Tag: Orr MN RV Campgrounds

10 Tips for Winterizing Your RV

rv camping northern mn

rv camping northern mnIn October, the days are getting shorter and cooler, and Jack Frost might be making his first appearance this year (in Minnesota, you can be pretty certain). Campgrounds have closed for the season in most places, but others offer discounts on late season rates and are even open on winter weekends. The time has come to pack your RV away if you are a seasonal camper.

  1. Ensure that the fresh water holding tank is drained and that the black holding tank, grey holding tank, and black holding tank are all flushed. Some RVs have built-in systems; others need to be cleaned out with a wand. Once you’ve added antifreeze to the water heater, do not drain it. Once the tanks are empty, flush the toilet a few times, open all the faucets, and open all the faucets in the RV. Blowing through the water lines should be followed by flushing the toilet again. Make sure all drains and faucets are closed.
  2. Antifreeze should be added to the plumping system. In RVs that have their own indoor plumbing systems, antifreeze is required. An outdoor hand pump or a water conversion kit can be used for this. To avoid using too much antifreeze, bypass your water heater, if possible. Pressurize your system by using the water pump. Open the cold and hot faucets until antifreeze appears. Keep repeating until it appears from all faucets. Finally, flush the toilet a few times until it appears. Stop the water pump and open a faucet to let pressure go. Flush a little antifreeze down each drain and into the toilet. Flush the toilet until it reaches the holding tank. You may need to winterize other components of your RV, such as the washing machine. Consult your owner’s manual for more information.
  3. Cleaning is necessary. You should also clean the refrigerator thoroughly while you are taking everything out. Old food and sticky drinks lying around for months will attract pests. Likewise, cupboards and drawers will attract pests.
  4. Vents and holes should be covered. There are vents around appliances, roof vents, roof vents, as well as larger spaces such as around doors.  Some areas can be covered with a sheet of plastic and secured with tape (which won’t damage the RV’s interior surfaces). Other areas might require you to place a temporary cover underneath an existing cover; however, you must remember to remove the temporary cover once the RV is ready to use.
  5. Rodent control and pest prevention. Your RV will sit unattended for about three months, so small furry animals can shelter there during the winter. Electrical wiring and even flooring can be damaged if rodents chew on your electrical wiring. As described in #4, covering vents and holes is essential, but you may need to get under your RV to search for small holes, about the size of a penny, and fill them with aluminum or brass wool. Inside, you can think about putting out moth balls (there is disparity over whether this actually works) or setting traps, but your RV might not smell the best when you open it back up in the spring – peppermint oil may also provide a solution and give your RV a nice scent. In the spring, you’ll need to be on the lookout for insect infestations such as bees, ants, and spiders. Set bait strips and traps in areas where these insects are likely to be found. By cleaning your RV well and tightly sealing it up, you can prevent insects as well.
  6. Propane tanks should be filled or removed. Before storing containers, fill them up with water to help them withstand the elements. Make sure the water supply is turned off and the containers are covered. The removable tanks can be removed, covered, and stored in an area outside your RV. Propane odorizers are often drawn to by pests like spiders, especially since they are citrus scented. By removing them, you can help prevent their presence in your RV.
  7. Power supply. Ensure that the 12-volt battery is fully charged before storage, and that the water level is full. Remove it and store it somewhere warmer and dryer if it is too cold . Flip off the main break switch on the RV. Turn off all electronic devices, such as appliances and alarms. You can find detailed instructions on how to use your generator in its manual.
  8. It’s tire time. Read on for information about extending the life of your tires. Tires still age when they are not used, even when they are stored. To offer additional support, use a leveling system on your RV. Outside jacks and blocks should also be considered. During the winter, move the RV once or twice so the weight is distributed evenly over the tire’s surface.
  9. Maintenance of the engine. Gasoline or diesel tanks can be topped off and stabilizing fuel can be purchased at most auto and RV supply stores. Antifreeze should be added to the radiator. In the winter, if possible, check the fluid levels of the windshield wipers, brakes, and oil, and top them off as needed.
  10. RVs need to be covered. Whether your RV is going to be stored in an old barn or left outside in the elements, consider covering it. Tarps can keep off dust and grime, but breathable materials are better suited to keep out snow and dust. Keeping the cover on will help reduce the chances of mold and mildew growing.

