the author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to RVing." --------------------------------------------------------------------- Road TRIPS CAMP: Lake Dunmore Kampersville Salisbury, Vermont By Linda Saucerman When people go on vacation, they usually want to cut loose and let their hair down. At Lake Dunmore Kampersville in Salisbury, Vermont, campers can do more than let their hair down – they can even give their loved one a new hairdo. On Father's Day, kids armed with cans of shaving cream become beauticians for a day when they create a foamy hairstyle on top of their pop's head. To be sure these dads never forget the frothy fun, the rest of the family is usually on hand to snap plenty of photos. "We're all about kids and family. We have a lot of opportunities for families because the events seem to be a really big hit when the whole family is involved," says Holly Hathaway, who co–owns Kampersville with her mom and brother, Jean and James Wisnowski. "We have a full–time recreation director, so we have activities all day and into the night, and activities for adults, too." One of the most favorite pleasures for adults and families are the daytime and sunset pontoon boat cruises on the clear waters of Lake Dunmore. The 1–½ hour cruise takes passengers on a trip that highlights the past and present of this spring–fed lake nestled in the shadow of the Green Mountains. As the boat glides through the water, passengers learn about the factories and hotels of days gone by, such as the Silver Lake Retreat, where vacationers once went to try to kick their nicotine habits. There also was the Lake Dunmore Glass Factory, the first such factory in the Northeast. "If you walk the shore of our [private] beach – especially in the spring – you sometimes can find large, old glass that has rolled up on shore," says Hathaway. "It is like finding a piece of treasure." Along with pontoon cruises, hayrides, and other daily organized activities, Kampersville offers two pools, a mini–waterpark for the little ones, miniature golf, horseshoes, ball courts, and boat, paddle boat, and canoe rentals. And of course, there's lovely Lake Dunmore itself, an angler's dream for trout, salmon, pike, and bass fishing. For those who would rather splash than cast, the lake is one of the sweetest swimming spots around. It's the natural beauty surrounding Kampersville and the activities on–site that have made this campground a family favorite for nearly 40 years. "For most of our customers, once they come here it becomes a tradition. We have second and third generations coming here," says Hathaway. "Eighty percent of our business is repeat business; the rest is word of mouth." Season: Year–round (limited site availability in winter; closed one month during the winter) Rate: $21 (tent), $36 (electric, water, and cable), $41 (electric, water, sewer, cable) Sites: 135 RV sites (2 pull–thru) Contact: Kampersville, 1457 Lake Dunmore Road Salisbury, VT 802–352–4501 www.kampersville.com. Linda Saucerman is a freelance writer from Dover, New Hampshire. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Stopping POINTS GO: Chattanooga, Tennessee By Paula Loehr Mountains and valleys and the familiar old song about a signature railroad are just the beginnings of a trip to the family–friendly town of Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Choo Choo city's revitalized waterfront on the Tennessee River features quality attractions such as Tennessee Aquarium, the famed collection at the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the child–oriented Creative Discovery Museum. Chattanooga's bustling riverfront also boasts a 160' long pier and slips for boats, plus a surprisingly eclectic array of shops and restaurants. The Passage is the city's unique underground pathway to the Tennessee River. It originates at Ross's Landing, a traditional meeting site established long ago by prominent Cherokee Chief John Ross. The walls of the passageway contain significant symbols of local Cherokee culture. It's Chattanooga's official commemoration of the Cherokee Nation's infamous "Trail of Tears." What's your opinion of parking your rig and letting someone else do the driving? Chattanooga's convenient, complimentary Downtown Shuttle system circulates electric buses every five minutes, with frequent stops at the city's major tourist spots, shopping centers, and eateries. Public parking is available at Shuttle Park North (near the Tennessee Aquarium) and Shuttle Park South (near the site of the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel). If you're interested in venturing out on the water while you're in Chattanooga, consider making reservations for an evening sail on the Southern Belle Riverboat, which departs from Ross's Landing. Tasty prime rib dinners, lively musical acts, and dancing are all part of the package. For landlubbers who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground, the famed Tennessee Aquarium offers fascinating views of critters from all sorts of watery habitats. Playful river otters splash around their cove, alligators lurk in swampy surrounds, eerie–looking sharks glide by in overhead tanks, and stingrays flap gracefully through an aquatic domain. Be sure to watch a movie at the nearby, six–story–tall IMAX theater, where three–dimensional perspectives carry observers up and out of the everyday world. The Creative Discovery Museum is a lot of fun too, home to honeybees, robots, and dinosaur bones. At