Foil packet meals are a camper’s best friend. They’re simple to throw together, involve minimal cleanup, and can be cooked on the grill or over a campfire. Today’s recipe is a healthy and easy favorite, where salmon and asparagus are cooked together in a flavorful packet with lemon, garlic, and butter toppings that melt together to create a tasty sauce.

• Makes 4 servings/packets

Ingredients:

• 4 six-ounce salmon filets
• 1 bunch asparagus
• 3 lemons, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 TBSP butter, divided (1 TBSP for each packet)
  Salt & pepper to taste

Equipment:

• Aluminum foil – 4 rectangles about 12-14 inches long

Directions:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The packets will be cooked over indirect heat, so if you’re grilling on a gas grill, leave a few of the burners off. If you’re grilling over charcoal, add the briquettes all on one side of the grill.

Prep work: Season the salmon filets with salt and pepper. Wash and trim the ends off the asparagus, thinly slice the lemons, and mince the garlic. You’ll want to divide the garlic, asparagus, and lemon slices into four groups (one for each packet).

When it comes to the packets, layering is key. For each packet, lay three to four lemon slices in a row down the middle of one of the tinfoil sheets. Place a salmon filet on top of the lemon slices. Add a few stalks of asparagus to each side of the salmon. Sprinkle some minced garlic on top of everything.

Top with 1 TBSP butter per packet (we recommend cutting each TBSP into a few pieces to evenly spread out the butter) and finish with a few more lemon slices. Repeat for the other three packets. Any extra lemon slices can be saved and used to squeeze over the top of the cooked fish.

Time to close up the packets. Bring the two long sides of the foil together and fold them over a few times. Fold in the ends to make a sealed packet. Make sure there’s a bit of room inside the packets to allow for air to flow and steam the salmon.

Place the packets on the grill. Cook over indirect heat with the grill lid closed until salmon is light pink and flakes with a fork. The cooking time will depend on how thick the salmon filets are. For thinner or smaller filets, 12-16 minutes should be fine. A very thick piece of salmon could take 18-20 minutes on the grill. Note: the FDA recommends that salmon be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, so we recommend using a food thermometer to confirm that the salmon is completely cooked.

Take one of the packets off the grill and carefully open (watch out for hot steam escaping!) to check for doneness. Throw it back on the grill for a few more minutes if it’s not quite ready. Once off the grill, let rest for five minutes. The fish will continue to cook while resting.

Then enjoy! You can eat them directly out of the packets or transfer the meal to a plate. The foil packets make clean up easy, which is always a bonus when camping. Why dirty some of our plates when you don’t really need to? If you’re worried about having a single layer of tin foil as your plate, consider layering some tin foil sheets.

---

Do you have any questions or concerns? Leave a comment below!

Source link

Stargazing and camping go hand in hand, but can you believe only ten percent of Americans have seen a truly dark sky? It’s time to correct that by enjoying an evening under the stars at these Dark Sky locations where you can revel in the beauty of the universe from just outside your RV.

What is a Dark Sky Designation?

The International Dark Sky Association conservation program promotes stewardship of the night sky. It designates areas that commit to reducing light pollution following a very rigorous application process into different categories such as communities, parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.

Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park

One of the largest swaths of dark sky in the US is the combined area of Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park. The parks are named for the “Big Bend” of the Rio Grande River, which marks the boundary between Mexico and the state of Texas. This area is known for its remote location and a feeling of being in the wilderness. It is their distance from major urban centers that truly make the skies among the darkest in North America.

Located right outside the parks’ boundaries, Maverick Ranch RV Resort in Lajitas, Texas is the perfect place to enjoy full hook-up camping visiting the area. The campground recognizes dark sky policies and as a result, guests can view the Milky Way from their picnic table!

Cosmic Campground, New Mexico

One of only ten International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world, Cosmic Campground is a truly special place. This remote 3.5-acre portion of the Gila National Forest in western New Mexico. You’ll need to be fully self-contained for this primitive campground.

The only amenities are a pit toilet and four concrete telescope/observation pads, but the views from your site will more than makeup for it.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Utah should be nicknamed the Dark Sky State for its nine Dark Sky Parks. Bryce Canyon is the ultimate place to enjoy the splendor of the night sky while learning more about the stars and planets you’ll see. They even have an educational and entertaining Astronomy Rangers program.

In addition to the regular program events throughout the year, they also hold an annual Astronomy Festival each summer. Although they have two campgrounds, it is a popular park so be sure to plan ahead for this one of a kind experience.

