Vacation Destination: Summer Haven RV Resort

Wow, are you ready for summer yet? How about spring? At our PleasureLand RV Center, we are more than ready! We’ve have had some extra time to prepare this year for the warm weather rush we normally see in April and May. We’ve also had the opportunity to plan for some great trips for the season.

One place to make note of is Summer Haven RV Resort in Tenstrike, Minnesota. Summer Haven RV Resort had to delay their official opening for the 2013 season due to the snow, so they are also ready for you.

Summer Haven RV Resort is listed as one of the top 5 family campgrounds in all of Minnesota and here are some of the reasons why.

  • You have a choice of lake lots, lake view lots and wooded lots. The area is scenic and tree covered.
  • Bemidji is a fabulous area to vacation. Gulf Lake is over 2,200 acres large and offers superb fishing for walleye, northern pike, blue gill, perch and more.
  • Summer Haven RV Resort has a beach, heated swimming pool, volleyball, basketball, and shuffleboard.
  • The resort offers water fun that includes paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes.
  • All sites have full hook-ups of water, electric and sewer.
  • 20 of their sites have 50 amp service available with the rest offering 30 amp service.

Summer Have RV Resort seems to always have something going on to keep everyone entertained. They have fishing contests, scavenger hunts, hayless hayrides, kids and teen crafts and minnow races. If you are looking for a week or a weekend getaway, consider the fine folks at Summer Haven RV Resort.

Pleasureland RV Center is a family owned RV dealership in Minnesota. We offer great new and used RVs that Minneapolis has come to rely on. We can even get you started in the world of RVing with an RV rental.

Look, it has been a long, cold snowy winter. It’s time to gear up and enjoy the warmer months ahead. We invite you to visit PleasureLand RV Center and let’s get the season started!

Superior National Park

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Take your vacation plans to another level of excitement when purchasing a new or used RV from “best in the Midwest” PleasureLand RV Center. With hundreds of units in stock for your perusal, you’re sure to find the size and style to fit your travel plans, family size and budget.

Taking a trip in an RV to explore the many places in Minnesota is not only relaxing and convenient, it allows you to visit a variety of places at your own pace. Taking in the great outdoors in comfort makes for an overall excellent trip especially when visiting magnificent parks such as Superior National Park established in 1909.

With your RV stocked up and ready to go, here are just a few of the things to experience at Superior National Park.

  • Travelers have access to over 70 lakes, 10 swimming beaches, more than a dozen fishing piers and nearly two dozen picnic areas.
  • Enjoy biking, fishing, ATV riding, boating, hunting, climbing and horseback riding.
  • During the winter months, hop aboard your snowmobile, go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and snowboarding. You can even go mushing at certain areas within the area.
  • Hike and observe the many species of wildlife along 2000 miles of scenic trails.
  • Go rock hunting and explore designated trails in the park to see some of the oldest rock on the planet.
  • There is ample camping at one of the 18 rustic campgrounds or 23 fee-based campgrounds within the park.

Special Places

Additional visual adventures within the park to consider adding to your travel itinerary include:

  • Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway- takes visitors through lush forest areas of birch, pine, maple and aspen along a quiet and serene wilderness road. It is known for its opportunities to see deer, loons and moose.
  • Superior National Forest Scenic Byway – offers scenic views of the massive wilderness area of the park. Picnic areas and roadside stops are available along the byway. Two historic sites you’ll see are the Toimi School and Timber Arch Bridge.
  • North Shore Scenic Drive- provides views of Lake Superior’s cliffs, Sawtooth Mountains and the historic Split Rock Lighthouse first lit in 1910. Museums with interesting cultural exhibits are located along the drive.
  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – this massive one million acre region is located within Superior National Park. The wilderness area has over 1000 streams and lakes providing ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing, bird watching and wildlife observation.

Don’t let another day go by without checking out the inventory, service department and specials at Pleasureland. With years of experience providing outstanding quality customer service, you can expect top-notch help in choosing an RV for your next great on the road adventure.

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and there are all kinds of ways to make your mother feel special, and let her know you love her. A phone call or a card and some flowers is a simple way, but why not try something else like a trip in your RV together, or stopping by for your visit. Mom did everything for you when you were growing up, and means the world to you now, so why not plan a vacation for her that would show her just how much you love her.

