Visit the Nation’s Capital for Spring Break

Beautiful early morning Jefferson Memorial

Washington, D.C., is a beautiful place to visit this spring break due to the cherry blossoms that will be in bloom at the time. If you’re less interested in crowded beaches and more interested in exploring the history and beauty of our nation’s capital, you’ll be surprised to learn that Washington, D.C., is actually very friendly to RVs, perhaps one of the friendliest cities for motorhomes, in fact. With the city’s rich history, free museums, campgrounds, and addictive restaurants, you’ll probably want to make D.C. one of your go-to camping destinations.

Motorhomes Welcome

If you’ve been avoiding taking your RV to D.C. because you’re afraid there’s no place to camp near the capital, think again.

Cherry Hill Park, the closest campground to D.C., is just 12 miles north of the city, and it’s an ideal place to park your RV. The campground even offers rides into the capital multiple times per day, so you never have to worry about maneuvering your motorhome in city traffic. Indulge in the sauna, hot tub, and free WIFI after a long day of sightseeing.

Free Museums and Attractions

Forget about breaking the bank with museum tickets for the entire family. D.C. offers hundreds of free museums and landmarks open to the public.

Botanic Gardens is located on the National Mall and is a gardener’s haven in the concrete city. With roughly 4,000 living plants, it’s hard not to spend an entire day wandering through the gardens.

What’s a trip to D.C. without paying homage to our country’s leaders? Take a free tour through the historic Ford Theater where President Lincoln was assassinated. View exhibits honoring Lincoln’s life and hear the true story of the night he was tragically killed.

The U.S. Capitol Building offers free guided tours as well. Learn about the Senate and House of Representatives or just enjoy the architecture of one of our country’s most prominent landmarks.

Of course you can’t go to D.C. and not visit the numerous monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and Vietnam Memorial Wall.

Then there’s the Smithsonian, a museum complex that hosts a variety of subjects, from natural history to aviation.

City Parking

Thinking of taking a day trip to D.C. in your motorhome, but fearing the nightmare of finding a parking space for your vehicle? The Union Station parking garage in downtown D.C. offers parking intended for tour buses, but motorhomes are permitted too. For $22, you can park your RV worry-free for 24 hours.

Stop by PleasureLand RV Center

What’s holding you back? Plan a trip in your RV to D.C. today. If you need an RV of your own to visit D.C., come see us today at PleasureLand RV Center.

Load Up the RV and Head to Destin

Aerial image of the Destin Harbor in Destin, Florida

If you’ve decided it’s time to pile into the RV and head somewhere sunny to escape what remains of winter, you ought to consider Destin, Florida. With miles of pristine beaches, blue ocean, and tons of diversions, Destin in a family-friendly destination matched by few other places. Here are some of its best attractions.

The Boardwalk

The old Destin Boardwalk is an iconic place to visit, offering covered picnic areas, volleyball nets, restaurant and shopping, and vibrant nightlife. There’s plenty of parking, public restrooms, and outdoor showers for beach goers. The Boardwalk has enough variety to occupy everyone in your party for a day, so plan accordingly.

Big Kahuna’s

Swimming in the ocean is fun, but sometimes you want water that’s not full of salt and maybe a ride or two. Big Kahuna’s got more than two rides — with over 40 water attractions and an adventure park, Big Kahuna’s is perfect for a family looking to cool off.

Gulfarium

A comprehensive aquarium featuring marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, the Gulfarium will satisfy both those who love marine life and those who just love to learn something new. Featuring bottle-nose dolphins, sea lions, and mixed species shows, it’s quite a spectacle. Other habitat displays include otters, sharks, turtles, penguins, and even an albino alligator.

Visit PleasureLand RV Center

Don’t leave town before you stop by PleasureLand RV Center, especially if you’ve had your RV in storage and are dusting it off for the first trip of the season. The service center at PleasureLand RV Center can make sure that your rig is in good shape to handle any trip you’re planning to take, such as to Destin, Florida. If you think it’s time to retire the old RV for a new one or if you’re thinking about buying your first RV ever, don’t hesitate to drop by PleasureLand RV Center to find your new dream RV today.

Visit Black Hills, South Dakota

Stormy skies over the Needles area in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

“Go west, young man, go west” was first used in 1851 by John B. L. Soule and later reprinted by Horace Greeley in 1865. It was a saying that many took to heart, at that time, and moved to the west to set up a home.

