Category: Campgrounds (Page 2 of 2)

RV Tales: Embracing Nature’s Symphony in Yellowstone

As an avid nature enthusiast and a firm believer in the therapeutic power of the open road, embarking on an RV adventure through Yellowstone National Park has been a dream come true. The journey began with the selection of two remarkable campgrounds, Bridge Bay and Madison, both promising a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility to the wonders of America’s first national park.

Stan, Rowdy, and Mike – 2021 Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Bridge Bay Campground: Lakeside Bliss

Our RV found its temporary home at Bridge Bay Campground, perched along the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. The view from our campsite was nothing short of mesmerizing, with the sparkling waters of the lake stretching out before us along with the elk that routinely traverse the campground. The RV, with all its amenities, became our comfortable oasis amidst the wilderness.

Old Faithful – Yellowstone National Park

Guided by the call of exploration, we hopped into my trusty Chevrolet Equinox, ready to unravel the mysteries of Yellowstone. The first stop on our adventure was the legendary Old Faithful. The Equinox effortlessly navigated the winding roads, delivering us to the iconic geyser just in time for its majestic eruption. Watching Old Faithful shoot a column of steam and water into the sky was a humbling reminder of the untamed forces at play beneath the Earth’s surface.

Madison Campground: Forest Retreat

2021 with Bertha in the Madison Campground

Transitioning to Madison Campground felt like entering a secluded forest retreat. Our RV nestled amidst towering lodgepole pines, creating an intimate connection with nature. After a day filled with exploration, the RV became a haven of comfort, providing a perfect setting for sharing stories and savoring the moments.

Driving my Equinox from Madison, Mike, Rowdy, and I set our sights on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The car allowed us to effortlessly traverse the park, reaching the canyon’s edge to witness the majestic Yellowstone River carving its way through the rugged landscape. The Equinox became the ticket to the diverse landscapes and wildlife that make Yellowstone an ever-unfolding masterpiece.

Paint Pots and Beyond: RV Adventures Unveiled

The Paint Pots and Grand Prismatic Springs of Yellowstone National Park

Returning to the RV, we eagerly set out for the Paint Pots, a geothermal wonderland that painted the ground with vibrant hues. The RV served as our command center, allowing us to plan our exploration and immerse ourselves in the surreal landscapes that surrounded us.

To cap off our Yellowstone odyssey, we booked a guided fishing trip for cutthroats and lake trout in the pristine waters of Lake Yellowstone. Loading up the Equinox with fishing gear, we set out for a day of angling against the backdrop of the lake’s tranquil beauty—a perfect finale to our RV adventure.

In the end, camping in an RV at Bridge Bay and Madison Campgrounds was not just a vacation; it was a personal journey of discovery and connection with the wild. Yellowstone, with its geysers, canyons, paint pots, and serene lakes, became a canvas where memories were painted with each mile traveled and every site explored. As the RV rolled out of the park, the echoes of nature’s symphony lingered, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the beauty that our great outdoors hold.

Kick Back Ranch: My Home Away From Home

Driving Tour of Kick Back Ranch & Event Center

As a regular visitor to Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in the charming town of Ramer, Alabama, I find myself drawn back time and again to this haven of Southern hospitality and outdoor bliss. Each visit to this rustic retreat unfolds new layers of tranquility and excitement, making it my home away from home.

The crown jewels of Kick Back Ranch are its five ponds, glistening in the sunlight, and harboring an abundance of bass, bream, crappie, and carp. For a fishing enthusiast like me, these ponds are a treasure trove of endless enjoyment. Casting a line into the clear waters becomes not just a recreational activity but a therapeutic experience, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Alabama countryside.

What truly elevates the Kick Back Ranch experience is the genuine warmth exuded by Jerry, Mindy, and the entire staff. Their Southern hospitality is not just a catchphrase; it’s a living, breathing aspect of the ranch. From sharing local insights to ensuring that every need is met, their dedication transforms a mere stay into a memorable journey.

The variety of activities at Kick Back Ranch ensures that boredom is a distant thought. The exhilarating water slide adds a playful touch, providing a refreshing break from the fishing adventures. The calendar is dotted with numerous events, ranging from community gatherings to live concerts, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.

The RV park and accommodations seamlessly blend comfort with rustic charm, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Waking up to the sounds of nature and the promise of another day filled with possibilities makes each stay a cherished memory.

In essence, Kick Back Ranch & Event Center isn’t just a destination for me; it’s a sanctuary where Southern hospitality meets outdoor excitement. From the ponds teeming with fish to the warm smiles of the staff, every aspect contributes to an experience that keeps pulling me back for more. If you haven’t experienced the magic of Kick Back Ranch, it’s time to embark on a journey that promises unforgettable moments and a sense of belonging in the heart of Alabama.

Campground Etiquette

The RV life can be enjoyable and extremely frustrating, especially when others don’t follow the rules. I had someone else’s parking decision affect me as I was leaving a campground. Parking in a campground should be in designated areas and should not block entrances or exits to campsites.

The Golf Cart and the Pickup Truck blocked an Exit

In this case, the pickup truck and the golf cart were parked so that they blocked what is normally a loop in and out of this campground.

What I ended up having to do was back up until there was an empty pull-through campsite and pull through to the main campground thoroughfare, which worked out just fine, but if there weren’t one available, I would’ve been stuck until most of the campers awakened.

By the way, at this campground, I could’ve used a different exit and not encountered this problem; so, some of the blame is on me, too.

With so many new RVers since the onset of the COVID pandemic, many are unaware of how their actions can affect others. I’ve come up with a few ‘suggestions’ that might help you have an enjoyable stay at your next campground.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and how your ‘set up’ might affect others who are using the campground.
  • When entering or leaving a campground, make sure that you leave adequate room for others to maneuver around your camper, coach, toad, or tow vehicle. At almost 9 feet wide, it takes at least 10 feet to safely clear other vehicles.
  • Playing your television or radio loudly can definitely have an adverse affect on your campground relationships.
  • One item I didn’t realize was an issue is how bright your outside lights are on your coach or camper. Bright lights on all night can upset neighbors because they shine into bedrooms.
  • Don’t walk through other camper’s sites without getting permission. It may be a short cut to an amenity, but it’s better to just walk around than walk through their ‘yard.’
  • Be neighborly like Mr. Rogers always suggested.

I’ve learned many things while staying at different campgrounds and have also seen negative reviews of campgrounds where I didn’t have any issues. The easiest way to play the RV life is to ensure that your actions don’t adversely affect you or someone else. I can’t completely guarantee an issue-free stay if you do that, but you will have a much better time.

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