December 14th, 2017 -
While some might consider it “kid’s stuff,” you’re never too old to go sledding or snow tubing. Of course, any kids you have in tow will also appreciate it. And if you live or are traveling through Minnesota, you’re in luck — Minnesota has got some of the best downhill sledding and snow tubing locations in the country with its hilly terrain and consistent snow coverage.
If you’re an RVer, one of the best parts about sledding is that it requires minimal equipment, which is nice if you’ve got limited space.
Region by region, some of the best sledding and snow tubing opportunities in Minnesota can be found at the following places.
Minneapolis/St. Paul Area
Theodore Wirth Regional Park – Minneapolis
Green Acres Recreation – Lake Elmo
Brookside Park – Bloomington
Northeast
Pine Valley Tubing Hill – Cloquet
Newton’s Sliding Hill – Grand Rapids
Sphunge Island Sledding Hill – Kabetogama
Central
Primetime Restaurant and Music Loung – Pequot Lakes
Glendalough State Park – Battle Lake
Robbins Island Park – Willmar
Southern
Upper Sioux Agency State Park – Granite Falls
Judd Park Sledding Hill – Rochester
Frontenac State Park – Frontenac
Northwest
J.A. Hughes Elementary School – Red Lake Falls
Bemis Hill – Warroad
Coviseir Park – Detroit Lakes
Have fun, but play safe.
- Sledding is generally safe, but to be fair you are sliding down a slipper slope at some fast speeds, so a little precaution can go a long way to prevent injury.
- Children should sled only under adult supervision. If the child isn’t confident with their sledding abilities, an adult should accompany them on the sled.
- Wear a helmet (such as a bike helmet) to help reduce the risk of head injury.
- Avoid hills that have obstructions (trees, water, roads, fences, stones, etc.). The clearer the hill, the safer the sport.
- Make sure that there’s a large and clear flat area at the bottom to safely glide to a halt.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Stop by PleasureLand RV Center to tour a motorhome or travel trailer and find an RV that’s right for you and your family. Stay out longer on your sledding adventures by traveling in an RV. With the warmth of an RV at the bottom of the hill, you can stay out as long as you want and not have to worry about a trek back to the car or home.
December 9th, 2017 -
Climbing is often viewed as a dangerous, adrenaline-pumping activity that only the most physically strong and skilled people are able to do. Adding ice to that mix? You may want to say “forget about it,” but ice climbing is, in reality, less about physical strength and climbing skills and more about thinking and patience. It’s also a lot more safe than you probably assume so long as you practice tried and true safety precautions when you climb.
If you’re curious about giving ice climbing a try this winter in Minnesota while you travel about in your RV, you’re going to want to learn how to do it from someone experienced. It’s not advisable that you try ice climbing by yourself if you have no experience. Minnesota actually has two great opportunities to learn in annual climbing festivals: the Sandstone Ice Festival and the Duluth Ice and Mixed Fest.
The Sandstone Ice Festival is scheduled from January 5 through 7. It’s been going for over a decade now and is held in Robinson Park, which is the first park in Minnesota set aside specifically for ice climbing. It has climbing opportunities for any skill level, but more importantly it’s got beginner courses to teach you about safety, the climbing equipment you need, and the basic movements to get you up an ice cliff.
Happening later in the season, the Duluth Ice and Mixed Fest is scheduled for February 2 through 4. It’s a newer festival, but offers the same benefits as Sandstone. The event takes place in Duluth at Casket Park.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Before you hit the roads this holiday season, bring your RV by PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota to ensure it’s in top shape for the winter roads. And if you’re in the market for a new or used RV, stop in or log online to browse our huge selection of top-quality RVs in stock.
November 30th, 2017 -
When you’re traveling in Minnesota this winter, you may feel limited on where you can go, especially if you’re focusing your travels on the numerous state parks dotted around the state. With a good pair of snowshoes, however, restrictions are lifted and you’re able to get out and hike even when the snowfall is piled up on the ground.
Not only do snowshoes open up more wilderness for you to explore, but they’re easy to use and basic snowshoes are cheap, so there’s basically no barrier to entry if you want to start snowshoeing tomorrow.
