Table of contents for Issue 25 in RV Destinations Magazine

Traversing Long Island Sound along the Connecticut coastline is a fabulous New England summertime adventure. The relatively short route from Mystic to Westport clocks in at just about 100 miles, but spending several days exploring serene beaches and devouring fresh seafood is more than worth the slow pace. This journey begins in the quintessential seafaring town of Mystic and winds westward through the artistic village of Old Lyme, the chic beach town of Madison, the Thimble Islands of Branford, an Ivy League campus, and the beaches of Fairfield and Westport where we wrap up this relaxing road trip. 41.3543° N 71.9665° W MYSTIC The historic village of Mystic offers guests a distinct nautical vibe, as it should. Once a thriving maritime shipbuilding hub, Mystic Seaport is now home to the…

36.6387° N 95.1541° W Every once in a while, you come across an RV park where the owners have taken the term “above and beyond” into the stratosphere—where every glance reveals thoughtful touches that make it clear the owners spent years RVing themselves, collecting ideas about what travelers truly want. Then they brought those ideas to life in a way that makes you pause and quietly applaud how remarkably well it all came together. Perched along a ridgeline with sweeping views of the Organ Mountains in Las Cruces, New Mexico, sits the newly renovated Las Cruces KOA Journey. Under new ownership since summer 2020, the campground has been completely transformed into a beautiful oasis above the valley floor. From the moment you pull into the drive, you're greeted by manicured…

The RV lifestyle has evolved, and with it, the expectations of today's travelers. No longer content with just a patch of grass and a hookup, RVers are seeking more—more amenities, more experiences and more luxury. Enter Landstar Management, a company that's turning heads across the country with its “Hospitality Re-Imagined” philosophy. With roots deeply embedded in construction, operations, marketing and entertainment, Landstar isn't just managing resorts—it's crafting experiences. And two of their crown jewels are poised to redefine what it means to RV in style: The Resort at Canopy Oaks and the soon-to-open Palm Breeze Resort. A Rising Star: Canopy Oaks Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, the Resort at Canopy Oaks isn't your average RV park. Under Landstar's innovative leadership, it quickly earned national recognition, landing the coveted…

41.8264° N 103.6578° W Western Nebraska may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning an RV adventure. Still, those who take the time to explore this region are rewarded with stunning landscapes, rich history and a sense of the pioneer spirit that shaped the American West. Scotts Bluff National Monument, near Gering, Nebraska, is a prime example, offering visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the past while showcasing the rugged beauty of the Great Plains. A LANDMARK OF WESTWARD EXPANSION Scotts Bluff rises prominently from the surrounding prairie, its sheer cliffs and rugged terrain serving as a natural marker for travelers throughout history. Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River, the monument was a crucial waypoint for pioneers on the Oregon, California and Mormon trails. In…

43.8955° N 103.4182° W The Black Hills, spanning 3.2 million acres across South Dakota and Wyoming, have long drawn people for centuries. Considered sacred by several Native American tribes including the Crow, Dakota, Sioux, Nakota, Cheyenne, Arapaho and Kiowa, the area saw conflicts between tribes over its spiritual significance, location and rich natural resources. When European settlers moved west and discovered gold, the land became desirable to more than just Native tribes. Today, the influence of both Native American tribes and European settlers is visible throughout the region. Sacred sites like Wind Cave National Park, Bear Butte State Park and Black Elk Peak are open to visitors. The former mining camps of Keystone, Hill City and Custer—once booming from the gold rush—have grown into small towns offering a variety of…

35.08844°N 106.6504°W Journey to the 52nd Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: AN RVER'S ADVENTURE The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (ABF) had long been on the bucket list for my wife Cindy and me. So when the time finally came, we hit the road, towing our 38-foot fifth wheel from Minnesota to New Mexico. We were eager to experience the world's largest ballooning event. And for RVers like us, the Fiesta promised the perfect mix of adventure, community and unforgettable memories. How We Won the RV Lottery As seasoned RVers, Cindy and I are accustomed to the logistics of planning road trips, but securing a spot at the Balloon Fiesta proved to be a whole new level of challenge. With campsites filling up within seconds of registration opening, we knew the race…

37.8707° N 81.0531° W Did you hear that, over by the riverbank? I thought I heard someone talking, though there's no one else here. Could it be the spirits of old coal miners who worked in this town? I peered through the trees along the New River at the Nuttallburg Coal Mine and saw whitewater rafters having a blast navigating the rapids. Whew, what a relief! I really didn't want to run into any apparitions in this old coal mining town. I was thrilled, though, to have already discovered the three identities of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in just one place. Designated as our nation's 63rd national park—and the first in West Virginia—the New River Gorge is a place of layered experiences. The stunning Appalachian Mountains and…

Las Vegas LAS VEGAS—Renowned for dazzling entertainment, luxury resorts and a dynamic culinary scene, Las Vegas offers something for every traveler. For full-time RVers, the joy lies in discovering great food at every stop. With nearly 6,000 restaurants in the city, the hardest part is deciding where to eat. From fine dining to ethnic gems and casual spots, the city is a feast for all palates. ON THE STRIP The Las Vegas Strip is the city's vibrant core. It blends neon lights, world-class shows and unforgettable meals. For RVers seeking a touch of indulgence, here are some favorite dining experiences: Michael Mina at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino This renowned restaurant offers a prix fixe menu that merges American cuisine with Egyptian influences. Highlights include a mini lobster pot pie…