Community Forums

PeteDr · 01-15-2020, 05:09 PM

As far as actual RV trips, I am as new as they come. So, I am planning the trip to our destination in western NC. Since I am about as far east as you can go in NC the distance is 352 miles. My only driver experience in our RV was from the dealer to our driveway which was 200 miles. Based on that I have decided that 250 is about my limit, and being retired, splitting the trip into two days is not a problem. So my problem becomes where to stop at about the 200 mile mark or slightly further. 200 miles puts me on I-85/I-40 near Greensboro, NC. I will have our RV with a GMC 1500 as a toad.

Just looking for a place to stop for the night and hopefully hook up electric. I am told most RV parks want you to disconnect the toad on the way in and reconnect on the way out. Would rather not do that. So my question to the pros in the group. How do you handle a overnight stop, just to get some sleep. On this one I could just drive a long day (for me with very little experience) but what about a 700 mile destination?

Thanks

twinboat · 01-15-2020, 05:26 PM

Call the campground you choose and ask them if they have pull thru sites.

I don't overnight in campgrounds. I stay in Flying J Travel centers and Walmarts.

Both offer overnight stays, if allowed.

Flying J has RV friendly stations that can be found on the smartphone app.

Walmarts allowing overnighting can be found on RVParky, another app.

Chuck&Pam · 01-15-2020, 06:58 PM

Pete, use a website like RV Park Reviews and RVParky that have a map based view. The main info on these sites include whether or not they have pull thru sites so you don’t have to disconnect the toad. But don’t take that at face value. Some have a limited number of pull thrus and may not be available or too short for you to use. So look at their website, google maps satellite view and call the park. For example when I looked at the area you’ll be going through I see several private parks in the area and there’s the state parks at Jordan Lake. We usually target 4 to 6 hours a day when we can. 300 - 350 miles is enough for me these days.
Happy travels!

Charles L · 01-15-2020, 07:02 PM

I get a pull thru site when making a stop overnight. Never unhook the toad. I level the coach with the dolly still hooked up.

Jake21 · 01-15-2020, 07:30 PM

On a road trip, we overnight in Walmarts or Rest Areas, sometimes parks if we can find the previous. There are both in the Greensboro area. Also, Greensboro KOA has 70 pull throughs. Also, if all you need is electric, use the road trip to run the genny when you arrive at a Walmart or Rest Area, then shut down when you go to sleep and let the batteries/inverter do what they are made for. I have run the genny all night at both locations if we need the A/C.

twogypsies · 01-15-2020, 09:50 PM

Try this site although since they redid it it's kind of clunky to use. Click on a blue marker on the map to find one in or around the area.

250-300 miles is a good amount to shoot for.... it gives you time to relax and have dinner and plan your next day.

For one night look for a pull-through site so you don't have to unhook. Remember to swing wide when pulling in so you get in straight. You won't be able to jimmy it around with the car attached.

https://www.campgroundreviews.com/re...ina/greensboro

HavingABlast · 01-16-2020, 06:51 PM

For an overnight, I don’t disconnect the toad. Since you describe yourself at “entry level”, you might find comfort in finding a CG that offers pull throughs. Know your overall length before talking with the CG. The goal here is to have a good night rest.

After you’ve experience a few miles, you will gain comfort in overnighting at WalMart, HomeDepot, Ace Hardware, Cabela, Casino Parking lots (always check with the store first and respect their property), and rest stops and welcome centers. Keep in mind that slides are generally not allow out, unless you can park with that slide extending over a curb and away from the traffic. Do not extend your jacks or deploy your shade.

Safe travels

Jake21 · 01-16-2020, 07:15 PM

We usually have our slides out, but on one side. Jacks gently deployed. From Wally’s website

Stay one night only!
Obtain permission from a qualified individual.
Obey posted regulations.
No awnings, chairs, or barbecue grills outside your RV.
Do not use hydraulic jacks on soft surfaces (including asphalt).
Always leave an area cleaner than you found it.
Purchase gas, food, or supplies as a form of thank you, when feasible.
Be safe! Always be aware of your surroundings and leave if you feel unsafe.

JJ