The Top 3 Places in Minnesota for Family Fun

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There’s no better time of year than summer in Minnesota, and you won’t have to travel far to reach some of the state’s most exciting sites. These three destinations are some of the best in the state for enjoying family fun this summer.

The Mall of America

Taking your kids to the mall may not sound like a family-friendly activity, but the Mall of America is unlike any other mall in the world. You can take this year’s back-to-school shopping to the next level this august while taking breaks to ride the rides at Nickelodeon Universe, explore the Sea Life aquarium, enjoy the Barbie “The Dream House experience,” and take part in a number of other family-friendly activities. Even better, the Mall of America and all of its included activities can be enjoyed rain or shine.

The Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo is located just a few minutes south of the Mall of America, and it offers even more fun for kids and adults. It’s home to more than 4,300 animals in a variety of environments ranging from the tundra and lush tropical forests to the boreal forest, marine center and so much more. The Minnesota Zoo is also the perfect place to enjoy a birthday party or other celebration.

Spirit Mountain

Spirit Mountain isn’t just a winter destination anymore. This skiing and snowboarding hotspot near Duluth is just as much fun in summer as it is in winter. Spirit Mountain’s adventure park features a zip line, scenic lift rides, a disc golf course, mountain biking trails, mini golf and even day camps for kids. The park’s signature Timber Twister alpine roller coaster features a 3,200 foot track that’s exhilarating for adults and kids alike.

Start Your Adventure at PleasureLand

The best way to travel to Minnesota’s best family-friendly attractions is in the comfort and convenience of a new or used RV from PleasureLand RV Center. Stop in and see us in St. Cloud, Ramsey, Brainerd or Long Prairie to find the perfect RV for your family adventures.

Father’s Day Gifts

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Instead of picking up a typical Father’s Day gift, get your dad something for the RV. If your dad doesn’t have an RV you might consider getting an RV for him for his special day. Now that would be the ultimate gift, especially for a dad who loves to hike, fish or hunt.

Find the Perfect Accessories

Stop by Pleasureland RV to pick up accessories including 12-volt accessories such as a coffee maker, power inverter, heated blanket, 7-liter cooler, portable stove or ceramic heater fan. These items all run o 12 volts, which means you plug them into a cigarette lighter. They’re perfect for highway stops or dry camping overnight on the way to a destination.

Find the Perfect RV

Whether your dad would prefer a motorized RV, fifth wheel, toy hauler, travel trailer or even a camper that slides onto a pickup truck, we have something for every dad. Choose from brand new or pre-owned for several brands and models. Find an RV that sleeps just two or something that sleeps up to 10 people. If your dad loves or needs a ton of space, find an RV with at least one slide – some have up to four slides.

If your father has a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, snowmobile or other “toy” he would like to take camping, a toy hauler might be in order. Depending on the size of the garage area, you can fit two bikes or at least two ATVs in it. Most toy haulers also have extra bunks for friends or family.

If your dad prefers the lap of luxury, then choose a travel trailer, fifth wheel or motorized RV with luxury features.

You can even search for RVs by price. Visit our web site, then click “Specials.” Choose your price range from the left menu. If you know you want to give your dad a brand new RV for Father’s Day, click “New,” then search by brand, price, manufacturer, type and location.

Visit Pleasureland RV

Stop by Pleasureland RV to pick up any accessories or a new RV for your dad for Father’s Day.

RV Must-Haves to Help You Be a Happy Camper

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The RV lifestyle is undeniably relaxing, but adjusting to a more compact lifestyle can seem tough at first. These simple RV travel hacks will help you maximize space and enjoy your RV lifestyle to the fullest, so you never feel the urge to go back home.

#1. Dry Food Containers Make Great Waste Baskets

You’ve probably already realized that standard round wastebaskets take up far more space in an RV than they do at home. Replace your wastebaskets with dry food containers to maximize your storage and waste space. The tall, thin containers fit easily under cabinets and in tight spaces.

#2. Use Shoe Organizers for Storage

Shoe organizers have become must-have items in most RVs. These handy organizer work flawlessly for cleaning supplies, bathroom products, clothing and miscellaneous items. Even better, they can be hung behind a door, along the bottom of your bed or in a number of other out-of-sight places.

#3. Create Your Own Waste Tank Cleaner

Keeping your waste tank fresh is essential to enjoying your time on the road, but costly cleaners can seem frustrating at first. Make your own waste tank cleaner by mixing a cup of Borax detergent with 1/2 cup Calgon Water Softener for the fresh tank smell and cleanliness without the cost.