Rock City Gardens, you can expect to see rocks, rocks, and more rocks, from large to larger to largest. Gardens visitors are also treated to colorful seasonal blooms and foliage, a swinging and swaying pedestrian bridge (not suitable for cowards), and panoramic views of a lifetime at Lover's Leap. The area surrounding the towering Lookout Mountain beckons guests with rolling hills, soft green valleys, and more breathtaking river views. Lookout Mountain's own Ruby Falls, an awesome underground waterfall available for guided public tours, is a 145' cascade that plummets inside a cavern deep below the earth's surface. The Incline Railway is a National Historic Site that fully earns its distinction as "America's Most Amazing Mile." As if the steep, 70–degree–plus climb up the side of Lookout Mountain isn't enough of a thrill, the railway's specially outfitted cars sport glass ceilings. Whatever you do, don't forget to "keep looking up" while you ride. If you're looking for a blast from the past in the city commonly associated with choo choos, plan to board a refurbished railcar on the vintage Tennessee Valley Railroad. Trip services and train schedules vary by season. How about extreme (and not–so–extreme) sports? Hiking, cycling, rock–climbing, and caving options are plentiful around Chattanooga, as are waterways popular with paddlers, fly fisherman, and whitewater rafters. Top–notch hang gliding and para–sailing opportunities may also be found. Chances are a free–style shopping spree is on your Chattanooga "to–do" list. As luck would have it, a 15–minute drive from the downtown district will take you to 200 stores and restaurants at Hamilton Place Mall, Tennessee's largest such venue. What's cookin' in other parts of Chattanooga? In Jack's Alley downtown, try Sticky Fingers Rib House for succulent smoked ribs, barbecue, and chicken wings. Fine dining is the rule at Southside Grill on Cowart Street and at St. John's Restaurant on Market Street. You'll also find good eats at the assorted cafes and coffee houses in the Bluff View Art District, just a few minutes on foot from downtown. For help planning your getaway, contact the Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800–322–3344; www.chattanoogafun.com. PPaula Loehr is a freelance writer and RV traveler from Fort Pierce, Florida. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Gear–UP BUY: RV Rover By Brent Peterson Ah, the great 21st century question: How best to get from Point A to Point B? You've got the motorhome, mini–van, or SUV covered for longer distances, but what about something for those quaint jaunts throughout the campground, along the beach, or for all those off–the–beaten path adventures? Naturally, you want something that can be easily towed/transported, accommodate the entire family, goes easy on the environment, and make others drool with envy. Consider all these prerequisites checked off when you pull up in your RV Rover, a souped-up, four–seater golf cart that answers so many of your traveling challenges all in one. For starters, your new ride requires no trailer or rack for hauling – it can be disassembled and attached to any Class III hitch in minutes with no tools required! Once the destination is reached, simply reverse your steps to ready your posse for a deluxe family go–anywhere machine, capable of transporting four adults and hitting speeds of 12–14 mph. Available in either a battery (8 miles per charge) or gasoline–power (39 mpg) version, the RoVer and it's five–wheel design is guaranteed to be the hit wherever you take it. Cost: $3,995. Contact: RV Rover 706–645–3865; www.rvrover.net --------------------------------------------------------------------- News & VIEWS LEARN: How to Attend an RV Show By Brent Peterson Attending an RV show isn't as simple as just showing up. (If it were, this would be a mighty short article). Oh, no – it's way more complex than that. There's an etiquette involved, a protocol to follow, as well as a list of do's and don'ts to heed that go way beyond just avoiding the BBQ pork sandwiches that always seem to haunt these venues. Fact is, even the most modest of shows demand a game plan of near D–Day–like proportions in order to get the most of them, whether you're attending simply to kick a few tires or to go home with the purchase of a lifetime. Fact is, RV shows are terribly alluring. Not only are countless numbers of new recreational vehicles calling out to you, but every RV dealership within a day's drive is on–hand to make sure you leave in one of them. And they're not the only ones. Representatives from every conceivable campground, RV destination, aftermarket product manufacturer – not to mention the guy selling those incredible juicers – is exhibiting his or her wares to try to influence all sorts of buying decisions. Realize it or not, your checkbook is under attack. Are you ready for the assault? Following these rules for RV show mastery should keep you and yours out of trouble. Know the Mission You're filled with a sense of glee upon seeing the ad for an upcoming RV show in the newspaper or within the pages of your favorite RV publication. You circle the date in red three times on your calendar so as not to miss it. But where is all this excitement coming from? Is it because the travel trailer in the driveway is on it last legs, er, I mean axles? Or are you such an RV junkie that you just can't resist that much fiberglass assembled under one roof? A close examination of your goals is the