Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Travel + Learning = Great Fun
Henry Ford once said “Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” There’s also a philosophy that travel keeps you young. Idea – combine them both and you may come back from your next adventure feeling years younger. Here are a few ideas where everyone along for the ride on your next adventure can learn something new: […]
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Best Oddball Adventures for Your Next Road Trip
Looking for something a little bit different this year in terms of family vacation destinations? Theme parks have all been visited and tourist attraction offerings come with the “been there, done that” response? Consider a road trip to visit some of these quirky attractions. We guarantee these oddities will provide for some good conversation once […]
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The Best Things about Road Trip Travels
A road trip is still a possibility for end of summer. The airlines still haven’t gotten the post-COVID glitches worked out. Plus, it seems the airlines still haven’t gotten the post-COVID glitches worked out so a vacation this summer that involves air travel will most likely involve cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and a whole lot […]
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What about These Waffles
Chicken and Waffles (serves 6) Recipe from realfoodcamping.com Ingredients 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast strips 8 ounces hot sauce 4-6 ounces barbeque sauce (to coat chicken) Waffle mix Maple Syrup Instructions Place chicken strips in plastic bag and add hot sauce to coat strips (if you do not like spicy foods, skip this step.) […]
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Top U.S. History Museums
On July 4, America celebrated 246 years since the Founding Fathers declared our independence. Fun fact – July 4 was the date the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, but it was not fully signed until August 2. The history of America began long before July 1776 and the stories of the people who […]
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Best Beach Vacations
The wonderful thing about camping with Thousand Trails is that adventure and fun beyond all that you find within the campground is just a short drive away. For example, if you want to camp and enjoy the mountains, we’ve got you covered. If you want to camp and enjoy a national or state park, we’ve […]
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Celebrate a Fruitful July
Summertime brings a bounty of fruits from cherries to berries and beyond. July honors two summer fruits: the blueberry and watermelon. Both are celebrated in July with National Blueberry Month and National Watermelon Month. Watermelon Feta Salad (serves 6) Recipe from twopeasandtheirpod.com Ingredients 6 cups watermelon, cubed ½ red onion, chopped ½ cup feta cheese, […]
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Great Getaways Close to Home 
According to a survey by vacasa.com (an international provider of vacation rentals), Americans are indeed planning to travel this summer and at least 63% of those surveyed said they intended to travel domestically. More than 50% indicated these domestic trips would be long weekend getaways with water-focused locations (think oceans, lakes, and rivers) and national […]
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2022’s Biggest Travel Trend: the Greatest of all Trips
The travel trend for 2022 is G.O.A.T. Typically the acronym G.O.A.T. stands for Greatest of All Time and can be applied to anything from sports heroes to entertainers (think Tom Brady, Michael Jordan, and Meryl Streep). The hottest new travel trend of 2022 switches it up a bit and has G.O.A.T. instead standing for Greatest […]
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The Benefits of a Harvest Hosts Membership
Sometimes RV trip planning is quite simple and straightforward: your close-to-home adventure involves a short drive to a nearby campground, and you’re booked in one campsite for several nights to enjoy all of the campground’s on-site amenities and local attractions. But, if you’re an RVer who likes to road trip throughout a larger region or […]
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Go See these Fountains on your Next Trip!
Fountains originally served the purpose of providing fresh water for drinking, cooking, and bathing to ancient towns. These rudimentary fountains were connected to nearby springs or aqueducts and brought water to the town. The ancient Romans are credited with creating the first fountains purely for decorative use somewhere around 6 B.C. Rome’s famed Trevi Fountain […]
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I Knew I was a TrailBlazer: The Peña Family
This issue, Trailblazer would like you introduce you to the Peña family, or as they’re known on Instagram: @thatcutelittlervfamily! From fishing lessons at Peace River (very successful lessons, might we add) to exploring the Pacific Northwest, the Peña family is making the best of their Thousand Trails membership and have fully embraced the RV lifestyle. […]
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Grilled Smoked Paprika Popcorn
Ingredients 2/3 cup organic popcorn kernels 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1 teaspoon red chili flakes Good pinch of salt & pepper 3 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil COOK TIME: 15 minutes 1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and popcorn kernels over a mid- hot fire […]
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Become a Grill Master with these Grilling and BBQ Bootcamps
Grilling and BBQ Boot Camps & More with the Culinary Institute of America By Lynn & Cele Seldon There’s nothing like the thrill (and smell) of the grill come summer. But grilling and barbequing when camping or at home in your backyard can sometimes mean overcooked chicken, bloody steaks, or burnt vegetables. That’s definitely not […]
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Here’s why you need to visit New England this Summer
These New England day trips are sure to become favorites There are plenty of beautiful places to camp in New England and an added benefit is that a day trip to another state is a reality. New England is made up of six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The largest […]
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The History of the S’more
The history of the s’more By Cele & Lynn Seldon Nothing goes better with a summer full of camping and barbecuing than finishing it off with America’s favorite campfire treat: s’mores. The ooey, gooey confection combining roasted marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers is best enjoyed around the campfire with friends and family. Although the exact […]
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The Best Wooden Bat Leagues Across the Country
Summertime Wooden Bat Leagues Across the Country By Lynn & Cele Seldon Every summer, baseball fans across the country are drawn to a phenomenon generally referred to as “wooden bat leagues.” With more than 40 leagues, the teams generally consist of college players (including many Major League prospects) who use wooden bats like they do […]
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On The Road with Helio Castroneves
Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. Trailblazer checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from home. This month, we chatted […]
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Dino-Mite Fun
June 1 is designated as National Dinosaur Day – a day all about those oversized reptiles that roamed the earth way back when. Dinosaurs have been extinct for about 66 million years, and yet, people are still fascinated by them. Case in point: the hype over the mid-June release of Jurassic World Dominion, the sixth […]
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How to spend the 100 Days of Camping
How excited are we that the summer camping season has begun? If you’ve been camping with us for years or are new to camping this year, our #100DaysofCamping is a great campaign to follow to make the most of the season. Why 100 Days? Simply, there are 100 days between Memorial Day (the unofficial start […]
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Honor Great Outdoors Month like these Conservationists
A conservationist is defined as a person who advocates conservation, especially of natural resources. To go further, nationalgeographic.org says conservation is the act of protecting Earth’s natural resources for current and future generations. And it should be noted the concept is nothing new, conservationists have been around for as long as the resources have been […]
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All about the Ponies
The Kentucky Derby Museum is located next to Churchill Downs, the racecourse that has hosted the Derby since 1875. The museum offers interactive exhibits as well as the film, The Greatest Race, which details the history and highlights of this epic horserace. There is also a guided walking tour of Churchill Downs. If you plan […]
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Looking Ahead to Summer
Dare we say it? Will Summer 2022 be the summer to rival all the fun you had in Summer 2019 before the world spun everyone into a different axis for quite a bit? Just about anything you could see or do in 2019 is back open, on schedule, and welcoming back visitors. Let’s look ahead […]
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May is for Mediterranean!
