After spending the night in a Walmart parking lot, we thanked management by stocking up on supplies before heading about an hour northeast for a day of Ricketts Glen State Park hiking, which turned out to be one of the most beautiful surprises of my summer road trip. I had no idea this corner of …
Explore USA
From rugged coasts to quiet small towns, the United States offers endless ways to feel at home. Explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and stories that define life on the road.
Leaving Richmond + A Day Trip to Shenandoah National Park
Day Trip to Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Drive as the Scenic Start When I first moved to the Richmond, Virginia area, I was thrilled. Within a couple of hours, you can turn almost any weekend into an easy adventure—whether it’s a day trip to Shenandoah National Park, a quick escape to …
New England Road Trip Itinerary: Route Map + Best Stops
When I was towing my 33-foot fifth wheel, I intentionally avoided New England. I remembered it as congested, busy, and… honestly, a little stressful from a quick visit decades ago. But once I downsized to a truck camper, the Northeast felt possible again — and that opened the door to a trip I’d been …
Visit Smoky Mountains National Park in the Fall
All it takes is a warm autumn day and the feet start itching for a country drive, some hot apple cider, and incredible views of colorful leaves at the height of their beauty. Growing up and living in the north, fall was always accompanied by a stop at a pumpkin patch to choose your own, or even …
Smith Mountain Lake Camping
You'll find Smith Mountain Lake camping at Smith Mountain Lake State Park and at three or four other private campgrounds around the lake. The first time I heard about Smith Mountain Lake, I knew I wanted to see it. Smith Mountain Lake is the second largest lake in Virginia with 500 miles of …
Big Bend National Park is Worth the Effort
Big Bend National Park is worth the effort to get there. I crossed the border into Texas, and for the first time since departing Virginia, I was in a new state. One I hadn’t been to before. The Lone Star State The Longhorn State The biggest state I planned to cross on this trip. I …
