April 23rd, 2014 -
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.
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Image by heath_bar via Flickr Creative Commons
April 15th, 2014 -
One of the greatest parts of RV travel is that you don’t have to leave your furry friends behind when you hit the road. And while some of your best family memories will be with your pets by your side, there are a few simple steps you’ll want to take before you load your cats or dogs into your RV and hit the road.
Take Your Pet for a Test Drive
It’s important to make sure your pet is comfortable with road travel before you bring him or her along for a longer ride. Start by taking your pet on short rides to see how he or she fares on the road. Does your pet seem uncomfortable, anxious or even sick when he’s in your vehicle? If you answered, “Yes,” after a few trial rides with your pet, he may be more comfortable with a pet-sitter while you’re away.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Before you hit the road for your big adventure, take your pet to his veterinarian to ensure he’s in good health for the ride. You’ll also need to make sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up-to-date, and your vet can tell you if any other vaccinations will be necessary for the areas you’ll be traveling. If you’ll be crossing borders, your vet can help you understand quarantine laws and compile all of the paperwork your pet will need.
Bring Some Pieces of Home
Even if your pet seems excited to be in your RV at first, he may feel a little out of place when you start traveling to new destinations. Be sure you bring your pet’s bed, a few favorite toys, a collar, leash, food and water for your journey. Your pet will adjust to his new home more comfortably and quickly with a few familiar items from his old one.
Upgrade Your RV at PleasureLand
Need a little larger RV now that you’ll be bringing your furry friends along for the ride? Come browse our huge selection of new and used RVs at PleasureLand RV Center — your go-to RV dealership in Minnesota — and our certified staff will help you find the perfect motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel or pop-up for your entire family.
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Image by Curtis Perry via Flickr Creative Commons
March 25th, 2014 -
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The weather is warming up, the days are getting longer and it’s time to fire up your RV for that first trip of the season. Before you start packing your bags and backing out of the driveway, there are a few simple steps you’ll want to take to get your RV ready for the season.
Look It Over Inside and Out
If you’re like many other RV travelers, you pull your RV into storage for the winter and don’t check on it until spring. Check all of the doors, windows, vents and seams to ensure you didn’t acquire any cracks or leaks in the off-season.
Check all of your lights, awnings, turn signals and appliances to make sure everything is in proper working order and ready for another adventure. And don’t forget to check all of the compartments and cupboard on the interior and exterior of your RV — these are common spaces for critters to hide in the colder months.
Give It a Good Wash
RVs are much more difficult to wash than our everyday vehicles, so they don’t tend to get cleaned as often. It’s important to buy the proper RV cleaning supplies, like an extendable brush, soft washing mitts and a nice car-cleaning solution to make the job much easier.
After washing the outside, clean up the interior by removing any unnecessary supplies or trash from last year, and don’t forget to replace the batteries in your smoke detector as well as your carbon-monoxide detector.
Spice Up the Interior
Is the interior of your RV starting to feel a little monotonous? Bring some new colors into your RV this year by replacing simple items like throw pillows, blankets, rugs and bedroom sets with new, updated designs. You’ll be amazed at how fresh a few new decorative items can make your RV feel.
Bring It By PleasureLand
Let the certified RV technicians at PleasureLand RV Center ensure your motorhome, fifth wheel or travel trailer is in top condition for the roads this spring. And if you’re in the market for a new or used RV this season, come browse our incredible selection and make us your go-to Minnesota RV dealer.
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Photo by Gary Halvorson (Wikimedia Commons)
March 12th, 2014 -
Eating healthy on the road can seem nearly impossible with a small, galley-style kitchen and fast food billboards luring you in with mouth-watering photos of cheeseburgers and french fries. But March is National Nutrition Month, which means it’s the perfect time to kick those bad habits and rethink your meals on the go.
Stop at Grocery Stores
With all of the salad bars and fresh market options popping up in grocery stores, you’re better off pulling over for grocery store signs than fast food ones. Hit the salad bar, buy fresh veggies and hummus for snacking or stock your RV with delicious local fruits. When you’re feeling full on healthy foods, you won’t be as tempted by burgers and fries.
Pack Your RV Fridge and Pantry Before You Leave
While it can be exciting to try the local cuisine everywhere you travel, eating meals out can turn an inexpensive trip into a pricey one. Pack healthy snacks like dried fruit, almonds, hard-boiled eggs and veggies, so you don’t skip any meals and end up binge-eating later.
