December 25th, 2017 -
Camping seems simple enough — arrive at the campsite or RV park, sprawl out and enjoy a weekend, week or even months at your new destination. However, there are certain things that make campgrounds work, and many of those things involve the behavior of those who are camping there. This simple guide to campground etiquette will help you and your fellow campers enjoy each camping experience to the fullest.
Leave Nothing Behind
The first part of enjoying the great outdoors is doing as little harm to it as possible. Always pack up your campsite, then double and triple check that you haven’t left any items or trash behind. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
Be Friendly
When you’re at a campground or RV park, you know you have a common interest with everyone else there. Invite your campground neighbors over for snacks or drinks and encourage your little ones to make new campground friends. Often times, the people you meet at the campsite become lifelong friends.
Time your Awning and Outdoor Lights
It can be easy to forget to turn off your awning, porch or other outdoor lights. Set your lights on a timer, so they never use excessive power and keep your fellow campers up at night. Your outdoor lights may not seem bright to you, but the camper next door may be staring at them all night long.
Leave Extra Wood Behind
Every camper has arrived at a campground late and endured the struggle of finding firewood at night. One of the best bits of campground etiquette you can practice is leaving some of your firewood behind for the next camper. They’ll be elated to be able to start a fire upon arrival, and hopefully the favor will be returned to you by someone else.
Find Your Dream Camping Vehicle
A happy camper makes a good camper, and there’s no better way to get excited about camping than to purchase a top-quality new RV. Stop in and see us at PleasureLand RV Center to find your dream RV today.
June 26th, 2017 -
There are countless scenic hiking trails throughout Minnesota for all levels of hikers, and the following three are a few of our favorites.
Minnehaha Creek East
One of the biggest perks of Minnesota’s hiking trails is that they can be enjoyed during all seasons. This hike along the Minnehaha Creek is nearly 5 miles of breathtaking scenery in the summertime, but it’s certainly more difficult when there’s snow on the ground. It’s located Richfield, Minn., so you can enjoy a refreshing breath of the Minnesota outdoors just minutes from downtown Minneapolis.
Eagle Mountain Summit
Hikes are more fun when there’s a reward at the end. Eagle Mountain is the highest peak in the state, and the 6.6-mile-long tail that leads to the summit passes a glacial lake and scenic backcountry campsites. Hikers enjoy the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which includes 1,000 lakes as well as the massive Superior National Forest. The trail to the top is mostly flat with a steeper incline for the last mile, but be sure to stop at Whale Lake for a refreshing dip and a picnic.
Cascade Falls to Lookout Mountain
Hiking past waterfalls never gets old, and the Cascade Falls to Lookout Mountain passes countless of them. Venture on the 4.1-mile-long hike, and you’ll be rewarded with cascades, scenic wooded hills and unbeatable views of Lake Superior from the top. The trail is located in the Cascade River State Park in Duluth, offering a breathtaking escape from the city.
Start Your Adventure at PleasureLand
There’s no better way to travel to your favorite Minnesota hiking trails than in the comfort and convenience of your RV. Stop in and see us at one of our many Minnesota PleasureLand RV Center locations to start your new RV lifestyle today.
May 23rd, 2017 -
Huddling around a campfire with your friends and family is always fun, but campfire games make it even more enjoyable. These five campfire games are fun for all ages, and they don’t require any accessories, so you can play them whether you’re tent camping or at the RV park with your motorhome.
1. Name That Tune
This game is simple, and it’s even more fun if you have a musician in your group of campers. Have your musician begin playing a song or play the beginning of a song on your phone or MP3 player. The first person to guess the name of the tune wins a point, and the person with the highest number of points at the end of the game wins.
2.
Telephone
Telephone is a game that always ends in a lot of laughs. Start with one person in your group and have them think of a phrase. The phrase is then whispered from one person to another around the campfire. The last person will then recite the final phrase. Hint: It is often much different than the original.
3. The No Game
The No Game is played by forbidding everyone at your campfire to say the word “no.” Campers can ask each other questions and make comments to get each other to say the word. Each person who says “no” is eliminated, and the last person standing wins.
4. Charades
Charades is a campfire game guaranteed to make you laugh. Have one person come up with a topic and attempt to act it out. The first person to guess correctly wins.
5. Pass the Ghost Story
It’s not a campfire without a ghost story. Have one player start the ghost story with one sentence then let every person in the circle add a sentence. Make it around your circle at least twice before finishing the story.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Before you hit the road this camping season, don’t forget to stop in and see us at your one-stop RV shop — PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota.