May celebrates the Mediterranean diet – which is not a diet but an ages-old healthy way of eating which includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like fish and chicken, and olive oil and nuts. Benefits of such a diet include helping to prevent heart disease and strokes, reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s […]
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5 Ideas for a Mom-Themed Camping Trip
Most Moms are typically not the type to give you a detailed agenda of how she wants to spend the one day of the year where it’s all about her. Or, maybe she does like to plan the day leaving nothing to chance. Whichever category your favorite Mom falls into, make sure her day is […]
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How to Celebrate the Earth this April
April is the month that we honor our amazing Earth and the wondrous U.S. National Parks, plus there’s also Arbor Day (April 29) and National Lawn and Garden Day on April 14. So green is definitely a theme here and what better way to celebrate green than by getting outdoors, pitching in, doing your part, […]
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Guitar Heroes
Guitars can be traced back to medieval Spain and evolved over the next few thousand years to become the instrument we are all familiar with today. Electric guitars first appeared on the scene in the late 1930s and from there the advent of rock and roll and the popular Guitar Hero video game made everyone […]
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Cheers to our Beer-Infused Recipes
If it’s the day before National Beer Day, which is celebrated annually in the United States on April 7, then you will find yourself celebrating New Beer’s Eve. National Beer Day was the result of President Franklin Roosevelt signing the Cullen-Harrison Act in March 1933, which made the sale of beer legal, effective April 7, […]
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Top UFO Towns
Do aliens really exist? Is there life on other planets? Do UFOs fly above us? The places listed here have either reported UFO sightings or abductions, or are ready, waiting, and welcoming for spaceships looking for a spot to land. Center, Colorado: Head to this Colorado town (about 100 miles from Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch) […]
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How To Celebrate Women’s History
It’s Women’s History Month – and in addition to wearing purple, you can honor some of these movers and shakers by visiting a few of the heritage sites listed below. Why wear purple, you ask? Internationally, purple is the color symbolizing women. We’ve got a short list here and you can choose to visit some […]
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Best Places to Find Snow in March
Some of us may be waiting patiently for all this white stuff to go away but there are some who love snow all year long. Or maybe you didn’t get your fill this winter and want one last longing look, as well as a trip down a snowy hill. We’ve found a few spots where […]
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RV Renovation Tips and Tricks from WiscoFlip
New year, new aesthetic! We caught up with Renee and Brad of WiscoFlip, an RV renovation husband and wife who used to be fulltimers. With backgrounds in interior design, construction, landscape, and a love for RVing, an RV renovation business wasthe perfect project for this family. TB: Tell us a bit about yourself and […]
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In a Song: Visit these real locations from song lyrics
The Eagles sang about standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, and we wonder…why? That line from the song Take it Easy, written by Jackson Browne and Eagle Glenn Frey, has made the corner quite a popular spot. The corner in Winslow is now home to the Standin’ on the Corner Park, complete with a […]
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Famous Winter Escapes
It didn’t matter the job, everyone wanted to escape to warmer weather once the holidays were over and the new year celebrations had died down. We found a few places you can visit while you enjoy your own winter getaway. Taliesin West: Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed Taliesen West, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, to […]
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Pairs, not Pears, to Check Out in December
December is all about pears – there’s the partridge in the pear tree and it’s also National Pear Month. We are going to focus on the other pair by highlighting things that go together, like sun and sand, or Buzz and Woody. Hollywood and Vine: If you don’t know what this refers to, you might […]
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Saintly Cities
Since November kicks off with both All Saint’s Day and the Day of the Dead, both celebrated on November 1, we thought we’d highlight some of America’s best cities named for saints. St. Augustine, Florida: The city of St. Augustine, Florida, was founded in 1565 making it the oldest continuously occupied city in the continental […]
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Best Hikes for National Hiking Month
Hiking is great exercise and has been proven to lower risk of heart disease, boost bone density and strengthen your core. Aside from those health benefits, here’s another reason to go hiking – November is National Hiking Month! Celebrate this month and take a hike. We’ve got some great hikes for you to consider. California: […]
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America’s Favorite Mouse and More
As if he isn’t celebrated every day with the thousands and thousands of visitors to both California’s Disneyland® and Florida’s Walt Disney World® Resort, there is actually a special day set aside for America’s favorite mouse. November 18 is Mickey Mouse Day because on that date in 1928, Mickey was first introduced in the short […]
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Tips to Keep your RV Carpet Clean
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Thankful for our Veggies
While historians continue to dispute the fact that the first Thanksgiving meal actually included turkey, which was not a popular food at the time, there is no doubt that vegetables made an appearance at the table. According to epicurious.com, the table fare most likely included dishes made with artichokes, leeks, squash, onions, cabbage, and parsnips. […]
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Beachy Keen Ideas for a Winter Getaway
Don’t get caught without a beach itinerary this winter. Plan ahead to make sure that you find the perfect beach getaway where you can while away the winter months with your toes firmly planted in the sand. We found several that will suit any beach personality – from those who like their beaches with an […]
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10 Top National Parks for Fall Foliage
As the season changes to fall, things really get colorful all across America. That’s especially true for our nation’s national parks. The varied landscapes of our parks have made park leaf peeping a colorful way to see this country from coast to coast. From vibrant reds and yellows to majestic purples across the mountains and […]
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Exploring U.S. World Heritage Sites
Sometime back in the mid-1950s, an idea was formulated that it was probably important to ensure world-wide cultural treasures were preserved so future generations could “appreciate and enjoy them.” This idea arose during a time when the focus was on saving Egypt’s Abu Simbel temples, which while they had survived since 1244 BC, were now […]
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The Outside is Calling
Who would have thought that when W.C. Coleman created a gas-powered lantern in 1900 that The Coleman Company of today would be an iconic company for those who are called to the outdoors? With a variety of lanterns and other lighting options, coolers, camp kitchen offerings, camp furniture, tents, canopies, and many other camp essentials, […]
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5 of the Best Walkable Cities
Did you ever say no to a vacation destination because you knew when it came to seeing the sights that meant additional drive time compounded with additional time spent looking for parking? Let’s face it, not all camping trip adventures begin and end at the campsite and the walkability of a destination city can play […]
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Cool Weather Camping Tips
Just because summer has come to an end doesn’t mean your camping adventures have to stop, as well. Sure, more gear may be required, but cold weather camping can be just as much fun – and there are a lot less bugs! Check out these tips to keep you warm and safe during your cool […]
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A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
There’s a saying among travelers and that is to “act like a local.” In essence, it means don’t head to the tourist traps or the top attractions, but instead dig deeper into what makes the city tick – search out the neighborhood gems, go off the beaten path (safely) and see what else there is […]
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The Best Fall Camping Plans
Thoughts of fall camping bring about images of cozy campfires, comfort food camp side, outdoor fun among the glorious changing colors, and some ghosts stories to end the day’s fun. Let’s find the best of the best when it comes to camping this fall and the perfect camping locations to put you in the center […]
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Look Up, It’s National Skyscraper Day
September 3 is recognized as National Skyscraper Day in America so we thought we’d look up and look up at some of the best in the US when it comes to very tall buildings. America’s first skyscraper was completed in 1885 and stood 10 stories, or 138 feet. The Home Insurance Building in Chicago was […]
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Rockin’ Good Times!
We’re rockin it now! We’ve got a list of some pretty big stones scattered around the country that are worth a stone-cold stare! Some are historic, some are as old as the cosmos, some are man-made and some are just a big old pile of rocks. California’s Morro Rock is part of a chain of […]
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May I have s’more, please!
