The blog.

Through our blog posts, you will get an inside look at how we plan and prepare for our trips, from finding the perfect campground to meal planning, and how to pack everything you need while keeping it organized. We will also share our personal experiences and tips on hiking, visiting US National Park, and road-tripping across the American West, including the best routes, must-see destinations, and how to ensure safety while on the road.

if search doesn’t work click on any of these frequent topics we write about:

Which US National Parks Require Reservations in 2023?

Explore the beauty and wonder of US national parks, treasured by millions worldwide. These protected areas offer a wealth of historical and natural attractions, but high visitor numbers can lead to crowds. To address this, the National Park Service (NPS) has implemented a reservation and permit system for crowd control. While opinions may vary, it's here to stay for the foreseeable future. Most parks and monuments don't require reservations or permits, but popular ones like Zion, Rocky Mountain, Arches, Acadia, and Glacier do. It's important to check each park's official NPS website for the most current information and rules before planning a visit in 2023. If you have any questions, many parks are happy to assist you over the phone.

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Camping, Kids, Printable, RV, Tent Mandy Camping, Kids, Printable, RV, Tent Mandy

Stay Organized on Your Next Camping Trip: Create a Camping Trip Planning Folder with Free Printable

Create a cute camping trip planning folder to stay organized and on top of all the important details for your next RV or tent camping trip. We include a free printable template for the folder, which includes ideas for important documents, reservations, packing lists, and more. By using this organization tool, you can ensure that you have all the information you need for a smooth and successful camping trip. Perfect for RV’ers and tent campers to keep track of reservations, maps, and activities.

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National Parks, Camping Mandy National Parks, Camping Mandy

Unleash the Fun: Learn About the Bark Ranger Program in US National Parks

If you love spending time in the great outdoors and have a furry friend who's always up for an adventure, visiting a national park can be a perfect way to combine your passions. A handful of national parks are becoming a little more dog-friendly. Allowing you to bring your four-legged companion along for the ride rather than being relegated to just picnic areas and parking lots. Now your pooch can become a Bark Ranger!

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Camping, Printable, Tent, RV Mandy Camping, Printable, Tent, RV Mandy

The Family Camping Trip Packing List: Essential Items for Every Adventure

Are you planning a family camping trip and wondering what to pack? Look no further! Our customizable family camping packing list has got you covered. From essential gear like shoes and PJs to specifics like coats or shorts, we've included everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trip. But the best part? You can easily tailor the list to fit your specific needs and preferences. Download our family camping packing list now and start planning the ultimate outdoor adventure for your family.

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Tent, Food, RV, Camping Mandy Tent, Food, RV, Camping Mandy

Camping and RV Meals: How to Eat Well in the Great Outdoors

Delicious meals and cooking of food while camping, either in a tent or an RV can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to enjoy a variety of healthy, home-cooked meals while enjoying the great outdoors. There are many different ways to cook while camping, including using a campfire, a portable stove, a Dutch oven, or a pie iron. You can also use a solar oven or a portable grill to cook while camping. Some popular camp cooking recipes include foil packet dinners, grilled meats and vegetables, and Dutch oven casseroles.

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Explore National Parks for FREE in 2023

There are several benefits of free days at US national parks: Cost savings: Visiting a national park can be expensive, especially if you are planning to visit multiple parks. Free days allow you to visit a park without having to pay the entrance fee. National parks also offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and more. Free days allow more people to take advantage of these opportunities and enjoy the great outdoors.

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Food, Travel, Camping, Tent Mandy Food, Travel, Camping, Tent Mandy

50 Simple and Tasty Camping Snack Ideas to Fuel Your Next Adventure

If you're planning a camping trip, you're likely thinking about what snacks to bring. Snacks are essential for fueling your body during a hike or other outdoor activities. But, you don't have to settle for boring snacks like trail mix and granola bars. There are plenty of delicious and easy-to-make snacks that will keep you energized and satisfied on your next camping trip.

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Travel, Camping, Kids, National Parks Mandy Travel, Camping, Kids, National Parks Mandy

Honoring the Heroes: Explore National Parks for FREE on Veterans Day

Did you know you can visit any of the US National Parks and Monuments on Veterans Day for free? One of the many ways to honor and show appreciation for the sacrifices made by military veterans who have served our country is to visit the parks to which some Veterans inspired and contributed. Additionally, many national parks offer free admission to all visitors on Veterans Day as a way to encourage people to visit and appreciate the natural beauty and history preserved in these spaces.

