Our final stop brought us to Natural Bridge State Park in Kentucky—a place with some beautiful scenery, but a few camping caveats we wish we had known ahead of time. We stayed at the Whittleton Campground, and let’s just say this: if you’re towing a big RV, don’t do it. The roads are narrow, winding, and not made for large rigs. Getting in and out was a tight, sketchy adventure all its own. If you're traveling with a bigger camper, we highly recommend staying at Middle Fork Campground instead.

The park also has a hotel, a pool (though it’s $6 per person even for campers), and plenty of hiking options, but we found it a bit confusing to navigate and not quite as relaxing as some of our earlier campgrounds. It wasn’t the best campground to end on after the beautiful places we’d just come from, but we still managed to find adventure.

As for the park itself, Natural Bridge is an impressive sight. We hiked up in the blazing heat to reach it, and although the trail was steep, the view was absolutely worth it. Standing underneath—and then walking across the top of the massive sandstone arch—was a pretty surreal experience. If hiking’s not your thing, there’s a sky lift that can take you to the top instead.

One unexpected gem? The historic Nada Tunnel—a narrow, one-lane tunnel carved through rock that was once used for logging. Driving through it felt like a step back in time and leads you straight into the Daniel Boone National Forest, setting the stage for our favorite experience of this stop.

The highlight of our stay? A wild off-roading Jeep trip. With steep drop-offs, creek crossings, boulder climbs, and tight forest squeezes, it was equal parts terrifying and thrilling. (I only closed my eyes twice, so that’s a win!) Our guide, John, was amazing—calm, knowledgeable, and always on the walkie-talkie talking Jess through every intense obstacle. It pushed us out of our comfort zone in the best way and gave us a truly unforgettable finish to our adventure.

And speaking of water…
The highlight of our time here was, hands down, whitewater rafting down the New River with Cantrell Rafting. It was an absolutely unforgettable experience. Not only did we get to see the gorge from a totally different perspective—on the river itself—but we also got to ride some epic Class III and IV rapids that had us laughing, paddling, and hanging on tight.
We stopped for a lunch break on the riverbank, with plenty of chances to jump in and cool off along the way. One of the most memorable moments? Watching Mia fearlessly leap off Jump Rock, a roughly 20-foot drop into the river. Our guide said she was the youngest kid he’d ever seen take the plunge—and she didn’t even hesitate. Proud parent moment for sure!
We can’t say enough great things about Cantrell Rafting and our guide, Cody. He was professional, knowledgeable about the area’s history and geology, and kept us laughing during the slower stretches of the trip. The perfect balance of thrill, education, and pure fun.
New River Gorge gave us one of the best days of the trip so far—and definitely one we’ll be talking about for a long time.

After the hustle of D.C., we headed for some much-needed nature and relaxation in Luray, Virginia, where we stayed at the Luray RV Resort on the Shenandoah River. The campground is fairly new, and while it could definitely use more shade trees (especially on the scorching summer days we were there for), the location couldn’t have been better.

Back at the campground, the pool was a lifesaver on the hot days. The kids loved the waterslides too! We cooled off and enjoyed some downtime by the water. All in all, this stop gave us the perfect mix of adventure and rest, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

While in Luray, we managed to snag reservations to hike Old Rag Mountain—a trail known for its challenging terrain and epic summit views. We knew it would be tough, but we didn’t expect to be tackling it on a 95-degree day. Determined to beat the heat (and not pass out in the process), we got an early start and chose the shorter 5.5-mile route from the Berry Hollow Trailhead instead of the full 9-mile loop.
Getting to the trailhead was an adventure of its own. As we drove, we quickly lost all cell service, and the paved road gave way to narrow, winding dirt paths. More than once we were convinced we were lost in the middle of nowhere—but we stuck with it, and eventually made it to the trailhead. Just when we thought the journey couldn’t get any more unexpected, a black bear crossed the road right in front of us! It was too fast to grab a photo, but definitely a heart-pounding, unforgettable moment.
The hike itself was grueling in the heat—steep climbs, rocky scrambles, and sweat pouring down—but when we finally reached the top, it was all worth it. The panoramic views from the summit were absolutely breathtaking, stretching over the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as far as the eye could see.
It wasn’t the hike we planned, but it turned into a wild, beautiful adventure that we won’t forget any time soon.