#4. Save Your Free Condiments

Compact kitchens come with compact refrigerators. Save your excess packaged condiments from roadside stops, so you don’t have to crowd your mini-fridge with bulky ketchup, mustard and soy sauce bottles.

#5. Use a Collapsible Laundry Basket for Trash

Acquiring trash at the campsite is inevitable, and having a tiny trash bin can make it difficult to manage your waste. Line a collapsible laundry basket with a large trash bag to serve as your campsite waste bin. A properly sized waste basket means less trash ends up in nature.

#6. Find All of Your RV Needs at PleasureLand

The PleasureLand RV Center online parts store is open 24 hours a day, so you can find parts and camping supplies when you need them most.

Spring Specials at PleasureLand RV Center

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The spring RV season is underway and there’s no better time to get into the RV of your dreams than now. PleasureLand RV Center is offering some unbeatable deals to help you get into a new RV this season. The following are some of our favorite specials going on right now, but log online or stop in and see us to view our entire selection of in-stock RVs.

2014 Keystone RV Summerland 1890FL

This gently-used 2014 Keystone Summerland gives you the opportunity to enjoy the luxuries of a brand-new RV for the price of a used one. This 23.5-foot-long travel trailer offers a compact and convenient layout with a spacious bathroom, double bed, bunk bed, sofa bed, dinette and galley kitchen. Some of the RV’s top-end features include a 13.5 BTU air conditioner, radial tires, tinted safety glass, an electric awning, four stabilizer jacks, a microwave, exterior shower and Keystone’s Summer Package. It’s available right now for $11,850, and it won’t last long.

2014 Keystone RV Springdale 287RB

If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the road in 2015, the Keystone Springdale 287RB is the perfect upgrade from your current travel trailer. This luxury RV is equipped with numerous Keystone packages, an outdoor kitchen, electric awning, vaulted ceiling system, aluminum wheels, an outdoor shower, a deluxe entertainment system, enclosed underbelly, sleeping space for five and all of the luxuries you need to love your RV lifestyle.

2013 Forest River Shamrock 231KSS

The 2013 Forest River Shamrock is the perfect budget-friendly camper for travelers who are tired of sleeping on the cold, hard ground. High-end features, like an entertainment center, three-burner range, refrigerator, pantry, microwave, exterior storage and overhead cabinets, turn this convenient camper into your home away from home. Even better, this 2013 Shamrock is available at PleasureLand RV Center in Ramsey right now for just $18,995.

Spring Break Fun in MInnesota

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There may still be snow on the ground, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an unforgettable spring break in Minnesota this year. From a ski vacation to dog sledding and shopping, the number of exciting activities you can do this spring are endless. Fire up your RV and cruise to some of these awesome destinations for a spring break your family will never forget.

Ski and Ride at Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort

You don’t have to be in a warm-weather destination to enjoy your spring break this year. Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort offers non-stop fun for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Additional activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and live music on weekends make this the perfect destination to let loose this year.

Shop Until You Drop at Mall of America

It’s hard not to have a good time at the Mall of America, and with so many new attractions on site, you’ll enjoy your visit no matter how many times you’ve been. New establishments and activities like Creative Kidstuff, Hard Rock Cafe, the Radisson Blue hotel, Barbie the Dream House Experience, Nickelodeon Universe zip line and numerous others make Mall of America an ideal place for an action-packed vacation.

Hike Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

A little bit of snow on the ground doesn’t mean you can’t take part in some outdoor adventures this spring. Visit the Mille Lacs Kathio State Park in central Minnesota and explore their 19 miles of cross-country ski trails, nearly 20 miles of snowmobile trails, marked snowshoe trails and countless other adventures.

Don’t forget to bring your RV by PleasureLand RV Center before you head out on your spring break adventures. We’re your one-stop shop for Minnesota RV sales, service and so much more.

Don’t Miss Lakes Jam 2015

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Make 2015 your best camping season yet by taking your RV to Lakes Jam 2015 in Brainerd, Minn. Lakes Jam is the premier rock and country music festival in Minnesota, featuring top names like Don Felder, Lee Brice, Chase Rice, Jerrod Niemann and even more world-renowned acts to be announced. The festival takes place in the gorgeous Brainerd Lakes area, allowing you an unforgettable camping experience and so much fun you’ll make plans to come back next year.