Winterizing your RV properly and taking preventative measures are essential. If you want to winterize your RV, don’t take the easy route. By taking proper care of your car now, you will be prepared for when the season returns.

 

Quick Tips To Enjoy Fall RV Camping Trips

campfires

campfiresThe mornings and evenings are always cold!

In the fall, the evenings are usually quite cold which means that you’ll need to start a fire. There is nothing more enjoyable and relaxing than sitting near a campfire while you chat and sing with your friends. All you will need is some coffee or hot cocoa and s’mores and you’ll be all set.

The mornings will also be quite cold in the fall and this creates a magical and mystical effect. This happens because the cool mornings combined with the heat from the water causes fog near lakes and ponds.

Foliage

Next, another great reason why RV camping during the fall is such a great idea is so that you can enjoy the foliage. During the fall in Arkansas, the leaves turn color a bit later than other areas. So, you can actually follow the changing foliage colors in your RV by camping in different areas every weekend. All you need to do is camp a bit further south each week.

The Amazing Weather

The great thing about fall is that it is a perfect time to enjoy various activities such as biking, hiking etc. The great thing about this time is that it isn’t very hot and it isn’t very cold either. This means that you can spend all day outdoors if you want and you’ll be quite comfortable. You can even spend a lot of time in the water if you wish.

You can start your day wearing a couple layers of clothes and then take layers off as the day progresses. We also enjoy doing float trips because the water is still a bit warm to enjoy.

RV Camping Tips During The Fall

As you can see, RV camping during the fall season is a fantastic idea. We will now look at a couple of tips that will help you to enjoy your fall camping a bit more.

1. Always ensure that you have a reserve propane tank before you set out and that all your tanks are full. You definitely don’t want to run out of propane on those cold nights.

2. Make sure you have lots of extra clothes to layer on. Even though the days may feel warm, the nights and mornings can be quite cold. It is better to pack extra clothes and not need them than to not have enough clothes and have a miserable cold trip. Make sure to pack lots of hoodies, long sleeve shirts, t-shirts, beanies, socks, gloves etc.

3. Don’t forget to pack extra blankets

4. Walk with lots of hot chocolate, tea bags, coffee etc. You will definitely enjoy your hot beverage on cold evenings and mornings.

5. Pack lots of s’mores as they make the perfect campfire snack.

6. Hiking shoes are also very important and will keep your feet warm and well protected.

7. Pack a walled canopy so that you can be outdoors even if it rains.

8. Lastly, make sure to pack lots of insect spray. There will undoubtedly be lots of bugs during the day and night and you don’t want to be caught without bug spray to defend your territory.

RV Season Is Almost Here Again

rv park mn

rv park mnHow To Get Your RV Ready To Use Again After Storing It For The Winter

Chances are, your RV has been sitting unused all winter. Before RV season gets into full swing, it is a good idea to give your motorhome or trailer a thorough inspection. The time you invest in inspecting your rig is worthwhile since it can prevent a lot of headaches after you get out on the road.

Inspect The Outside Of The RV

Start your exterior inspection by walking around the entire outside of your RV, looking for any problems or signs of damage.

Take a look at your propane bottles. Has the expiration date passed? Propane bottles are designed to last for 10 years. You don’t want to find out that it is time to replace them when you take them in to have them refilled. As long as they are still usable, see how much propane you have. If necessary, refill them before you head out on the road. That way, you don’t have to worry about the propane running out when you are making a meal or trying to stay warm.

Next up is your battery. Depending on your RV, you probably have one or more 12V batteries. Reconnect them to make sure they are properly positioned.

As you walk around the outside of your RV, pay close attention to the doors, windows, and storage compartments. If you have a slide, inspect it for any problems. Take a look at the weather stripping, as well. The roof should be closely inspected to see if there are any signs of cracking or other damage. Don’t forget to check the housing for the air conditioner as well as the vent covers. At this point, connect your RV to shore power so that you can test all of the interior systems and gauges.

