Hiking is more than just a pastime—it’s a source of joy, challenge, and connection to nature. In this episode, we’re joined by Anna Roth from the Washington Trails Association (WTA) to talk about the incredible work they do, from maintaining trails, creating hiking resources, to advocating for public lands. We dive into exciting new trails in Washington State, the launch of WTA’s new app, and how you can get involved in protecting our shared outdoor spaces. Plus, Anna shares key insights on what hikers can expect this season, including changes due to the federal land policies. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or just enjoy a peaceful walk in the woods, this episode is packed with valuable tips and inspiration for your next hiking adventure.

Portland, Oregon never fails to surprise. From its vibrant culture and thriving art scene to its world-class food, coffee, and craft beer, Portland isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning a trip or just passing through, this city is worth a few extra days of exploration. From quirky urban adventures to must-visit favorites, Portland is a "choose your own adventure" city where every turn leads to something amazing. 

While Portlandia pokes fun at the locals, there’s no denying that the city’s charm and celebration of individuality make it an unforgettable place to visit. In this episode, we explore what makes Portland so special—its quirky, fun-loving spirit, must-visit spots, and why embracing the weird is the best way to experience PDX.

A few years ago, we sat down with Thomas from Camper Alerts as he launched his innovative online tool to help campers snag campsites at sold-out campgrounds. Back then, he wasn’t even an RVer yet! Fast forward to today, and a lot has changed. Now that Thomas and his wife have joined the RV LIfe, he’s back to share firsthand camping tips, fun destinations and exciting new features to Camper Alerts that make finding last-minute campsites even easier.

If you’ve ever struggled to book a campsite at national parks, state parks, or popular destinations, this episode is packed with insider hacks to help you snag a spot at popular campgrounds even on the most popular weekend.

Both big studio filmmakers and independent directors have long been drawn to the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. For those of us who call this region home, it’s easy to see why. The lush forests, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains create the perfect setting—not just for movies, but also for our RV adventures. It’s no surprise that some of the most iconic films have been shot in this breathtaking bioregion.

Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for unique destinations to add to your travel plans, visiting these legendary locations can add a cinematic touch to your next RV road trip.

Joining us on RV Out West is longtime film critic and historian, Robert Horton. Robert has spent his entire career exploring the magic of cinema. Today, he shares insights on some of the most famous filming locations in the Pacific Northwest, from classic Hollywood films to cult favorites. You can find his writing which also includes his film reviews over on The Crop Duster.

With its stunning lake, breathtaking mountain views, and endless outdoor activities, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most scenic destinations. If you love lakeside camping, small-town charm, and access to world-class outdoor recreation, Coeur d’Alene should be at the top of your RV travel list. Nestled in Northern Idaho, this stunning destination is home to one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

In this episode, we explore why Coeur d’Alene is the perfect spot for RV travelers. From scenic byways and lush forests to a historic downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and local charm, this town is an RVer’s dream.

RVing is an incredible adventure, but let’s be real—it’s not always smooth sailing. In this episode, we’re tackling a question "What do you wish you had known before you started RVing?"

These are the kinds of conversations we have around the campfire, swapping stories about lessons learned, rookie mistakes, and those little tips that make life on the road easier. From RV maintenance and campground reservations to trip planning, budgeting, and the reality of 

storage space, there’s a lot to figure out. Maybe you wish you had known how tricky backing up a trailer can be, or the importance of tire maintenance before your first big trip.

To get the best insights, I turned to the RV Out West community, and you all delivered! You shared your real experiences, common mistakes, and practical tips to help new RVers hit the road with confidence. Tune in and join the conversation—because the more we share, the better we all travel.

Summer is the perfect time to hit the road in your RV and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of festivals across Washington and Oregon. In this episode, we’re sharing our Top 10 list of summer festivals here in the Pacific Northwest.

From music festivals in the mountains to coastal food fairs and artisan markets, festivals offer a unique blend of live entertainment, delicious local eats, and a buzzing sense of community. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood at a charming coastal event or strolling through a colorful arts and crafts fair, traveling by RV allows you to stay close to the action without sacrificing the comforts of home.

Join me as I share my Top 10 must-visit summer festivals that capture the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Tune in for all the tips, highlights, and insider info to make your festival season one to remember.

After years of feeling stuck in a rat race, Kayla’s family made the bold decision to escape the ordinary and explore the extraordinary. We welcome Kayla from Camping with Kayla, who, along with her family, made the leap to living the full-time RV life.