Wilderness lovers will love snowshoes: during the spring, summer, and fall, foliage often means that you’ll startle any wildlife near you before you have a chance to spot them. Walking on snow with snowshoes, however, means that you’re nearly whisper quiet when moving through the forests and meadows. You have a much better chance of observing wildlife in their natural state before they become aware of your presence.
In Minnesota, snowshoers are allowed to walk nearly anywhere they desire. The only exceptions are areas and trails that are specifically designated for other activities, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
Don’t hesitate to take your snowshoes to your favorite Minnesota park — the winter landscape will transform it into something familiar yet new, and snowshoes are your ticket to checking out the winter wonderlands all over the state.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Before you hit the roads this holiday season, bring your RV byPleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota to ensure it’s in top shape for the winter roads. And if you’re in the market for a new or used RV, stop in or log online to browse our huge selection of top-quality RVs in stock.
November 21st, 2017 -
Winter doesn’t have to end your RVing for the year, especially if you find yourself in Minnesota. Minnesota offers RVers plenty of things to do until the spring thaw, so don’t stop exploring yet!
Escape the Cold at a Water Park
You read that right: Minnesota, in a bid to extend its swimming season, has many indoor water parks scattered across the state. Some of these are deluxe resorts that offer something for all ages.
Check out Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark in Duluth, Arrowwood Lodge in Baxter, or even the water park right next to the Mall of America.
Learn Something New at a Museum
Get inside and out of the cold and learn something new while you do it. Minnesota is home to many extensive museums covering many different subjects. Some of the best include the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Minnesota History Center, and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum.
Explore a Nature Center
Okay, this one isn’t indoors, but Minnesota’s natural places are mostly open year round, and the winter sights are just as wonderful as any other time of year. Minnesota is renowned for owl watching, and two of the best places to see them are at Agassiz Audubon Center and the International Owl Center.
Nature center trails are threaded through with numerous trails and make great places for recreational sports, like cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Before you head off to enjoy the winter in Minnesota, drop in at your RV adventure headquarters at PleasureLand RV Center in St Cloud, Brainerd, or Ramsey. PleasureLand RV Center can help get you into the RV of your dreams, keep your RV running smoothly (even through the cold of winter), and get you outfitted with quality accessories to make your RV living easier and more convenient.
November 17th, 2017 -
When you go RVing for the long term, it often means spending holidays on the road. Even if you are on the road, you can still have a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner with all of the “fixins.” Because of space limitations, you’ll just have to plan it a bit different.
Stop by PleasureLand RV Center to pick up any accessories you may need to help you with cooking Thanksgiving Day dinner on the road.
Make Things the Day Before
If you are using fresh vegetables, parboil them the day before, then keep them in the fridge or a cooler until you can heat them up for the meal. Parboiling the veggies means that you don’t have to use valuable stove space on the day of the Thanksgiving meal – you can just pop them in the microwave to heat them up.
Make the mashed potatoes the day before. Again, all you have to do is heat them up on the stove or in the microwave. You can even boil the potatoes and mash them without any milk or butter, then when you heat them up for the meal, add the fresh milk, butter and seasonings.
If you were cooking Thanksgiving dinner at home, you would most likely make the desserts the day before. You can do this, too – that way you have the oven for the turkey. If your RV doesn’t have an oven or a convection microwave, you can still “bake” pies and turkey on the grill. Simply set the grill to the proper temperature using only one or two burners. Set what you are baking on the side with the unlit burners. Skillet cornbread comes out great when done in this manner.
Thanksgiving Day
About 15 minutes before the turkey is done, you can start heating things up that you made the day before. Since the turkey should sit at least 10 to 15 minutes before you carve it, you should have plenty of time – and things will be hot.
Making Turkey without an Oven
If your RV doesn’t have an oven or a convection oven, you have a few choices. If you have a turkey fryer, fry the turkey. If not, but a whole turkey will fit under the grill hood, make sure you have plenty of propane. Set the grill at the appropriate temperature and place the turkey on the unlit side of the grill.
The third option is to cook turkey breasts. You can fry them, boil them or even cook them on the grill.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Stop by PleasureLand RV Center for any needed accessories for the kitchen and other areas inside or outside of the RV.