Take A Look At The Tires

Make sure the tires are inflated correctly and that they have an adequate amount of tread. Look closely at the sidewalls for signs of cracking or damage. The tires may be flat or slightly deflated, depending on how long the RV has been sitting. Take that into account when you begin towing the unit, starting slowly so that the tires have time to return to the correct shape. If necessary, air up the tires. You should be able to find the recommended PSI printed on each tire’s sidewall.

Start The Interior Inspection

Take a look around the interior of your RV, keeping your eyes open for signs of pests that may have taken shelter inside over the winter. As long as you properly prepared your RV for storage, the chances that any creatures got inside are slim. If you do notice signs of pests, however, you should tackle them head-on by getting rid of any nests. Inspect your unit to determine where the pests might have gotten in. That way, you can seal those areas to keep the problem from happening again. Clean your RV from top to bottom, including inside all of the cabinets.

Make Sure The Appliances Are Clean And Working Correctly

Although not all RVs will have one, if you do have a gas range, check for signs of pests by lifting the top. Inspect the refrigerator for signs of mildew. Clean it thoroughly so it is ready to go before your trip. Try using disinfecting wipes or Clorox to kill off any germs. Turn on the refrigerator for a couple of days, switching between power sources to verify that they all work correctly.

Make Sure The Safety Systems Are All Functioning

Check your smoke, carbon monoxide, and LP-gas detectors carefully to make sure they are working. Test all of your emergency exits, as well. Inspect any fire extinguishers for signs of damage.

Test The Lighting And Electrical System

Test out all of the interior lights to make sure they are in good working order. The same goes for any gadgets that you have on board. Try opening and closing your slides to make sure they are operational. Connect the water and pressurize the lines. Then, check the lines for signs of leaks. Close your tank drains and begin flushing out the lines with water if you winterized using antifreeze. As the antifreeze is washed out, it will go into your gray and black tanks. Make sure you dump the tanks at a waste disposal station that is approved for RV use.

Change out the drain plug in your water heater, replacing it with a new one. Turn the valves to normal from bypass to begin refilling the tank. If necessary, open a hot water tap so that air has a place to escape while the tank is filling.

Inspect The Propane Lines

When you turn your propane off for the winter, gas escapes from the lines. Before propane can reach your appliances again, it first needs to refill the lines. This can take some time. Check the owner’s manual for your stove and follow the instructions to light the pilot light. Allow a few minutes for the gas to make its way to the stove. After the line has been filled with propane, you should be able to start up any other appliances that operate on propane such as your furnace.

Plan the Perfect Autumn Leaf Viewing Trip

northern mn rv parks

northern mn rv parksFall is the perfect time for a vacation. You miss many of the summer crowds and the weather is fantastic.

Northern Minnesota has the most beautiful fall colors. Colors typically peak between mid-September and early October in northern Minnesota. Beyond simply chasing the fall colors, fall is the perfect time for “up north” outdoor adventures. Thanks to its brisk weather, dwindling mosquito population and beautiful backdrop of changing leaves, fall is one of the best times to get outdoors.

Fortunately, you need not look any further than HeadQuarters RV Park, located in the beautiful Crane Lake area of Northern Minnesota.

This is an ideal area in which you can unplug and get back to your roots in nature. We have the amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable as possible while you are still able to enjoy the absolute splendor that a natural setting has to provide. Our water system will guarantee that you have strong water pressure throughout your stay. We also have 20, 30 or 50 amp electrical service so that you can enjoy your creature comforts in your RV.

If you are looking for a wonderful place that can provide fishing, hiking and other outdoor options, this is it. We are surrounded by a number of clean, beautiful lakes and forests. A few of the best lakes include Echo, Crane, Black Duck and Myrtle Lake. Our location borders on Both Voyagers National Park and Superior National Forest, so there are miles of trails to explore.