Kayla shares what led them to this life-changing decision, the challenges and rewards of traveling full-time, and their favorite must-visit spots in the breathtaking Pacific Northwest. From hidden coastal gems to awe-inspiring national parks, she reveals the destinations that made their journey unforgettable.

Whether you're considering going full-time in an RV or just love hearing inspiring travel stories, this episode is packed with insights and motivation to fuel your own Pacific Northwest adventures — Get inspired to hit the road.

McCartys On the Move join us on the show, Jason and Renee traded the traditional American Dream for the RV life. Once homeowners with a backyard for their kids and their dogs to play in, they took a leap of faith, sold it all, and embraced the RV lifestyle. Now, they’ve found true happiness in a simpler, more minimalistic way of living.

Jason and Renee share their inspiring journey, diving into the "why" behind their decision and the allure of RV life. They’ll walk us through how they make it all work—from daily living to travel logistics to keeping life organized in a small space.

Plus, they reveal their favorite camping spots right here in the Pacific Northwest, offering firsthand tips for fellow RVers and dreamers looking to hit the road. Whether you’re curious about living small, need advice on travel days, or want practical hacks for saving space, this episode is packed with insights for anyone drawn to the nomadic lifestyle.

Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about redefining happiness, embracing freedom, and making the most of life on wheels.

Creativity has shaped the world, from revolutionary inventions to quirky roadside art. While some creations transform how we live, others serve as delightful distractions, adding charm to our travels. In this episode, we dive into the obscure and celebrate the unique roadside attractions that you won’t find in art museums but are perfect for breaking up a long day of driving.

Join us as we unveil a Top 10 List of Wacky Roadside Attractions in the Pacific Northwest, spanning Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Whether you're RVing through these states or planning your next road trip, these quirky stops are sure to add fun and fascination to your journey.

Discover where creativity meets the unexpected and find inspiration for your next adventure in the Pacific Northwest. Don't miss this episode packed with oddities, charm, and travel tips. Hit play and start planning your stops.

We explore the brand-new Angel of the Winds RV Resort, which opened its doors during Memorial Weekend 2024. Join us as we share our mid-November shoulder-season campground review of this new resort. From the moment we arrived, the exceptional service and thoughtful details were apparent, starting with a warm welcome in the bright, clean front office.

With 156 spacious pull-through RV sites, 24 back-in sites, and 8 luxury yurts for non-RVing friends and family, this resort caters to all. Each site features full concrete pads, lush landscaping, and generous yards, ensuring a comfortable stay. Conveniently located just off I-5, it's only 65 miles south of the Peace Arch Park border crossing and 50 miles north of downtown Seattle, making it a perfect pit stop or extended getaway.

Packed with amenities, the resort boasts a mini-golf course, clubhouse with a pool and hot tub, playground with an epic slide, pickleball courts, and easy access to the Angel of the Winds Casino. Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or a fun-filled vacation, this resort has it all, but they are not perfect and we also discuss a few of those items as well.

On this last episode of 2024, we dive into the heart of RVing, camping, and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. This episode is a celebration of living life intentionally, embracing adventure, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

As parents, we reflect on the fleeting summers we have with our children and the importance of spending them meaningfully—building connections, teaching life lessons, and soaking in the magic of the great outdoors.

I’ll also share my personal perspective on travel and why it’s more than just sightseeing—immersing yourself in the world, gaining fresh perspectives, and growing through the experiences that shape us into more thoughtful, empathetic, and compassionate individuals.

In today’s fast-paced, screen-obsessed world, nature offers us a much-needed antidote. Discover the transformative benefits of stepping away from technology, grounding yourself in the outdoors, and connecting deeply with the world around us. This episode will inspire you to embrace the RV community and the RV life.

We reconnect with Tara of Tara’s Tiny Trailer, a fan favorite from one of our earliest podcasts. Tara fell in love with her first camper, a stylish and compact tow-behind trailer by Happier Camper, and her journey has inspired countless RV enthusiasts.

This time, Tara shares updates on her recent adventures camping across the breathtaking Pacific Northwest, revealing hidden gems and must-visit spots. We also delve into her fascinating connection to the eruption of Mt. St. Helens and how it has shaped her perspective. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek into her latest creative projects, offering fresh inspiration for RV living and beyond.

If you’re new to the podcast, make sure to check out episode 22, where we had our first inspiring conversation with Tara about embracing the RV lifestyle and her love for tiny campers.

Don’t miss this engaging and heartfelt episode full of tips, stories, and ideas for your next adventure. Hit play now and join us on the road.