November 15th, 2017 -
As anyone who RVs with their dogs can tell you, sometimes your next destination isn’t about you. Your dogs deserve something they’ll enjoy on occasion, so when you’re out in your RV this winter with your beloved pets, consider taking them to one of these fun destinations. You’ll probably have (almost) as much fun as they will. Whether you want something outdoor or indoor, there’s a destination for you!
Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a great place to visit if you’ve got pups in tow. Enjoy the numerous hiking trails and dog parks that the city offers. Some of the dog parks even offer heated shelters for some indoor play. There are even a handful of places that are part time indoor dogs parks, usually on the weekends. Minneapolis is also relatively pet friendly when it comes to public spaces and shops.
Mankato
Whether it’s your destination or you’re just passing through along your route somewhere else, Mankato is worth a stop if you’ve got a dog or two with you. They’ve got an indoor swimming pool that’s absolutely dog friendly. You can get out of the cold, give your dog some off leash time, and allow them to exercise in a way that’s good for their joints since swimming is low impact. The pool is called The Paw and the water is kept at a toasty 85 degrees. If your dog isn’t a great swimmer, there are life jackets available for use. Additionally, there are time slots available for private swims if your dog doesn’t like company.
Duluth
While your dog may not be a champion dog sled racer, they can certainly spectate alongside you when you visit Duluth. The annual dog sledding marathon, called Beargrease, takes place over 400 miles of tundra with some of the best teams in the world competing. There are various spots along the course where you can watch the action.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Stop by PleasureLand RV Center before you visit any of these fun destinations in Minnesota to make sure that your RV is in good shape to travel. If you need to upgrade your rig, PleasureLand RV Center is the place to shop. Tour our wide inventory of new and used RVs, from Class A motorhomes to fifth wheel trailers.
November 7th, 2017 -
RV travel isn’t just reserved for the summer months. In fact, winter activities are made even more enjoyable with the RV lifestyle. Ice fishing is one of those activities. Once you learn the basics of ice fishing, the sport will quickly become one of your favorite features of winter. The following simple ice fishing tips will help you get started, so you can enjoy the RV lifestyle even when the weather is cold and the lakes are frozen.
Use Live Bait
Live bait is an essential part of ice fishing. Whether you’re dead sticking, using a bobber or jigging, live bait is the most effective way to fish. Start by jigging larger lures roughly a foot above the bottom to catch the more aggressive fish. If the fish can be seen but not caught, opt for a smaller jig.
Start with Smaller Lakes
Starting with smaller lakes at the beginning of season will help you fish more often, and ultimately become a better ice fisherman. Smaller lakes freeze more quickly, which means you can be on the ice earlier in winter.
Later in the season, move to the larger lakes, which have more oxygen. Fish are more active there.
The Movement of Fish
One of the most important parts of ice fishing is understanding where fish will be and when. In shallow lakes, fish tend to move shallower later in the season. In larger, deeper lakes, fish migrate to where food and cover can be found. They tend to stay deeper where the water is warmer. Fish become less active in the heart of winter, which means they’re easier to catch when they’re moving at the beginning and end of the season.
Shop for an RV at PleasureLand RV Center
Traveling in an RV from PleasureLand RV Center is an ideal way to travel from one ice fishing destination to another. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a hot shower, comfortable seating area, television and plenty of sleeping space after a long day on the ice. Take your ice fishing to the next level by considering an ice house fishing trailer, which PleasureLand RV Center has a number of in stock.
October 24th, 2017 -
RV travelers don’t have to miss out on the best holiday celebrations. In fact, most holidays are even more enjoyable when spent in an RV. Halloween is one of the top holidays to enjoy on the road, because many campgrounds and RV parks host Halloween parties and trick-or-treating hours.
Prepare your RV for all of the Halloween celebrations you’ll encounter on the road with these simple, do-it-yourself tricks and tips.
Hold a Pumpkin Carving Party
Some campers don’t have enough space in their RVs to carve pumpkins, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Throw a pumpkin carving party outside of your RV on nearby picnic tables or a table of your own. Purchase the pumpkins at a farmers’ market near your destination and invite fellow campers to join in on the fun.