March 16th, 2017 -
If you’re always on the lookout for the next place to take your RV, PleasureLand RV Center is here to give you a suggestion: Maplewood State Park. The park sprawls over 10,279 acres and attracts over 100,000 visitors annually. Maplewood sits on a series of high tree-covered hills that provide visitors with striking vistas of small, clear lakes nestled in deep valleys.
Maplewood State Park features eight major lakes and numerous ponds, offering water lovers places to enjoy their water sports, like swimming, fishing, and boating. The lakes offer plenty of sandy beaches and recreation areas on the shore for sunbathing, grilling, and picnicking.
Drive along the park’s scenic route to view the flora and fauna in the park, including 150 bird species and 50 species of mammal, including deer, beavers, racoon, squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks. The trails are also a great way to see the wildlife while you hike, horseback ride, or cross-country ski (in the colder months).
Spring through fall, the park is “dressed” with displays of trillium, hepatica, bloodroot, yellow lady’s slipper, wild onion, prairie rose, and showy milkweed. If you go in the fall, the park turns into a fall wonderland with brilliant shades of orange, gold, and red.
The park is located 7 miles east of Pelican Rapids on State Highway 108.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Visit PleasureLand RV Center before you head to Maplewood State Park or any other destination this spring. Besides helping to make sure that your RV is ready for the road, PleasureLand RV Center can also help you get into a new RV if it’s time to upgrade or even if you’re shopping for your first rig.
September 13th, 2016 -
If you’re an avid hunter, we have news that you probably know, but that you’ll nonetheless love to hear: hunting season is here! Beginning September 17th in Minnesota, you’ll be able to head out and hunt your favorite game.
So what game is open season beginning September 17th?
- Deer Hunting – Archery (until December 31)
- Ruffed Grouse (until January 1)
- Spruce Grouse (until January 1)
- Sharptailed Grouse (until November 30)
- Hungarian Partridge (until January 1)
- Rabbits (until February 28)
- Squirrels (until February 28)
What You Need in Order to Hunt on September 17th
You’ll need a license for what you plan to hunt; a full list can be found here. Current regulations can be found here.
There’s more game open to hunt on September 24th:
- Woodcock (until November 7)
- Prairie Chicken (until October 2)
- For later dates, refer to this list.
Hunting is Better with an RV
Hunting is better if you’re in an RV. You can setup in a good spot, go spend the day hunting, and then head back to your RV for a convenient place to process your game and spend the night. That way, you don’t have to worry about getting back home after a long day. If you’re interested in an RV, come shop PleasureLand RV Center’s inventory today.
April 14th, 2016 -
Check lists are essential to the RV lifestyle. They help campers pack the correct travel supplies, prepare their RVs for the road and remember everything before leaving the RV park. This simple checklist for the campground will ensure you have all of the supplies you need to make the most of your next travel adventure.
Bedding
- Sheets and blankets
- Pillows
Cooking Supplies
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Water
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Cooler
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Ice
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Thermos
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Dutch oven
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Firewood
- Lighter
- Measuring cups
- Tablecloth
- Plates, bowls and silverware
- Cooking oil
- Dish soap
- Trash bags
- Paper towels
- Tupperware
- Potholders
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils (knives, spatulas, etc.)
- Can opener
- Cutting board
- Ziplock bags
- Dish pan
- Seasonings
Clothing
- Shoes
- Pants
- Shorts
- T-shirts
- Sweatshirt/jacket
- Rain gear
- Pajamas
- Hat
- Underwear
- Bathing suit and towel
- Laundry bag
Personal Items
- Towels
- Shower shoes
- Soap and shampoo
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Comb
- Razor
- Feminine products
- Toilet paper
- Medications (prepare with extra if you’ll be traveling for an extended time)
Miscellaneous Items
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Fully-stocked first-aid kit
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Sunscreen
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Lanterns and head lamps
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Batteries
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Compass
- Insect repellant
- Camera
- Books
- Maps
- Backpack
- Camp chairs
- Sunglasses
- Pocket knife
- Water bottles
- Duct tape
- Phone and charger
- Small shovel
- Scissors
Once you’ve packed all of the necessary items for your trip, inform a friend or family member about your plans. Give them details about where you are going, the route you’re taking, when you plan to arrive and when you’ll return home. Always give them directions and let them know about alternate routes you may take. This makes it possible for someone to locate you if an emergency does occur.