The Lakes Jam Festival

The Lakes Jam Festival is unlike any other festival in the country for a number of reasons. Not only does the festival deliver some of the best acts in the country and rock music genres, but visitors enjoy an incredible outdoor experience as well. Golf carts and ATVs are authorized for use at the event, and the Steering Wheel Pass to use them is just $20, so you can enjoy easy access to the shows.

Camping at the Festival

Camping is a big part of the Lakes Jam Festival and RVs are more than welcome on site. The festival offers full-service and general campsites, and campfires are permitted as long as they are kept inside a 3-foot ring and monitored. All vehicles in the campground area must have a Steering Wheel or Campsite Pass and every person at the campsite needs a Weekend Concert Pass or VIP Weekend Concert Package.

Festival Details

The Lakes Jam Festival will take place from June 25 to June 27, this year and the live concerts will kick off on Thursday evening. Camping opens at 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, so you can set up camp early and start enjoying the fun. Tickets and camping passes are available for sale right now, so lock yourself into the experience of a lifetime today.

Find the Best Camping Gear at PleasureLand

Find all of the top RV parts and camping supplies for Lakes Jam 2015 right here at PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota. With numerous locations throughout the state, and one right here in Brainerd, we make it easy for you to pick up supplies or have your RV repaired in a pinch.

2015 Adventures in Minnesota

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gomattolson/Flickr Creative Commons

Minnesota is more than the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it’s the land of 10,000 adventures too. No matter what time of year you plan on visiting Minnesota, there are tons of exciting indoor and outdoor excursions to enjoy. Put these adventures on your bucket list for 2015, and it may just be your best RV travel year yet.

Vertical Endeavors

It doesn’t have to be warm outside to go rock climbing. Vertical Endeavors, with locations in Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth, is an indoor rock climbing facility with exciting climbs for all ages and all skill levels. The facility is open year round with programs and lessons for groups or individuals. Whether you’re an expert climber or complete novice, Vertical Endeavors can provide the adventure you’ve been seeking.

North Shore Expeditions

Getting out on the lakes is a must when you’re in Minnesota, and a kayak adventure can be one of the best ways to do it. North Shore Expeditions in Grand Marais offers day trips, camping trips and kayak lessons on some of Minnesota’s most gorgeous waterways. If you’ll be traveling to Minnesota in some of the warmer months this year, a visit to North Shore Expeditions will be an adventure you’ll never forget.

Silver Creek Sled Dogs

Embrace winter in Minnesota with a Silver Creek Sled Dogs adventure. Silver Creek Sled Dogs offer partial day, full day and overnight dog sledding excursions in the gorgeous Minnesota wilderness. Rides are available until April 15, and the Silver Creek Sled Dogs company in Two Harbors can be reached at (218) 834-6592 for reservations.

Start Your Adventures at PleasureLand

PleasureLand RV Center is your one-stop RV shop in Minnesota, and with locations in Ramsey, Willmar, Brainerd and St. Cloud, there’s always one nearby when you’re visiting the North Star State. You can count on us for all of your RV sales, service, parts and accessories needs while you’re out adventuring in 2015. And if you’re just getting started with the RV lifestyle, our qualified staff is here six days a week to help you buy or rent the RV of your dreams.

Increasing Storage Space in Your RV

No matter what type of RV you pick out, whether it’s a fifth wheel, travel trailer, toy hauler, motorized RV or a pop-up trailer, you’re bound to run out of space, especially if you are going on an extended trip. You can maximize storage space by adding several different storage solutions.

Stop by PleasureLand RV to browse through our store for storage containers and helpers – or make your own customized storage helpers.

Slide-Out Caddies

Often, lower cabinets are high and it’s difficult to use all of the space. You can maximize under-counter space by installing sliding shelving. Use under-sink areas in the galley or bathroom for more than storing cleaning materials – you can store towels, dish rags, wash cloths, soap and more, and each item can have its own slide-out basket.

Slide-out storage solutions also work under tables and under overhead cabinets. If you are handy with a saw and a drill, you can even install a slide-out cutting board. Not only do you have a place to store the cutting board, but it gives you additional counter space.

Stemware Racks and Hooks

Instead of letting your cups and stemware slide around inside a cupboard, use under-shelf stemware racks to hold stemware; and use hooks on the insides of doors or under overhead cabinets to store coffee cups. While you’re at it, mount an under-cabinet coffee maker to save room on the countertop.