According to nationalgeographic.com, s’mores have been around since 1927, which is when a recipe for “some mores” first appeared in a cookbook called “Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts.” Who doesn’t love this magical mix of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker? We have two recipes that put a twist on the old standard but […]
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A State of Fun
Thrillist.com recently rated our 50 states from most fun to least fun. Lucky for you, eight of the top 10 states have camping locations with us. Coming in at #1 was California, followed by Florida, Nevada, New York, and Illinois. Washington was ranked #7, followed by Texas with Pennsylvania rounding out the top 10 (FYI, […]
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Livin’ Large
If your family was the road tripping type, chances are you more than likely stopped at some roadside attraction or another during a trip. Some are old advertising relics; others are natural formations, and some are just plain quirky. We’ve found a few that are worth a look, and even a whole town dedicated to […]
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RV Repair Club – Tips to Improve the Cooling Efficiency in your RV
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Summer Game Moods
Here’s hoping the 2021 Tokyo Summer Games (which are really just the postponed Summer 2020 Games) go off without a hitch, pandemic or otherwise. And, while no spectators have been allowed to attend this year’s games in Toyko, we can still watch the competitions from the comfort of our own homes. If you’re like most […]
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BUC-EE’S The Theme Park of Rest Stops
hey say everything is bigger in Texas. And that is certainly true for Buc-ee’s, a legendary convenience store/travel center headquartered in Lake Jackson, Texas. Back in 1982, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, a young Texas A&M University graduate, decided to open a typical convenience store on a whim, with the goal of offering the best selection […]
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Introducing… American Forests
It’s with you on every camping trip and outdoor adventure, but it doesn’t take up any room in your pack, RV, or tent. It’s been featured in every nature selfie, camping advertisement and video from the great outdoors – even though you can’t exactly see it. Who is this invisible yet essential partner? It’s the […]
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Now Serving: One Ideal Summer
Summer 2021 has some big shoes to fill. After all, things appear to be trending more towards normal than the previous summer season and people are ready to get out and enjoy their vacation time like never before – or at least much differently than Summer 2020! The dilemma now becomes what to do. Everyone […]
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Busiest National Parks for summer 2021
Summer is always a busy season for National Parks, and 2020 was no different. Okay, it was a little different. That said, even amidst a pandemic and temporary closures, National Parks received 237 million recreational visits throughout the year. As a sense of normalcy slowly and safely makes its return in Summer 2021, you can […]
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Weekend Wandering
Let’s face it, the weekends come and go so fast you almost forget you had one. We’ve got some ideas on how to make this summer the summer of unforgettable weekends. Spend the weekends wandering on some of these incredible, but short, road trips. CHICAGO TO DOOR COUNTY, WISCONSIN Leave the Windy City behind for […]
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Road Trip
Quite simply, there’s never been a better time for a summer road trip in the United States. It’s time to hit the road, Jack…and Jill! While there are dozens of widely varied possibilities across the country, here are eight great U.S.A. road trips for this summer, plus four more “extra credit” road trip possibilities. U.S. […]
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I knew I was a Trailblazer
In this issue, Trailblazer would like to introduce you to the Lopez family. In 2019, they decided the fulltime RV lifestyle was for them – all five of them to be exact! Read on to learn more about why they value the RV lifestyle. TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced […]
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Freedom From Cooking!
Declare your independence from working too hard in the kitchen this camping season and try these quick recipes – one for breakfast and one for dinner. With these fast but delicious recipes, you’re free to spend the day anyway you please! Breakfast – Chickpea Breakfast Hash (2 servings) (Recipe from freshoffthegrid.com) Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cooking […]
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One Cool July
July is a hot month. In fact, according to the National Climate Report, the contiguous U.S. average temperature in July 2020 was 75 degrees. Now, some states have hotter averages than others in, but in general, come July people are looking to cool off somehow. One of the best ways to cool down is to […]
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More than John Hancock
Of course, everyone can name at least one person who signed the Declaration of Independence – good old John Hancock, who was the first to sign and whose name is the largest on the document. But after Hancock added his John Hancock, 55 more men signed the document in 1776. Thomas Jefferson not only signed the […]
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Hot Diggety Dog – Let’s Celebrate the Hot Dog!
July is the month we honor the Hot Dog as it is National Hot Dog Month. There is also a National Hot Dog Day and this year it falls on July 21. So much celebration for this little wiener whose origins trace back to Germany. We rounded up some of the best hot dog stands […]
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Gift Guide for Dads, Grads, and the June Newlyweds
There are lots of people to celebrate in June. Father’s Day is June 20, most graduations happen in May/June and June is the month that most people choose for their wedding (June is the most popular month followed by August, September, and October). Maybe you need a gift for Dad, a grad, and some lovebirds […]
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June is National Camping Month
Someone we know once said “Get Out and Camp” so let’s take that advice this June, which also happens to be National Camping Month, and do just that! Camping has so many benefits from the social to the physical. All the fresh air and the sunshine have been shown to improve mood and aid in […]
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Let’s Get Small
The concept of taking something from a large scale down to a miniature version, while remaining authentic to all details, isn’t anything new. In fact, dollhouses dating back to the 3rd millennium BC have been found that contain tiny replicas of the home and its contents, including the family pet. There’s even a word for […]
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Toss it on the Grill!
If May is National BBQ Month and July is National Grilling Month, what does that make June? We think it’s the month you combine the two. Here’s a great grilled BBQ recipe to try out this June: Campfire Whiskey BBQ Chicken (serves 6) (Recipe from cookingwithjanica.com) Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups ketchup 1 teaspoon hot sauce […]
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Take your Honey Camping!
These honey-infused camp recipes are buzzing with flavor! Cook up some sweet and spicy chicken and then cool off with a sweet treat topped with, yep, more honey! Honey-Sriracha Chicken (Serves 3-4) (Recipe from food.com) Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2-3 crushed garlic cloves 2 tablespoons of honey ¼ balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons olive […]
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Introducing: American Forests
American Forests, the oldest conservation organization in the United States, is committed to creating healthy forests from coast to coast. And we plan on digging right in to assist the effort and are pleased to announce that through our agreement with the organization, and more specifically, their American ReLeaf program, we are committed to planting […]
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Travel Like a Tourist
May celebrates the tourist with Tourist Appreciation Day (May 6) so why not plan a visit to some of our major tourist attractions this month? The nice thing about making camp with us while you visit some of these popular destinations is that after you’ve spent a day among the crowds, the peace and quiet of […]
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Queen for a Day
Is Mom the Queen of the family castle? After all, doesn’t she rule over everything including all things domestic and social? With Mother’s Day set for May 9, celebrate Mom in a regal way and take her to visit one these American castles. Castello di Amorosa (California): Nothing like enjoying a glass of wine in […]
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World Whiskey Day
World Whiskey Day is May 15 this year and according to the website worldwhiskyday.com, everyone is invited to try a dram and enjoy what they call “the water of life.” In fact, the word whiskey derives from the Gaelic word “uisce,” which means water. Whiskey has long been considered to be able to “cure what […]
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Exploring our National Forests
Don’t make the mistake of thinking a national forest is one and the same as a national park. In fact, the Forest Reserve Act, which allowed for the establishment of forest reserves, predates the creation of the National Park Service by about 25 years. Another major difference is that the national parks are about preservation, […]
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Plan a visit to these U.S. based Rainforests
f the old adage “April showers brings May flowers” puts your focus on the rain versus the flowers, you might be interested in learning a little bit about the rainforests on the US mainland. Different from those found near the equator, which are considered tropical rainforests, those found in the US are considered temperate rainforests. […]
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Reading the Roads
April is the month in which we celebrate National Read a Road Map Day (April 5 to be exact). When was the last time you used a road map to find your destination, or identify where you are? Chances are, if you were born in the late 80s or after, most of your travel sans […]
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Spring Green Campfire Frittata
The nice thing about egg dishes is that they can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner thanks to the combo of protein, veggies, and carbs. Here’s a nice little frittata recipe that can be whipped up camp side for whatever meal is on deck. Ingredients: 8 slices bacon 6 small green onions, ends trimmed […]
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Zoom from your favorite campground with these Zoom backgrounds!