Equip Your RV at PleasureLand
There’s no better way to ensure your RV is ready for the road than to bring it to one of our PleasureLand RV Center locations throughout Minnesota. Our certified RV technicians will inspect your vehicle inside and out and let you know about any maintenance that needs to be performed before you hit the road. And if you’re in need of a new RV for the spring and summer travel seasons, we offer a huge selection of the highest quality motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels.
May 14th, 2015 -
The Land of 10,000 Lakes is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Minnesota’s natural wonders are best displayed in the state’s numerous, stunning state parks. Put these three state parks on your travel radar for the summer of 2015, and you won’t be disappointed.
Grand Portage State Park —
Grand Portage
Along the border of the United States and Canada, Minnesota travelers will find the mesmerizing Grand Portage State Park. The 120-foot-tall waterfalls, riverside hiking trails and mixed hardwood forests are a nature-lover’s dream. It’s easy to be mesmerized by Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, but be sure to explore the remainder of the park’s unique terrain that is home to black bears, white-tail deer, beavers, moose, otter and other wildlife.
Split Rock Creek State Park — Jasper
The Split Rock Creek State Park in Jasper, Minn., is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mellow escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Split Rock Lake is the largest body of water in its county, offering fishing, swimming, boating and other water activities to its guests. Don’t forget to travel seven miles north to the Pipestone National Monument when you’re in the area.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park — Nerstrand
Late spring and early summer are the best times to visit Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, because the wildflowers — including Dutchman’s breeches, bloodroot, dwarf trout lily and roughly 200 other varieties — are in full bloom. The Hidden Falls are a relaxing place to cool off after hours of hiking and bird watching in the forest. Even better, RVs up to 60-feet long are welcome at the campground, and 27 sites are equipped with 30-amp electricity.
Find Your Summer RV at PleasureLand
There’s no better way to ensure you have an incredible summer than by purchasing a new or used RV from PleasureLand RV Center. We’re your one-stop shop for everything from RV sales to service, parts and camping supplies, so stop and see us before you hit the road.
May 13th, 2014 -
There’s something romantic about camping, and with gorgeous campgrounds in the wilderness, on the beach and even in California’s Wine Country, you simply can’t go wrong with a trip to one of these romantic camping destinations.
Moab, Utah
The breathtaking natural scenery of Moab is undeniably romantic, and when it’s coupled with all of the adventures the region has to offer, it’s an ideal romantic camping destination for adventurous couples. From half-day hikes in the picturesque Arches National Park to multi-day hiking and biking excursions, a trip to Moab can be the perfect place to camp out and experience new adventures together.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
With 185 canals weaving through the city, a gorgeous riverwalk and campgrounds just steps from the sea, a trip to the beach could be the romantic vacation of your dreams. For a romantic resort-like feel in the comfort of your RV, reserve a spot at Paradise Island RV Resort and spend your days lounging by the pool or relaxing on the beach just a few minutes away.
Napa Valley, California
One of the most romantic places in the country — California’s Napa Valley — is the perfect getaway for those who love indulging in delicious foods and premium wines in a scenic, outdoors setting. Reserve one day of your camping trip for the Napa Valley Wine Train — an 18-mile train tour through Napa’s picturesque rolling hills and vineyards featuring fine wines and incredible food.
Napa Valley is home to a wide variety of campgrounds and RV parks ranging from upscale resorts to primitive tent camping sites. Tradewinds RV Park of Vallejo offers convenient access to the Napa Valley Wine Train and all of Napa’s favorite tourist destinations as well as a short drive to one of California’s most romantic cities — San Francisco.
Before You Go
Before you hit the road for your romantic RV vacation this spring or summer, stop in and see us at PleasureLand RV Center. We’re more than your local Minnesota RV dealership — each of our four locations offer all of the RV parts, accessories and upgrades you need to make your RV lifestyle the best it can be.
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Image by Wally Gobetz via Flickr Creative Commons
March 19th, 2014 -
There’s no better cure for the record-breaking cold in Minnesota this year, than a few new camping supplies to get you excited about your spring road trips. Come by PleasureLand RV Center or browse our online parts store, and warm yourself up with these awesome new accessories for your RV.
Open Air Zero Gravity Wide Recliner by Camco
Ditch those old, rusty camp chairs and relax in comfort with the Open Air Zero Gravity Wide Recliner. You’ll love the worry-free PVC coated polyester, powder coated steel frame and the UV-protected fabric that make this comfortable recliner one of the most durable in the industry.