If your mom lives close by, you might want to try taking a trip together for the day. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, and parks available now that Minnesota is starting to warm up and the two of you could visit them together. And who knows, with all the amenities that your RV has, you might even want to make a week or a weekend of it. It’s probably been a while since your mom had a vacation, and she deserves a few days away from all the hustle and bustle of home.

You can visit any of the hundreds of RV parks, National Parks or State Parks that Minnesota and the neighboring states have to offer. Or, why not take a trip into Canada, which is only a hop, skip and jump away, and add a little international flavor to your trip.

Or why not bring the party to her. Surprise mom with a visit. The best part about traveling in your RV is that she won’t have to worry about putting you up for the night. Whether it’s a few hours drive, or it takes you a few days, you know that you and your family will be comfortable in your RV from PleasureLand RV Center. With a full kitchen, bathroom, and beds, your trip will be comfortable and smooth sailing. There’s always plenty of room for everyone in the family.

No matter whether you decided to visit your mother or take her on a vacation she’ll never forget, the most important thing is time to create a memorable and fun Mother’s Day with the whole family. At Pleasureland RV Center we would be proud to help you find the right, used or new RV. We also offer RV rentals to anyone who wants to take a trip in an RV.

RVing with Pets and Children

Having kids doesn’t mean that you have to give up the RV lifestyle, and being an RVer doesn’t mean that you can’t adopt that dog that you’ve been longing for. There are some considerations to keep in mind when you have kids and dogs on the road, but by and large, pets and children can love the open road as deeply as you do.

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Caring for Children on the Road

Children do tend to thrive on stability, having the same friends for more than a few days at a time, so you don’t find a lot of full-time RVers on the road, but it’s hard to find a child who doesn’t enjoy heading to a new campground every month, spending every summer exploring lakes, rivers and roadside attractions.

Scheduling a few big trips a year with a few weekends out here and there is generally going to be your best bet at providing both stability and adventure in your child’s life. Summer, Winter and Spring break are all a great opportunity to spend a week in the mountains or traversing Old Route 66.

Caring for Pets on the Road

It might not be a bad idea to look for a smaller pet. Even if you have a large RV, it’s tough on a big dog to always be cooped up inside of the vehicle. As much as they’ll love exploring hiking trails with you, the time spent in between stops can be very stressful for a larger animal.

If your pet has special dietary concerns, then make sure to stock up before you take off for a trip. Don’t assume that every small town in the country has what you need to feed your four legged friend.

The open road calls to us all at some point or other, whether you’re an adult, a child, a dog or a cat. The freedom and thrill of waking up in a new town every morning, of exploring your home country has universal appeal. As long as your pet or child has all of their needs taken care of, then there’s no reason not to take them out on the road with you.

Camping Essentials for the RVer

When you take your RV out into the great outdoors in order to get a little closer to nature, it’s easy to take for granted that you’re really out there in the middle of nowhere since you’ve brought your home with you. The camping essentials are still just as necessary when you’re out in your RV as when you’re out in a tent. Here’s what you absolutely need to bring with you if you’re going to be spending a weekend in the woods:

A Flashlight and Plenty of Batteries

It’s a simple matter of safety that you’re going to want to bring a light and enough batteries to last you. You never know what will happen.

Plenty of Clean Water

Even if your campsite has a water source, it’s a good idea to bring several gallons of your own. If the water source at the campsite gets contaminated somehow, then you need to have a fallback plan.

Dry Towels

Dry towels really are endlessly useless when camping. From using them for bedding to drying off to laying out a picnic lunch on them, towels are endlessly versatile little lifesavers.

A First Aid Kit

This goes without saying, but it’s important enough to say it anyways: you need to bring a first aid kit and make sure that it’s well stocked before you head out. The kit needs to contain bandages and disinfectant as well as pain pills, smelling salts and medical tape. Be prepared.

Canned Food

Chances are you’ve brought a lot of hot dogs and marshmallows with you, but if you find yourself with a flat tire or needing to wait an extra day in the woods for any reason, you’ll need to eat, so bring canned food just in case you get stuck.

When camping, one’s motto should be Safety First. Camping is supposed to be fun, but it’s hard to enjoy yourself if you’re not prepared, so just make sure that you have all the supplies you need in your recreational vehicle.