We’ve put together a few of our favorite camping photos for you to use as a background while chatting with family and friends on Zoom. Simply download a photo, open Zoom, and select ‘Choose a Virtual Background’ to upload your photo. We hope you enjoy these virtual camping backgrounds the next time you’re Zoom-ing with […]
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The Treasures of Topsail Island
f you’re visiting the southern coast of North Carolina, don’t make the mistake of asking where Topsail Island can be found. Certainly, you want to find this 26-mile barrier island nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, but to locals it’s pronounced “Top-sul.” Topsail is one of several islands in a chain of […]
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Exploring Wilmington, North Carolina From Battleships to Beaches and Beyond
Wilmington, North Carolina, can boast several accolades, including being named one of the Top 100 Best Places to Live (by livability.com in 2020); earning the nickname “Hollywood East” thanks to the many movies and television shows that have filmed there; making the list of the Top 5 Beeriest Beach Towns (according to craftbeer.com), and being […]
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Barbecued Chicken on the Grill
INGREDIENTS 4 pounds of your favorite chicken parts (legs, thighs, wings, breasts), skin-on Salt Extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil 1 cup barbecue sauce, store-bought or homemade INSTRUCTIONS 1. Oil and salt chicken pieces 2. Coat the chicken pieces with olive oil and sprinkle salt over them on all sides. 3. Prepare grill: Prepare one […]
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On the Road With Lindsay McCormick
Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. TRAILBLAZER checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from home. This month, we chatted […]
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Loggerhead Marinelife Center
This spring, Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts will announce a partnership with Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC). Comprising innovators, explorers, and discoverers, LMC has paved the way for sea turtle conservation with cutting-edge research, initiatives, and programs. Recognized as one of the world’s most unique cultural destinations, the Center’s close proximity to the biodiverse Gulf […]
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How to Make your RV Feel More Like Home
Are you looking for ideas to make your RV’s interior more colorful and brighter? Erin Meredith at RV Repair Club shares helpful ideas that will bring your RV’s interior to life! Erin suggests adding paint wherever you can to spice it up and make it pop. Adding comfortable touches to your RV interiors such as […]
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April Adventures
Spring break is over and summer vacations are a few months away, but don’t pack away the travel and camping gear. We’ve got some ideas for some fun April getaways. Whale Watching: April begins the migration of the gray whale as they make their way north from their Baja Mexico breeding lagoons to the colder […]
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Five Fun Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
Earth Day looks pretty good for celebrating 51 years! Earth Day events were first held on April 22, 1970, in the U.S. and since then the day has become an international celebration with each year having specific themes like “A Billion Acts of Green” or “Restore our Earth.” Whether you’ve been an avid Earth Day […]
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The Mighty Mushroom
April 16 is the Day of the Mushroom, so we thought we’d cook up some recipes for you to celebrate these friendly fungi during a cook-out camp side. Easy Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms (recipe from eatingrichly.com) Ingredients: 10-12 mushrooms (cremini or button) 1 cup cheese spread (ex. Alouette Garlic and Herb, Merk’s Sharp Cheddar, Rondele Garden […]
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All in for Arbor Day
The last Friday in April is more than just the beginning of the weekend. It is also traditionally the day that our country celebrates Arbor Day. Have you ever celebrated Arbor Day? Do you know why we celebrate Arbor Day? Here are a few fun facts: Arbor Day was first celebrated in 1894 in Nebraska […]
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WISCONSIN FOOD & BEVERAGE TRAILS: A Tasty Way to Take a Bite out of America’s Dairyland
In a state that leads the nation in dairy farms (nearly 7,000), cheese plants (125-plus), and cheese production (home to half of the nation’s specialty cheese, with artisan cheesemakers producing more than 600 different types, styles, and varieties of cheese), it’s no surprise that Wisconsin would have several cheese trails. But the Badger State is […]
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JOHNSON OUTDOORS: A Wisconsin-based Outdoor Adventures Innovator
By Lynn & Cele Seldon Based in Racine, Wisconsin, but offering outdoors products found and recognized around the world, Johnson Outdoors is a 50-plus-year-old leading global innovator of outdoor recreation equipment and technologies that inspire people to experience Mother Nature at its finest in a wide variety of ways. Through a diverse range of iconic […]
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7 Truly Unique Camping Experiences
This is definitely the year for out of the ordinary, so why not do something different when it comes to camping? Camping locations typically center around national parks and forestlands, and campgrounds and resorts are designed with campers in mind with amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, a clubhouse, and an assortment of sports courts. But if […]
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Breakfast Casserole
Some call it a breakfast casserole, some call it a “strata,” but whatever name you have for it, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a popular dish for the holiday season, but we also think that a breakfast casserole can be served any time of the year, especially to hungry campers! Plus, it’s a […]
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Heart Healthy Outdoor Activities
Here’s a healthy reminder to take care of your heart this spring. We thought we’d provide some outdoor activity ideas which are good for your heart, and fun to boot! Hiking Hiking offers huge benefits. Not only is it a great cardio workout, but it has also been shown to boost bone density, improve balance, […]
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Spring Break Camping Trips
While there’s nothing wrong with a sun and sand spring break, some people opt for a different way to spend the time off and de-stress. Here are a few ideas to consider as an alternative to the typical spring break ideas. Museum Tour: A week in Washington DC is a fair amount of time to explore […]
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Celebrating Women’s History Month
Observed annually since 1987, the month of March is Women’s History Month during which we celebrate women and their contributions to our history, culture, and society. One way you can celebrate women this month is to wear purple because purple is the color that symbolizes women internationally. Another is to take some time on your […]
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Campfire Recipes, from Breakfast to Dessert
Spring is upon us which means more hours of daylight and more time to spend outside! We’ve got two great camp recipes that will have you starting and ending your day right! Bacon, Egg, and Toast Cups (six servings) (Recipe from napieroutdoors.com) Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 8 slices white or whole wheat bread […]
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Tips to Seal your RV Exterior Components Safely
Maintaining the seals of your RV’s exterior components is crucial in preventing long-term water damage to your vehicle. Seams can crack and dry out, so it is advised to make sure all seals are watertight. In this quick video, veteran RVers Mary and Josh Sherer walk through the process of replacing old silicone sealant safely. Their […]
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March (Mural) Madness
If spending hours inside in public places still isn’t your favorite thing (or maybe it never was), consider exploring these outdoor murals and art walks around some of our favorite cities. They may inspire you to create some art of your own, provide things to ponder with their words of wisdom, or give you a […]
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Let’s Go on Safari
March is World Safari Month and while the timing might not be just right for a trek to another country, you can discover wildlife right in your own backyard, so to speak. The U.S. is home to several wildlife parks that will provide some great insight into the world of the animal kingdom. Out of […]
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Color Your World
Remember the world that Harold created with just a purple crayon? The classic children’s book, by author Crockett Johnson, tells the story of one boy who heads out for walk armed with a purple crayon. He doesn’t see the moon shining, so the purple crayon creates one. From there, it’s dragons and boats and finally, […]
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Ranch-Obsessed!
Did you know that Americans may well be the only country in the world as obsessed with Ranch dressing as we are? And this tasty sauce that was originally created (yes, on a ranch) for salad dressings, is no longer just for vegetables. Americans are known to dip just about anything and everything in Ranch […]
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Warm up with these Winter Dutch Oven Soups
Campfire Chicken Vegetable Soup (serves 4) (recipe from barbeqa.com) Ingredients: 2 chopped chicken breasts 1 tablespoon of olive oil ½ chopped onion 2 chopped carrots 1 chopped celery stalk 1 cup of mushroom, sliced 1 pack of frozen vegetable mix 1 cup of tomato sauce 1 can of stewed tomatoes (14.5 oz) 5 cups of […]
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TrailBlazing Women of Color
Aretha Franklin: Take a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (book a stay at the Kenisee Lake Campground in nearby Jefferson) and check out the exhibit that pays tribute to Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, who holds the honor of being the first woman inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall […]
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Make the Great Outdoors your Valentine
If you’re looking for a relationship that will last beyond all the hype of Valentine’s Day this year, why not check out what the great outdoors has to offer? Of course, everyone knows the great outdoors has a few different moods, changing every few months, but each of those moods is pretty fun. The beauty […]
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American Heritage Sites
George or Abe: Who’s your Favorite The presidential birthday boys of February, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, have a few things in common and, of course, a few differences. For instance, Washington was born into a somewhat wealthy family while Lincoln’s family was less fortunate. Washington attended William and Mary College (he did not receive […]
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Classic Potato Leek Soup
It may be a new year, but we are bringing to you a classic soup recipe that is so classic, it’s almost forgotten! Potato Leek Soup is a hearty, warming soup that can be made gluten and/or dairy-free to suit whatever dietary needs you want to abide by this year or anytime. We love this […]
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Cooking Light with your Dutch Oven
Maybe you want to shed a few pounds or maybe you simply want to eat healthier. Here is a recipe for the trusty Dutch oven that will keep you sticking to your resolutions to eat healthy while camping. Ginger Broccoli Soup (serves 4-6) (Recipe from thekitchn.com) Ingredients: 2 tablespoons ghee 3 tablespoons grated fresh ginger […]
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Change Your View
A new year brings a chance to reflect on the prior year, set your resolutions, and put a plan together to make sure your resolution lasts longer than a month. (We’re all guilty!) In 2021, we have a resolution we’d love for you to try and we’re confident you’ll be able to stick to it! […]
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Florida Island Style
Hold on to your sunhats when we give you this statistic because it may just blow you away. Did you know Florida has 4,510 islands? Yes, 4,510 islands ranging from Pine Island, which is the largest island, to Pelican Island which is the site of America’s first animal wildlife refuge, to Sanibel Island, known for […]
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Florida Is for Foodies
Florida may be known for its balmy weather, wealth of sunny days, and miles and miles of beaches, but here’s a little-known secret about the Sunshine State: it also has some great food. There are some tasty sandwiches, seafood, and sweet treats floating around Florida begging to be enjoyed. The Cubano With a significant population […]
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Central Florida’s Great Outdoors
By Lynn and Cele Seldon Ideally situated between the urban sprawl of Orlando and Tampa, Central Florida’s vast Polk County features Mother Nature at her finest, with thousands of acres of undeveloped wilderness, hundreds of unspoiled lakes and wetlands, and widely varied outdoors-oriented attractions for those who want to stay outside as much as possible. […]
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Florida’s Rails-Trail
Lots of options for two wheels & two feet By Lynn and Cele Seldon Florida’s wide expanses of generally flat open space are ideal for multi-use rails-trails for cyclists, walkers, and more. Back when the rails-trails movement was still very much in its infancy, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) was formed in 1986 to help create and […]
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I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer: Crazy Family Adventure!
