We try to always follow my 2+2+2 rule. We try to only drive 200 miles, arrive at the campground by 2:00 pm, and stay at least 2 days. This makes it very comfortable - of course we are retired.
Was raised by my father, an Air Force enlisted man from Georgia, who was stationed in California for much of his career. Every year, our family would go back to Georgia on my Dad's leave. He was old school...up at 4am, on the road by 4:30, drive until near sundown, and make 700 miles a day. Quite a feat with a sedan full of kids requiring numerous food, gas, and pee stops. When i became an adult, i immulated that philosophy until i started pulling a travel trailer. The first two yrs, traveling across country and back, 500 mi a day was my standard. That soon dropped to 300. Now, i get a little depressed thinking about a 300 mi day, but thats my current standard. But the driving gets so weary, that just spending my time in state parks a couple of hrs from home is starting to sound appealing!
I've lived in an rv since 2000, alot of parks don't alow kids, dogs, multiple vehicles. They do this because they want the older crowd and not the younger, they want it to be considered a resort, and vacation get away. Always read reviews first. Good luck to yall in the future
Gotta love how America is this place where someone else always knows what is best for someone else. No one knows how to mind their own business anymore. Gotta tell you how to live your life! So sorry this happened to you guys.
Ask the Republicans about choosing what's right for a woman, choosing what a parent can do for their trans kid etc. They love telling people how to live their lives and even make laws to do it.
I grew up in the late 60s and 70s and every summer my family would travel all over the US and Canada in a 20 foot travel trailer. My dad retired early and when school was out we would take off. I learned so much about people and our country that way. I wish I could do it all over again. Those are some of my best memories of childhood and I will always be grateful to my parents for broadening my horizons in such a way. Keep up the good work!
OMG.... This is a choice. It IS NOT wrong for kids. Exactly the opposite! They will learn so much more life experiences in the road then they ever will in a classroom. How dare any one EVER dictate how another person /parents raise they're kids. Unless there is abuse of course. Keep in keeping on. You guys are great!!!!
you guys do a bangin'fine job of keeping it real for us kids. Your authenticity and wit make you superduper accessible and you've turned into some of my best company for fullmoon insomnia nights. Thanks tons and never stop.
"Cold state of Colorado" Had to smile a bit as we talked about moving to Colorado to escape our cold state of MN. All about perspective. Good video, best of luck!
@@marcsiegfried8247 Southern Colorado is where the Banana Belt is. That's where I live. ;-) Almost 9,000 feet and the weather is very similar to the Front Range, instead of places like Aspen. Not meaning to sound like a jerk, just clarifying. :-)
And us southern folks is wanting to move to the mountains to get away from the heat and humidity.....Lol....wait until its 115 degrees and 100 percent humidity
I stayed at a KOA in Florida for a few weeks with my aunt back in spring of 2018, I forget exactly where but I know it was in the same general area as Clearwater, and I.... was not all that impressed. It was okay, don't have any others to compare it to. Nice staff & amenities, but our neighbor was a dickwad and it was so dark at night because they had the outdoor lights every 10-15 feet with the lowest wattage bulb known to man. And the trees. So many trees. Trees are great. Trees with untrimmed/low hanging branches in an RV park are not.
We live fulltime in our bus and you wouldn't believe the amount of discrimination we get for "forcing our kids" to live in a bus. I think its just people who are unhappy in their own lives and they want others to be as miserable as they are.
Don't take it personal. In these times it seems people are changing the focus from their own lives to how others should be living. The joke is on them. Your kids are the ones getting a proper education with homeschooling while the rest of the country school system is upside down because of the "virus"
As long as the kids are Safe, Feed, And Clean Thats All that should matter F the Haters Theyre Miserable in their Lives Good luck to you and your Family✨💖
The president FORCES his kids to live in the white house Many inner city kids are forced to live in the projects etc etc Aren't all kids "forced" to live wherever their parents/gaurdians/providers live?! Ridiculous statement.
We experienced something similar at a KOA in Massachusetts. Apparently, school was in session at that time, and we are home schoolers, so they kicked us out. I will never forget. Needless to say they were extremely rude as they made sure we left, as if we were some dangerous group.
I home schooled my son and daughter in Texas which is one of the easiest states to homeschool. Even so l was very quiet about this with people l did not know. It was not worth the potential hassle. My son, now a parent lives in the most difficult state, PA to homeschool. Even his 4 year must be enrolled in a homeschool program which is supervised by the state. Is a 4 year required to be in school ? No.
Fire-extinguisher: 1 x small one next to the driver seat, 1 x regular size one next to the entrance door, fire-blanket next to the propane stove, small-fire-extinguisher in the back of the motorhome, automatic extinguisher devices behind and one under the fridge.
Welcome to Florida. Florida is full of grumpy old folks. Be forewarned if you buy a house with a HOA be ready for more drama. HOA neighborhoods normally are not RV friendly. Check out Kelly park Rock Springs in Apopka and the kids will have a lot of fun.
Rock Springs is beautiful. The springs are Crystal clear! Wish i would have known that you were relocating to FL last year... I just sold my place in Lake County for a song! I drive a flat 450 miles. I have driven from Southern California straight through to DeLand, FL in 3 days i was wrecked! But I did it! Your rig isn't a "older" rig, your site doesn't look like a mess... And I'd definitely speak to the KOA owner... Kids(?) Oh yeah thats discrimination
Koa campgrounds sell u yr tickets 4 there campgrounds they pull that money in and never have campung spots for the yr payiers. U have 2 schedule vacations almost a year to 2 years in advance to use your KOA membership it's not worth giving them your cash and then you cannot find a camp spot with their organization throughout the summer all that money wasted & never able 2 use what i payied 4
Who in the heck do these people think they are? It is none of anyone’s business how you live with your children, as long as there is no abuse going on. Traveling and seeing the country is a wonderful way to raise kids!
How about you dont judge content creators. It is thir channel they can upload what they want on thir chnnel as long as it not brakeing rules of the platform. In all honesty tho ppl like outside a famliy trying to run otheres lives is a bit selfish.
When I was younger, I was able to drive 10 hours without getting tired as long as I made it an absolute rule to stop every 2 hours on the dot and get out and walk around for 10 minutes or so. Now, I get tired after 2.5 hours, but I"m older and have health problems to deal with.
Your dog is nice. Keep your dog and children away from ALL fresh water ... ponds, rivers, etc. Gators will be there. And check the bottom of every pool before you jump in ... every time.
I would like to add make sure the dog doesn't drink anything! May cause serious harm or death. Much water contamination. ☹️ On other safety - I'm buying a new 🔥 extinguisher asap. Thx.
We are full time in our RV and couldn’t put up with people criticizing us because our 5th wheel is too old for a month to month. Now mind you our RV is in great shape and not broken down RV. So we found a guy who was renting out his 3 acres and only wanted an RV there, so we got the place for a great price to rent. We’ve been in parks like that and can’t stand people like that.
Wow! Just totally flabbergasted that some wood would impose their opinions on how to raise your children . Thanks for sharing your story. We have fire extinguishers in a cabinet by the stairwell and one behind the driver seat. Happy trails!
i can respect the owner's opinion (even if I don't agree with it). But I would definitely check to see if there are fair housing/accommodation laws that may apply. Not that you'd want to stay, but maybe you can help the next family.
We just drove from southern Nevada to Orlando Floida. My husband won't let me drive so he drove 8 to 10 hours a day for 5 days. It was rough for him, but I got naps in.
KOAs are overpriced and not the best of campgrounds by a long shot. That being said, people in the US are becoming rude and hard to deal with in general.
This is what happens when you stop people from interacting with each other The more they fear living the more you will get this People are getting more rude and nasty all over the world not just America.
I think too much work pressure and win at any cost mentality and anger at being taken advantage of or being bullied and if there's a hint of it- over reaction.
If you go to a KOA don't let them talk you into a yearly membership you never can get into a camping spot when u needed it and you paid for a yearly membership 2 camp and you can't even use it when u needed it its a waste of money you want to use a KOA you probably should pay 2 yrs up frount then schedule your camping vacation will take a year to 2 years in advance so you can get your spot and utilize the money u spent on there yr member ship!
OMG I can't believe this. I don't have kids- I raise and show dogs- I love the opportunity to be around kids for socializing puppies! And also- my experience has been that people who homeschool (as your friends that are full time RV lifestylers probably do) have the best behaved kids! I can't believe anyone would discriminate against you for having kids! That is insane!
It's because we are around our kiddos 24/7, in a small space...so 1)we don't have the guilt that working parents have, 2)we don't put up with stuff, because we cannot!! Can you imagine complete chaos in 3-400sq ft??? I am a homeschooling, full-time RV mama of 5, trust me, I know this well :-) I am CONSTANTLY told how well behaved my kiddos are, honestly I wish my kiddos were the rule rather than the exception!!