Shoe Organizers

If you don’t have a lot of space in the bathroom – or any room for that matter – use shoe organizers to maximize wall space. Buy or cut them to size for storing toothpaste, brushes, soap, hand towels, television remotes, tablets, phones, kitchen utensils or anything that you can think of. Look for webbed organizers for the bathroom. If you can’t find a shoe organizers that looks good in the area you need it, you can make something yourself if you are handy with a sewing machine, crochet hook or even a cross stitch needle.

Velcro

Velcro works for many things, whether you need to store television remotes on the side of a chair, need to have a convenient way to mount a GPS onto the dash, or even to hold the bottom of an organizer in place so that it doesn’t swing.

Stop by PleasureLand RV today to pick up slide-out solutions or other storage solutions for your RV.

Must-Have Tips for RV Living

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Sean Davis/Flickr Creative Commons

There’s no better place to learn about RV living than from travelers who have lived life on the road. And these must-have tips have been compiled by some of the most experienced RV travelers in the country — members of the Escapees RV Club. So next time you hit the road, keep these helpful tips on hand to help your RV travels roll along more smoothly.

RV Living Tips From the Experts

  1. Always keep wheel locks on hand.
  2. Become a member of the Escapees RV Club and embark on some RV rallies.
  3. Invest in a high quality sewer hose or two and have the correct connectors on hand.
  4. Check the condition of your tires and the tire pressure before each journey.
  5. Create a checklist for all of your departures.
  6. Know how to maintain your chassis and house batteries and check them often.
  7. Keep more than one fire extinguisher in your RV.
  8. Don’t travel with any items that have less than two uses.
  9. Throw your toilet paper in the trash instead of the toilet to save room in your black water tank.
  10. Scott’s single-ply toilet paper is less expensive and more comfortable than special RV toilet papers.
  11. Buy small surge protectors for every appliance in your RV.
  12. Turn your water heater on roughly 30 minutes before you plan to use hot water.
  13. Let your black water tank fill at least halfway before you empty it.
  14. Always keep bottled water or a water filter in your vehicle in case the campground’s water is not drinkable.
  15. Take your time and see the sights. There’s no need to race to the next destination.
  16. Volunteer at your destinations to meet new people and get involved in new communities.
  17. Keep a magnetic key somewhere on your rig, so you never have to worry about being locked out.
  18. Travel to a number of RV campgrounds before you choose to join an RV campground organization.

Find All of Your RV Needs at PleasureLand

We’ve got everything you need to enjoy the best RV lifestyle possible right here at PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota. Stop in one of our massive Camper’s General Stores in Ramsey or St. Cloud or shop our online parts store 24 hours a day.

Customizing Your RV

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Millennium Motor Coach/Flickr Creative Commons

Each RV traveler has different wants and needs for his or her RV lifestyle. And the only way to get an RV that’s designed just for you, is to customize it just the way you like it. Whether that involves making interior decor changes, upgrading your RV mattress, swapping out your shower head or installing vent fans, your RV can be exactly what you want it to be with a little creativity and help from the staff here at PleasureLand.

Upgrade Your RV’s Decor

Older RV models often have very outdated decor features or simply a color scheme that’s not as appealing as it used to be. Upgrading your RV’s interior can be made simple by purchasing new bed coverings, rugs, throw pillows, towels and other soft goods. Reupholstering your sofa or dinette and upgrading your laminate countertops to solid surface ones are bigger upgrades that can make a huge difference in the way your RV looks and feels.

Get More Comfortable

Compacting your life inside an RV means you have to sacrifice a few of the luxuries you learned to love in your brick-and-mortar home. But many of those luxuries don’t have to be left behind. Consider swapping your RV’s dull stock shower head for one that can amplify your water pressure and even help you conserve water on the road.

RV mattresses can be less than comfortable as well, but that doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend thousands on a top-end mattress for your life on the road. Consider upgrading your mattress with a simple 2-inch memory foam mattress cover. These are often easy to clean and inexpensive, so you can purchase one for every bed in your motorhome, travel trailer or fifth wheel.

Upgrade Your RV at PleasureLand

For bigger upgrades — like air-conditioning and vent fan installs, battery upgrades, inverters and just about any modification you want to make inside our outside of your RV — PleasureLand RV Center is here to help. Our certified RV service technicians are here to handle all of your install, repair, general maintenance and even body shop needs, so you can enjoy your RV lifestyle to the fullest.