Since the days of the old west when the frontier was a place of new beginnings as well as excitement and adventure, it has retained that spirit drawing vacationers year after year.

A trip to the Black Hills and the Badlands is one of those destination locations not to be missed.

Black Hills

With more than 6,000 square miles to explore, you’re sure to discover plenty of activities to suit everyone of all ages.

Within the Black Hills and Badlands, enjoy hikes, off road biking, boating, fishing and wildlife observation at these parks:

  • Black Hills National Forest
  • Custer National Forest
  • Badlands National Park
  • Custer State Park
  • Bear Butte State Park
  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial
  • Wind Cave National Park and Devils Tower Monument
  • Shade Hill Recreational Area
  • Bear Butte State park
  • Buffalo Gap National Grasslands
  • Jewel Cave National Monument

Attractions

Kids will get a kick out of Bear Country USA. Plan a zipline excursion at Rushmore Cave, take to the treetops at Rushmore Tramway Adventures or the Alpine Slide.

Sit back and enjoy the Dakotaride Summer Sled Dog Tours or settle in for a 20-mile ride on the 1880s steam train at the Black Hills Central Railroad.

For the adults, head to Deadwood for plenty of gaming action at one of many casinos including Miss Kitty’s Casino, Midnight Star, Mckennas Gold Casino, and the landmark Saloon No. 10 for more action.

Visit PleasureLand RV Center

Before you hit the road to the Black Hills of South Dakota, stop in at PleasureLand RV Center to ensure that your RV is in good shape for traveling. If you don’t own an RV yet and would like to make a trip to the Black Hills your inaugural trip, stop by and tour the inventory at PleasureLand RV Center and find the rig that’s right for you.

Visit Wild Mountain in Your RV

Looking for your next destination? If you’re not wanting to travel too far, head to Wild Mountain near Taylors Falls, Minnesota.

Open year round to families looking for outdoor fun, Wild Mountain is nestled in the scenic St. Croix Valley.

Winter Fun

It’s currently winter, and that means that it’s skiing and snowboarding season at Wild Mountain. With a mix of terrain to challenge any skill level, from novice to expert, there are 26 trails to try your hand at spread over 100 acres. The onsite school offers lessons to help learn the ropes of winter sports. Daily groundskeeping makes sure that conditions are always optimal for winter fun.

Other Seasons

If you can’t make it over to Wild Mountain this winter, plan to stop in later this year. There’s plenty to do every season, from sightseeing the spring blooms to the fun waterpark of the summer to the foliage of fall.

Stay at Wildwood RV Park and Campground

If you need a place to plant your rig, try the Wildwood RV Park and Campground located at 20078 Lake Blvd, Taylors Falls, Minnesota. The park has 70 sites, which include pull-thru access for big rigs, electric hookups for up to 50 amps, water and sewer, WiFi, and pool access.

Visit PleasureLand RV Center

Stop by PleasureLand RV Center before you head out to Wild Mountain. Whether you need to make sure your RV is in good shape before a road trip by visiting our service center or you need to purchase an RV, PleasureLand RV Center is here to help.

Take the Kids to Disney World

Disney World Fireworks

Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is a great destination for families with children. It’s a bucket list item for most kids and offers a great opportunity to have some fun on their terms.

If you’re also an RVing family, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t go there in your motorhome since there are plenty of good RV parks that are well-suited to visitors with Disney World in mind.

One of the better RV camping sites at Disney World is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. It’s the only campground located at Walt Disney World Resort, and guests enjoy easy access to the park via shuttle.

There are four types of campsites available for visitors and which campsite you need depends on your rig.

Tent or Pop-Up campsites are available starting at $53.00 a night. They provide room for either a pop-up camper or van-type camper, plus a tent or two.

Full Hook-Up campsites are available starting from $71.00 per night; these offer room for an RV plus a few tents. You’ll want this site for sewage hook-up.

The Preferred campsite level starts from $85.00 a night and offers everything that a full hook-up sites offers plus a view of the woods.

The Premium is the best type of site and starts at $90.00 a night. There’s room for extra-large RVs and 8 more feet of room than the other sites.

Go here to check dates and availability.