@@bellasmom2597 most adult only sites have a criminal background check so chimos cant be there either. it usually older retired people in those. im in one of the very few RV parks in phenox that allows under 55 and no back ground check. several chimos here i think 15 now and alot of kids. the other under 55 i was at with a back ground check was pretty slummy and in the city with lots of homeless wandering the un gated park. all the really nice ones are 55 and older, gated, pool. hot tub and games but absolutely no kids allowed. sad huh the only places here in Px RVs can have kids are slumy and or with sex offenders.
@@tammiehinkle2040 By who? Other RVers? Not exactly a cross section of America because most of us have real jobs that allow you to go RVing year round.
In Norway they would be very glad to welcome any family, with or without kids, for a whole month! That camping park is going to be out of business some day soon
Sorry guys but, in many campgrounds and/or moblé home places they don’t allow children and as travelers you should know that. The problem here would be if it was posted or not.
Wrong. Plenty of people will go there just because there's no kids. A while back a local restaurant created a new rule that said "no kids under 16 yrs old." They got ROASTED in the local press. I was a regular, and a month into it I asked how it was going. The owner said "We're up 42% in sales year over year."
I found out through 2 UTuber’s from the UK who bought a van that they loss through a fire, that you can buy these fire extinguishers that have some kind of a sensor on them & will automatically combust if there happens to be a fire. Haven’t researched how they work exactly. But thought that was interesting. You might look into those for your RV??
Smart move , I would never have left Pensacola if the guys hadn’t wanted it to go back to our Indiana property . Big mistake . Now I’m stuck here in hoosierland .
These places are being shut down, one after another. Most of the older folks living in such places are being priced out by individuals buying these parks, significantly increasing fees, and since they can't afford it the older folks must move. Usually they have to move out of state due to increases in costs over the last ten years because of real estate flipping at ridiculous prices. Most of the elderly keep to themselves and stay out of other people's lives, however, some of the recent residents who are very wealthy and invest in real estate are indeed making rules and turning everything upside down in Florida. There are plenty of RV parks, if one is unfriendly don't hesitate to move on to another. They're not supposed to discriminate against families with children, but due to recent changes across the US, such discrmination is rampant. Consider staying on BLM land or with individuals who rent out RV spaces and will welcome you. Just saying the truth here.
"apparently rains every day in FL". Hahaha. Did you even check out FL?? Why did you decide to move here? Do you know we have huge bugs and gators too?? You probably are very nice people, just tired and whiny.
Fire extinguishers, always think where would you be when you see a fire? Probably at an entry, waking from bed, the driving compartment, do not put them where a fire may start
All I got to say is that KOA is a joke . I would definitely turn that owner into the main headquarters. Enjoy your travels with your kids and family . Thank you for letting more people know about that KOA and the horrible owner. Stay safe out there on the road .
Ridiculous! I don’t RV I tent camp and got my son camping as young as 4 yrs old. As long as the children are respectful, that goes the same for adults, is a way to teach them to cherish nature, respect, and so much more. I love to hear their laughter and the interesting questions they come up with, then again I’m a retired elementary teacher so I love those little sponges soaking all that’s taught to them.
From a native Floridian who recently relocated to CO, welcome to Florida. Please accept my apologies for what you encountered at the KOA and all the other rude peeps you will encounter. It may be less apparent in Central Fl, but definitely a common occurrence. But do not despair, you will also meet some pretty amazing people. Happy transition to your new home base.
Now, now. Let's be honest here. What is the Florida state motto? Welcome to Florida, Come for Vacation, Leave on Probation. Pretty sure they have that on some bumper stickers so you can remember your visit.
I like to drive 12 hours. It’s not family friendly. I lived in a town house in Florida. Senior’s don’t like kids In the pool and just walking anywhere. I told many seniors to leave my kids alone. I own here too
Although awe have a small fire extinguisher that came with our TT in our kitchen area, I have a bigger one I keep my my bed. Most fires will start in the kitchen area and that's usually is where the door is to escape. I might not be able to get to the small fire extinguisher in the kitchen so having a big one next to by bed makes me feel safer.
This is why I camp..........ALONE!!!! Away from people, a screwed up society & constant harassment from the law handling out fines after fines after fines!
Went down the TH-cam rabbit hole and ended up here. I live in Altamonte Springs but just bought a home in Apopka. Glad to see this video. Welcome to Florida!
Try a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Campground. They are truly kid friendly and family oriented. Never had a bad stay at one. Sorry that there are places that are run like that.
My parents used to pull us from school to vacation off season every year and we were blessed by it. We didn't go RV full time, but my parents did for a while after retirement. In a few months, I'll be living in a trailer indefinitely and I'm actually looking forward to it!
Many years ago we hauled the camper down to Orlando (area) to visit family and take the kids to Disney. We found a campground that had good ratings, large pull through sites and decent rates. We got there after dark (of course) finally found our site and got setup with a few curse words being mumbled throughout the process. In the morning we woke up and realized that 90% of the campground was permanent residence and they weren’t happy we had kids. It was really more for older people and kids weren’t really welcome.
It sounds the owner was more concerned with the RV population that is retired and living in the campground and don’t want to deal with children living on the camp ground.
I had no idea that RV parks do not allow RVs 10 years or older. My son-in-law was given a 2000 40 ft RV with 2,000 miles on it. It is in mint condition. Not a scratch . Everyone is loving the retro vibe it has.
Yes some rv parks have started this rule it’s made it hard for us to find a campground this year we also are trying to find remote jobs while fulltiming our rv is a 1992 Fleetwood flair 35 foot it’s in great condition but because it’s 30 years old they won’t allow them in some parks
I have two doors on my trailer and I have a fire extinguisher mounted by each door so that I can easily grab it if I'm outside or in. Also the RV park that I live permanently in has fire extinguishers located every so many feet by the road if anyone needs to grab them. I think that is part of the fire code in this area.
Welcome to Florida! I live in the Wekiva springs area. It’s a great place to live with family. The Apopka campground isn’t a family campground. Try the Wekiva Springs.
Thank you for your VERY helpful videos. Good to know about this KOA. We will make sure we NEVER stay at that KOA. We've had some BAD KOA experiences. So we'll make sure we take that one off our list.
We had a similar experience in Flagstaff, and in Anaheim KOA's. Also, my camper on the truck was a2020, but the truck is a Ram diesel, with a Cummins, so it being a 2010 was given a fisheye as too old. Diesels are usually a very long time engines which being so good, you keep them for several years.
People who own a RV have kids. What the hell? Oh my gosh. Children are supposed to be at a camp place. I’ve never done that but I did have a frievd who had kids several kids and he bitched about my one? I was like what?
Calling them closed minded old geezers is definitely age discrimination as well as bullying. Wake up and get to to source if you want to be so sanctimonious, call or write KOA cooperate to have them either remove their privileges or remove their sign.
Several years ago, we attended a “Boot Camp” run by the Escapees group. The fire safety guy gave a great presentation about fire safety. I believe I am accurate in saying he proposed we keep fire extinguishers in locations necessary to ensure we can get out of the rig, not really expecting to put a fire out. Priority ONE! Next recommendation was to actually practice exiting from the emergency exit. Don’t just look at it - practice. Third, decide who goes first and what their job is. Old ma me would say stand aside and get my wife out first. She said, NO. She is too short and not necessarily strong enough to get out quickly. She wanted me out so I could use my height to help her navigate the long drop. Makes sense. You, and your family, have to discuss it and come to an understanding. There’s just two of us. We have two small extinguisher in the bedroom that we can reach from the bed. They are non toxic so he demonstrated by spraying all over himself - keep people safe first. made sense. We have another small one in the living area. One large one by the exit door and one in a basement area. RVs are combustible, especially with a 75 gallon gas tank right under the bed. He sure got our attention. He had three volunteers try to exit from his window. First one took more than two minutes. Second one to a little over one minute. Third was out quickly after learning from the first two. That sure got our attention. Safe travels and congratulations on following your dreams.
My father owned a fire safety business. Your advice is really good. We also did training for businesses for their employees to learn how to correctly use a fire extinguisher in emergencies. Each person attempted to put out a live fire a few times to get the feel and learn technique. One thing I learned by observing so many people is that those who have never discharged a fire extinguisher and/or learned how to do it correctly...the effort will be mostly useless. Second, the tiny little cheap Kiddie extinguishers you can by at box stores, or that come in new rvs are practically worthless. It's like throwing a cup of water on a fire. Go to a fire safety company and purchase a quality fire extinguisher that has more capacity (because it runs out fast) and is serviceable. Sure, it will cost more....but it could save someone's life. And third, extinguishers need regular service!!!!!! Over time the powder settles down at the bottom and will cake up....especially in a moving, vibrating vehicle. The seal can slowly leak and the canister can lose it's charge over time. They need emptied, re-freshened, and seals replaced and tested to remain useful. And lastly, there are different types of extinguishers for different types of fires, such as grease, electrical, etc. So it is wise to have a couple different types handy in relevant locations in your rig.