Anza-Borrego, California

The southern California Desert is host to the Borrego Springs International Dark Sky Community. The nearby town is committed to preserving the night sky and reducing light pollution.

The Springs at Borrego RV Park has their own Astronomy Park offering guests the opportunity to view the night sky with their own telescopes or to take part in one of our special scheduled star parties. Spend your days poolside and your evenings under the stars for an unforgettable experience.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

One of six dark sky areas in the state of Michigan, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is the cream of the crop. Spend lazy summer days on the Lake Michigan shoreline in this 600-acre, wooded preserve near Mackinaw City. Join the stargazers and amateur astronomers that flock to catch a glimpse of a night sky free of light pollution. You may even get lucky and see the park’s most elusive nighttime sight, the Northern Lights.

There is no camping allowed at the park, but the Mackinaw KOA is only five miles down the road. This full-service campground is adjacent to the North Western State Trail leading into Mackinaw City, where you can explore Colonial Michilimackinac and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Another potential location to view the Aurora Borealis is Cherry Springs State Park in North Central Pennsylvania. Named for its large stands of black cherry trees, the 82-acre state park is known as one of the best locations for astronomical viewing on the eastern seaboard. The park can attribute its dark night skies to its location on the Allegheny Plateau set amidst thousands of acres of the Susquehannock State Forest.

If your RV is too large for the 26 small, primitive sites at the state park, or you just want full hook-ups, stay at Alleghany River Campground. From tubing on the river to mini gold, this campground has activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, Florida

The east coast isn’t normally noted for its dark skies, but there is one exception. About 100 miles south of Orlando, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is Florida’s prime destination for stargazing. In fact, it is the first Florida state park to build paved astronomy pads dedicated to observing stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. You can book a pad there and get detailed stargazing advice on no less than nine separate observing locations.

For only $16 a night, campers get power, water, and a chance to spot the milky way without using a telescope. The campground also offers a bathhouse and equestrian sites. During the day, visitors can take an elevated buggy tour guided tour of the largest remaining stretch of wild prairie in Florida.

---

Looking for another place to see amazing skies? See where the remaining dark sky places are located on this interactive map.

Source link

So, you and your significant other want to travel, see amazing sights, and camp in beautiful and remote locations? I have a recommendation for you. Check out Class B motorhomes. A Class B motorhome is built on a standard van chassis and offers some of the most versatility you can find in an RV.

Class B campers aren’t for everyone, but if you’re comfortable with your significant other and don’t mind less space, you’ll find these tiny homes of the road to be an extremely lovely way to travel and camp.

2020 Winnebago Travato 59G

The 2020 Winnebago Travato 59G features a bench seat up front next to a small table with another bench seat. There’s a large 46-inch by 77-inch bed at the rear of the unit next to a wet bath. Between the front of the RV and the rear of the RV is the kitchen.

The Travato comes built on a Dodge ProMaster van chassis with a V6 engine that puts out 280 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The unit can sleep up to four people and measures 21 feet in overall length.

Check out our inventory

2019 Roadtrek Zion

If the Travato doesn’t quite do it for you, then maybe you’ll find the 2019 Roadtrek Zion a little more appealing. The Zion features swivel chairs and a small table at the front of the unit, a small wet bath on the driver’s side, most of the kitchen on the passenger side, a small wardrobe next to the kitchen and two large bench seats that can be made into a bed at the rear of the unit.

The Zion sleeps two people, so it’s perfect for a couple and it comes built on the same Dodge Promaster chassis as the Travato, so it has the same engine. The RV measures 20.75 feet overall.

Check out our inventory

2019 Winnebago Era 170X

The Winnebago Era 170X offers a unique floorplan that includes a wet bath along the camp side of the RV, a kitchen on the driver’s side of the RV, a sofa bed in the rear of the unit, and a movable pedestal table with four swivel chairs at the front of the unit.

Built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the RV comes with a six-cylinder diesel engine that makes 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. This model sleeps two people comfortably and measures a slightly longer 24.25 feet long.

Check out our inventory

2019 American Coach Patriot MD2-Lounge

Another great option is the American Coach Patriot MD2-Lounge. This unit features an optional pedestal table at the front of the RV next to a wardrobe and a small refrigerator. There’s a small wet bath on the driver’s side of the RV, a pantry behind that and some lounge seating/sleeping area at the very rear of the RV. On the camp side, is the small kitchen.

Like the Winnebago mentioned above, this unit is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter’s chassis. It features a V6 diesel engine that makes 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The model sleeps two people and measures 24.25 feet in length.