Struggling to find safe and reliable places to park your RV overnight can be a challenge. In this episode we dive into an innovative app designed specifically for RVers by RVers seeking secure and convenient overnight stays. Say goodbye to noisy truck stops and questionable parking lots! RV Overnights connects you with a network of welcoming hosts and verified locations tailored to RV travelers.

Discover how this game-changing tool simplifies trip planning, offers peace of mind, and opens doors to unique overnight experiences. Plus, learn how it is different from other solutions like Harvest Hosts. When planning your next road trip, be sure to listen to this episode. It is packed with tips to make your journey smoother and safer.

We explore the shared joys of RVing. Whether you hit the road solo, as a family, or with friends, RVing fosters unique connections. Around campfires and in campgrounds, it’s common to meet fellow travelers and form lasting friendships. That’s what makes the RV community so special.

Joining us today is David, also known as the RV Jedeye. A weekend warrior with a 9-to-5 job, David shares his love for escaping the daily grind and exploring the outdoors. From his diverse travels around the Pacific Northwest to his insights as a part-time RVer, David provides inspiration for anyone balancing work and RV adventures.

Join us as we discuss the joys of weekend RVing, tips for connecting with fellow RVers, and stories that highlight the community spirit of life on the road.

We’re thrilled to welcome pitmaster Forrest, a legendary figure with boundless charisma, and an infectious laugh on to the show for this special episode. I’ve known Forrest for over two decades now and we forged a friendship by discovering our shared love for cooking. Today, Forrest has transformed that passion into a professional journey as a skilled Pitmaster.

Recently, during one of our chats, I shared stories from our RV adventures where we bring a smoker along and hold BBQ smoke fests at the campground. Forrest joins us to share his Pitmaster expertise, giving us tips on elevating our grilling and smoking game, both at the campground and at home. Whether you’re a casual griller or BBQ enthusiast, Forrest’s advice is packed with flavor and technique. Join us as we dive deep into the world of barbecue, with plenty of laughs along the way.

We welcome Matt and Emily from Where’s Wiseman, YouTubers known for their thrilling adventures deep within the Cascade Mountain Range. Join us as they share stories from their travels in a Jeep and teardrop trailer, offering firsthand insight into their ways of finding remote destinations, camping spots, and the challenges of backcountry exploration. Their videos capture breathtaking views and the spirit of outdoor adventure, and we’re thrilled to hear about their journey and learn what it’s like to explore the Cascades so intimately.

We welcome Washington State University President Kirk Schulz and his wife, Dr. Noel Schulz, a distinguished electrical engineer on the show. Tune in as they share their personal journey of becoming Washingtonians and recount their favorite RV adventures—from their early days of RV travel as new parents to recent excursions across the American West and Pacific Northwest.

They also reveal their top picks for state parks in Eastern Washington and Idaho, along with recommendations for fun outdoor activities in and around the city of Spokane, Wash. This episode offers valuable travel inspiration and tips for your next adventure.

When my wife and I bought our travel trailer, she made one thing crystal clear: she would never dump the black tank. As long as I handled the "poo slinky" duties, she was on board with RV life. At first, I wasn’t thrilled about managing the tank flush and dumping process. But after some practice, it became just another part of the adventure. Recently, I discovered a new option shaking things up—Matt’s Liquidfied tank treatment. 

In this episode, Matt himself joins us to share his expert advice on black tank maintenance, tips for avoiding common mistakes, and insider tricks for a stink-free RV experience. But we don’t just talk tanks—Matt also shares stories from his favorite camping destinations and reveals something exclusive that he hasn’t told anyone else. Don’t miss this exciting interview and get ready to rethink your black tank routine.

Joining us is Connor, the creator behind Find Me in Seattle, who shares his journey of becoming one of Seattle's storytellers. From his iconic yellow backpack to his local discoveries, Connor has become a recognizable figure in the city’s community.

Connor talks about how he “fell into” the role of Find Me in Seattle and what it’s like to explore and document the vibrant, ever-evolving Seattle. He also shares some of his favorite hidden gems that you won’t find on typical travel lists. Whether you’re a local looking for new places to explore or a RVer whose looking to visit Seattle like a native, Connor’s insights will inspire you to venture beyond the usual tourist traps.

In this conversation, we dive into what makes Seattle such a dynamic city, including its culture, food, and nature. Connor offers unique recommendations, from quiet coffee shops and quirky art installations to tucked-away trails and secret viewpoints—perfect for anyone wanting to experience the city in a whole new way.

Hear Connor’s story, learn more about the adventures behind Find Me in Seattle, and get inspired to explore Seattle’s hidden treasures on your own.