Drove from my parents house in Kansas to my house in Pennsylvania in 18 hours. Actually it was closer to 20 hours with breaks. I don't recommend that for most people.
Retired military, regular army, and National Guard. We used to travel 10 hours anytime we traveled that was the max to see you guys love watching your channel love catching up on YP. Hope everybody’s doing well. Stay safe and be kind to one another.
There's a fairly short window of time that kids would be interested in exploring our countries. It's a great education, and should be taken advantage of.
I learned many years DON'T STAY AT KOA. I think I tried it 4-7 maybe times and ran into a problem every time. Its not the only place to camp go somewhere else. I haven tried one in about 23 years and will not try one again.
We stayed at a campground by Disney with our kids once. It was the only one we could find that had room. When they found out we had kids, they told us to try to keep them in the motorhome. I told them they had been traveling all day and no way could we keep them in the RV. The kids went out to play shuffleboard and the owners walked out and took the stuff away from them. They then went to play basket ball and the owners went and took the basket ball away from them. Sorry, I don't remember what the name of the campgrounds name was.
When we travel we may get 350-400 miles a day or as little as 50. Depending on the car museums or other things we want to visit. That was our reason for getting our RV is not to be rushed.... it took us 30 days to drive from North Carolina to Washington State. But we stopped at dozens of car museums, Studebaker Museum, Mt Rushmore, Bad Lands, and the Rodeos in Wyoming. If we thought it was interesting, we stopped. Next trip planned, if oncologist approves is a two month circle the country....
Oh my, go join Thousand Trails! They will take you and your family with open arms. As a member We are able to stay 3 weeks at a time before we have to move to a different park. Then we can stay another 3 weeks! There are also tons of parks in FL especially is you get the trails collection. I’m a very happy thousand trail member. Check in to it! It’s the way to camp!
We grew up in north central Florida and are familiar with the Florida of 50 yrs ago. Sorry to hear about your experience as we have 15 grandchildren and love kids. My wife and I are starting our Class A RV experience this weekend for the first time and looking forward to it. I really appreciate your videos and will look at more I'm sure. Charity, the first time dumper was greatest. We're in our 70's, traveled all over the world and are looking forward to our RV trip to Colorado this summer and beyond.
My wife and I lived in Florida for 2 years. Never felt at home. Felt like visitors to a tourist area. Also did not like feeling trapped in the state. As in having to drive 5 hours to get out of Florida. Hope you all enjoy it though.
Thanks! We’ve been here almost a year now. We traveled to 4 new states this year (putting our total to 38) and every time we visit a new place we feel more confident about our decision to make FL our home base. Thanks for watching 💙
My wife and I lived in the Jacksonville area- Mayport in the early 80's. Loved it. Jax beach had that small town vibe to it, even if it was a bit touristy at times. Florida is definitely one of the first places we plan on hitting when the wife retires. I only went to Key West several times, Navy stops and later when on cruise ships. I've never driven there, but would like to.
😂😂😂🤣 crazy how people imagine they have the full info on how children should be raised. How many children are homeless with a parent on the street......and yet..... I am a teacher on another continent and I can think of nothing more educational than travel. Add the benefits of a smaller carbon footprint and the social skills. If we have to live according to other peoples opinions, we would all be stuck in a rut of overdrafts, mortgages, and stress. Live your dream life your way.
I agree with everything you just said except for the small carbon footprint you're driving the gas hog but I really don't believe in this whole global warming thing
I’m not sure what size extinguisher your rigs carry. But I will always carry 10lb ABC by door near cook area. Unless your spraying a closed area 5lb is not enough.
People's belief systems can't be changed, if they were rude or intrusive I'd agree... Y'all believe in the great invisible cloud sitting sky spirit and no one seems to call y'all out about that...
You know what makes a great life for kids? Their parents. And the two of you seem like great parents to me. Sorry you had to deal with Grumplestiltsken and his/her ideas of how you should be raising your family!
Just found your video. We have never found a KOA that we’ve wanted to return to. Too many private and state campgrounds to worry with KOA. As far as your Blackstone being on the picnic table, most campgrounds have a rule that grills, cooktops are not allowed on the picnic tables because too many get too hot and actually burn the table. So I understand that they didn’t want your Blackstone on the table.
"THE GOOG"!!! Love it!!! 😆 I grew up overseas as my dad was in the oil and gas industry. Had great learning experiences from those years. Biggest one was understanding that each and every person and culture is uniquely different from the other and in many cases, extremely different. HOWEVER, that doesn't make them bad even when their views happen to be the exact opposite of mine. These types of experiences allowed me to easily adopt the philosophy of "to each his own". It is a shame regarding the campground owner because he is so uniquely placed to gain such wonderful experiences from the diverse folks who show up at his campground, who I am sure would be more than happy to share their life experiences with him. His loss. On to fire extinguishers. We literally bought our first large RV a couple weeks ago and are setting it up for our upcoming RV living experiences in our retirement years (will be living in it). The extinguisher bracket was mounted just inside and to the left of the door to the RV, which makes it very much in the way (tripping hazard). The previous owners relocated it under the island in the kitchen area. Not sure I like it there or not from a convenience perspective. Definitely planning to put one on each side of the basement storage area (after we install a Moryde sliding tray in there). HOWEVER, still trying to find a convenient location inside also. Where did you guys end up putting yours?
Welcome to Florida. It is very common for different communities in Florida to regulate the age of residents. Most of these communities depend on seniors for the majority of their business. Mobile home parks catering to seniors, adult communities, and most campgrounds limit children for short visits to senior grand parents . I have heard of many lawsuits that challenge management about discriminating towards children. I hear of these stories often and you will hear this most everywhere you go in Florida. Sorry ! I raised 4 daughters and now have 14 grand children so I’m on your side. But when asking for info on a potential campground, it will save you lots of heartache by asking upfront if they are “family friendly”. It’s just part of the huge senior population in Florida. In Ocala, you will find the Villages where over 100,000 seniors in the largest senior community in Florida. Children can visit grandparents but no full time children as full time residents. Sorry but welcome to “Old Folks” Florida. I recently heard a story of a RVer who complained about a neighbor keeping them awake with a wind chime . Really ? And forget a Home Owner Association . They hate RV ers . Florida sometimes is a “odd duck”.
There are family resident neighborhoods in the villages - but who would want to live where 80% of the people are older and retired? Plenty of other places for families to live.
Ever wonder why the person is driving does not want to stop and eat. Driving and eating is ok. Well, when you stop and eat, you get tired. Now I know. I was taking a vehicle to my son because the military relocated him in Watertown NY. Well, my trip was going to be 12 hours and 30 min. I had to get a hotel room after I ate after going 4.5. Next day, I only stopped for gas and bathroom break. Driving can be hard and it's boring.
When we are traveling in our current bus we don’t mind doing a 10 to 14 hour day. Now when I was driving our previous rv a Discovery I was done after about 8 hours. I do admit I love driving and the travel days or as good for me as the exploring days.
My wife and I bought a pickup and travel trailer on the east coast and drove it to our home in Alaska. We booked from Ct to Upper Michigan then took our time. We took 8 days to drive from Edmonton to Wasilla. The road was great. The only other time I drove it was also northbound and that was in 1979 when I moved here.
I'm driving 2000 miles to California in a class A motor home and want to get there as soon as possible.. what's a realistic driving time? I'm young and drove 14 hours to Florida befor
I have wondered about family friendly campgrounds. My husband an I want to start a family friendly campground when he retires from the military. I just found your channel tonight I'm so glad I did. I love it!!!
So I guess we will be bad, if we want to raise our kids in an RV full time someday??? That’s crazy! We are actually headed into Colorado tomorrow to explore...but during good weather lol. Thanks for sharing! ~Renee and Kyle
Due to all of the wonderful stories I've heard and the many videos I've seen where full-time rv'ers, vanlifers, and buslifers with their children made me wish that my husband and I could've done something so beautiful with our son! The world itself is one gigantic classroom so I simply don't understand how anyone could think that children experiencing life on a bigger & better level could be being harmed?🙄👀. Heck they're getting to meet people from other places and learning so many new & exciting things! Aw man, fresh air, beautiful sunsets, awesome sunrises, time spent with mom & dad who's homeschooling their kids, I mean who could ask for more???? I would have loved to have spent much more time with our only child the way that today's Nomads are doing instead of my husband and I constantly working & working! Your kids are sooooo lucky & blessed and they will always be so grateful to you guys for the glorious life experiences you showed them as kids....💜💜
This experience with the KOA owner in Florida has to a personal feeling . Which is rude and unprofessional. This rv life is mobile home🤷🏽♀️it’s still housing for a family with or without children rather it’s moving and or none moving.