Drink Plenty of Water
Not only do gas-station stops make you feel inclined to buy sodas and sugary drinks, but the interior of your RV can be very dehydrating as well. Drinking water will deplete your junk-food cravings as well as replenish your body’s interior and exterior after long days in the heat. A couple of glasses of water can make you rethink the McDonald’s stop you were sure you needed to take.
Pre-Cook Meals Before You Go
Take your planning a step above packing the fridge and the cooler, and cook some meat and veggies before you hit the road. After a long day of driving, you may feel too exhausted to cook and are likely to turn to restaurants or fast food for dinner. When you’re properly prepared, you can heat up your pre-cooked tasty and healthy meal as quickly as you can drive through.
Before you hit the road this camping season, stop by PleasureLand RV Center and have your vehicle checked out by our certified RV technicians. And if you’re in the market for a new or used RV, we’re your one-stop Minnesota RV dealer.
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Photo by epSos.de (Flickr Creative Commons)
February 13th, 2014 -
Photo by Bunches and Bits (Flickr Creative Commons)
The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics are well under way, and there’s no better time to decorate your RV or have an Olympic party at the campsite than now. Your family will have tons of fun creating these decorations, foods and activities to celebrate the Winter Games, and with all of the supplies available at your local grocery or craft store, you can get started today.
Decorate your RV
Have a favorite country you’re rooting for in the Olympics? Decorate your RV with streamers and balloons to celebrate your patriotism. And don’t forget about the Olympic rings. Pool noodles (held together with duct tape) work great to create huge rings for the exterior of your RV, but items as small as pipe cleaners can be fun for your kids to assemble as well.
Make Olympic Snacks
Create small Olympic torches for your guests to enjoy by filling ice cream cones with buttered popcorn. Let the popcorn stack as high as it can without falling, and everyone will have their very own Olympic torch.
For a sweeter take on the games, bake sugar cookies into ring shapes (similar to a donut) and frost them with the colors of the Olympic rings — blue, black, red, yellow and green. You can even dye the dough with food coloring instead of using frosting.
Indoor or Outdoor Competitions
Nothing gets your guests in the Olympic spirit more than a little competition. Hold a few sets of games, whether they involve an indoor snowball fight using rolled up socks, a set of trivia questions for adults, or obstacle courses and relay races outside. And don’t forget to hand out gold medals to the winners, which can easily be made with a little bit of cardboard and ribbon.
Pleasureland RV Center
Here at PleasureLand RV Center — your Minnesota RV dealer — we are loving the 2014 Winter Olympic games, and we hope you’re enjoying them in your RV too. We hope you’ll turn to us this camping season for all of your Minnesota and Canada RV parts, accessories, sales and service needs. We’ve got four locations in St. Cloud, Ramsey, Willmar and Brainerd, so stop in and see us six days a week.
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February 5th, 2014 -
Photo by Bruce McKay (Flickr Creative Commons)
Whether you’re passing through on an RV road trip or are a native of our beautiful state, there is so much to do this month in Minnesota, you’ll want to push the winter blues aside and go out exploring. What are you waiting for? Grab your valentine and head to these awesome events held throughout Minnesota this February.
The Big River Show
Come see some of the incredible local talent that St. Cloud has to offer in this series of comedy, music and other performances. February 14 kicks off the series with a Valentine’s Day comedy show that will be the perfect alternative to a typical restaurant date.
Nisswa Winter Jubilee
Head down to the Nisswa Winter Jubilee for fun and games on Feb. 16 including snow sculptures, a wood splitting contest, an ice fishing derby, a tug-of-war competition and parade. The Nisswa Winter Jubilee is the family-friendly event you needed to get everyone out and enjoying the winter weather.
Snoga – Outdoor Yoga
There’s no better way to get a little exercise while supporting a good cause (all proceeds go to the American Heart Association) than at this outdoor yoga event held at Nicollet Mall. The event is held on Feb. 23 at 2 p.m., and coffee and hot chocolate will be available to warm everyone up after the class.
Ely Winter Festival
Stop by the Ely Winter Festival held for 10 days on Feb. 6-16. Admire the amazing snow sculptures, cruise the Ely ArtWalk, engage in the craft fair or take a dog sled ride — there’s so much for the whole family to enjoy at this yearly celebration of winter.