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Travel, Camping, Kids, RV, Tent Mandy Travel, Camping, Kids, RV, Tent Mandy

Camping and RVing Sustainably: Tips for an Eco-Friendly Adventure with goSili

Explore the great outdoors while minimizing your impact on the environment with our guide to camping and RVing sustainably. From practicing "leave no trace" principles to using eco-friendly products, we provide practical tips and ideas for an environmentally responsible camping or RVing trip. Learn how to conserve water, respect wildlife, and reduce your carbon footprint. Join us as we share our own experiences and knowledge on how to make your camping or RVing trip not only fun but also good for the planet. Don't just take a vacation, take an eco-friendly adventure.

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Kids, Camping, RV Mandy Kids, Camping, RV Mandy

Campground Fun for the Whole Family: Printable Games and Activities for Your Next RV Trip

It’s no secret kids get bored at the campground despite our best efforts to keep them entertained. When you feel like you’ve run out of ideas here are a few more campground activities and games for the whole family. The best part is that there is very little pre-planning needed for most of these ideas. Feel free to adapt any of these games to what you have on hand or give them a new fun take.

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Free US National Park Pass for 4th Graders in 2022-2023 plus books for your outdoorsy kid

Do you have a new 4th grader (or homeschool equivalent) for the 2022-2023 school year? Great! Then you need to make sure you're taking advantage of the Every Kid Outdoors program. I am on a mission to get out the news that every American 4th grader and their families can enter into any of the over 400 national park sites for free for one full year, starting tomorrow!

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Camping, Food Mandy Camping, Food Mandy

Labor Day/Long Weekend Camping Meal Ideas

Last year, I created 15 different weekend camping meal plans to help make life a little easier and give you more quality time with your family. Each weekend is an extended weekend Friday-Monday and each meal idea is something easy that everyone will love and perfect for Labor Day Weekend 2022.

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Kids, Camping, RV Mandy Kids, Camping, RV Mandy

Camping Countdown with Kids: Creative Ways to Get Excited for Your Next Trip

Camping is an exciting and fun way to spend time with family, but it can be hard for kids to wait for the trip. One way to make the time go by quickly and to build excitement is to count down the days to your camping trip with kids. There are many creative and fun ways to do this, such as making a countdown calendar, creating a scavenger hunt, or reading camping-themed books. These activities not only make the time pass quickly but also educate and involve kids in the planning process. Here are 20 fun ways to countdown to your next camping trip with kids and make the wait an exciting and memorable experience.

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Camping, Food Mandy Camping, Food Mandy

Blackstone/Griddle Camping Meal Plan

Upgrade your camping experience with our Blackstone (Griddle) Weekend Camping Menu featuring Strawberry Topped Pancakes, Caprese Salad Panini, and Shrimp Fajitas. These delicious meal ideas are perfect for cooking on a Blackstone griddle and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The pancakes with fresh strawberry and the Caprese Salad Panini with fresh mozzarella is a perfect combination for a griddle breakfast and lunch. While the shrimp fajitas will give you a delicious dinner option while camping. So pack up your camping gear, and head out for a weekend of adventure with our mouth-watering and versatile meal plan.

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Camping, Food Mandy Camping, Food Mandy

Memorial Day Weekend Camping Meal Plan

Last year, I created 15 different weekend camping meal plans to help make life a little easier and give you more quality time with your family. Each weekend is an extended weekend from Friday-Monday and each meal idea is something easy that everyone will love. You can read more about the meal plans. I will be reposting a few of the most popular meal plans throughout the summer. If you would prefer to make your own meal plan grab my free blank printable menu anytime.

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Explore America's National Parks with the 4th Grade US National Park Pass: What You Need to Know

The 4th Grade US National Park Pass is a great way for families to explore America's beautiful national parks. The pass is available to all U.S. fourth graders and their families and provides free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for an entire year. This includes all national parks, monuments, and historic sites. To get a pass, fourth graders will need to complete an educational activity, either in person or online, then they can download their pass.

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Travel, Camping, Kids Mandy Travel, Camping, Kids Mandy

Explore National Parks for FREE in April

Did you know you can visit a US national park or monument this Saturday, April 16, 2022, for free? So shake off the cabin fever and get outside with your friends and family. There are over 400 sites to explore, I guarantee there is something for everyone! When you’re out at the parks learn more about next week’s National Park Week.

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Camping Mandy Camping Mandy

What to know for your 2022 RV Shows

As the world begins to return to “normal” one thing we will soon see return is the RV show. It’s no secret by now that the RV industry is booming. More and more people are purchasing RVs than ever before and choosing the ultimate social distancing getaway by heading out camping. Once the RV shows begin to return there will be many new changes. These are just a few of the things you’ll need to know whether you are just browsing or if you plan on purchasing.

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