We're full-timers in a 5th Wheel toy hauler, pulled with a Ram 3500 dually. We carry 4 fire extinguishers - 2.5# ABC in the truck, 10# ABC by the RV door, another 2.5# ABC bedroom and 2.5# ABC in the toy hauler section (Need to change that to a 10# in a easy access bay door next to the ramp door). Plus we have 4 smoke detectors (1 inside & 3 in the basement areas) and a fire blanket in the kitchen to smother cooking fires. We've seen a 5th wheel RV burn to the frame in 1/2 hour.
Our family was booted from a campground in Ft. Myers FL as we made our way to the Everglades from Massachusetts with our three children. Our 13yo son wanted to sleep outside the motorhome and, apparently, the campground had a rule against that, the place was filled with retirees and someone complained. The trip was made back in 2004 and I'd say moving to this area of Florida proved to be one of the best decisions my wife and I have made. We spent our first six months in our motorhome (we purchased a travel trailer for the children when we arrived and that helped with living/sleeping space) in Ochopee FL while we looked for our home in Naples, FL. Our children attended public school in Everglades City, FL, which, was about 10 miles away. The teacher/student ratio there was unbelievable, my daughter's fourth grade class had four students, my oldest son's eighth grade class had 12 students. We had some awesome experiences and some sketchy one's too, like, being in the motorhome during Hurricane Charley! All in all I dont believe we'll ever forget the experience and we're glad we did it while the children were young. The campground we ended up spending the majority of our time was family owned and they were fine people, they welcomed us and the kid's with open arms. That made the stay great, the kid's learned so much about the Everglades and the environment. The name of the campground was Trail Lakes Campground, US 41s, Ochopee FL. They even invited the family inside their home to ride out Charley, we got a lot of rain, but much wind, luckily. They still offer the same great camping experience, they also hold periodic bluegrass festivals if you like the music, we went back for a festival last January, 2020, and had an awesome time! There's a reptile exhibit, kind of a roadside attraction, with snakes and alligators that our kids loved to visit. Anyway, that's enough, I hope you can get the chance to visit the area, the beaches here are nice, but, everything in the Naples area is a bit tourist pricey, take care and have fun!
My husband and I are 1st time, full live in RV'ers. Due to Covid, rent inflation. ,etc. We are in a Heartland Pioneer BH270 pull behind. Our fire extinguisher is by the front door. In the rv for a year now. I Love the tips and trick and hack videos. I WISH WE KNEW BACK THEN WHAT WE KNOW NOW ABOUT RV LIVING. Your videos are Very Inspirational for when we can upgrade to a bigger and better rv. So Please, keep the videos coming. Have a Wonderful Blessed Day ! ⚘❤
I was born and raised in Florida for the first 10 years of my live and now I’m almost 11 me and my parents live in our rv your not alone a lot of people life in their rv with kids just subscribed looking forward to seeing your adventures!
I'm sorry you encountered a crazy person owned campground. We checked one out we were going to move our camper to and I'm glad we did! Owner wife didn't know what a brush or deodorant was and she seemed a little "too close" to her adult son and the husband owner was nuts too! He would yell at everyone for blinking wrong! You'll find your spot...
I think it’s hilarious that he complained about the grease spots and not because your tires were in the grass. It looked like you had a solid surface park pad but it wasn’t long enough for your rig. I could be mistaken. I’m not a fan of KOA anyway, so…..
I usually limit my driving to 3 hours. I can leave at leisure in the morning, stop about each hour for Molly, my dog, and early arrival at a nice boondocking spot. Time to walk about and/or relax and enjoy being where ever we are.
As far as what I know, it is illegal discrimination for that KOA owner to do that. Also that KOA itself doesn't agree with the way many KOA owners are running their franchised campgrounds.
We don’t travel in a Class A (a teardrop T@B is our home away from home) but we too agree that enjoying state , national or city parks are really great when it comes to a positive camping experience with or without children. We will be in the Keys from time to time and have had more issues with unruly grown ups than kids. Either way - sounds like this KOA needs new management!! It’s been a year since you posted this video - but it has been equally insightful and helpful as all your others before and after! Thanks for sharing your experience and “keeping it real” for all of us!
We try to always follow my 2+2+2 rule. We try to only drive 200 miles, arrive at the campground by 2:00 pm, and stay at least 2 days. This makes it very comfortable - of course we are retired.
That’s a good rule of thumb
I'll do 300 miles. I've done more but...I am retired as well so, I avoid more miles whenever possible.
I like that
Was raised by my father, an Air Force enlisted man from Georgia, who was stationed in California for much of his career. Every year, our family would go back to Georgia on my Dad's leave. He was old school...up at 4am, on the road by 4:30, drive until near sundown, and make 700 miles a day. Quite a feat with a sedan full of kids requiring numerous food, gas, and pee stops. When i became an adult, i immulated that philosophy until i started pulling a travel trailer. The first two yrs, traveling across country and back, 500 mi a day was my standard. That soon dropped to 300. Now, i get a little depressed thinking about a 300 mi day, but thats my current standard. But the driving gets so weary, that just spending my time in state parks a couple of hrs from home is starting to sound appealing!
I've lived in an rv since 2000, alot of parks don't alow kids, dogs, multiple vehicles. They do this because they want the older crowd and not the younger, they want it to be considered a resort, and vacation get away. Always read reviews first. Good luck to yall in the future
And some RV parks ask the age of the rig when checking in and if more than years, you can't stay there.
I have seen it happen!
There's some irony in boomers who lived in VW buses in the 60s and 70s trying to exclude people nowadays for living in their RVs lol
Gotta love how America is this place where someone else always knows what is best for someone else. No one knows how to mind their own business anymore. Gotta tell you how to live your life! So sorry this happened to you guys.
Thank you!
VOTE DEMOCRAT
hell no@@f.davidkessel8876
Ask the Republicans about choosing what's right for a woman, choosing what a parent can do for their trans kid etc. They love telling people how to live their lives and even make laws to do it.
Ya like how old white guys dictate to women what they can do with their own bodies
I grew up in the late 60s and 70s and every summer my family would travel all over the US and Canada in a 20 foot travel trailer. My dad retired early and when school was out we would take off. I learned so much about people and our country that way. I wish I could do it all over again. Those are some of my best memories of childhood and I will always be grateful to my parents for broadening my horizons in such a way. Keep up the good work!
That’s so great to hear. We hope our kids will look back on our adventures and feel the same.
OMG.... This is a choice. It IS NOT wrong for kids. Exactly the opposite! They will learn so much more life experiences in the road then they ever will in a classroom. How dare any one EVER dictate how another person /parents raise they're kids. Unless there is abuse of course. Keep in keeping on. You guys are great!!!!
you guys do a bangin'fine job of keeping it real for us kids. Your authenticity and wit make you superduper accessible and you've turned into some of my best company for fullmoon insomnia nights. Thanks tons and never stop.
Thanks for the kind words
"Cold state of Colorado" Had to smile a bit as we talked about moving to Colorado to escape our cold state of MN. All about perspective. Good video, best of luck!
Colorado is waaaay warmer than MN. And northern Colorado is part of the "banana belt" with 300 days of sunshine a year... but we're full.
@@marcsiegfried8247 Southern Colorado is where the Banana Belt is. That's where I live. ;-) Almost 9,000 feet and the weather is very similar to the Front Range, instead of places like Aspen. Not meaning to sound like a jerk, just clarifying. :-)
@@marcsiegfried8247 ahhh that perspective thing, I imagine folks from California would say you have loads of room. LOL, but know what you mean:).
And us southern folks is wanting to move to the mountains to get away from the heat and humidity.....Lol....wait until its 115 degrees and 100 percent humidity
That's funny I'm from Minnesota
Well goodness. I know which KOA we will be not be staying at when we are in FL! Glad you are all safe, congrats on the new home in FL.
Thanks!
I have driven 12 hours straight through -Calif to Oregon with 3 kids , Multiple times over years
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I stayed at a KOA in Florida for a few weeks with my aunt back in spring of 2018, I forget exactly where but I know it was in the same general area as Clearwater, and I.... was not all that impressed. It was okay, don't have any others to compare it to. Nice staff & amenities, but our neighbor was a dickwad and it was so dark at night because they had the outdoor lights every 10-15 feet with the lowest wattage bulb known to man. And the trees. So many trees. Trees are great. Trees with untrimmed/low hanging branches in an RV park are not.
