Top 10 RV Mattresses for a Comfortable Adventure: Find Your Perfect Fit Today!
Do you think about RV Mattresses? One of the most important factors in ensuring a good night's sleep on the road is having the right RV mattress. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 RV mattresses to help you find the perfect fit for a restful and comfortable adventure.
- Zinus 8 Inch Gel-Infused Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress: Get the perfect combination of comfort and support with this Zinus Gel-Infused Memory Foam Mattress, which features green tea-infused foam to help eliminate odors. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty for added peace of mind.
- Live & Sleep Classic RV Short Queen Size Memory Foam Mattress: Stay cool and comfortable all night long with this memory foam mattress designed with breathable materials to help regulate temperature. Its pressure-relieving foam also helps reduce aches and pains, making it perfect for long road trips.
- DynastyMattress 10GEL-QUEEN-RV 10-inch CoolBreeze Gel Memory Foam Mattress: Keep cool and comfortable with this gel memory foam mattress that features CoolBreeze technology for optimal temperature regulation. Its medium-firm support keeps your spine aligned, and its soft cover adds an extra layer of comfort.
- Serenia Sleep 6-Inch RV Mattress, Short Queen: Don't let its slim profile fool you – this mattress packs a punch when it comes to comfort. Its high-density foam provides excellent support, and its quilted cover adds an extra layer of plushness.
- Sleep Master Deluxe Memory Foam 8 Inch RV/Camper/Trailer/Truck Mattress, Short Queen: This memory foam mattress is specifically designed for RVs, so it's the perfect fit for your home on wheels. Its memory foam conforms to your body, providing personalized support for a restful night's sleep.
- Parklane Mattresses The Explorer RV Mattress: Enjoy exceptional pressure relief on those long road trips with this mattress featuring a special foam design. Its high-density foam base provides added support, and its plush cover adds an extra layer of softness.
- Denver 326394 Short Queen Size RV Supreme Euro Top Mattress: Find the perfect balance of firmness and softness with this Euro top mattress. Its foam core provides excellent support, and its plush top layer offers a cozy place to rest your head.
- FoamRush 4-Inch Queen (60" x 80") Cooling Gel Memory Foam RV Mattress Replacement, Medium Firm, Comfort, Pressure Relief and Support, Made in USA, Travel Camper Trailer Truck, Cover Not Included: For those seeking a plush and luxurious RV sleeping experience, the is an excellent choice. This 4-inch short queen size mattress features a comfortable pillow top with quilted foam and a high-density foam core that provides excellent support.
- RecPro Charles Collection | 60" RV Hide A Bed Loveseat | RV Sleeper Sofa | Memory Foam Mattress: For a versatile and space-saving RV sleeping solution, the RecPro Charles Collection Hide A Bed Loveseat is a great option. This stylish sofa provides extra seating and easily converts into a memory foam sleeper with a short queen size mattress.
- Brentwood Home Cypress Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress: Keep cool and comfortable on your next RV adventure with the Brentwood Home Cypress Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress. This gel memory foam mattress is designed to regulate temperature and provide excellent support for a restful night's sleep. Its bamboo-derived rayon cover is soft and breathable, and the mattress comes with a 25-year warranty.
With these top 10 RV mattresses, you can sleep like a king (or queen) while on the road. So, hit the gas and enjoy the ride – you've got a cozy place to rest your head at the end of the day!
Maximizing Space: Rv Storage Solutions!
Do you wonder how storage will work in your RV? If you've ever felt like a contestant on a game show while trying to find room for all your belongings in your RV, you're not alone! Maximizing space in your RV can sometimes feel like a never-ending challenge. But fear not, fellow travelers! We've compiled a list of the top 10 storage solutions that will transform your RV into an organizational oasis, making you the envy of every campground.
- Over-the-Cabinet Door Organizer Ever opened a cabinet and wished you could just hang something on the door to save space? Your wish has been granted! Over-the-cabinet door organizers, such as the Simple Houseware Over the Cabinet Door Organizer Holder, attach to your cabinet doors without requiring tools or permanent installation. They're perfect for holding cutting boards, plastic wrap, or cleaning supplies, and are a game-changer for maximizing space in your RV kitchen or bathroom.
Collapsible Storage Bins Collapsible storage bins, like CleverMade Collapsible Fabric Storage Bins, are a traveler's best friend. They offer generous storage capacity for clothes, linens, or other items while being easily folded down when not in use. These space-saving containers not only keep your belongings organized but also save valuable storage space when empty.