Cherry Hill Campground
We conquered another big city—Washington, D.C.! This stop was both exciting and surprisingly easy, thanks to our stay at Cherry Hill Campground. Not only is it the closest campground to the city, but it’s also incredibly well-run and clean, with great amenities and a friendly vibe.
One of the coolest parts? Each night, the campground hosts a sightseeing info session all about navigating D.C.—and it was a game changer. Jess and I decided to check it out, and we’re so glad we did. We walked away with a solid understanding of how to use public transportation, plus plenty of insider tips that made our visit smoother and more enjoyable.
From bus routes to Metro cards, they explained everything in a way that made even us small-town travelers feel confident about heading into the capital. What could have been a stressful experience turned into an easy, exciting day full of discovery—and it all started with a well-timed info session at our campground. Cherry Hill truly made D.C. doable!

Months before our trip, we booked a Best of D.C. tour through Viator, and it ended up being one of the most incredible highlights of our entire journey. After a restful night at Cherry Hill Campground, we woke up ready to dive into America’s capital—armed with public transportation tips from the campground’s info session and excited for a full day of history, monuments, and patriotic awe.
Our day began at the Library of Congress, where we met our friendly and knowledgeable tour guide and the rest of our group by the Neptune Fountain. From there, we kicked off an unforgettable adventure.
First stop: reserved entry into the U.S. Capitol Building. We watched a short film on the history of U.S. government before heading inside for a guided walking tour of this iconic building where both the Senate and House of Representatives meet. Walking through the halls of power was nothing short of surreal.

After our time in New Jersey, we rolled into Delaware Seashore State Park for our next stop. At first glance, the campground felt more like a packed parking lot than a peaceful escape; tight sites, close quarters, and not much privacy. But what it lacked in space, it more than made up for in location.

One of the most striking features of this stop was the beautiful bridge that towers over the inlet. Whether lit up at night or catching the sun during the day, it added a dramatic touch to the scenery. We may not have had a lot of space at our site, but the views and easy beach access gave us exactly what we came for: a relaxing seaside escape.

Our time in New Jersey was short. The real highlight wasn’t the scenery or the campground, it was visiting family. After all the miles on the road, reconnecting with family was exactly what we needed. Laughter, stories, and play time with cousins reminded us why this stop was so important.

We camped at Turkey Swamp County Park, which had spacious sites and a peaceful setting. That said… it definitely lived up to its name. It was muddy, sticky, and unbelievably humid—a classic swamp experience. While it served its purpose as a place to sleep, it’s probably not on our “must-camp-again” list. Next time we’re in the area, we’ll look for a spot with a little less muck and a little more breeze.

One bonus was its proximity, just 40 minutes from the South Amboy Ferry and 30 minutes from family. The location made our spontaneous NYC day trip super convenient. Free parking and an easy ferry ride turned what could’ve been a stressful city day into an exciting adventure.

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap:
We also stumbled across a total gem, Tommy’s Tavern + Tap. From the moment we walked in, we loved the vibe. The food? Next-level. Between the poke bowls, sushi, and ahi tuna wrap, everything was fresh and flavorful. The menu had something for everyone, the drinks were great, and we all agreed we’d absolutely go back if we’re ever in the area again. Unexpected finds like this make the journey even better.

New Jersey to NYC: Out of Our Comfort Zone and Into the City That Never Sleeps
While camping in New Jersey, we found ourselves so close to New York City that we couldn’t resist the urge to spend a day exploring. Now let’s be honest, we are not city people. The thought of navigating crowded streets and figuring out public transportation...totally out of our comfort zone. But sometimes the best memories come from taking the leap... and we’re so glad we did.