Visit PleasureLand RV Center

Before you head out to Disney World, or any other destination, stop by PleasureLand RV Center to get your rig checked out and make sure it’s up for the journey. Want to stay at an RV resort near Disney World, but don’t have an RV? No problem! PleasureLand RV Center can help get you into the RV of your dreams. Come on by and tour any model on the lot.

Head Down to Florida

St. Augustine, Florida, USA at Alcazar Courtyard

If the Sunshine State is on your agenda of places to explore, a new or used travel trailer or fifth wheel will ensure you have a fabulous time in the comfort of your own space. PleasureLand RV Center will get you decked out in the perfect recreational vehicle or have your current RV tuned and ready to take on the Florida landscape.

Panhandle

Panama Beach is one of the premier locations for miles of wide open sugar-white sand beaches. Laid back and casual atmosphere, Panana Beach provides plenty of opportunities for water activities, sunbathing and fine dining.

Central

Disney World is the number one vacation sport for families. Add Universal, Epcot, SeaWorld, Hollywood Studios and Island of Adventure and the family will be busy from morning until night. For adults, the Hard Rock and a bevy of nightclubs keeps the action hot and the cocktails cool.

East Coast

Start off with a visit to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the US, take a walk on the boardwalk at Daytona Beach, and visit the Kennedy Space Center in Melbourne. Head down the coast to the mega shopping area of Las Olas in Ft. Lauderdale then move on to Miami for more fun in the sun with the beautiful people of South Beach. Shopping, dining, picnicking, attractions, horse racing, and a busy nightlife are awaiting in South Florida.

The Keys

Stop along the way in Islamorada, Key Largo, and Marathon, then make your way to Key West. Along the way, you can fish, swim, snorkel, hike, canoe, or take a cruise to the Dry Tortugas.

West Coast

Plan a day at Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island, Clearwater, and Treasure Island for swimming, then head to Tampa for fun at Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, world renowned Lowry Park, Big Cat Rescue sanctuary, Seminole Casino, and historic Ybor City.

Visit PleaureLand RV Center

Come see us at PleasureLand RV Center before you head for Florida, or any other destination, this winter.

Fun Activities for the Road!

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The RV lifestyle is full of adventure, excitement, and exploration, and while all of the outdoor activities can certainly bring your family closer together, there are also tons of indoor activities that can too. Consider some of these fun games and activities for the down time spent inside your RV, and you’ll never fear rainy days or long hours on the road again.

Hold an RV Treasure Hunt

Turn down time into fun time with a treasure hunt right inside your RV. Create a variety of clues to hide throughout your RV or even around the campsite if the weather is nice. Make it a competition with a small prize going to the winner, or have the kids follow the clues as a team and reward everyone with a prize at the end.

Create a Special Meal Together

Whether it’s a festive Mexican taco night, your very own RV pizzeria or just your family’s favorite meal — cooking a dinner together can be the perfect way to bond on a rainy day or during that down time after an adventure. If you’ve got an entire day to fill, decorate your RV with your dinner’s theme before you start cooking. And don’t forget to get your kids involved in the easier aspects of cooking (stirring, plating, etc.)

Turn Your RV Into a Movie Theater

Instead of simply turning out the lights and popping a movie into the DVD player, set your RV up as a movie theater for rainy days or those long movie nights. Make sure you have movie-theater-style popcorn and treats on hand, and if you’ll be making a day of it, stock up on a variety of movies you’ve never seen. If possible, position your RV furniture in rows in front of the television to resemble movie theater style seating.

Indoor and Outdoor Games at PleasureLand

Getting tired of the old board games you’ve had in your RV for years? Check out our huge selection of indoor and outdoor camping games at our online parts store or stop in and see us at PleasureLand RV Center — your local Minnesota RV dealer — today.

Best Minnesota Biking Trails

Rider on Mountain Bicycle it the field

Cyclists who visit Minnesota will find ample opportunities for fun and challenge with Minnesota’s biking trails. Touting some truly beautiful trails of all skill levels and with over 4000 miles of paved bike trails, you’re sure to find trails that aren’t quite like those anywhere else. Here are some of the best bike trails that Minnesota has to offer.

Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails

The first state park in Minnesota built specifically for mountain biking, it sits on the Iron Range of Central Minnesota about 20 miles northeast of Brainerd.

Offering 25 miles of mountain bike trails year round, there are trails suitable for all skill levels.