Your situation is not their business. Period. Thanks for sharing, cuz I don't ever want to give that place my business!
We live fulltime in our bus and you wouldn't believe the amount of discrimination we get for "forcing our kids" to live in a bus. I think its just people who are unhappy in their own lives and they want others to be as miserable as they are.
Don't take it personal. In these times it seems people are changing the focus from their own lives to how others should be living. The joke is on them. Your kids are the ones getting a proper education with homeschooling while the rest of the country school system is upside down because of the "virus"
As long as the kids are Safe, Feed, And Clean Thats All that should matter F the Haters Theyre Miserable in their Lives
Good luck to you and your Family✨💖
Thanks
The president FORCES his kids to live in the white house
Many inner city kids are forced to live in the projects etc etc
Aren't all kids "forced" to live wherever their parents/gaurdians/providers live?!
Ridiculous statement.
Sorry you're having trouble its not right you should be able to park ..
We experienced something similar at a KOA in Massachusetts. Apparently, school was in session at that time, and we are home schoolers, so they kicked us out. I will never forget. Needless to say they were extremely rude as they made sure we left, as if we were some dangerous group.
That’s awful 😞
You are dangerous - you don't think and act like them. You're an outcast like Jonathan Livingston Seagull.
You made your decision. Accept the fact the people don't have to agree and support your decision.
Yeah losers that hate freedom @@jsa4864
I home schooled my son and daughter in Texas which is one of the easiest states to homeschool. Even so l was very quiet about this with people l did not know. It was not worth the potential hassle. My son, now a parent lives in the most difficult state, PA to homeschool. Even his 4 year must be enrolled in a homeschool program which is supervised by the state. Is a 4 year required to be in school ? No.
Fire-extinguisher: 1 x small one next to the driver seat, 1 x regular size one next to the entrance door, fire-blanket next to the propane stove, small-fire-extinguisher in the back of the motorhome, automatic extinguisher devices behind and one under the fridge.
Welcome to Florida. Florida is full of grumpy old folks. Be forewarned if you buy a house with a HOA be ready for more drama. HOA neighborhoods normally are not RV friendly. Check out Kelly park Rock Springs in Apopka and the kids will have a lot of fun.
Will do and thanks! We were fortunate enough to find a house with no HOA
You are a absolutely correct,that why we now live in TN
Yes, HOAs are a curse!
Rock Springs is beautiful. The springs are Crystal clear! Wish i would have known that you were relocating to FL last year... I just sold my place in Lake County for a song!
I drive a flat 450 miles. I have driven from Southern California straight through to DeLand, FL in 3 days i was wrecked! But I did it!
Your rig isn't a "older" rig, your site doesn't look like a mess... And I'd definitely speak to the KOA owner... Kids(?) Oh yeah thats discrimination
CA to FL in 3 days would be quite the trek! We tried to talk to the KOA owners to no avail.
Kick the dust from your feet & move on ASAP. Who needs this RV park???
That’s wheat we ended up doing
That was my first thought
Koa campgrounds sell u yr tickets 4 there campgrounds they pull that money in and never have campung spots for the yr payiers. U have 2 schedule vacations almost a year to 2 years in advance to use your KOA membership it's not worth giving them your cash and then you cannot find a camp spot with their organization throughout the summer all that money wasted & never able 2 use what i payied 4
Who in the heck do these people think they are? It is none of anyone’s business how you live with your children, as long as there is no abuse going on. Traveling and seeing the country is a wonderful way to raise kids!
democrats bro freedom scares them
Trouble is, apparently some people must call that abuse. I say people should butt out and let parents do their own thing.
Definitely democrats. They can't stand other people being happy
How about you dont judge content creators. It is thir channel they can upload what they want on thir chnnel as long as it not brakeing rules of the platform.
In all honesty tho ppl like outside a famliy trying to run otheres lives is a bit selfish.
@@accelement3499B.S.! i am a dem and could care less how others raise their kids. I homeschooled my own kids on 3 Separate occasions.
When I was younger, I was able to drive 10 hours without getting tired as long as I made it an absolute rule to stop every 2 hours on the dot and get out and walk around for 10 minutes or so. Now, I get tired after 2.5 hours, but I"m older and have health problems to deal with.
Your dog is nice. Keep your dog and children away from ALL fresh water ... ponds, rivers, etc. Gators will be there. And check the bottom of every pool before you jump in ... every time.
Thanks and good advice.
I would like to add make sure the dog doesn't drink anything! May cause serious harm or death. Much water contamination. ☹️
On other safety - I'm buying a new 🔥 extinguisher asap. Thx.
Yes, thanks and we will make sure to keep our doggo away from any water. 😀
Watch out for venomous snakes too!
Also don’t eat the yellow snow, ever!!!
We are full time in our RV and couldn’t put up with people criticizing us because our 5th wheel is too old for a month to month. Now mind you our RV is in great shape and not broken down RV. So we found a guy who was renting out his 3 acres and only wanted an RV there, so we got the place for a great price to rent. We’ve been in parks like that and can’t stand people like that.
Wow! Just totally flabbergasted that some wood would impose their opinions on how to raise your children . Thanks for sharing your story. We have fire extinguishers in a cabinet by the stairwell and one behind the driver seat. Happy trails!
Thanks for watching
i can respect the owner's opinion (even if I don't agree with it). But I would definitely check to see if there are fair housing/accommodation laws that may apply. Not that you'd want to stay, but maybe you can help the next family.
We just drove from southern Nevada to Orlando Floida. My husband won't let me drive so he drove 8 to 10 hours a day for 5 days. It was rough for him, but I got naps in.
Those are some long travel days!
KOAs are overpriced and not the best of campgrounds by a long shot.
That being said, people in the US are becoming rude and hard to deal with in general.
This is what happens when you stop people from interacting with each other The more they fear living the more you will get this People are getting more rude and nasty all over the world not just America.
@@freelander4058 If you’re referring to social distancing, etc., that’s what’s necessary and the responsible thing to do - in a pandemic.
I think too much work pressure and win at any cost mentality and anger at being taken advantage of or being bullied and if there's a hint of it- over reaction.
KOAs used to be good. Not anymore.
@@mariannesouza8326 yes, it has showed the typical traditionalism are gross. Sorry I dont want you breathing down my neck waiting in line.
Wow, that’s crazy,we’re heading to Florida the end of December definitely won’t be stopping at that KOA !! Thanks for the heads up.
Sure thing! And thanks for watching.
Griffin state park in Fruitland $20 night they have some full hookup sites for that amount.
Check out silver springs state park
@@cynthiagriffin5291 👍
If you go to a KOA don't let them talk you into a yearly membership you never can get into a camping spot when u needed it and you paid for a yearly membership 2 camp and you can't even use it when u needed it its a waste of money you want to use a KOA you probably should pay 2 yrs up frount then schedule your camping vacation will take a year to 2 years in advance so you can get your spot and utilize the money u spent on there yr member ship!
OMG I can't believe this. I don't have kids- I raise and show dogs- I love the opportunity to be around kids for socializing puppies! And also- my experience has been that people who homeschool (as your friends that are full time RV lifestylers probably do) have the best behaved kids! I can't believe anyone would discriminate against you for having kids! That is insane!
It's because we are around our kiddos 24/7, in a small space...so 1)we don't have the guilt that working parents have, 2)we don't put up with stuff, because we cannot!! Can you imagine complete chaos in 3-400sq ft???
I am a homeschooling, full-time RV mama of 5, trust me, I know this well :-) I am CONSTANTLY told how well behaved my kiddos are, honestly I wish my kiddos were the rule rather than the exception!!
There are adults only communities for a few reasons. The sex offenders have to live somewhere. Why would you want to be someplace that is adults only?
@@bellasmom2597 most adult only sites have a criminal background check so chimos cant be there either. it usually older retired people in those. im in one of the very few RV parks in phenox that allows under 55 and no back ground check. several chimos here i think 15 now and alot of kids. the other under 55 i was at with a back ground check was pretty slummy and in the city with lots of homeless wandering the un gated park. all the really nice ones are 55 and older, gated, pool. hot tub and games but absolutely no kids allowed. sad huh the only places here in Px RVs can have kids are slumy and or with sex offenders.
@@tammiehinkle2040 By who? Other RVers? Not exactly a cross section of America because most of us have real jobs that allow you to go RVing year round.
@@miketlane And you know who the sex offenders are how?
In Norway they would be very glad to welcome any family, with or without kids, for a whole month! That camping park is going to be out of business some day soon
Little tough to drive to Norway. jus sayin...
They're trying to get away from the cold
@Yu Kay what color?
Sorry guys but, in many campgrounds and/or moblé home places they don’t allow children and as travelers you should know that.
The problem here would be if it was posted or not.