A Powerful and Unforgettable Stop
Our main goal for the day was to visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and the ferry dropped us just a short walk away. As we stood in front of the reflecting pools, surrounded by names and the sound of water, we were struck silent. The museum itself was emotional, sobering, and deeply moving—an experience we’ll never forget and one that was well worth stepping outside our normal routine.

Statue of Liberty and More
Of course, no trip to NYC is complete without seeing Lady Liberty herself. As we made our way toward the ferry ticket line, we were approached by a representative from Big City Tourism, a local tour company. Despite reading some mixed reviews, we decided to go for it—and we’re so glad we did.
Yes, it cost a little more, but it was totally worth it. We hopped on a boat tour that cruised past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and even took us under the Brooklyn Bridge, all while our fun, energetic, and knowledgeable guide pointed out NYC’s must-see sights and fun facts. For us novice big-city explorers, it was the perfect, no-stress way to soak in the iconic views without getting lost in the hustle.
By the end of the day, we were exhausted, inspired, and proud. We took a leap into unfamiliar territory and made memories we’ll be talking about for years.

Times Square: A Quick Dose of the Hustle
​Our last stop of the day was the iconic Times Square. With Willow waiting back at the camper, we knew we couldn’t linger too long. This was the first moment we really felt the true buzz of NYC...the flashing lights, crowds of people, honking taxis, and non-stop motion. By this point, we were hot, tired, and a little overwhelmed, so it ended up being a quick photo op before hopping in a taxi and heading back to the ferry. In hindsight, we all agreed that next time, we’d skip Times Square and opt for a stroll through Central Park instead. A green space, some shade, and a slower pace? That’s way more our style.

Our Connecticut stop was short but surprisingly sweet! We rolled into Riverdale Farm Campsite, a spot that had us a bit unsure at first thanks to some mixed online reviews—but it turned out to be a total hidden gem. Nestled in a quiet, tree-lined area, the campground was peaceful, clean, and exactly what we needed after a day on the road.
Even with a tight schedule and just an overnight stay, the staff went above and beyond to make things easy. We weren’t sure if we’d arrive early, but they were super flexible and even waived the early check-in fee when plans shifted. You don’t always get that kind of kindness and hospitality, and we really appreciated it.

And of course, Willow was in her element again—this time, it was squirrel central. The trees and open spaces were practically a playground for her nose and ears. She spent the whole evening on high alert, joyfully zigzagging from tree to tree like it was her own personal safari. Watching her excitement added an extra layer of fun to our stay.

Before leaving Connecticut, we squeezed in a visit to the stunning Hammonasset Beach State Park. Even with limited time, this place blew us away. The beach stretched wide and welcoming, and we took our time strolling the shore, hunting for treasures. Between the sparkling sea glass, smooth driftwood, and colorful shells, it felt like a real-life scavenger hunt with the ocean breeze in our hair.
We wished we had more time to soak it all in, but this quick stop gave us a little taste of Connecticut’s coastal beauty—and now we’re already dreaming of a return trip!

Our Rhode Island stop may have been quick, but it packed a punch! We pulled in for an overnight stay at Fisherman’s Memorial State Park, and what a gem! This campground is perfectly nestled just minutes from stunning state beaches, the Block Island ferry, and a slew of local restaurants. The campsites were spacious, and the kids loved burning off energy on the basketball and pickleball courts. We can’t forget to mention Willow, our adventure-loving pup. Out of all the places we’ve camped, this one may have been her absolute favorite. She is completely obsessed with rabbits and squirrels—and this park had rabbits galore. She was on high alert (and high excitement) the entire time, tail wagging and nose twitching with every bunny sighting. Her joy alone made this campground memorable!