This issue, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to…Craig and Bryanna Royal or, Crazy Family Adventure! This family of six plus two dogs went full-time in 2014. Five RVs and plenty of memories later, they’re in love withthe lifestyle! TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us […]
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A Little Bird Told Us: Recipes for Homemade Bird Feed
Well, if they could, the birds just might let us know what they love to find in the winter feeders and what is best for them. But, since that’s not quite possible just yet, here are some ideas from good birding sources. Peanut Butter Suet (recipe from betterhensandgardens.com) Ingredients: 1 cup crunchy peanut butter 2 cups “quick cook” […]
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Travel Plans for 2021: A Year’s Worth of Ideas
Coming off a year like 2020 when every day seemed like your own personal version of the movie Groundhog Day, it looks like 2021 is shaping up to be the year of “let’s do something different.” Take a look at some ideas to add adventure to every month of this new year. January Where: Miami, […]
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Winter Sun Towns
Consider spending this winter spreading your wings in the sunshine. You can still socially distance, you can still work remotely and, most importantly, you may acquire a sunnier perspective for the year ahead! Some sunny climes to consider could include: Santa Barbara, California: What if you could ride a horse as part of your daily […]
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The List-Makers
Any research you do on travel, you’re bound to find “the lists” compiled by bloggers, travel magazines, influencers, and other experts in the area of whatever it is your searching. For example, Dr. Beach, aka Stephen B. Leatherman, a professor in the area of coastal research, has been the go-to list maker for more than […]
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The Best Holiday Mason Jar Recipes
S’more in a Jar Layer the following in the mason jar: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (one sleeve of crackers, crushed) 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows. 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips or mini Hershey Kisses or M&M’s 1/3 cup brown sugar Attach a gift tag with the following cooking instructions: Empty jar into large […]
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2021 Resolution: Get Out and Camp
Certainly, your resolutions for the new year should include things that are good for you, make you happy, and add value to your life. We think all those add up to a resolution to camp more in the new year. Here are a few ways to round out your resolution to Get Out and Camp! […]
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U.S. Public Libraries Worth a Look
Are your favorites found in the 800s? Or perhaps the artiste in you seeks out the 700s? Or the deep thinker in you heads to the 100s? If you have no idea what we’re talking about then perhaps you should head to the 900s and find a book on the history of the Dewey Decimal […]
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These Towns Take You Back in Time
December 8 is Time Travel Day and those who choose to recognize the day are encouraged to talk, dress, or act like someone from another time. You can also choose to visit one of these small towns that can provide some visual time travel. Cazenovia, New York: Founded in 1793, the architectural landscape of the […]
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Gift Ideas for the Camp Crowd
Let’s end this not-so-fun 2020 by giving some really fun gifts to friends and family this holiday season. Here’s a few gift ideas for your favorite campers. An LED Light Up Beanie from the Sharper Image provides warmth and light for those late-night camping adventures. This one size fits most beanie has removable 1-watt high […]
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Barking up the Right Tree
Bark candy is kind of like one stop shopping when it comes to treats. The perfect mix of whatever you like all contained in one bite, and one bark! We’ve got some great bark recipes you can make ahead of time before you roll out on your next camping adventure, so a sweet little treat […]
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Winter Gift Guide
We’ve got a list for you that will cover everything you need for gift-giving this year, from grab bags to Secret Santa items, and gifts for all your friends and family, too. Leak-Proof Dog Bowl Water Bottle Designed for our canine friends, this leak-proof water bottle is the perfect companion for your hiking buddy. Just […]
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A Thanksgiving Feast, Campside
Campfire Roasted Stuffed Squash (Makes 2 servings) The traditional turkey can be found inside this stuffed squash! Ingredients: 1 acorn squash 2 teaspoons olive oil ½ teaspoon salt Stuffing: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, diced 10 ounces turkey sausage or ground turkey 2 celery stalks, sliced 1 teaspoon salt 3 cups prepared […]
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Texas: Big City, Big Country
Texas is one big state and there is definitely no disputing that. While not the biggest state in the U.S. (which is Alaska), Texas is more than 100,000 square miles larger than California, which comes in third at 163,696 square miles. Texas is home to Houston, the fourth largest city in the country with a population […]
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Why Winter in Texas? Better Question: Why Not?
One main reason to visit Texas this winter is the weather. Temperatures are mild, sunshine is a regular occurrence, and snow is a very rare visitor. Of course, Texas in winter makes sense for a lot of reasons. We’ve listed a few more that will keep you busy while enjoying the Texas sunshine and the […]
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You & Sunny Yuma
The Great Outdoors & More Await in Southwest Arizona Designated as the “Sunniest City on Earth” by the folks at Guinness World Records, it’s seemingly always sunny in Yuma, Arizona (with sunshine more than 90% of daylight hours). With all of that sun, it’s only natural that Yuma is geared to the great outdoors, with […]
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Seeing Stars in Arizona
The Astrotourism Capital of the United States BY LYNN & CELE SELDON With its diverse landscape –from the Grand Canyon and ponderosa forests in the north to the Sonoran Desert and ‘sky islands’ in the south – Arizona is home to more certified Dark Sky Places than any other U.S. state. In fact, no country […]
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I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer: The Haag Family
This issue, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to the Haag family, a family of four that sold it all and has been full-time RVing for a year and half. They love the outdoor lifestyle for all of the healthy benefits, and believe it keeps them active! TB: How long have you been camping and […]
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Easy Foil-Pack Dinners
Thanksgiving dinners are traditionally oven-baked turkey, oven-baked sweet potatoes with the gooey marshmallow topping, and oven-baked corn casseroles with a side of buttery biscuits. But what if you’re camping during the holidays? Does that mean you have to forego a full meal? We’ve got some great recipes that will fill your camp table with a […]
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Changing your Office View
Here’s another new term to come out of 2020 – zoom towns. What is a zoom town you ask? Zoom towns are what used to be known as top vacation destinations but thanks to the work-from-home allowances in COVID-19 land, these places are becoming hot spots – the good kind of hot spot, in this […]
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Winter Fun Towns
Historic downtown Charleston in South Carolina By no means does winter mean no more outdoor fun! In fact, in many places, it means just the opposite as some towns thrive on snowy weather to maintain their popularity, but the cooler weather means less crowds and more fun for you! For Ski Bums: Avid skier or […]
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Cornucopia of Camping
Adirondack Mountains in northeast New York. A cornucopia is “an abundance of good things of a specified kind.” In our case, it’s a cornucopia of camping! When you think about the abundance of locations offered by the Thousand Trails family or the abundance of variety within those locations, there’s plenty of good things. In fact, […]
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Tips for Nature Inspired Fall Decor
If you’re camping or RVing during the holidays, there’s no need to drag along seasonal decorations so your campsite is dressed for the fall season. Instead, look to nature and your surroundings to find the perfect items to decorate your site for these colorful holidays. Take a hike and look for bare branches and twigs […]
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Fall from the Inside
Fall foliage at Lynchburg RV Campground nearby the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway When the pandemic first hit, everyone ventured outdoors for fun. Now, as places have opened up, there are plenty of people who still prefer the outdoors, while keeping a safe distance from others. (Who could blame them? The outdoors is the place to […]
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Fall Bucket List
Summer is over and the holiday season is just around the corner, but there’s all of fall to take in. What’s the best way to spend these last few weeks before the holiday frenzy starts and winter sets in? We’ve got a few ideas and most of them involve grabbing as much outdoors as you can. Ziplining Valley […]
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How to Keep Cozy This Fall
Don’t let the changing weather keep you from camping. Check out some of these products for cozy camping this season. Try out some of these tried and true camping gear items to keep you cozy and well-equipped as you venture out to camp this fall. Hydro Flask Water Bottles: Keeps cold drinks cold (up to […]
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Where to See the Best Fall Colors
Want to experience the change of seasons and take in nature’s spectacular color show? Come along with us as we leaf-peep in some of the best color-catching locations. Come fall, trees and other foliage change colors whether you’re on the east coast, west coast, or in the Midwest. It’s a free show you don’t want […]
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The Best Charcuterie Board Combinations