Getting Your Kicks on Route 66

Route 66 isn’t what it used to be. In the heyday of the American highway, it was a tradition to take your family along the famous Route 66, stopping for burgers, taking in a movie, staying in a low cost motel, taking photos at the famous landmarks. In fact, the iconic road trip as seen in a lot of American films still uses Route 66 iconography as the travelers pass by picturesque desert landscapes in the Southwest and send those postcards with the big “Welcome, from Albuquerque!” text.

Although Route 66 isn’t as lively as it once was, it’s still worth traveling for the lifelong Minnesota RV er who wants to take in an important part of American road culture, and while you’re making the journey, you’ll want to make a stop in Gallup, New Mexico.

Gallup was one of the thriving capitals of the Route 66 empire, and a drive through the city shows you a wide variety of beautiful sites. The facades of old movie theaters and restaurants and cafes all have a certain ghost-town charm to them, a bittersweet nostalgic feel, as if you can sense the presence of thousands of fellow travelers who’ve been here before.

Gallup is also the home of the world’s most popular Wal-Mart, as it serves as a shopping center for people from more than a hundred miles away in towns like Bluewater and Thoreau where it’s hard to find a big grocery store. This is useful for any RVer who needs to restock on the essentials or take a day to relax in the parking lot.

Gallup also puts you a stone’s throw away from Albuquerque and Santa Fe if you want to enjoy the whole New Mexico experience, and the state is full of great RV parks and camping sites. The real joy of New Mexico, however, is simply driving through the tremendous landscapes. A few hours on the road in N.M. and you’ll feel what it truly means to be an American nomad.

Feast Your Eyes On The 2013 Palomino Pop-up Camper

Sometimes you just don’t need a full sized Class A motorhome when you want to take a quick jaunt to the mountains or your favorite lake. A small and space saving pop-up model can save on fuel while providing a very comfortable place to relax at the end of the day. If you are searching for a camper that doesn’t leave you feeling cramped, consider the 2013 Palomino Pop-up Camper. A plethora of features help this compact camper compete with the most luxurious options from your favorite RV dealership in Minneapolis .

Expansion

Start by considering the dual pop-out bunks. Each provides plenty of space for sleeping, allowing you to accommodate up to four family members in one camper. The bunk areas are equipped with plenty of screened windows to give you a cool breeze on a hot summer night. Heated mats are also installed into each bunk to keep you just as warm during the fall and winter. A small furnace also makes this pop-up camper surprisingly suited for exploration during the cooler half of the year.

Air Flow

The roof vent pops up to capture the air as well. Many campers find that there is no need for air conditioning when dealing with a small space with great ventilation. Keeping the air moving will reduce heat, even when you’re parked in the sun. There’s no challenge to keeping your food and drinks cold either due to the spacious refrigerator.

Staying Safe

This space saving camper has a number of safety features to help families feel confident in their choice when camping. The CO2 detector will warn you if a propane stove or other appliance is leaking as you sleep. The electric brakes are highly responsive and ensure that your camper doesn’t get out of control when you’re traveling down a steep grade or need to make an emergency stop. There’s even a framed support on the roof that is ready to hold your favorite air conditioning equipment so you don’t have to try and balance it in a window or doorway. If you’re interested in a spacious pop-up camper that can handle the rigors of the wilderness, head to PleasureLand RV Center to see the Palomino in person.

Exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

If you have been searching for a new place to explore without leaving the state of Minnesota, consider planning a trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness after visiting your favorite RV dealership . Minnesota is home to this 1.3 million acre nature preserve that runs along 150 miles of the border with Canada. Explore unspoiled natural beauty with your family and friends without having to see the same old sights or travel far out of the state.

Minnesota RV Destinations

Plenty Of Space

You can roam over the entire area, but there are designated camping areas, especially for RVs. However, there are over 2,000 different camp sites available to give you plenty of options. Set up near the water if you’re traveling with canoes and kayaks, or pull in near the head of your favorite trail. The area was first set aside in 1926, so many areas are very good examples of old growth forest for the area.