Check out our inventory

2019 Airstream Interstate Grand Tour EXT

Last on this list, but certainly, not least is the Airstream Interstate Grand Tour EXT. This unique model features a wonderful layout including a small pedestal table at the front next to some seating, storage space and the refrigerator on the driver’s side. Also on that side is the small wet bat. On the camp side of the unit is the kitchen and there’s additional seating at the rear that doubles as the sleeping area.

The the Interstate Grand Tour EXT is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and features the same diesel V6 engine as the other models built on this chassis. It sleeps two people comfortably and measures 24.42 feet in length.

Check out our inventory

---

What models would you add to this list? Leave a comment below.

Source link

Today on the podcast, Sam interviews Ana Willis of They Call Me Blessed, a homeschooling blog. Ana is a homeschool mom of 3, wife, health coach, social media and online marketing strategist, and mom blogger. Her passion is to encourage, inspire and empower moms to go from stressed to blessed by providing them with the inspiration, encouragement, and tools they need to live a beyond blessed life. She also runs a membership called The Homeschool Sisterhood, which gives moms year-round support and guidance to succeed in their homeschool journey.

In addition to being an expert on all things homeschooling, Ana is also a world traveler and, recently, a full-time RVer! Her family has lived in Africa, South America, North America, and the Middle East. Now, they are living in an RV in British Columbia. In this episode, Ana shares their journey to RV life and paying off debt, her top tips and advice on homeschooling, and inspiring wisdom for living your dreams.

What we cover in this episode

• 1:00 – RV life beginnings
• 6:30 – The biggest transitions to RV life
• 13:30 – Advice for families wanting to hit the road
• 18:00 – Advice for homeschooling and finding a homeschooling community
• 24:30 – How homeschooling helps her children to be independent, lifelong learners

Ana’s advice on homeschooling

• De-school yourself! Programed to think that school happens 8 hours a day, through textbooks
  It’s not true! We are born natural learners. We learn more through experience.
• Look for curriculum that fits your family’s learning style.
• You don’t need to know it all to teach your children. You can stay one step ahead and learn together.

Ana will be hosting the first online roadschooling conference this fall. Stay connected with Ana at They Call Me Blessed to learn more!

Ana’s advice on RVing

• Become unattached to material objects. Get rid of stuff.
• If you have debt, come up with a plan to pay it off as soon as possible.
• Think about how can you work smarter to make more income, while also having more family time.
• Dream big! Decide your mission or goal as a full-time RV family.
• Create the most amazing memorable moments as a family.

Links mentioned in this episode

• Learn more at They Call Me Blessed
• Follow They Call Me Blessed on Facebook
• Follow Ana on Instagram
• Join The Homeschool Sisterhood!

Source link

Many times camping trips involve exploring new territory and discovering enticing attractions along the way. Passenger tour trains have that magnetic appeal for many RVers, providing a novel way to see hidden countryside not normally viewed from the road. Railroad passengers learn about local history, culture and the many colorful characters from the communities visited. Camping World wants to make sure you don’t miss the departing whistle, so we have created a series entitled RVing the Rails. You will find the most popular excursion trains to ride in each state, complete with any specialty trains they might offer.

Today we will explore the most popular trains in Indiana:

French Lick Scenic Railway

Begun as the Indiana Railway Museum, today’s train runs on tracks once owned by the Southern Railway Company. The twenty-five miles of the French Lick Scenic Railway running from French Lick to Jasper is now a living history museum dedicated to railroad transportation. Passengers pass through the hills of southern Indiana and the Hoosier National Forest, enjoying rail travel as it was meant to be—relaxing transportation that celebrates the journey, not just the destination.

Railway and Locomotive Types

The railroad runs with a diesel electric engine on standard gauge tracks.  The rolling stock consists of glass-enclosed dome cars and enclosed coach passenger cars.

Seating Options

• Dome Class – Passengers ride in the upper glass-enclosed dome car with tables of four and assigned seating. An assistant is on hand to help.
• First Class – Passengers with first class tickets ride in the lower dome and 1710 cars, where padded seats and tables are provided. All first class seats are assigned.
• Coach Class – Passengers with coach class tickets ride in enclosed cars with open general admission seating, available on a first-come, first serve basis.

Riding Options

Train excursions are all round-trip affairs, so there are no one-way tickets or side trips available.

Specialty Trains

Reservations are suggested for all specialty trains, as they tend to sell out.