- Under-Shelf Storage Basket Wave goodbye to wasted vertical space with under-shelf storage baskets such as the SimpleTrending Under Cabinet Organizer Shelf. These wire baskets easily slide onto shelves, providing additional storage for plates, cups, or pantry goods. It's a simple and effective way to make the most of every inch in your RV cabinets.
- Vacuum Storage Bags Prepare to be amazed by the magic of vacuum storage bags like Spacesaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags. These airtight bags compress clothes, bedding, and other soft items, significantly reducing their volume. With a vacuum cleaner or a hand pump, you can shrink these bags to a fraction of their original size, creating more room for other essentials.
- Wall-Mounted Magnetic Knife Holder Clear up counter and drawer space by mounting a Modern Innovations 16 Inch Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Bar on your RV wall. This sleek and functional holder securely stores knives and other metal tools, keeping them within easy reach while cooking up your favorite campground meals.
- Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer Who knew shoes could be so orderly? The MISSLO Over The Door Shoe Organizer is a space-saving solution for storing shoes, toiletries, or other small items. Hang it over a door, and you'll instantly have a clever and organized system for keeping your belongings off the floor and out of the way.
- Swivel Store Spice Rack Spice up your RV life with the YouCopia SpiceStack Adjustable Spice Rack Organizer. This compact and convenient storage solution keeps your spices, condiments, or medications neat and tidy. With its adjustable shelves, finding the perfect spot for each container is a breeze.
- Adjustable Tension Rods Meet the multitasking marvel of RV storage: AIZESI 4PCS Spring Tension Curtain Rods. These adjustable rods can create additional storage space in cabinets, closets, or be used as dividers in larger areas. With their easy installation and versatility, tension rods are an indispensable addition to your RV organization toolkit.
- Stackable Can Organizer Say goodbye to canned chaos with the Simple Houseware Stackable Can Rack Organizer. This handy storage solution keeps your canned goods organized and easily accessible, making meal prep a snap. You'll never have to rummage through your pantry again!
- Slim Slide-Out Storage Tower Introducing the space-saving superhero: the Mobile Shelving Unit Organizer with 3 Large Storage Baskets. This narrow, wheeled storage unit slides effortlessly between appliances or furniture, providing extra storage for cleaning supplies, toiletries.
In conclusion, maximizing space in your RV doesn't have to be a daunting task. With these top storage solutions, you can transform your home-on-wheels into a clutter-free and organized haven, making your RV adventures more enjoyable and stress-free. So go ahead, implement these ingenious ideas and relish the newfound space and order in your beloved traveling abode.
Top 10 RV Leveling Blocks and Leveling Systems
Well, RV leveling blocks might not be the most exciting accessory out there, but they can definitely save you from some awkward situations. Imagine trying to cook dinner in your RV, and your saucepan keeps sliding off the stove because your RV is tilted. Or worse, you're trying to sleep, but your bed feels like a carnival ride because you're parked on a slope. Trust me, it's not fun. That's why RV leveling blocks are a must-have, unless you enjoy eating spaghetti off the ceiling or waking up feeling like you've just survived a rollercoaster ride. So, if you want to keep your RV level and your sanity intact, get yourself some leveling blocks - your inner neat freak and your back will thank you for it!
Here are some popular options of leveling blocks that you might consider:
- Camco Yellow Drive On Tri-Leveler - These RV leveling blocks comes with three levels and has a weight capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. It provides a stable and level foundation for your RV.
- Andersen Camper Leveler - These RV leveling blocks are a unique design that allows you to level your RV quickly and easily without driving onto the blocks.
- Tri-Lynx 00015 Lynx Levelers - These interlocking blocks are stackable and can be configured to accommodate a variety of terrain and leveling needs.
- Beech Lane Camper Leveler - This leveling block system includes two ramps and a chock to level your RV on uneven surfaces.
- Hopkins 08200 Endurance RV Leveling System - This heavy-duty block set includes ten blocks that can be used individually or stacked together to create a stable and level base for your RV.
- BAL 28050 Light Trailer Tire Leveler - These RV leveling blocks are specifically designed for single-axle trailers and includes a tire-leveling wedge and chock for added stability.
- LevelMatePRO Wireless Vehicle Leveling System - This high-tech leveling system uses Bluetooth technology to connect to your smartphone or tablet for easy and quick leveling of your RV.