Dazzle your friends with your ability to provide tiny bites of fabulous finger foods, whether sweet or savory. Check out our ideas for some fun food boards. Food boards are a great way to provide a lot of variety for an easy-to-do appetizer or dessert course. You can choose to use a small wooden serving […]
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Totally Tourist in the Pacific Northwest
When it comes to ideal places to visit that will satisfy just about everyone in your travel group, the Pacific Northwest fits the bill. It has some of the best when it comes to the great outdoors with plenty of mountains and beaches for activities like hiking, biking, water sports, and beachcombing. It has cool […]
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On the Road with Samantha Brown
By Lynn and Cele Seldon Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. TrailBlazer checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from […]
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One-Pot Chili Recipe
INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 lbs ground beef 1 onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, crushed 2 cans kidney beans, drained & rinsed 1 (28 ounce can) diced tomatoes 1 (6oz) can tomato paste 1 (4.5oz) can green chilies 3 cups chicken broth (or waterand 2 teaspoons of chickenbullion powder) SPICES 2 Tbsp chili powder 1/2 tsp salt […]
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The best things to bring on a camping trip
In a recent article in Conde Nast Traveler, nearly a dozen national park rangers were asked what campers should bring when they camp. According to the park rangers, the items below are what they feel every camper should bring along when camping and which sometimes are inevitably what they forget! Here’s the list, plus a […]
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Beautiful Parks in the USA
The saying, “it’s a walk in the park,” typically means that something is both easy and pleasant. We think you’ll find a walk through these beautiful public parks the perfect mix of both. Gas Works Park (Seattle, WA): A 19+ acre park that sits on the shores of Lake Union, Gas Works Park got its […]
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Squash Recipes to make in September
Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brown Sugar (recipe from 50campfires.com) Ingredients: 2 medium butternut squash (4-5 pounds total), chopped 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Instructions: Cut off and discard the ends of each butternut squash. Peel the squash, cut […]
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Colorful Fall
Come fall, people head off in search of colorful leaf displays, consulting charts and websites to determine the best time to experience the peak colors with the change in seasons. Leaf peepers, as they are known to the locals, travel the country from late September to early November in search of the beautiful explosion of […]
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Naturally Fun in the Northwest
Combined, the states of Oregon and Washington have over 100 mountain ranges. Plus, there’s the Pacific coastline, which stretches from northern Washington on down to the southern edge of Oregon, and all the quaint coastal towns and endless miles of beaches in between. Toss in the over 30 state and national forests, a combined total […]
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Walla Walla Washington: World-Class Wine and Agritourism
Located on the drier side of the Cascade Mountain range and on the same latitude that passes between the Burgundy and Bordeaux regions of France, it’s no surprise that the Walla Walla region has become a wine tourism hotspot in the Pacific Northwest. Located about four hours east of both Seattle and Portland, the unofficial […]
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The Northwest’s Iconic Outdoors & Active Lifestyle Business: Columbia Sportswear
By Lynn and Cele Seldon Anyone who loves the outdoors knows the iconic Portland, Oregon-based Columbia Sportswear Company. Founded in 1938 as the Columbia Hat Company in the outdoors-crazed city where the Columbia River (the largest river in the Pacific Northwest) flows through the town, after making its way westward from Canada’s Columbia Mountains and […]
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I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer: The Wanderpreneurs
This issue, we are featuring The Wanderpreneurs, also known as the adventurous Lauren and Aaron Grijalva and their kids, Casen and Calista. TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began. TW: We became full-time RVers without any camping or RVing experience 16 months […]
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Beautiful Lighthouses in the United States
America’s first lighthouse dates to the early 1700s in Boston, but lighthouses have been guiding ships since approximately 300 B.C. when Ptolemy built the first one in ancient Egypt. The purpose of these towering structures is to provide navigational aid to ships at sea, acting as a traffic light of sorts. The lights flash in […]
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The Best Summer Picnic Eats
Make the most of the summer weather and enjoy a good old-fashioned summer picnic. Here are few recipes for easy picnic fare as well as some different ideas for the classic campfire favorite: the s’more. Picnic Nachos Ingredients: 5 cups tortilla chips 1 19-ounce can of black beans, drained 1 4-ounce can chopped green chilies […]
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The Ultimate Camping Activities Guide!
Check out these camping activities that are fun for the whole family! Whether you’re camping with us or spending more time at home, you’re sure to find a few fun activities in this booklet. Scavenger hunts, bingo, campfire songs, ghost stories, and recipes…download the Camping Activities Guide and let the fun begin! Download Here
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Blueberries for All
It’s blueberry season! Blueberries have almost no fat, are low in sodium and have tremendous nutritional value. And, whether dressed up in a crisp or crumble, poured over pancakes, or eaten plain, they are quite the sweet little treat. Campfire Blueberry Crisp (recipe from mommyhatescooking.com) Ingredients for Blueberry Filling: 32 ounces fresh blueberries 1 cup […]
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Looking for Bigfoot
Back in 1958, a group of California loggers discovered some very large footprints, about 16 inches long, in the mud in the state’s Six Rivers National Forest. Once the news outlets got wind of these big tracks, they ran with it and the legend of Bigfoot was born (although stories of a very tall, very […]
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August is Family Fun Month
August is National Family Fun Month, although according to nationalcalendarday.com, no one really knows why this month was chosen for this recognition. Maybe it’s because a new school year is looming, or that the weather will soon begin to change, or maybe someone just didn’t think families were having enough fun! Regardless, there’s no time […]
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Honoring Elvis
Since his untimely passing in 1977, thousands of fans have flocked to Graceland, Elvis’ Memphis estate to pay homage to The King every August for what has become known as Elvis Week. While this year’s Elvis Week will be a virtual event, there are still ways to remember Elvis. Visit Palm Springs: Elvis spent time […]
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The Most Beautiful Coastal Views in the United States
Want to see some of the best views in the country when it comes to a coastal perspective? We’ve found some of the most beautiful coastal views on both the east and west coasts that will have you positively awestruck! Coastal View #1: Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, California Stretching along the Pacific Ocean in San […]
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Camper Recipes: S’more-gasbord Fun
Charcuterie boards are as popular these days as podcasts, hard seltzers, and glamping so why not mix it up the next time you’re planning s’more time around the campfire. These cute charcuterie boards offer some sweeter ideas than the traditional meat and cheese version. One thing that is standard on all boards is, of course, […]
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What to do in July
In addition to Independence Day on July 4, the month of July has many national days to celebrate including the super yummy National Ice Cream Day on July 21! We highlighted just a few of these national days and have some ideas on how to recognize them! July 20 – National Pennsylvania Day Come celebrate […]
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The Best Revolutionary Road Trip for RVers
Travel back in time to 1776 – the date July 4, to be exact. In 1776, July 4 was just another day on the job for men such as Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson, whose task at hand was to ratify the Declaration of Independence. FYI, the date of the actual signing remains […]
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Summertime and the Cooking is Easy
Who wants to slave over a hot camp stove when there’s so much more to do when you’re spending time in the great outdoors? Definitely not us, and we’re pretty sure you don’t either. Here are three simple camp recipes to keep the heat out of the camp kitchen. Overnight Oats (Serves 4) (recipe from […]
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Camping Gift Ideas for Dads and Grads
Father’s Day is June 21 and June is typically graduation month for everyone from elementary school on up. Here are a few gift ideas for the dads and grads in your life. June is the month that we honor our Dads and recent graduates, both of whom have worked hard and deserve some special attention. […]
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How to have a garden in your RV
Just because you’re on the road, doesn’t mean you can’t have a garden. Here are some ideas to take your garden anywhere your RV goes. Herbs are the easiest way to satisfy your green thumb yearnings and basil, mint, rosemary, oregano, and cilantro are some easy to care for herbs. Look to your vertical surfaces […]
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The Natural and Man-made Wonders of the American World – A Complete Camper’s Guide
When it comes to defining “wonders” of the world, lists include both natural and man-made. Man-made wonders include such feats as the Great Wall of China and the Roman Colosseum. State-side we have many – there are seven “official” natural wonders and those include Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and Mt. St. Helens. Man-made wonders […]
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National Hot Dog Day is July 20!