almighty first important step before heading out the door and into the great RV show beyond. If buying is a possibility, great. Then it's time to get serious about your budget, possible trade–in value, and galvanized want–list of what the RV du jour should include. The same homework and dedicated buying approach should be taken here as any trip to a dealer's lot because, well, that's basically what an RV show is – a giant dealer's lot. Of course, if you are just looking to kill a Sunday afternoon, then treat the show like the casual affair it is (e.g., no impulse buys). However, most people lie somewhere in between the two mindsets – they could be persuaded to buy, but probably not. This wishy–washy condition isn't the best way to enter into a transaction with a lot of zeroes. Either you're prepared to buy, or you aren't. Don't walk into a show ready to be wooed. Assuming, that is, you want to get a good deal. Be Prepared A well–attended RV show, at least in terms of new products, affords an unparalleled opportunity to see what the RV industry is up to. One would probably need to travel to dozens of different dealerships all over the state to get the same comprehensive look. And since these events don't happen every weekend, it's good to take a proactive approach to learning just what's out there. And even if buying is months or years off, it's still a good idea to know the market. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for a future purchase. Those eager to buy should come ready to document their various experiences gabbing with sales people and walking through countless units. Grab brochures, take pictures, talk with dealers (and get their names for future references), even videotape your favorite units if you have to. Ask for prices and write them down. You might need that information later. Believe me, all those fifth wheels will start to blend in after a while. Call it a sort of RV show hypnosis. This may all sound overkill, but we're talking about a big investment here and anything you can do to keep products and numbers straight is warranted. And, perhaps most importantly, wear comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you. Buying Basics The glitz and excitement of a show sometimes goes straight to people's heads, like the cheap champagne at your cousin's wedding. And then it goes to their wallets. Whether you're pondering ponying up for a $200,000 diesel–pusher, a pricey campground membership, or a $10 pair of sunglasses, the same buying basics still apply. Assess your needs, know what you can afford, price the market, and be deliberate in getting the best deal. Those looking at a new RV should put every unit through its paces. It doesn't take an experienced RVer long to see which manufacturers are doing it right and which are not, which products are keepers and which should be left alone. Walk through the units with an eye towards livability. Visualize your belongings in every nook and corner; think about who will sleep where. Factor in the manufacturer's reputation, warranty information, and list of standard features compared with the competition. Be diligent. Take the emotion out of it. And never buy until all your requirements are fully met. Avoid the Rush I'm not a big fan of pressure, and neither should you be. There will be those sellers touting show–only prices designed to get you to act quickly. Once the show ends, they say, the prices go back to the higher mark. If you've done your research and it's a standout deal, jump at it. However, don't be rushed into any buying decisions. We're talking about a lot of money here, so it stands to reason that the motorhome should be the same price next week at the dealership as it is today, particularly if you've already struck up a relationship with an eager salesperson. Moreover, a serious buyer will find that it's probably too much to audition dealers, review products, and crunch numbers in a single afternoon. If you're in buying mode, think seriously about staying the night, either in town or the RV parking area (which many big shows feature) in order to come back strong the next day. Good Deals Are Common Think of the RV show from the standpoint of Mr. RV Dealer. He paid a whooping exhibitor's fee to showcase his wares. He paid to gas up the units and transport them here, including the sapping effect of depreciation of every mile in transit. He paid lots of folks at the dealership to come out with him to spend the week working the show, including their hotel, food, and the like. All he sees are costs, costs, costs. And if doesn't start selling, it's going to be a long drive home. With this much on the line, it's not uncommon for a seller to try to make up the costs in terms of sheer volume. Therefore, you may find, particularly as the show winds its way to conclusion, prices starting to drop and a more copasetic attitude on their part. Unlike when you arrive at their own lot, RV dealerships taking part in a large show are competing with a room full of other sellers. As such, the advantage clearly resides with the patient and informed buyer. One final note: While you might get a better deal on a show model, be patient to find the best model available, even if it means delaying a would–be purchase. Talk, then Listen Again, you've got a lot of knowledgeable people under one roof. Think of them as resources, whether it be in the form of a salesman who knows everything about a particular product, or the guy checking out the diesel–pushers