• Easter Bunny Express – Catch a ride from the French Lick Depot to the Easter Egg field, where children can hunt for eggs and take their picture with the Easter Bunny.
• Wild West Hold Ups – Take a journey back to the Wild West as the French Lick Scenic Railway gets hit by robbers attempting to steal the payroll. Hide your valuables!
• Dinosaur Adventure Train – Venture back to the Jurassic Era and learn about paleontology and natural science on the Dinosaur Train. Children can participate in a fossil dig and hold a live reptile.
• Polar Express – Wear your pajamas and hop on board the Polar Express for a ride to the North Pole. Santa can’t wait to hear what you want for Christmas, and the elves and chefs will make sure all passengers are well-fed with cocoa and cookies!

Length of Season

The French Lick Scenic Railway season runs from March through October, with Polar Express trains running on weekends in November and December.  Check out their schedule here.

Whitewater Valley Railroad

Back in 1845 the state of Indiana built the Whitewater Canal for towing freight, but the waterway suffered from flooding and washouts.  So eventually the towpath along the canal was used to lay railroad tracks.  Today, the Whitewater Valley Railroad runs from Connersville to the restored canal town of Metamora, where passengers can explore a working grist mill, canal boats and the locks in a two-hour layover, before returning to Connersville.

Railway and Locomotive Types

The railroad operates with a diesel locomotive running on standard gauge track.  Enclosed passenger cars with windows provide a comfortable way to see the Whitewater Valley.

Seating Options

There are no assigned seats on the Whitewater Valley Railroad.  All cars are enclosed coaches with general admission tickets.

Riding Options

The railroad offers two options for some interesting train travel:

• Caboose Rental – Rent an entire caboose for up to 20 people and have it hooked to the train!
• Metamora Shuttle – for those passengers who would like to travel two miles past the depot in Metamora, this shuttle train offers a short trip along the canal to see restored canal locks, canal boat docks and a working aquaduct.

For those wishing to travel one-way, tickets can be purchased from Connersville to Metamora.

Specialty Trains

• Throttle Time – Become a train engineer on this special day, where guests will go through safety inspections, training and get 30 minutes of “throttle time” operating a diesel electric engine.
• Ghost Train – Depart from Metamora Depot to hear stories of the train’s tragic past. A few ghastly apparitions may join you on the excursion.
• Pumpkinliner – Take a train ride to the pumpkin patch, where hayrides and jack o’lanterns await!
• Polar Express – Join in the holiday fun as the train visits the North Pole to pick up Santa. Kids will have an opportunity to tell him all about their Christmas wishes, and riders will enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, along with a reading of the beloved “Polar Express” story.

Length of Season

The Whitewater Valley Railroad operates from March through October with weekend train rides.  Specialty trains are scheduled on specific dates, so please check the train calendar to select your excursion.

Hoosier Valley Railroad

Located at the confluence of four different historical railroads, the town of North Judson was a pretty busy place during railroad’s hey days.  With the Pennsylvania Railroad, the New York Central Railroad, the Erie Railroad, and Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad all fighting for attention, it was not unusual to see 125 trains pass through this rural community in one day!  Now the Hoosier Valley Railroad is carrying the torch, providing excursion trains and a museum to preserve railway history.

Railway and Locomotive Types

The Hoosier Valley Railroad operates with a vintage diesel locomotive on standard gauge tracks.  Rolling stock includes various cabooses, an open air gondola car and climate controlled enclosed passenger coaches.

Seating Options

All seating is open with no assigned seats.  Seating on all cars is considered General Admission on a first come, first serve basis.

Riding Options

A 45 minute train ride from the depot in North Judson travels across the Kankakee River Bridge at English Lake, then back to the depot.  There are no one-way tickets, but passengers are assured they will see some lovely Indiana countryside.

Specialty Trains

• Easter Train – Hop on the train for an excursion to an Easter egg hunt, where the Easter Bunny joins in on the fun.
• Fall Harvest Train – Take a leisurely trip through the autumnal colors in the northern Indiana countryside.
• Halloween Train – This twilight train that will entertain your trick-or-treaters.  Bring your costumed ghosts and goblins for a haunting good ride!
• Santa Train – Don’t miss a ride on the rails with the Big Man himself!

Length of Season

The Hoosier Valley Railroad runs trains every Saturday from May through September.  Special event trains are scheduled on specific dates, so check the train schedule to find the excursion that suits you.

Join the thousands of RVers that have a love affair with trains and ride the rails on your next camping trip.  Check out the other excursion trains available on a state-by-state basis in our series, RVing the Rails.

Source link