OVALumination
Thought Christmas lights were gone until next year? That’s not the case at the Guidant John Rose MN OVAL. Cruise down to Roseville and view over 70,000 lights on 75 trees before the show closes for the season on Feb. 23.
Visit PleasureLand RV
Get your RV in top shape for the upcoming camping season or shop for a new or used RV at your Minnesota RV dealer — PleasureLand RV Center. With RV dealerships in St. Cloud, Ramsey, Willmar and Brainerd, we’re your one stop Minnesota RV dealership and service center.
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January 29th, 2014 -
Photo by Cheryl (Flickr Creative Commons)
If you enjoy RV traveling and one of your New Year’s resolutions is to eat healthy, combine the two with easily prepared recipes without all the additives. Eating healthy while camping is easier than you might think with the help of one main ingredient; the protein-packed egg.
To make cooking fun and efficient, visit PleasureLand RV for a look at our cooking accessories. Not only will your indoor or outdoor kitchen be well equipped, you’ll earn reward points for your purchases.
Sun-Dried Tomato with Feta and Spinach Omelet
- Combine 2 large eggs with a dash of black pepper and kosher salt. Set aside.
- Melt 1/2 tsp unsalted butter over medium heat in a nonstick skillet.
- Pour egg batter into pan covering the bottom. Let cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until set.
- Top with 1/2 cup chopped spinach, 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 2 tbsp crumbled Feta cheese.
- Fold the egg over the mixture.
- Use a spatula to detach the omelet from the pan.
- Slide the omelet to a plate and serve with a side of turkey bacon.
Curried Egg Salad Sandwich
- Bring 8 large eggs to a boil in a covered pot. Remove from heat and let sit for about 12 minutes.
- Rinse the eggs using cold water then remove the shells.
- Chop the eggs and set aside.
- In a separate bowl combine 1/3 cup mayonnaise and 1 tsp curry powder.
- Fold the eggs into the mayo mixture along with 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives and a dash of black pepper and kosher salt.
- Top four slices of pumpernickel bread with lettuce and the chicken salad.
- Serve with your favorite chips.
Spaghetti with Eggs, Herbs and Chilies
- Cook enough spaghetti to serve 4. Approximately 3/4 of a box. Drain and return pasta to the pot.
- Warm 3 tbsp olive oil with 2 sliced cloves of garlic and 1 thinly sliced red chili pepper in a saucepan. Cook 2-3 minutes.
- Add mixture to the pasta along with 1/2 cup of fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly.
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook 4 eggs to your desired preference.
- Serve pasta topped with an egg and garnished with Parmesan.
Make every trip a culinary adventure with healthy recipes and the means to prepare them from the cooking accessories available at PleasureLand RV.
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January 19th, 2014 -
January is an important month. It brings in the new year and new resolutions, and it celebrates the extracurricular activities we enjoy doing. National Hobby Month is ALL month long (hence the name) and this year we are going to kick it into high gear and enjoy the things we really love, such as RVing.
First, we need to decide what your hobbies include. Besides hitting the open road in your trailer and traveling around the country, what are some activities you can do during your journey?! Luckily for us, Minnesota offers it all. Known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” it is optimal real estate for outdoor fun!
Maybe this year you are going to pick up golf or, if you are an avid golf player, you’d like to venture out and try a few new courses. With over 500 golf courses available there is no need to travel outside state lines. Whether you’re looking for an easy-paced game or one that challenges your putting skills, you are bound to find one course that fits your wants and needs.
The beautiful terrain of this great state is perfect for anyone who is looking for some outdoors fun. If you are into hobbies that are calming and relaxing, then fishing should be on your list this year. With the abundance of lakes scattered throughout the state, traveling to a new campground destination with the fishing poles loaded up would be a peaceful way to spend this month.
Have you ever thought about collecting? While you are traveling around this month, pick up a souvenir at each rest stop or destination. Attach a story to each item and document it in a scrapbook or on the computer. See how many different items you can come back with. Or, if you are traveling outside of the state you could start collecting stamps. Each new destination you travel to, buy a stamp that depicts that states symbol. Let it represent what each state is known for. Maybe find a stamp with a casino chip on it for Nevada, or a bluebonnet for Texas. See how long it takes you to collect 49 stamps! Assuming you won’t be traveling by RV to Hawaii, though that would be fun!