On this day, we commemorate the well doings of the great National Hotdog and Sausage Council as we celebrate America’s favorite frank. National Hotdog Day falls on the July 20, and hopefully this will be the last year you neglect this groundbreaking holiday. Us hotdog lovers are accepting to those who will choose this year to begin […]
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BBQ Spareribs
We’re serving up some tangy barbeque and gooey chocolate and marshmallows…see what we’ve got cooking this month… July is a fun month when it comes to national holidays for food. There’s national Fried Chicken Day (July 6th), National Sugar Cookie Day (July 9th) and even National Pina Colada Day (July 10th). For our July recipes, […]
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Loving the Lake Life
Water, water everywhere and so much fun to be had. Stay at the lake with us this summer! If you’re a family who is divided when it comes to vacation choices – such as a lake vacation or a camping vacation, you’re in luck when it comes to choosing a location for a Thousand Trails […]
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Finding your Inner Foodie
COOKING CLASSES & MORE WITH THE CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA By Lynn & Cele Seldon Founded back in 1946 by Frances Roth and Katharine Angell, The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is recognized as the world’s premier culinary college, with more than 50,000 alumni situated across the country and around the world serving as living […]
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Dutch Baby Pancake
INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 3 large eggs 3/4 cup whole milk 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a medium cast-iron or […]
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California Off the Beaten Path
Who was it that said to take the road less traveled? Oh, yes, Robert Frost and, according to his famous poem, taking the road less traveled made all the difference. Come along with TrailBlazer as we choose the roads less traveled and go off the beaten path just a bit to see some truly unique […]
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King of the Keys
Stretching close to 125 miles from tip to tip, the Florida Keys are a wonderland of natural beauty, underwater magic, and colorful characters. And nowhere is that more evident than in the Keys bookends of Key Largo and Key West. Whether lounging on the beach, fishing for the one that won’t get away, sipping fruity […]
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Do Go Chasing Waterfalls
Did you know waterfalls are classified into 10 different types based on the way the water descends? Those classifications include plunge, punchbowl, cascade, and tiered. And while Angel Falls in Venezuela may be the highest, uninterrupted waterfall in the world at 3,212 feet, our own Niagara Falls is the world’s most visited, drawing more than […]
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Take it to the Bridge
They are functional works of art made of steel, stone and wood…check out some of America’s coolest bridges. There are more than 600,000 bridges in the U.S. Some were designed to allow travel over bodies of water, train yards or other roadways, large gorges, or other unnavigable terrains between two locations. There are bridges of […]
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Look How We’ve Grown!
Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina welcome new arrivals!By Joan Rykal Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina, Encore’s fabulous location in the Florida Keys is bursting with pride at the arrival of their five new tiny homes. The resort’s Tiny House Village welcomed five new tiny homes this past fall. Come on down and get […]
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Happy Birthday, Earth Day!
In keeping with the activist environment of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, Senator Gaylord Nelson (D-Wisconsin) had the idea to harness the concept of the popular “sit-in” but instead to use it as a teaching event. After seeing the devastating effects an oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, had on the […]
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I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer – The Jacob Family
This issue, we are featuring the adventurous Thousand Trails family: Tommy, Summer, Thompson, and Sharlette! TB:How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began. J: My fascination with RVs began with myself (Summer) as a child. My Nana had one and she would let me […]
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This Winter, Focus on Fitness
By Joan Rykal Did you know the average person gains between five and seven pounds in the winter? That statistic comes directly from webmd.com with the caveat that the total pounds gained does vary from person to person. While many reasons are cited for the winter weight gain, the biggest one is basically hibernation, and […]
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I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer: The Braga Family
TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began. J&J: As a family we started RVing about 6 years ago when our youngest daughter was 2 as we realized her severe food allergies were going to limit our ability to vacation (ie dining out […]
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On the Road with Dolly Parton
Photo: Courtesy of Dollywood/Curtis Hilbun In honor of Dolly Parton hosting The CMA Awards, we wanted to remember when we interviewed her back in 2013! By Lynn and Cele Seldon Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and […]
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Circling the Arizona Wagons
A Road Trip Between Phoenix, the Sonoran Desert, & Tucson By Lynn and Cele Seldon When it comes to winter road trips in the sunny Southwest, it’s enticing to look at a map of Arizona and see how easy it is to visit three great destinations in the state: Greater Phoenix, the Sonoran Desert (and, […]
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Come Check Out Yuma!
Yuma, Arizona Your Sunniest Winter Destination! By Joan Rykal Yuma, Arizona is considered one of the sunniest places, if not the sunniest place in the world. Yuma offers a whopping 360 days of sunshine annually. Given that stat, if you visit Yuma this winter, what are the odds those five days that may not be […]
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Austin vs. Asheville
By Cele & Lynn Seldon Although these cities are 1,100 miles apart and one is ten times larger than the other (Asheville’s population is approximately 100,000 while Austin is closer to one million), they have a lot more in common than both starting with the letter ‘A’. Both have attracted reputations of being cool, with tasty culinary cultures (Foodtopia is Asheville’s marketing moniker), a melodious live music scene and […]
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Cracker Barrel Anniversary
Celebrating a 50th Anniversary, Just like Thousand Trails By Lynn and Cele Seldon There’s simply no other roadside stop in the nation quite like a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and, just like Thousand Trails, they happen to be celebrating their 50th anniversary this year (officially September 19th, to be exact). As huge fans with […]
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4 Paws on the Road
By Jenn Swope Jenn, I have an older golden retriever named “Candy” who is starting to struggle getting up and down the stairs to our motorhome. The full-time lifestyle is all that we know and while I would very much like to live in a house, it is just not in the cards so we […]
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Seattle vs. Portland
The Pacific Northwest has much to offer in terms of stunning geography, outdoor activities, cool temperatures and a robust wine culture. But the cities of Seattle and Portland could be the crowning jewels. Only 175 miles apart, they certainly have a lot in common. They also have many things that give each their own unique […]
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Lets Make Lemonade!