Roaster by Camco
With 34-inches of extension, you don’t have to worry about the kids roasting their own s’mores anymore. For just about $10 a piece, you can buy one for everyone in your family and eliminate those unnecessary fights over the hot dog roaster.
Top Toss by Fundex Games
Outdoor Games are some of the most fun you’ll have at the campsite, and the Top Toss game by Fundex is exciting for players of all ages. Toss the bolo balls and try to wrap them around the different rungs of the steel Top Toss Tower to earn points, and the player with the most points wins.
Awning/Leisure Mat by Camco
Turn the space under your awning into an outdoor living room with the Awning/Leisure Mat by Camco. The 7-foot by 15-foot mat helps keep the interior of your RV clean and doubles as the perfect beach or picnic mat as well.
Rock Out Speakers by Goal Zero
Keep your music by your side at all times whether you’re out hiking the trails or enjoying a few cocktails by the campfire when you’re done. This rechargeable laptop and MP3 speaker delivers high-quality sound at all times and is conveniently weather resistant.
Find All of These Products at PleasureLand
Check out all of these awesome camping supplies and a wide variety of others at PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota. And if you can’t make it in to our shop, browse our extensive parts and accessories catalog online at PleasureLandRV.com.
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Photo by cobalt123 (Flickr Creative Commons)
July 24th, 2013 -
As the RV dealership Minnesota and the region has come to depend on, we love sharing ideas about RV road trips. If you have overlooked taking a trip to Mt. Rushmore, you are missing out on more than just a national memorial. You are missing some of visually stunning and most historic places in our country.
About Mt. Rushmore
Everyone knows that Mt. Rushmore is home to the bigger than life carvings, recognizing four American Presidents. The four are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. It was dedicated in 1927 in the Black Hills of South Dakota. What you may not know is that it was actually conceived to promote tourism in that part of the country. That it has. Each year over 2.5 million people visit the site. Construction was started in 1927 and continued through 1941 when World World II and the lack of funding stopped the process. It was originally designed to show the presidents to the waist, but today, the memorial remains as just the heads of the four leaders. Part of the site’s popularity is bolstered by the many other reasons there are to make the trek to the Black Hills. Let’s take a look at what else is within proximity of Mt. Rushmore.
The Corn Palace
If you are going to South Dakota and looking for the unusual, make a stop at the Corn Palace in Mitchell. Every year the corn palace is completely decorated with 12 different colors of field corn. The decorating takes place from June through September, and the palace contains and educational center inside and offers tours.
The Badlands
There are parts of the Badlands that will take your breath away. Natural rock formations provide an up close and personal view of the power of Mother Nature. Roaming bighorn sheep, bison, antelope and other wildlife provide added visual entertainment.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Six years after the work on Mt. Rushmore ceased, work began on the Crazy Horse Memorial. The work of one man, Korczak Ziolkowski, from then until his death in 1982, is continued by his family to this day. When completed, it will be an impressive 640 feet high and also just as long. It is a site worth visiting and a story worth learning.
Deadwood
More than just an HBO series, Deadwood is a city whose entirety is a national historic landmark. Relive the wild west with a visit to this South Dakota town.
Much more than just Mt. Rushmore…
Driving through the Black Hills can be a challenge when towing a travel trailer or in a large motorhome, but if you plan well, it will be a trip you and your family will remember forever. The scenic roadways are spectacular and the Black Hills offer caves and a National Forest for exploration. Mt. Rushmore is also just about two hours away from Devils Tower, a natural wonder in Northeast Wyoming. Devils Tower gained notoriety from the film “Close Encounters”. Sand Creek on the Wyoming border has some great trout fishing and plenty of camping.
Those RVing will find National Parks, State Parks and a variety of private grounds to accommodate you along the way. It is called Big Sky Country for a reason and you can see it for yourself with a trip to Mt. Rushmore and the surrounding area.
Looking for RV rentals Minneapolis Minnesota? It is a great way to discover the RV lifestyle and PleasureLand RV Center can help. Contact us today!
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About Me
Hi, my name is Dan Pearson and I am the Owner of PleasureLand RV Centers based out of St. Cloud, MN. We have three other Minnesota locations to serve all of you RV needs. I look forward to providing you with all your RV information from buying an RV to tips and maintenance. If you would like to contact me, be sure to leave a comment.
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