Cooking is even considered a hobby. While out on your Pleasureland RVing adventures you could create meals representing the areas you’ve traveled. If you are down south, use the space you have in your trailer to cook cajun food or comfort food. If your travels take you towards the New England area you could learn how to perfect a clam chowder recipe. This hobby would spice up your meals and is another way to give your journey a little zest.
Wherever you are headed this month, let Pleasureland RV know about your hobbies and travels. We would love to hear what other hobbies others enjoy — happy National Hobby Month!
January 8th, 2014 -
Photo by Joe Haupt (Flickr Creative Commons)
One of the best things about buying a new or used recreational vehicle from PleasureLand RV is the opportunity to enjoy events scheduled in Minnesota in January. With a quality travel trailer, motorhome, truck camper, or pop-up, you’ll be equipped with the perfect RV for 2014 adventures.
Monticello Frostbite Challenge
This fun event scheduled for January 11 and 12 is definitely for snow enthusiasts. On January 11, play a round of snow golf or participate in the Medallion Hunt and on January 12, enter the fishing contest or stop by and see the vintage snowmobile show and swap meet.
Arctic Fever Winter Fest
Located in Shorewood near South Lake Minnetonka January 17-19, families will enjoy a host of winter activities and events. Most are free and include fun entertainment such as sleigh and horse rides, bowling on ice, dog sled rides, ice sculpting and bonfire.
Bloomington’s Winter Fete
Experience the 11th Annual Winter Fete January 18 – January 26 in Bloomington. There will be plenty of free excitement throughout locations in the city including sledding, ice skating, hockey games, broomball and much more. Other events include the Ice Harvest Festival, ski jumping for beginners, Nordic Ski Jumping Competition, Winter History Festival, and more.
Saint Paul Winter Festival
Make plans to attend the 128th celebration of this winter event that began in 1886. The festival runs January 23 through February 2 with fun activities including the Dogsled Race, Winter Carnival Medallion Hunt, Torchlight Parade, Snow Sculpting and Carving, Art Exhibits, Klondike Kate Cabarets and Kids Day.
Beer Dabbler Festival
Part of the Saint Paul Winter Festival, this tasty event is for 21 and over only on January 25. Sample over 150 national, local and regional craft beers while enjoying gourmet food from area food trucks and live music. A Silent Disco is also on the agenda.
Fergus Falls Frostbite Festival
End the month with this “cool” festival running January 31 through February 2. Celebrate the season with indoor and outdoor ice skating, chili/soup cook-off, Sertoma Ice Fishing Derby and SuperBowl parties, pancake breakfast and music.
Call us at PleasureLand and let us show you around. Take a look at the inventory or if your RV needs servicing, make an appointment for a little TLC from our expertly trained technicians.
October 18th, 2013 -
Many RVers convert their RVs into tailgate machines this time of year. Some don’t even attend the games! After all, with satellite TV and the comforts of home, who needs to pay big ticket and food prices when you can still enjoy the atmosphere and have a front row seat in your comfortable RV?
Here are some tips for creating a fun, and safe, tailgating machine out of your RV:
- Be sure to bring the colors of your favorite team and display them proudly. You don’t even have to buy expensive “officially licensed” products. Dollar type stores have disposable plates, cups and streamers in a wide choice of colors. Just pick out the ones that represent your team and you are on your way!
- Prepare as much of the side dishes and snacks ahead of time. Keep cold dishes cold with plenty of ice.
- Make sure you have something to eat for after the game as well. This will extend your party and give the heavy traffic time to disperse.
- Remember, somebody has to drive that RV back, so have a designated driver available. Of course, it should be someone who is capable of handling an RV. Worst case scenario? Hey, that’s the great thing about having an RV with a bed.
- Using as many disposable products as possible can help make clean-up much easier.
- Make sure you bring folding chairs so there are places to relax outside of your RV.
- Be on the look-out for free promotional koozies. They are a popular give-away item at events and you can begin collecting them for use by your tailgating friends.
- If your RV doesn’t have outside speakers, be sure to bring a radio to listen to the pre-game show on the local radio station.
- Bring an activity like corn-hole to keep everyone entertained.
Enjoy the football season and good luck to your team. Our team at PleasureLand RV is ready to serve you anytime of the year with your recreational vehicle service, parts, and accessories. It is also a nice time to check out our new models in stock. Go team! We look forward to seeing you soon at PleasureLand RV.
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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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