We wrapped up our evening with a peaceful walk along Salty Brine State Beach, where the waves gently lapped the shore and the sky painted itself in pastel pinks and oranges. Live music spilled out from the nearby restaurants, giving the entire area a festive, summer-night feel. It was the perfect way to end our short but sweet Rhode Island adventure.

Adventuring with Family: Keene, New Hampshire and Mount Monadnock
One of the best (and sometimes wildest) parts of traveling cross-country with our 5th Wheel RV is the unpredictability. Every stop is a new adventure, and sometimes the adventure starts before we even unpack! Our latest destination: the charming town of Keene, New Hampshire. We set up camp at the peaceful and wooded Ashuelot River Campground, but our arrival didn’t come without a little hiccup—one of our front stabilizers broke while setting up.

After a bit of troubleshooting, we realized it wasn’t a fix we could make mid-trip. So, in true road warrior fashion, we adapted. A quick trip to a nearby tool store for a jack, and we were back in business—leveling the RV manually for the rest of the journey. It’s not ideal, but when you're traveling as a family, you learn quickly that flexibility is everything.

The highlight of our time in the Keene area, though, was Mount Monadnock. As the most climbed mountain in the U.S., we couldn’t pass it up! And wow, what a climb. Over 1,800 feet of elevation gain in just a little over 4 miles round trip. It challenged every one of us—but in the best way.

The weather was perfect for hiking—cool and comfortable—though a little too cloudy to offer the panoramic views Monadnock is known for. If you’re from Wisconsin, imagine Devil’s Lake State Park on steroids. The trail was a mix of giant boulders, natural stone staircases, and playful stream crossings. It was part hike, part scramble, and full-on adventure.

Traveling with family always comes with its share of surprises, but that’s part of the fun. From broken stabilizers to boulder-strewn trails, we’re embracing the journey one stop at a time. Keene, you were a rugged, beautiful, and unforgettable part of the ride.

One of the unexpected highlights near Keene was exploring the historic covered bridges scattered throughout the region. These charming wooden bridges, some dating back to the 1800s, feel like stepping into a storybook. Things got a little tricky, our RV and truck definitely don’t fit through these narrow, low-clearance bridges, thankfully our campsite gave us the heads up! There were also unexpected dirt roads and tunnels, made for a fun adventure.

And we’re off! The long-awaited Family Trip 2025 has officially begun. But like all good adventures, ours started with a little unexpected drama. We had our sights set on hitting the road by 4:30 AM, but just before departure—at 3:45 AM—we heard an unusual ruckus from the chicken coop.
Jess and the kids grabbed a flashlight and rushed outside to find one of our hens had been taken out by a surprise visitor—a raccoon! Of all mornings, right? Jess handled it quickly to make sure the rest of the flock (and our neighbor kids who are watching the animals while we’re gone) wouldn’t wake up to a real-life horror show. Crisis averted and we were rolling our on time!

We’re passing through ten states on this loop out east, and this stop was meant to be a quick overnight—definitely more scenic than a Walmart parking lot.

​The park was a pleasant surprise. Spacious grassy campsites with electric hookups (though no water at individual sites, so we filled up at the station on the way in). It wasn’t crowded at all, and we even had a partial view of Lake Erie from our site. Some spots were even closer to the water.

A short walk took us to the lake’s edge. The main “beach” was a bit underwhelming—lots of algae—but we wandered farther and found some beautiful stretches with no algae, just cool shale rock formations and sandy cliffs. The kids loved skipping rocks and exploring along the shoreline.

The highlight of the evening? A stunning Lake Erie sunset!

• Spacious, grassy campsites
  
• Electric hookups (no water at site)
  
• Lake views
  
• Playgrounds (though the basketball hoop was out of commission)
  
• Frisbee golf course
  
• Quiet and peaceful—perfect for a one-night stay
  

Next stop: Onward to the next state and the next adventure. Let’s see what surprises tomorrow brings (hopefully fewer raccoons).