While you will be surrounded by gorgeous forests, you are still just a stone’s throw away from a wide variety of activities and attractions. Of course it is great to fully unplug and escape to the woods, but if you enjoy a little dining or nightlife, you definitely will not be disappointed with the local restaurants, historic buildings, specialty shops and even a 9 hole golf course.

We offer a wide variety of options when it comes to your length of stay. You can rent spots for as little as one day, or for a whole season. Our rates are extremely competitive and include all of the great amenities that you may desire. However, spots can fill up very quickly due to high demand and the beautiful location, so be sure to contact us as soon as possible to make your reservation.

Give us a call today with any questions you might have or to book your stay. The phone number is: (218) 570-1376. Just be sure to book your stay as soon as possible so that you do not miss out on the opportunity to spend your fall in the northern woods of Minnesota. A fall leaf themed vacation can be a wonderful experience and definitely a trip to remember. Fall is a lovely and unique season that can truly be appreciated.

RV Camping Tips

rv park near northern mn

rv park near northern mnAre you planning for your first RV camping trip? Are you looking for newer tricks to help you when you go RV camping? Well, here are some of the best RV camping trips you should know if you are traveling alone, with kids or with your pets.

RV Camping With Pets

If you are going RV camping with your dog or any other pet, here are some camping tips you need to consider.

• Make a list of everything your pet needs while on the road such as food, bowls, wipes, toys, a leash and much more. It will help you avoid any stress later on. Make sure you get plenty of dog food and make sure it’s available anywhere on the road.

• Make sure the pet has been fully vaccinated for ticks, fleas and heartworms. Have the medical information in handy if you have to visit a different pet.

• Contact any campgrounds you plan on attending to see whether or not they allow pets on site to avoid any last minute inconveniences.

RV Camping With Kids

If you are going RV camping with your kids, here are some useful tips to remember while on the road.

• Make a list of everything your kids will need while on the road such as change of clothes, games or books. Even better, you should bring along some items to keep your kids busy such as glow sticks.

• Bring enough food for the trip to avoid multiple stops when looking for food. Make sure the bathroom in the RV is functional to avoid any unnecessary stops on the way.

• Choose the best places to visit while you are on the road to give your kids. Don’t settle on theme parks or beaches only. You can opt for some museums, science centers and many other places.

RV Camping With Seniors

If you are going RV camping with seniors you need to pay a little more attention to then. Here are some RV camping tips to consider in this effect.

• You should be prepared to take a lot of rest stops along the way. Make sure you get plenty of sleep at night and drive only during the day to avoid any restlessness.

• If you have a senior who is suffering from any condition, make sure you consult a doctor before you go for the camping trip, no matter how long it might be.

• Don’t go to rural areas without any nearby medical centers in the event of any medical emergencies.

Use these tips to prepare for RV camping effortlessly!

Living The RV Lifestyle – What Is Essential?

HQ RV Park Campground Crane Lake

HQ RV Park Campground Crane LakeMore and more people are throwing off the shackles of that boring job with its stresses and taking to the open road in an RV. The question is why? What could make a man or woman – or a couple with kids give up a lifestyle of stability for life on that tarmac ribbon? There are a number of reasons including freedom from the shackles of daily humdrum existence.

But before you sell the house and the dog/cat here are few things that you should know about setting off on that long-awaited trip of exploration.

The first thing that you have to keep in mind before you set off on an RV trip is that space will always be at a premium. So whatever you take with you must be functional – and serve its purpose with a minimum of fuss and bother.

The first of these is a small card. Roadside assistance. If you have not paid your dues – the best time to do it is before you set off into that RV adventure. Everything might look rosy – but mechanical things do break. You do not want to stick on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Sure you have everything you need – but it’s going to get really boring after a while.

Let’s talk about food. A folding grill (propane best) is going to make your life a lot much more pleasant. It does not take up that much space and makes that overnight stay much more pleasant.

When you stop off there will always be that night when the stars shine brightly and the gentle wind is warm. On that perfect night, a folding table is worth its weight in gold. Do not skimp on paying for quality. Buy the best that you can get. Fortunately, even big box stores have a great selection so your choice will not break the bank.