Duluth

One of four gold level ride centers in the United States, there are some publications and blogs that contend that Duluth has the best mountain biking in the world. With lift-accessible downhill trails at Spirit Mountain, Lester, and Duluth Traverse, Duluth has continuously beaten out other biking sites to be recognized as one of the country’s best.

Twin Cities

If you’re into urban biking, the Twin Cities are some of the most biker friendly cities in the country. Of course, there are also plenty of parks sprinkled throughout the metro area. With nature and skyline views along some trails, the Twin Cities offer some dynamic biking opportunities.

Visit PleasureLand RV Center

Stop by PleasureLand RV Center if you want to tour an RV you can take on your next biking trip. An RV allows you to travel in more comfort and to stay out longer. Let PleasureLand RV Center connect you to your perfect motorhome or travel trailer.

Destination Review: St. Augustine, Florida

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St. Augustine, Florida, is a popular RV destination among snowbirds and summer beach-goers. However, you may be wondering if it’s the right destination for you. This review of the historic Florida city, and its picture-perfect beaches, will help you determine if you should fire up your RV and cruise down to the Sunshine State.

Outdoor Recreation

Many RV enthusiasts choose their destinations based on the number of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed there. St. Augustine offers something for everyone, ranging from acclaimed golf courses to state parks, marinas and beaches. Whether you’re into horseback riding, fishing, hiking, boating, biking or kayaking, you can enjoy it all in this seaside Florida city.

History

St. Augustine offers a different culture than many other Florida towns. Instead of relying entirely on its beaches for tourism, the city is home to an array of tourist attractions, including history museums, Spanish colonial architecture, ancient homes and more. The city claims to be the oldest in the United States, and the pristine Castillo de San Marcos 17th-century fortress allows visitors to travel back in time while overlooking the picture-perfect St. Augustine Inlet.

The Beaches

Despite its incredible history and number of available activities, St. Augustine is most famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise ocean waters. Instead of offering one beach for visitors to cram, St. Augustine allows beachcombers to enjoy more space at several nearby beach strands. Vilano Beach, South Ponte Vedra Beach, Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine Beach and Butler Beach are just a few of the many that can be explored by visitors.

St. Augustine Camping

St. Augustine is home to a number of RV parks that make camping close to the action easy; however, these parks can get extremely crowded in the busy summer and winter months.

St. Augustine receives a 4 out of 5 score for its history, beaches, crowds and all of the other features that make this area of Florida so special.

Start preparing for your summer and winter getaways today right here at the PleasureLand RV Centers throughout Minnesota.

The Best Flyfishing Destinations in the U.S.

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Summer RV adventures are some of the best of the year. They involve warm summer days and cooling off in rivers, lakes and oceans across the country. It’s also one of the best times of year to get in the water and catch some fish. These four fly fishing spots are some of the best in the country, so you can catch more fish on your summer adventures this year.

San Juan River, New Mexico

There’s no better way to cool down on a hot New Mexico day than in the waters of the San Juan River. It’s one of the country’s most impressive big-trout rivers, known for sending fishermen home with trout as long as their arms. Catch brown, rainbow, and rainbow-cutthroats one after the other. The fishing gets a bit busier in the summer months, but don’t worry, there are plenty of trout in the San Juan to go around.

Alagnak River, Alaska

A trip to Alaska this summer may seem like a journey, but it’s the best time to visit a state that is frigidly cold in the winter months. Guided fly fishing tours are some of the best ways to go on the Alagnak, because the experts will guide you to the best spots to snag massive arctic grayling, rainbow trout and Pacific salmon. Other perks of fishing in Alaska are the moose, beaver, eagle and Alaskan brown bear sightings that are common along the river.

Bighorn River, Montana

Montana is known for some of the country’s most impressive fly fishing areas, and the Bighorn River is guaranteed to send you home with some massive trout. The waters are highly productive, which means large amounts of insects hatch year-round. Don’t be surprised if you reel in more trout than you can eat.

Colorado River Headwaters, Colorado

If you’re not into fishing with crowds, you’ll love a guided experience on the ponds, alpine lakes and rivers of the Colorado River headwaters. Ten miles of private water provide some of the best catch-and-release fly fishing for brook, cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout in the U.S.

Start Your Adventure at PleasureLand RV Center

Start all of your summer RV adventures right here at PleasureLand RV Center. Whether you’re in need of a new RV, service, or simply some camping supplies, PleasureLand RV Center has got you covered.