Planning Your Trip

Since the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is heavily protected, it’s important to apply for a permit to visit the area a few weeks before your trip. These permits are required for any person traveling in a motorized vehicle through the area. This ensures that visitors don’t go over the quotas and cause undue wear and tear to the environment. Permits for overnight stays start with coverage for two adults, so you can’t simply pay for a single visitor. You will need to give a total number of guests, including children, when making reservations. Last minute guests won’t be able to just jump in and go along with you. However, it’s possible to buy permits the day you arrive by visiting a park ranger’s office if you are traveling between October through April.

The Land Of A Thousand Lakes

The million-odd acres of the BWCAW are riddled with well over one thousand lakes. These bodies of water are connected by creeks, streams and rivers. Take to the water in your favorite canoe or kayak to explore over one thousand connected miles of water trails. If you don’t own any water gear or don’t have space in your RV for haul it along, consider renting your equipment from one of the many outfitters operating in or near the wilderness. There are also 11 full-length hiking trails if you prefer to explore the area by foot.

The BWCAW is located partially on the coast of Lake Superior and is easily accessed through the Superior National Park. Visitors can also take in the sights of International Falls or Thunder Bay while in the area.

Simple Tips For Organizing Every Part Of Your RV

Staying organized in your Minnesota RV requires just a few pieces of specialized equipment. You don’t have to invest in expensive custom storage solutions when you tackle each part of the RV with an organizing plan.

Kitchen and Living Area

  • Use your microwave and oven as extra cabinets when you’re moving. Boxes of cereal or airtight containers full of rice can easily slip into these appliances when they’re not in use.
  • Invest in a big roll of non-stick shelf liners. These liners will keep dishes from slipping out when you’re driving, but they can also be used between plates and bowls to keep a stack from tipping over.
  • Invest in multi-purpose appliances to save space.
  • Hanging wire baskets or suspended shelves under the upper cabinets to hold cookbooks or other relatively flat items.

Bedroom and Bathroom

  • Use the walls of the bathroom and shower stall to expand storage for hair care products and other small items. A plastic shoe hanger with suction cups can hold half a dozen different shampoos and conditioners without cluttering up shelves and countertops.
  • Expand your closet with extra rods or collapsing clothes hangers that allow you to store six or seven items in the space of one. Store any clothing you don’t use at least once a week in a sealed bag in your exterior storage area.
  • Stick with collapsible laundry baskets and hampers. They fold up into a tiny, flat disc when you don’t need them.
  • Cut down on personal items that aren’t useful. If you’re only on a short trip, leave extra blankets or your curling iron at home and focus on your vacation instead. Full-time RV residents can open a small storage unit near their favorite home base to keep heirlooms and other items they can’t carry with them.

Exterior Storage

  • Pack blankets, clothing, and other soft items into large plastic bags and suck out the air with a simple vacuum tool to save space while protecting the items from dirt and insects. Pillows and other puffy items can shrink tremendously when vacuum packed.
  • Divide the storage area into sections with spring-loaded dividers if it’s simply one large compartment. You need to keep your tools for repairing the RV separate from clothing and gifts for your family, unless you want grease and dirt on them.

Many of our models at our Minnesota RV dealership feature extra built-in storage options. Come tour our best models to find one that fits the needs of you and your family when on the road.

An Easter Egg Hunt For The Kids

The Easter Bunny will be hopping by early this year! Easter is Sunday, March 31, and with a little imagination and elbow grease, you can turn your weekend RV camping trip into an impromptu Easter egg hunt.

An easy place to start is with plastic eggs and treats from any local market. You can use the motorhome itself to hide the eggs, because we all know there are plenty of nooks and crannies! Or, if you choose the great outdoors instead, enlist the older kids to find some ingenious places, but make sure there’s something for every age group, including some easy, low hiding spots for the little ones. Think of it as Easter geocaching! Don’t forget to make a map and note the number of eggs you hide. If you want to include the whole family in egg-dyeing fun, this site has easy tricks to make unique dyes and patterns with common ingredients. Who doesn’t love a tie-dyed Easter egg?!

If you don’t want to DIY Easter, you can find lots of fun in our state parks. Check out Glacial Lakes State Park, which is planning an old fashioned Easter egg hunt and tons of family events. Visit the main page of the Minnesota State Parks website to learn more about great camping spots for your RV, and all kinds of upcoming events. There’s plenty of activity to eggs-cite all your campers! Happy hunting!