Wrong. Plenty of people will go there just because there's no kids.
A while back a local restaurant created a new rule that said "no kids under 16 yrs old." They got ROASTED in the local press. I was a regular, and a month into it I asked how it was going. The owner said "We're up 42% in sales year over year."
I found out through 2 UTuber’s from the UK who bought a van that they loss through a fire, that you can buy these fire extinguishers that have some kind of a sensor on them & will automatically combust if there happens to be a fire. Haven’t researched how they work exactly. But thought that was interesting. You might look into those for your RV??
Thanks for the info
Smart move , I would never have left Pensacola if the guys hadn’t wanted it to go back to our Indiana property . Big mistake . Now I’m stuck here in hoosierland .
Florida rv parks typically cater to the retired snowbirds.
So we’re finding out 🤣
These places are being shut down, one after another. Most of the older folks living in such places are being priced out by individuals buying these parks, significantly increasing fees, and since they can't afford it the older folks must move. Usually they have to move out of state due to increases in costs over the last ten years because of real estate flipping at ridiculous prices. Most of the elderly keep to themselves and stay out of other people's lives, however, some of the recent residents who are very wealthy and invest in real estate are indeed making rules and turning everything upside down in Florida. There are plenty of RV parks, if one is unfriendly don't hesitate to move on to another. They're not supposed to discriminate against families with children, but due to recent changes across the US, such discrmination is rampant. Consider staying on BLM land or with individuals who rent out RV spaces and will welcome you. Just saying the truth here.
Thanks for the info.
"apparently rains every day in FL". Hahaha. Did you even check out FL?? Why did you decide to move here? Do you know we have huge bugs and gators too?? You probably are very nice people, just tired and whiny.
We know there are bugs and gators 🐊 - we moved here for nicer weather year round and to be closer to the 🌊🌊🏄🏼♂️🏄🏼♂️
Welcome to Florida philosophy! That's why we moved after 30+ Years. Best wishes for the future.
Thanks. 😄
My name is Dave, I keep my extinguisher by the entrance of my RV.
Fire extinguishers, always think where would you be when you see a fire? Probably at an entry, waking from bed, the driving compartment, do not put them where a fire may start
All I got to say is that KOA is a joke . I would definitely turn that owner into the main headquarters. Enjoy your travels with your kids and family . Thank you for letting more people know about that KOA and the horrible owner. Stay safe out there on the road .
Thanks 😊
I only stay at a koa as a last resort. They are the McDonald's of the camping world!
Ridiculous! I don’t RV I tent camp and got my son camping as young as 4 yrs old. As long as the children are respectful, that goes the same for adults, is a way to teach them to cherish nature, respect, and so much more. I love to hear their laughter and the interesting questions they come up with, then again I’m a retired elementary teacher so I love those little sponges soaking all that’s taught to them.
Agreed!
We keep an extinguisher by the door and a fire blanket hanging on the shower door as it’s near the kitchen.
That's a great idea!
From a native Floridian who recently relocated to CO, welcome to Florida. Please accept my apologies for what you encountered at the KOA and all the other rude peeps you will encounter. It may be less apparent in Central Fl, but definitely a common occurrence. But do not despair, you will also meet some pretty amazing people. Happy transition to your new home base.
Now, now. Let's be honest here. What is the Florida state motto?
Welcome to Florida, Come for Vacation, Leave on Probation.
Pretty sure they have that on some bumper stickers so you can remember your visit.
@@Fektthiscome back on violation.
I like to drive 12 hours. It’s not family friendly. I lived in a town house in Florida. Senior’s don’t like kids In the pool and just walking anywhere. I told many seniors to leave my kids alone. I own here too
Thanks for watching Cynthia. And good point!
I bet those old farts weren’t even from there either.
Although awe have a small fire extinguisher that came with our TT in our kitchen area, I have a bigger one I keep my my bed. Most fires will start in the kitchen area and that's usually is where the door is to escape. I might not be able to get to the small fire extinguisher in the kitchen so having a big one next to by bed makes me feel safer.
How did you pick Apopka? I live nearby, and often pass that KOA, but I have never stayed there. Thanks for saving me the trouble!
This is why I camp..........ALONE!!!! Away from people, a screwed up society & constant harassment from the law handling out fines after fines after fines!
Went down the TH-cam rabbit hole and ended up here. I live in Altamonte Springs but just bought a home in Apopka. Glad to see this video. Welcome to Florida!
Thank you!
Welcome to Florida. You may have just found out why I relocated to Missouri in '92. I have never regretted leaving Florida.
Which part of Florida were you living in?
@@LilyGazou when I left I was living in Tampa. I graduated High school in Okeechobee.
Great point !
@@wmason1961canoeing Fish Eating Creek...snakes in the trees, snapping turtles on the logs, gators in the water....yikes!
Neither have I. I left Florida in 2009 and never looked back, EVER.
Try a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Campground. They are truly kid friendly and family oriented. Never had a bad stay at one. Sorry that there are places that are run like that.
Fire extinguisher strapped to the floor/wall at the entrance of our class A. Easy access when coming into coach or while in coach.
👍
Welcome to Florida! And YES, when it's really hot, it rains almost every evening! LOL
My parents used to pull us from school to vacation off season
every year and we were blessed by it. We didn't go RV full time, but my parents did for a while after retirement. In a few months, I'll be living in a trailer indefinitely and I'm actually looking forward to it!
Best wishes in your travels!
Thank you, I hope I see you out there.
Many years ago we hauled the camper down to Orlando (area) to visit family and take the kids to Disney. We found a campground that had good ratings, large pull through sites and decent rates. We got there after dark (of course) finally found our site and got setup with a few curse words being mumbled throughout the process. In the morning we woke up and realized that 90% of the campground was permanent residence and they weren’t happy we had kids. It was really more for older people and kids weren’t really welcome.
It sounds the owner was more concerned with the RV population that is retired and living in the campground and don’t want to deal with children living on the camp ground.
I had no idea that RV parks do not allow RVs 10 years or older. My son-in-law was given a 2000 40 ft RV with 2,000 miles on it. It is in mint condition. Not a scratch . Everyone is loving the retro vibe it has.
That’s great! Our first rig was a 2000 and we never had any issues getting into RV parks
Yes some rv parks have started this rule it’s made it hard for us to find a campground this year we also are trying to find remote jobs while fulltiming our rv is a 1992 Fleetwood flair 35 foot it’s in great condition but because it’s 30 years old they won’t allow them in some parks
I have two doors on my trailer and I have a fire extinguisher mounted by each door so that I can easily grab it if I'm outside or in. Also the RV park that I live permanently in has fire extinguishers located every so many feet by the road if anyone needs to grab them. I think that is part of the fire code in this area.
Welcome to Florida! I live in the Wekiva springs area. It’s a great place to live with family. The Apopka campground isn’t a family campground. Try the Wekiva Springs.
Thank you for your VERY helpful videos. Good to know about this KOA. We will make sure we NEVER stay at that KOA. We've had some BAD KOA experiences. So we'll make sure we take that one off our list.
We had a similar experience in Flagstaff, and in Anaheim KOA's. Also, my camper on the truck was a2020, but the truck is a Ram diesel, with a Cummins, so it being a 2010 was given a fisheye as too old. Diesels are usually a very long time engines which being so good, you keep them for several years.
I stumbled on your video and I couldn't stop watching!
Thanks for letting us know you found our channel! 💙
It is shameful when folks push their personal beliefs off on other families. Closed minded old geezers!! Have fun and stay safe!
Thanks!
People who own a RV have kids. What the hell? Oh my gosh. Children are supposed to be at a camp place. I’ve never done that but I did have a frievd who had kids several kids and he bitched about my one? I was like what?
Fire extinguisher under my kitchen sink. But several in different places. We always had several in our RV. One big one under the sink.
Calling them closed minded old geezers is definitely age discrimination as well as bullying. Wake up and get to to source if you want to be so sanctimonious, call or write KOA cooperate to have them either remove their privileges or remove their sign.
Al Atwood i am a member of the old geezer club so go try triggering someone else.
Several years ago, we attended a “Boot Camp” run by the Escapees group. The fire safety guy gave a great presentation about fire safety. I believe I am accurate in saying he proposed we keep fire extinguishers in locations necessary to ensure we can get out of the rig, not really expecting to put a fire out. Priority ONE! Next recommendation was to actually practice exiting from the emergency exit. Don’t just look at it - practice. Third, decide who goes first and what their job is. Old ma me would say stand aside and get my wife out first. She said, NO. She is too short and not necessarily strong enough to get out quickly. She wanted me out so I could use my height to help her navigate the long drop. Makes sense. You, and your family, have to discuss it and come to an understanding. There’s just two of us.