Decorate Your RV
You don’t have to bring tons of supplies on your journey to decorate your RV. Purchase natural decorations, like gords and colored pumpkins, from a farmers’ market at your destination. You can also make your own Halloween-themed decorations with construction paper, glue and scissors from a local craft store. Making temporary decorations is a way to get your kids or fellow travelers involved in the decorating process.
Trick-or-Treat at the Campground
Most campgrounds welcome trick-and-treaters during Halloween. Apply the same rules you would if your kids were trick-or-treating in a traditional neighborhood. Only approach motorhomes, travel trailers or campers that are decorated with their lights on.
If the campground you’re visiting doesn’t allow trick-or-treaters, explore a safe, nearby neighborhood with your little ones. A campground official can help you locate the perfect place.
Setting up a scavenger hunt for your kids at the campsite is another way to help them feel like they’re getting the trick-or-treating experience without having to venture away from the park.
Travel in Your Dream RV
Spend more time on the road this fall with a new or top-quality pre-owned RV from the PleasureLand RV Center in Minnesota. Stop in and see us to find your dream RV today.
October 10th, 2017 -
Spending the day at a pumpkin patch is a fall tradition, especially here in Minnesota. Whether you intend to use your pumpkins for Jack-o-lanterns, bake them into delicious pies, or just as decoration, your day out at the pumpkin patch is sure to be a hit with your family.
There are nearly 200 pumpkin patches to choose from in Minnesota, many of which offers rides, petting zoos, and other fun diversions that everyone will love.
Here are some of the best pumpkin patches in the state:
Peter’s Pumpkins & Carmen’s Corn
12860 Old Brick Yard Road, Sharkopee, MN 55379
(952) 906-0247
This patch caters to families and offers many activities in an attempt to have something for everyone. Of course you’ll be able to select a pumpkin, but there’s also a corn maze, hayrides, face painting, and other crops to choose from.
Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch
6903 Wyoming Trail, Wyoming, MN 55092
(651) 462-1516
Sprawling over 40-acres, wander the patch and find the perfect pumpkin. This pumpkin patch is really a tradition, and you’ll find a lot of locals out there enjoying the weather.
Waldoch Farm Pumpkin Patch
8174 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
(651) 780-1207
This working farm, located outside of the Twin Cities, offers a full selection of pick-your-own crops, including zucchini, squash, and, of course, pumpkins. There are farm animals, hay bales, and homemade kettle corn.
Visit PleasureLand RV Center
Head to a pumpkin patch in your RV for even more fun. PleasureLand RV Center is happy to provide RV sales, service, parts, and accessories.
September 14th, 2017 -
Minnesota is one of the country’s best travel destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. This is especially true in the fall months, when the temperatures remain cool and comfortable for invigorating mountain, woods and coastal adventures. The following are five hiking trails every traveler should try when passing through Minnesota.
Eagle Mountain
Eagle Mountain is the highest point in Minnesota, and although it sits at just 2,301 feet, the stunning views of the state’s expansive forests are well worth a visit. The round-trip hike is 7-miles long and can be steep at times, so be sure to attempt some of the state’s more mellow adventures before heading to the peak.
Glendalough State Park
This western Minnesota state park offers an array of hiking trails for all levels of hikers. The Battle Lake Trail is a must-do, and you’re guaranteed to love the lack of traffic, as vehicles are not allowed near the trails or campsites.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Many travelers don’t know that Minnesota is home to some of the best waterfalls in the U.S. Gooseberry Falls State Park, located just north of Duluth, is loaded with 20 miles of scenic hiking trails including those to waterfalls and the scenic shores of Lake Superior.
Itasca State Park
The trails at Itasca State Park offer photogenic views around every turn. Hike to the Alton Heights observation tower to snap photos and pay a visit to the Mississippi headwaters.
George Crosby Manitou State Park
Avid hikers love to frequent Manitou State Park and its 24 miles of backcountry trails. These rugged, challenging trails are designed for experienced hikers, and those who make the trek always return bragging about the views.
Travel Minnesota in Your RV
There’s no better way to visit Minnesota’s best hiking trails than in the comfort and convenience of a new RV from PleasureLand RV Center. Stop in and see us at one of our many Minnesota locations to start your dream RV lifestyle 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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