Here’s the killer. You never want to be out of contact with the big wide world while you are exploring. Although many of the newer RV’s boast built-in Internet connectivity some of the older models do not – and those are the models that many people are drawn to. But do not despair – there are aftermarket mods that will make connectivity a breeze. Sign up to reputable carrier and you should be great. If you are a heavier user – or run an online business – call them – they will usually have a package that will suit your needs.

The idea of an RV lifestyle might not suit everyone – but it is certainly worth exploring the open road and the freedom that provides.

Why Choose Headquarters RV Park As Your Travel Destination

Northern MN RV Parks

Northern MN RV ParksGoing on vacation entails a lot of planning and financial backing for it to be considered successful. You need to find a way to fit your budget while not compromising your outdoor adventure. During your travel duration, you need to have a home base where you can relax and chill when you’re not feeling outdoorsy. Seeking out hotel residency can prove to be expensive in the long run considering that you won’t spend most of the time in the room. So how can you do this? Going to Headquarters RV Park during your travels can prove to be both economical and fun. Headquarters RV guarantees to make your experience feel like a home away from home.

Local Attractions

Attractions are the basis for fun summer memories. Though located at the center of Voyageur wilderness, Headquarters RV Park is filled with fun summer events that are sure to excite. Some of the events and attractions to check out during your stay include: exploring the vibrant birding wildlife in the county, ATV rides, live music bands, art festivals, shopping and even golfing. At the Voyageurs National Park, you can enjoy fishing, hiking or boat through the lakes. The beauty and serenity of this place is to die for so ensure you book your spot today! There is also an annual 4th of July crazy fun parade with fireworks along the Crane Lake street that really light up at night.

Seasonal Rental

One of the major issues for RV travelers is accommodation and rental rates. Headquarters RV Park provides competitive rental prices that are sure to fit traveler budgets. Whether you are visiting for a day, week or months, you can still get to enjoy the taste the beautiful wilderness north woods location regardless. So for your summer getaway or cross-country pit stop, we can offer the right visitor package for you. We understand that the summer season is for relaxing, traveling and experiencing new adventures which is why you need to have a home base of operations where you can call your temporary refuge. We eliminate the headache of travel while providing a full summer season of fun and excitement.

Make a reservation with us today! Our spots book up fast so reserve your slot early and you will be assured to have the best summer of your life. Our reservation policy requires a non-refundable $50 deposit to hold on to your slot and for any cancellations, your card will be charged the entire rate of the reservation. You can call us on (218) 750-1376 or email us at headquartersrvpark@gmail.com for additional information.

Unplug At HeadQuarters RV Park

HQ RV Park Campground Crane Lake

HQ RV Park Campground Crane LakeGetting away from the hustle and bustle of city life can do a great deal to bring people together at a RV Park in Northern MN. With summer closing in shortly, it is likely that you have been wondering how you can make the most of the beautiful weather. Fortunately, you need not look any further than HeadQuarters RV Park, located in the beautiful Crane Lake area of Northern Minnesota.

This is an ideal area in which you can unplug and get back to your roots in nature. We have the amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable as possible while you are still able to enjoy the absolute splendor that a natural setting has to provide. Our water system will guarantee that you have strong water pressure throughout your stay. We also have 20, 30 or 50 amp electrical service so that you can enjoy your creature comforts in your RV.

If you are looking for a wonderful place that can provide fishing, hiking and other outdoor options, this is it. We are surrounded by a number of clean, beautiful lakes and forests. A few of the best lakes include Echo, Crane, Black Duck and Myrtle Lake. Our location borders on Both Voyagers National Park and Superior National Forest, so there are miles of trails to explore.

While you will be surrounded by gorgeous forests, you are still just a stone’s throw away from a wide variety of activities and attractions. Of course it is great to fully unplug and escape to the woods, but if you enjoy a little dining or nightlife, you definitely will not be disappointed with the local restaurants, historic buildings, specialty shops and even a 9 hole golf course.