We have two small extinguisher in the bedroom that we can reach from the bed. They are non toxic so he demonstrated by spraying all over himself - keep people safe first. made sense. We have another small one in the living area. One large one by the exit door and one in a basement area. RVs are combustible, especially with a 75 gallon gas tank right under the bed. He sure got our attention.
He had three volunteers try to exit from his window. First one took more than two minutes. Second one to a little over one minute. Third was out quickly after learning from the first two. That sure got our attention. Safe travels and congratulations on following your dreams.
My father owned a fire safety business. Your advice is really good. We also did training for businesses for their employees to learn how to correctly use a fire extinguisher in emergencies. Each person attempted to put out a live fire a few times to get the feel and learn technique. One thing I learned by observing so many people is that those who have never discharged a fire extinguisher and/or learned how to do it correctly...the effort will be mostly useless. Second, the tiny little cheap Kiddie extinguishers you can by at box stores, or that come in new rvs are practically worthless. It's like throwing a cup of water on a fire. Go to a fire safety company and purchase a quality fire extinguisher that has more capacity (because it runs out fast) and is serviceable. Sure, it will cost more....but it could save someone's life. And third, extinguishers need regular service!!!!!! Over time the powder settles down at the bottom and will cake up....especially in a moving, vibrating vehicle. The seal can slowly leak and the canister can lose it's charge over time. They need emptied, re-freshened, and seals replaced and tested to remain useful. And lastly, there are different types of extinguishers for different types of fires, such as grease, electrical, etc. So it is wise to have a couple different types handy in relevant locations in your rig.
Thanks for the tips!
A+ , it is absolute necessity ! plus CPR class and 1st aid kit .
Drove from my parents house in Kansas to my house in Pennsylvania in 18 hours. Actually it was closer to 20 hours with breaks.
I don't recommend that for most people.
People need to get a hold of the main Koa and report this park.
How did the mastectomy go Becky ?
Travel day is called 4x4. We can do 400 miles by 4-4:30 leaving at 8 am or sooner
Retired military, regular army, and National Guard. We used to travel 10 hours anytime we traveled that was the max to see you guys love watching your channel love catching up on YP. Hope everybody’s doing well. Stay safe and be kind to one another.
OMG! What a mess. 😏 When I was a child, even in my teens, I would’ve been in heaven if I were living in an RV.
There's a fairly short window of time that kids would be interested in exploring our countries. It's a great education, and should be taken advantage of.
@@AGM-ts5bb I agree! 🗺 🚌
I learned many years DON'T STAY AT KOA. I think I tried it 4-7 maybe times and ran into a problem every time. Its not the only place to camp go somewhere else. I haven tried one in about 23 years and will not try one again.
We stayed at a campground by Disney with our kids once. It was the only one we could find that had room. When they found out we had kids, they told us to try to keep them in the motorhome. I told them they had been traveling all day and no way could we keep them in the RV. The kids went out to play shuffleboard and the owners walked out and took the stuff away from them. They then went to play basket ball and the owners went and took the basket ball away from them. Sorry, I don't remember what the name of the campgrounds name was.
That’s awful!
When we travel we may get 350-400 miles a day or as little as 50. Depending on the car museums or other things we want to visit.
That was our reason for getting our RV is not to be rushed.... it took us 30 days to drive from North Carolina to Washington State.
But we stopped at dozens of car museums, Studebaker Museum, Mt Rushmore, Bad Lands, and the Rodeos in Wyoming. If we thought it was interesting, we stopped.
Next trip planned, if oncologist approves is a two month circle the country....
Sounds like a fun trip. Beat wishes in your treatments.
Oh my, go join Thousand Trails! They will take you and your family with open arms. As a member We are able to stay 3 weeks at a time before we have to move to a different park. Then we can stay another 3 weeks! There are also tons of parks in FL especially is you get the trails collection. I’m a very happy thousand trail member. Check in to it! It’s the way to camp!
Thanks for the suggestion
We grew up in north central Florida and are familiar with the Florida of 50 yrs ago. Sorry to hear about your experience as we have 15 grandchildren and love kids. My wife and I are starting our Class A RV experience this weekend for the first time and looking forward to it. I really appreciate your videos and will look at more I'm sure. Charity, the first time dumper was greatest. We're in our 70's, traveled all over the world and are looking forward to our RV trip to Colorado this summer and beyond.
My wife and I lived in Florida for 2 years. Never felt at home. Felt like visitors to a tourist area. Also did not like feeling trapped in the state. As in having to drive 5 hours to get out of Florida. Hope you all enjoy it though.
Thanks! We’ve been here almost a year now. We traveled to 4 new states this year (putting our total to 38) and every time we visit a new place we feel more confident about our decision to make FL our home base. Thanks for watching 💙
So it wasn't for you. No worries. Everyone's different, that's what makes the world go around.
My wife and I lived in the Jacksonville area- Mayport in the early 80's. Loved it. Jax beach had that small town vibe to it, even if it was a bit touristy at times. Florida is definitely one of the first places we plan on hitting when the wife retires. I only went to Key West several times, Navy stops and later when on cruise ships. I've never driven there, but would like to.
😂😂😂🤣 crazy how people imagine they have the full info on how children should be raised. How many children are homeless with a parent on the street......and yet.....
I am a teacher on another continent and I can think of nothing more educational than travel. Add the benefits of a smaller carbon footprint and the social skills. If we have to live according to other peoples opinions, we would all be stuck in a rut of overdrafts, mortgages, and stress. Live your dream life your way.
Well said!
I agree with everything you just said except for the small carbon footprint you're driving the gas hog but I really don't believe in this whole global warming thing
I’m not sure what size extinguisher your rigs carry. But I will always carry 10lb ABC by door near cook area. Unless your spraying a closed area 5lb is not enough.
Nothing gets my fur up quite like a stranger telling a parent how to raise their kids.
Agreed
John Merchant Of course there are awful parents deserving of wrath and punishment. I’m just speaking of normal parents here 😉
People's belief systems can't be changed, if they were rude or intrusive I'd agree... Y'all believe in the great invisible cloud sitting sky spirit and no one seems to call y'all out about that...
@@derekbuttery4776 Excuse me?
@@MayimHastings No. You're not excused at all. If you have no coherent, coke-less reply please don't troll.
You know what makes a great life for kids? Their parents. And the two of you seem like great parents to me.
Sorry you had to deal with Grumplestiltsken and his/her ideas of how you should be raising your family!
It's all about the parents. Good for them. Wish them well.
They should advertise as a 55 and over RV Park. They can't have it both ways. Good job! Thanks for the content!
Agreed and thanks for watching.
Wow! Thanks for the heads up! Good to know! These people sound like they are completely nuts! 🐿👍
Just found your video. We have never found a KOA that we’ve wanted to return to. Too many private and state campgrounds to worry with KOA. As far as your Blackstone being on the picnic table, most campgrounds have a rule that grills, cooktops are not allowed on the picnic tables because too many get too hot and actually burn the table. So I understand that they didn’t want your Blackstone on the table.
Thanks for the comment!
"THE GOOG"!!! Love it!!! 😆 I grew up overseas as my dad was in the oil and gas industry. Had great learning experiences from those years. Biggest one was understanding that each and every person and culture is uniquely different from the other and in many cases, extremely different. HOWEVER, that doesn't make them bad even when their views happen to be the exact opposite of mine. These types of experiences allowed me to easily adopt the philosophy of "to each his own". It is a shame regarding the campground owner because he is so uniquely placed to gain such wonderful experiences from the diverse folks who show up at his campground, who I am sure would be more than happy to share their life experiences with him. His loss.
On to fire extinguishers. We literally bought our first large RV a couple weeks ago and are setting it up for our upcoming RV living experiences in our retirement years (will be living in it). The extinguisher bracket was mounted just inside and to the left of the door to the RV, which makes it very much in the way (tripping hazard). The previous owners relocated it under the island in the kitchen area. Not sure I like it there or not from a convenience perspective. Definitely planning to put one on each side of the basement storage area (after we install a Moryde sliding tray in there). HOWEVER, still trying to find a convenient location inside also. Where did you guys end up putting yours?
We have one in our basement compartment and one under the kitchen sink area
My brain is screaming "PLEASE GET TO THE POINT!". I'm done.
Welcome to Florida. It is very common for different communities in Florida to regulate the age of residents. Most of these communities depend on seniors for the majority of their business. Mobile home parks catering to seniors, adult communities, and most campgrounds limit children for short visits to senior grand parents . I have heard of many lawsuits that challenge management about discriminating towards children. I hear of these stories often and you will hear this most everywhere you go in Florida. Sorry ! I raised 4 daughters and now have 14 grand children so I’m on your side. But when asking for info on a potential campground, it will save you lots of heartache by asking upfront if they are “family friendly”. It’s just part of the huge senior population in Florida. In Ocala, you will find the Villages where over 100,000 seniors in the largest senior community in Florida. Children can visit grandparents but no full time children as full time residents. Sorry but welcome to “Old Folks” Florida. I recently heard a story of a RVer who complained about a neighbor keeping them awake with a wind chime . Really ? And forget a Home Owner Association . They hate RV ers . Florida sometimes is a “odd duck”.
