Stories of Robert | Camping Trip Ideas, Camping Journal, Camping Tools

Propane is a vital energy source for RV enthusiasts, powering essential appliances like stoves, refrigerators, and heaters. However, its combustible nature poses significant safety risks, including leaks that can lead to fires or explosions. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, from 2018 to 2020, there was an estimated annual average of 4,200 RV fires, resulting in 15 deaths, 125 injuries, and approximately $60.3 million in property loss. U.S. Fire Administration Traditional propane system...

Camping.Tools

Saving Memories

Camping Journal

Why I created Camping.Tools, a story from the founder

Robert/03-18-2024

Camping.Tools is for Saving Memories A few days ago, I had breakfast with a mentor and friend, and he asked an important question. Why did you create the business? This is a seemingly simple question. But as I start to unravel the answer I'm learning that the answer is not so simple. The truth is that "the business" has evolved from a personal passion into something that I believe can lead to many good things. My writings here on Camping.Tools begin with my attempt to explain how things started,...

RV Mods

Morryde Alltrek 4000

Dexter D60 6,000 lb Axle

Morryde weltbolt upgrade

How to replace your RV suspension with the Morryde 4000 and Dexter D60

Robert/02-19-2024

Replacing Your RV Suspension is Easy Enjoy this DIY video on how to upgrade the suspension on a 2017 Keystone Outback 240URS. I've driven this towable RV for roughly 35,000 miles. We bought it new in 2018 and have traveled as far north and as far west as possible in the continental US. About two years ago I noticed I was going through a set of back tires per year. I had hit a bump on the road and slightly bent the rear axle, which caused the back tires to camber out. Then, on my last big trip to...

HikingTrails

Hiking Near Atlanta

Hiking Trails Near Standing Indian Campground

Robert/10-17-2023

Hiking Trails Near Atlanta, Great for Fall Foliage Standing Indian Campground is a popular outdoor destination in the Nantahala National Forest near Franklin, North Carolina. The area offers numerous hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. Here are three hiking trails near Standing Indian Campground: Standing Indian Loop Trail Distance: Approximately 11 miles. Difficulty: Moderate. Description: The Standing Indian Loop Trail is a well-known hiking route that starts from the campground....

Bighorn

Northern Wyoming

National Forest

Bighorn National Forest - Part 10 - Summer 2012, Trip to Glacier National Park

Robert/05-10-2023

After leaving Custer State Park and Black Hills National Forest in western South Dakota, we decided to try to find a place to stay around Devil's Tower National Monument. It was late June 2012 and it was hot, somewhere north fo 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It turned out to be the hottest part of the entire trip. So we decided to continue west across northern Wyoming . We were approaching a large mountain range that I thought were too close to be the Rockies so I checked the map. They turned out to be...

RV Tire Pressure

TPMS

RV Safety

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Robert/02-25-2022

My dad used to tell me there are two kinds of RV owners, those that have had flat and those that will. Get a TPMS for peace of mind because all RV owners should use them. Imagine towing a thirty-foot towable RV and one of the tires starts dropping pressure on a long haul trip across the southern states. When you fuel up you think it looks a little low, but you get distracted by the kids and forget to check the pressure before pulling across some already hot roads. The road you’re on is worn so t...

GardenOfTheGods-IL

Southern Illinois

Cave-In-Rock Ferry

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, Herod, IL - Part 1 - Summer 2012, Trip to Glacier National Park

Robert/08-29-2021

The Shawnee National Forest , located in the southern tip of Illinois , was our first stop on the Grand Tour to Glacier National Park . Our rule of thumb for setting our schedule was to travel for about 8 hours, camp a few days, then continue on. Most of the campsites we had booked but there were several nights where we were just winging it. If you're RV camping, I definitely recommend having reservations for every stop. If you change your mind then call around. And you won't be heartbroken when...

Spring into Adventure: Must-Have RV Gadgets for 2025

As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, it's time to dust off your RV and hit the open road. But before you do, consider the gadgets that can elevate your camping experience from ordinary to extraordinary. These must-have RV gadgets for 2025 not only make your life easier but also add a sprinkle of fun to your adventures. After all, who doesn't want to enjoy a little luxury while surrounded by nature? Let's dive into the gadgets that will have you saying goodbye to the mundane an...

Easy, Healthy Campervan Meals for 1–2 People

Van life for sure has its perks. Waking up to mountain views, chasing sunsets, and the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. But after a few too many ramen packets, PB&J sandwiches, and overly ambitious cook-ups that leave a pile of dishes in the sink, reality hit me. I really needed to find some recipes that were quick, healthy, and actually satisfying. These campervan meals are some of my favorites because they’re healthy, delicious, and designed to make campervan cooking simple. Plus...

My Top Cold Weather Camping Tips

I’ll never forget the first time I woke up at 3 a.m., fully zipped into my sleeping bag, teeth chattering, completely miserable. I couldn’t stop shaking and I was just white knuckling until the sun came up. Since then, I’ve picked up a bunch of tricks that actually work. Tent camping in colder temps can still be a lot of fun, as long as you go in with the right setup. From understanding sleeping bag ratings to boosting body heat with simple gear hacks, here’s how I stay warm (and get real sleep)...

Solo Hiking Tips for First-Timers

There’s something incredibly freeing about hitting the trail alone. No compromises, no pressure—just you, the outdoors, and the chance to move at your own pace. Solo hiking offers solitude, clarity, and a real sense of self-reliance. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Being alone on the trail is empowering, but it also means you need to be more intentional about planning and safety. In this guide, I’m covering everything first-time solo hikers need to know: how to prepare before you go,...

Top Tips For Camping With Dogs from a Fellow Camper Who's Learned the Hard Way

I’ve been camping with dogs for years. Sometimes car camping, sometimes deep in the backcountry. As any seasoned pet owner will tell you, bringing your four-legged friend on a camping trip can be a lot of fun... but it also takes way more prep than you’d think, especially the first time. From gear that’s actually worth packing to keeping your dog safe, dry, and (somewhat) calm (I have herding breeds so iykyk), here’s everything I’ve learned the hard way. Getting Ready Before the Trip Vaccination...