next to you who's owned six of these coaches and never been happier. Get them talking and listen carefully. There simply is no substitute for tried–and–true real–world experience. This is the kind of information that one doesn't find on brochures. True, some people will have an axe to grind regarding a particular product or company, but those folks with thoughtful opinions and helpful experiences can give you the inside information about why one product is a world–beater and the next, well, just needs a beating. Keep Going If one RV show is good, more are better. A willingness to venture out of town might just reward you with better deals and selection at different shows, where a whole new crop of dealers and products may await you. Show dates and times can usually be found in the local newspaper, with the travel or auto section as the best bet. Otherwise, the Go RVing website features a comprehensive listing of RV shows nationwide, listed by state or date. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Member Benefits Refer Your Friends to Camp Club USA! Simply tell your friends, family, even fellow RVers about Camp Club USA and the great deals you're enjoying. You'll get a $25 Camping World Gift Certificate for each friend who signs up. And to make it even more enticing, your name will be entered in a monthly drawing for a $100 Camping World Gift Certificate. You can refer your friends online, by using the Referral Forms found in your Campground Directory or Member Handbook, or by calling Member Services at (800) 416–7813. Congratulations go out to our April and May winners of the Refer a Friend drawing for a $100 Camping World Gift Certificate: Robert Carl of Saginaw, MI Ivan Prochaska of Weaverville, CA Get In On The Camp Club USA Giveaway For Your Chance At Great Prizes! Every Camp Club USA member has the opportunity to win one of ten great prizes offered each month. In June, we are giving away 10 Coleman Pack–Away Lanterns from Camping World. Just visit www.CampClubUSA.com/Giveaway and enter before June 30, 2008. Simply fill out the online application and you have a chance to have your name drawn as one of the winners. You must be logged in as a member to enter. Winners will be announced in next month's eNewsletter. The winners of the Mr. Flexx Flashlight for the April–May Member Giveaway are: John Hart of Wellton, AZ Arthur Stokes of Sarnia, ON J L McCullough of Harrisonville, MO Donald Smith of Queen Creek, AZ Jared Matcham of Benicia, CA Franklin Smith of Denton, TX Patsy Helms of Peachland, NC Jimmy Trivet of Indian Trail, NC Marvin Monroe of Mancelona, MI Rosemond Ward of Newport, NC The winners of the Deluxe BBQ Tool Set for the April-May Member Giveaway are: Nicholas Gallo of Port Chester, NY G John Houghton of Cleveland, OH Joseph Halhober of Monroe, MI Gary Woodburn of Flagstaff, AZ Walter Ulness of Puyallup, WA Janet Hopple of Casa Grande, AZ Robert Perrault of Castroville, TX Lloyd Redford of Glendale, AZ Jerry Martin of Wasaga Beach, ON Larry Boswell of O'Fallon, MO To see all past winners, visit www.CampClubUSA.com/Giveaway. Member to Member Hanging By A Thread This happened on our first trip to Florida, just after we had just purchased a new 19' trailer, which also happened to be our first RV. My wife was glad it had all the conveniences of home – especially a door that locked. The first night we stopped at a campground along I–79. After breakfast in the morning, we packed up to leave and realized our door wouldn't open. I started to go out the emergency window headfirst but soon realized that was a bad idea. So then I started sliding out with my feet first. Half way out my belt got stuck on the window latch. I could not touch the ground and I couldn't pull my self back in! Here I am with my back end hanging out the window and the cars on the freeway getting a nice show. My wife finally got my belt loose and I dropped to the ground. I was able to unlock the door with the key. I made sure to tell my wife not to use the dead bolt again until it was fixed! Edward Cupec Erie, PA A Quick Fix For Your Sliding Table When we bought our Hybrid Kodiak 160 last year, we discovered that when everything was put away for travel, the dinette top would slide front to back when it was put down. I quickly fixed this by putting some Velcro tape on each side's contact points. I had to staple it down to get the Velcro tape to hold to the table and seat, but it took. No more slide and no more worries! Dave Piatt Cattaraugus, NY Member to Member is a great benefit that allows Camp Club USA members to share tips, trips and tidbits with other members. We encourage all members to write us at membertomember@campclubusa.com with your camping experiences. If we publish your submission in our monthly eNewsletter, you'll receive $50! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Newest CAMPGROUNDS Woodall's Representatives are out traveling the U.S. and Canada signing additional quality campgrounds where you can use your membership for a 50% discount. Below is a list of all the campgrounds we've added in May 2008. You can find more information on each campground at the Camp Club USA website. You can also search our entire campground network or print the newly updated Pocket Directory. We received several suggestions from members to include the campground addresses in the printable Pocket Directory. You asked and we listened! New Campgrounds Added in May 2008
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