There are family resident neighborhoods in the villages - but who would want to live where 80% of the people are older and retired? Plenty of other places for families to live.
I keep my fire extinguishers one at he door (I have a Chinook that is a rear entry) one at the front passthrough and a small one at the stove.
I retired to Central Florida 5 years ago. It is rare to find campgrounds that accept children. Good luck!
Thanks!
I’ll be joining you as a snowbird from Alaska as soon as this craziness stops.
Ever wonder why the person is driving does not want to stop and eat. Driving and eating is ok. Well, when you stop and eat, you get tired. Now I know. I was taking a vehicle to my son because the military relocated him in Watertown NY. Well, my trip was going to be 12 hours and 30 min. I had to get a hotel room after I ate after going 4.5. Next day, I only stopped for gas and bathroom break. Driving can be hard and it's boring.
When we are traveling in our current bus we don’t mind doing a 10 to 14 hour day. Now when I was driving our previous rv a Discovery I was done after about 8 hours. I do admit I love driving and the travel days or as good for me as the exploring days.
after ten years on the road we only travel 2 or 3 hrs tops....big lesson for us go slow and see more!
Yes, we are stating to want to slow the pace down too.
My wife and I bought a pickup and travel trailer on the east coast and drove it to our home in Alaska. We booked from Ct to Upper Michigan then took our time. We took 8 days to drive from Edmonton to Wasilla. The road was great. The only other time I drove it was also northbound and that was in 1979 when I moved here.
@@Chris_at_Home hi “neighbor” we live in Palmer
👋🏻👋🏻
I'm driving 2000 miles to California in a class A motor home and want to get there as soon as possible.. what's a realistic driving time? I'm young and drove 14 hours to Florida befor
you guys are so real!! Thanks for the update.
We really appreciate you guys😍
Thank you!
Wow! That’s is not the KOA I will ever stay even for one night.
Doesn't matter how flat you make a pancake, there are still 2 sides to it.
Great metaphor, definitely using it. 👌
Easy way to avoid this in the future would be to do your research...their campground, their rules.
I have wondered about family friendly campgrounds. My husband an I want to start a family friendly campground when he retires from the military. I just found your channel tonight I'm so glad I did. I love it!!!
So I guess we will be bad, if we want to raise our kids in an RV full time someday??? That’s crazy! We are actually headed into Colorado tomorrow to explore...but during good weather lol. Thanks for sharing! ~Renee and Kyle
Thanks for watching. It was crazy for sure (these campground owners mentality)
Hey Hank & Naynay!
Due to all of the wonderful stories I've heard and the many videos I've seen where full-time rv'ers, vanlifers, and buslifers with their children made me wish that my husband and I could've done something so beautiful with our son! The world itself is one gigantic classroom so I simply don't understand how anyone could think that children experiencing life on a bigger & better level could be being harmed?🙄👀. Heck they're getting to meet people from other places and learning so many new & exciting things! Aw man, fresh air, beautiful sunsets, awesome sunrises, time spent with mom & dad who's homeschooling their kids, I mean who could ask for more???? I would have loved to have spent much more time with our only child the way that today's Nomads are doing instead of my husband and I constantly working & working! Your kids are sooooo lucky & blessed and they will always be so grateful to you guys for the glorious life experiences you showed them as kids....💜💜
💙💙
This experience with the KOA owner in Florida has to a personal feeling . Which is rude and unprofessional. This rv life is mobile home🤷🏽♀️it’s still housing for a family with or without children rather it’s moving and or none moving.
We're full-timers in a 5th Wheel toy hauler, pulled with a Ram 3500 dually. We carry 4 fire extinguishers - 2.5# ABC in the truck, 10# ABC by the RV door, another 2.5# ABC bedroom and 2.5# ABC in the toy hauler section (Need to change that to a 10# in a easy access bay door next to the ramp door). Plus we have 4 smoke detectors (1 inside & 3 in the basement areas) and a fire blanket in the kitchen to smother cooking fires. We've seen a 5th wheel RV burn to the frame in 1/2 hour.
Six years here "fulltime" RVrs ... Yeah KOAs not a first, second or third choice! If not enough room for your lifestyle, Fifthwheel.
Our family was booted from a campground in Ft. Myers FL as we made our way to the Everglades from Massachusetts with our three children. Our 13yo son wanted to sleep outside the motorhome and, apparently, the campground had a rule against that, the place was filled with retirees and someone complained. The trip was made back in 2004 and I'd say moving to this area of Florida proved to be one of the best decisions my wife and I have made. We spent our first six months in our motorhome (we purchased a travel trailer for the children when we arrived and that helped with living/sleeping space) in Ochopee FL while we looked for our home in Naples, FL. Our children attended public school in Everglades City, FL, which, was about 10 miles away. The teacher/student ratio there was unbelievable, my daughter's fourth grade class had four students, my oldest son's eighth grade class had 12 students. We had some awesome experiences and some sketchy one's too, like, being in the motorhome during Hurricane Charley! All in all I dont believe we'll ever forget the experience and we're glad we did it while the children were young. The campground we ended up spending the majority of our time was family owned and they were fine people, they welcomed us and the kid's with open arms. That made the stay great, the kid's learned so much about the Everglades and the environment. The name of the campground was Trail Lakes Campground, US 41s, Ochopee FL. They even invited the family inside their home to ride out Charley, we got a lot of rain, but much wind, luckily. They still offer the same great camping experience, they also hold periodic bluegrass festivals if you like the music, we went back for a festival last January, 2020, and had an awesome time! There's a reptile exhibit, kind of a roadside attraction, with snakes and alligators that our kids loved to visit. Anyway, that's enough, I hope you can get the chance to visit the area, the beaches here are nice, but, everything in the Naples area is a bit tourist pricey, take care and have fun!
Thanks so much for the comment! We will have to check out that campground for some weekend camping soon. Best wishes 😀
My husband and I are 1st time, full live in RV'ers. Due to Covid, rent inflation. ,etc. We are in a Heartland Pioneer BH270 pull behind. Our fire extinguisher is by the front door. In the rv for a year now. I Love the tips and trick and hack videos. I WISH WE KNEW BACK THEN WHAT WE KNOW NOW ABOUT RV LIVING. Your videos are Very Inspirational for when we can upgrade to a bigger and better rv. So Please, keep the videos coming. Have a Wonderful Blessed Day ! ⚘❤
I was born and raised in Florida for the first 10 years of my live and now I’m almost 11 me and my parents live in our rv your not alone a lot of people life in their rv with kids just subscribed looking forward to seeing your adventures!
Thanks so much. Best wishes in your travels.
I'm sorry you encountered a crazy person owned campground. We checked one out we were going to move our camper to and I'm glad we did! Owner wife didn't know what a brush or deodorant was and she seemed a little "too close" to her adult son and the husband owner was nuts too! He would yell at everyone for blinking wrong! You'll find your spot...
I think it’s hilarious that he complained about the grease spots and not because your tires were in the grass. It looked like you had a solid surface park pad but it wasn’t long enough for your rig. I could be mistaken. I’m not a fan of KOA anyway, so…..
We normally keep the drive time down to 3 hours between camp grounds. It is stressful to drive longer than that.
This is really important. This goes for any road travel imo.
Ty for this bc I know where not to stay now.
Thanks for watching and listening to our story
A fire extinguisher should be kept just inside the side door. This way it is easily accessible inside or outside of the camper while set up.
I usually limit my driving to 3 hours. I can leave at leisure in the morning, stop about each hour for Molly, my dog, and early arrival at a nice boondocking spot. Time to walk about and/or relax and enjoy being where ever we are.
That seems like a good idea.
As far as what I know, it is illegal discrimination for that KOA owner to do that. Also that KOA itself doesn't agree with the way many KOA owners are running their franchised campgrounds.
Sorry u had to put up with these type of fools
We don’t travel in a Class A (a teardrop T@B is our home away from home) but we too agree that enjoying state , national or city parks are really great when it comes to a positive camping experience with or without children. We will be in the Keys from time to time and have had more issues with unruly grown ups than kids. Either way - sounds like this KOA needs new management!! It’s been a year since you posted this video - but it has been equally insightful and helpful as all your others before and after! Thanks for sharing your experience and “keeping it real” for all of us!
Thanks for watching and for the comment
Good Luck with the adventures!!! Good Times !!!!!