Classic Lemonade Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 5 cups water 6 lemons Ice Directions: Combine in saucepan 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, rind of 2 lemons, cut into pieces Stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Boil about 7 minutes. Cool. Add 1 cup lemon juice (5-6 lemons) 4 cups ice water. Pour over […]
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On the Road: DiscConnected K9s
By Cele and Lynn Seldon Whether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. TRAILBLAZER checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from […]
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Big Towns Small Charm
By Joan Rykal When planning a travel adventure, some people go for the draw of the big city with its hustle and bustle and bright lights, while others seek a more serene destination, like the small towns that reside in every state and exist as a living history lesson. After all, it was these little […]
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Getting to Know Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County
By Joan Rykal If the word “bucolic” appeals to your vacation senses, then look no further than the beautiful countryside of Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County. Synonyms for the word, such as pastoral, idyllic, rustic, and rural, can all be used to define this lovely little escape in southern Pennsylvania. Lancaster County, as a tourism destination, […]
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I Knew I Was A Trailblazer: @getaway_couple
Thousand Trails members, Jason and Rae, made their dreams of traveling full-time into a reality in July 2017! Read on for their story about how they knew they were TrailBlazers… TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began. J&R: We started full time […]
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Wisconsin Cabins are Winners
Cabin Options Make Badger State Getaways Easier Than Ever By Cele and Lynn Seldon With eight Wisconsin campgrounds on RVontheGo.com offering cabin and cottage rentals throughout Southern Wisconsin, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the camping lifestyle without having to rough it. From rustic cabins with basic amenities to luxury and premier cottages and […]
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ROAD TRIP: Come See Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley
By Lynn & Cele Seldon If you’re longing for an ideal mid-Atlantic destination, Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is the perfect place to see. The varied attractions and incredible convenience of the Shenandoah Valley are what attracts thousands of visitors annually. It is easily-reached by interstate, via I-81, I-64, and I-66 and, is within a one-day drive for half the population of the U.S. […]
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On the Go: Honoring the Year of the Pig!
It’s the Year of the Pig – according to the Chinese calendar, so why not celebrate with a visit to some of the best Chinatowns in the US. Houston, Texas Also referred to as Asiatown, this neighborhood of Houston has plenty of shops and restaurants. Hong Kong City Mall is an indoor mall with more […]
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All In The Family: Thousand Trails Continues To Grow in the Super ‘70s
By Joan Rykal This year, the Thousand Trails’ member magazine, TrailBlazer Magazine, will feature special stories throughout the year to tell the story of Thousand Trails’ 50-year history! Check out this story from the upcoming issue of TrailBlazer Magazine and be sure to come with us on an historical journey with our interactive timeline! Once […]
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Late Season Beach Trips
An unofficial end to summer is marked by the coming and going of Labor Day weekend. School is back in session and the weather is about to get a bit cooler. But don’t put that beach blanket away just yet. There are several beaches that deserve a day or two in the September (or even […]
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RV Essentials for Everyone
Whether you’re just getting started with a brand new rig or a seasoned veteran looking to get back to the basics, you always need some essentials stocked in your RV. We’ve rounded up a list of the top essentials for your RV! First Aid Kit A first aid kit should be the standard in every […]
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Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
The folks of the Skagit Valley in Washington rely on Mother Nature to determine when the start of their annual Tulip Festival can begin! For over 34 years, visitors from around the United States and all over the world journey to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The festival spans the month of April, but that […]
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Great Festivals for RVers
At Thousand Trails, we love to get together with family and friends for good food, good music, and a good time! We’ve rounded up some festivals happening this year near Thousand Trails campgrounds. Check ‘em out below! Reno Jazz Festival, Reno, NV, April 26-28, 2018 Reno, NV, “The Biggest Little City in the World” is […]
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Spring Cleaning Tips for Your RV
Get ready to hit the road with these spring cleaning tips that any RVer and camper can use! Get rid of the trash This may seem like a no-brainer, but when you have a heap of spring cleaning tasks to go through, the easiest thing to do first is to tackle the trash. Go through […]
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The Overseas Highway: A Classic Florida Keys Road Trip
By Lynn and Cele Seldon As the southernmost leg of U.S. Highway 1 that’s often called the “Highway that Goes to Sea,” it remains a modern travel wonder and one of America’s classic drives. The magic carpet ride highway follows a trail originally blazed in 1912 when railroad baron Henry Flagler completed the extension of […]
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The Best Thousand Trails campgrounds to spot the Eclipse!
Maybe you’ve heard rumblings of a spectacular celestial event happening later this summer…It’s a total solar eclipse when the sun passes behind the moon’s shadow. This is called the “umbra shadow” and at the perfect moment, the sky and the earth darken just for a few minutes. Want to witness this spectacular event for yourself? […]
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Spring Cleaning for Small Spaces
In a small space, it’s easy to start feeling like you’re living on a pile of stuff. With spring just around the corner (March 20!), many people will start feeling the itch to ditch, especially if your space is small. Plus, once the sun is out every day and the days begin to get longer, taking […]
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Three Cheese Skillet Pizza
As we finally start to come out of that winter slump, we may be spring cleaning, but our bellies are still craving comfort food. Enter – skillet pizza. This recipe is great for small kitchens because you don’t need much more than a cast-iron skillet and a surface to flour your dough. This pizza doesn’t […]
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A Trip to the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village
Staying at the Mt. Hood RV Resort Tiny House Village is an experience everyone should try. From their clever storage spaces to their cozy interior decoration, these little homes are full of character. Ranging from 175 – 260 square feet, the Mt. Hood RV Resort tiny homes can sleep 3 – 5 people, depending on the size of the […]
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Visiting Vancouver, BC
Vancouver is a bustling city that sits along the English Bay. This modern, melting-pot of a city has a unique energy that captures visitors’ attention, so much so that they come back again and again. Whether you’re strolling through Stanley Park on one of its many trails, or sampling local gastronomic creations from vendors in […]
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Uncorked” Key Largo and Islamorada Food and Wine Festival and More!
The Florida Keys may be known for the spectacular drive along Highway 1 or the exceptional fishing and watersports. But, the people who live in and come to visit the southernmost destination in the US also appreciate a fun festival with flowing wine and tasty food. There are two Encore resort locations in the Florida Keys […]
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5 Great Ways to Celebrate November’s Special Days
The month of November is plentiful when it comes to special days to celebrate. In addition to Veterans Day (November 11) and Thanksgiving Day (November 24), November also celebrates manatees, sweet potatoes, guacamole, Native American heritage, and much more. Here are a few ideas where you can camp and celebrate some of November’s highlights. View […]
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Thankful for Foodie November
November might possibly be the best month for foodies. From Thanksgiving feasts to the different foods that have a special day this month (deviled eggs, vanilla cupcakes, Chinese take-out, and more), November is full of endless fun with food. Here are a few recipes to make while camping this month to celebrate the special foods […]
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Hot Fun in the Wintertime
Florida is a favorite cold-weather destination thanks to the warm temperatures and sunny days, but we found a few other reasons to travel to Florida as winter sets in. And, with camping locations available on both coasts, as well as Central Florida, there are plenty of places to make your home base while you check […]
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How to Remove Old Nails
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Your 2022 Camping Gift Guide is here!
Get a jump on holiday shopping with these gift ideas for the campers and outdoor lovers on your list this year. Some of them might even fit in a holiday stocking! Would you believe there’s a camp chair that folds down to the size of an umbrella? Check out the Cliq Camping Chair – it […]
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The 10 best places to see Fall foliage in the Northeast
By Cele & Lynn Seldon As temperatures start to lower and the humidity releases its grip, all thoughts turn to the approach of fall–and colorful fall foliage. There’s no better place to capture the beauty of autumn than in the Northeast. With majestic mountains, huge hardwoods, and lovely lakes, the tapestry of colors presents a […]
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Pickleball is trending and we know why
Whether it really was about the ball-chasing dog named Pickles that led to the creation of the sport that is considered the fastest growing sport in America, there is no dispute that pickleball is a game that can be played by young and old, athletic and not-very athletic, and slow and fast players alike. John […]
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I Knew I was a Trailblazer: The Axness Family
This issue, Trailblazer would like to introduce you to Nate and Christian Axness. They have been traveling fulltime for six years and fell in love with the RV lifestyle after borrowing their friend’s Winnebago. Today, they’re focused on creating lasting family memories with their children, and ensuring they’re making the most of their time out […]
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Tech Topics: Shopping for a used RV
Used RV Shopping for a Used RV: When you’re on the hunt for a new-to-you used RV, it pays to do a bit of thoughtful shopping. The first question to ask yourself is a fun one: what type of RV fits your lifestyle best? A gas or diesel motorhome, toy hauler, tagalong trailer, popup camper, camper […]
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