We offer a wide variety of options when it comes to your length of stay. You can rent spots for as little as one day, or for a whole season. Our rates are extremely competitive and include all of the great amenities that you may desire. However, spots can fill up very quickly due to high demand and the beautiful location, so be sure to contact us as soon as possible to make your reservation.

Give us a call today with any questions you might have or to book your stay. The phone number is: (218) 570-1376. Just be sure to book your stay as soon as possible so that you do not miss out on the opportunity to spend your summer in the northern woods of Minnesota.

Spring Is Coming, It’s Time To Book Your Next Vacation

RV Park Campgrounds

RV parks in northern mnNow that Spring is coming, it is time to book your next vacation. If you are looking for the absolute perfect place to book your next vacation, you will not be able to find a better place than HeadQuarters RV Park. This RV park is one of the best places to book your next Spring vacation. Below, we will be going over some of the reasons you might want to consider choosing HeadQuarters for your next Spring vacation.

Reasons:

1. Best In Class Facilities.

One of the main things that we have to offer over other parks is the best-in-class facilities. When you come to vacation with us, you will be able to experience the true beauty of the outdoors without having to leave your at-home comforts behind. The park has just about every comfort that you could possibly want with a variety of amenities to choose from.

2. Competitive Rates.

Another good reason to consider HeadQuarters would be the competitive rates that you will be able to get. Unlike a lot of the other parks, you will not be price gauged. We know how important it is to have an affordable option for your next vacation. To add to this, we also offer a variety of rental options ranging from daily to weekly to monthly depending on your needs. This is going to give you a lot of flexibility to work with when you are trying to come up with your next vacation.

3. Plenty To See.

When you are looking to pick the ideal spot for your next vacation, one of the main things that you will be concerned with would be what the area actually has to offer. When you choose HeadQuarters, you are going to be able to see all kinds of different lakes surrounding the area and you will experience breathtaking views all around.

There is simply no better place to plan your next extended vacation. If you are someone that enjoys the outdoors and outdoor adventure but you want to remain comfortable while doing so, you can’t find a better option. We offer best-in-class amenities and everything that you could possibly want to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Consider booking your next Spring vacation with us today. Feel free to look at the testimonials on our site or the reviews about our park as we pride ourselves in providing the absolute best experience possible to all of our guests.

Wintertime Blues

summertime vacation Crane Lake

summertime vacation Crane LakePeople who live in areas that have an never ending wintertime are often depressed as winter ends and spring approaches. Many of these northern wintry areas seem to have winter conditions that go on forever and ever. For most people who experience living in harsh winter conditions, there will come a time when they are completely fed up with shoveling snow, driving on icy roads, and freezing almost to death whenever they go outside.

The good news for anyone who has to survive months and months of winter is that spring and summer are just around the corner. Once spring and summer arrive, these Nordic inhabitants can make plans for a relaxing summertime vacation. Summertime vacations make living in a northern, wintry climate bearable. However, it is important to choose the right summertime vacation and to make advanced plans and reservations.

The reason why it is important to make advanced plans is because many of the better summertime destinations become booked very quickly. The reason why they become booked quickly is because they are popular and offer the best summertime vacation possible. Besides, can you imagine how your family would feel if you waited too long and were not able to take the dream summer vacation that you have always wanted?

One of the best ways to spend a family summertime vacation is in Minnesota at a RV campsite. You can either use your own RV or rent one for your vacation. A RV campsite in a wilderness area will provide a great opportunity for the parents to spend some quality time with their children. This will be especially true if you live in a large city.

Can you imagine how enjoyable your vacation will be as you explore the wilderness, get up early each morning to go fishing, eat delicious food cooked on a open fire pit, and sit around a campfire in the evening telling stories, singing songs, and sharing the day’s activities. This type of family vacation will be one that will be remembered for years to come.

The key, however, is to start making plans during the winter so that you can make an early reservation and get your perfect spot. In fact, making plans with the entire family as you all sip on a hot cup of cocoa during a cold winter night will help you to endure the rest of winter until it turns into spring.