- Quick Products QP-UPJACK5-24P RV Stabilizing and Leveling Scissor Jack - This scissor jack system provides stability and leveling for your RV, with a weight capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
- Reese 94622 Straight Line Hitch with Dual Cam HP - This leveling system includes a hitch and cam system to distribute weight evenly across your RV for a stable and level ride.
Lets Look At These In More Detail!
Camco Yellow Drive On Tri-Leveler:
The Camco Yellow Drive On Tri-Leveler is a popular choice for RV leveling blocks, offering a stable and level foundation for your RV. This block set includes three levels and has a weight capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. The levels are designed to fit most RV wheels, making it easy to drive your RV onto them for leveling. Made from durable, UV-stabilized resin, these blocks are built to last and come with a non-slip surface for added safety. With its easy-to-use design and sturdy construction, the Camco Yellow Drive On Tri-Leveler is a great option for leveling your RV.
Andersen Camper Leveler:
The Andersen Camper Leveler is a unique leveling block system that allows you to level your RV quickly and easily without driving onto the blocks. The system includes two curved ramps that are placed in front of the RV's wheels. To level the RV, you simply drive up onto the ramps until the RV is level. The ramps are made from durable, high-strength polymer and can support up to 30,000 pounds. The Andersen Camper Leveler is easy to use and does not require you to crawl under your RV to place blocks, making it a popular choice among RVers.
Tri-Lynx 00015 Lynx Levelers:
The Tri-Lynx 00015 Lynx Levelers are a set of interlocking leveling blocks that can be configured to accommodate a variety of terrain and leveling needs. Each block measures 10 inches by 10 inches and can be stacked on top of one another to create a level base for your RV. The blocks are made from UV-stabilized resin and are rated to support up to 40,000 pounds. The interlocking design allows you to customize the height of the blocks to suit your needs and the blocks come with a handy carry case for easy transport and storage.
Beech Lane Camper Leveler:
The Beech Lane Camper Leveler is a popular leveling block system that includes two ramps and a chock to level your RV on uneven surfaces. The ramps are adjustable and can accommodate a variety of wheel sizes. The system also comes with a level indicator and a carry bag for easy storage and transport. The ramps are made from durable materials and have a weight capacity of up to 35,000 pounds. The Beech Lane Camper Leveler is easy to use and provides a stable and level base for your RV.
Hopkins 08200 Endurance RV Leveling System:
The Hopkins 08200 Endurance RV Leveling System is a heavy-duty leveling block set that includes ten blocks that can be used individually or stacked together to create a stable and level base for your RV. The blocks are made from durable materials and have a weight capacity of up to 4,000 pounds per block. The interlocking design allows you to customize the height of the blocks to suit your needs and the blocks come with a handy carry case for easy transport and storage. The Hopkins 08200 Endurance RV Leveling System is a versatile and reliable option for leveling your RV.
ANDERSEN HITCHES | RV Accessories and Supplies | Trailer Jack Blocks 2-Pack w/ Magnets | Leveling Stabilizers Jackstands Quickjack | 3608
Andersen Hitches Jack Blocks with Magnets are a unique and innovative solution for leveling your RV. These leveling blocks feature a patented design that allows you to easily and quickly level your RV without the need for jacks or cranks. The blocks are made from durable, high-strength polymer and are rated to support up to 30,000 pounds.
The most distinctive feature of the Andersen Hitches Jack Blocks with Magnets is the inclusion of powerful magnets in each block. These magnets attach to the metal frame of your RV, keeping the blocks securely in place while you level your RV. This means you won't have to worry about the blocks shifting or moving around, providing a more stable and secure foundation for your RV.
The Andersen Hitches Jack Blocks with Magnets also come with a handy carrying case for easy transport and storage. The blocks are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great choice for RVers who want an efficient and hassle-free leveling solution. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and innovative solution for leveling your RV, the Andersen Hitches Jack Blocks with Magnets are definitely worth considering.
Blue Ox vs Roadmaster: Comparing Tow Bars and Other Alternatives
When it comes to towing a vehicle behind your RV, having a reliable tow bar is essential. Two of the most popular brands on the market are Blue Ox and Roadmaster, but which one is right for you? In this article, we'll compare the two brands and look at some other alternatives to help you find the perfect tow bar for your needs.
Blue Ox Tow Bars Blue Ox is a well-known brand of tow bars, with over 90 years of experience in the industry. Their tow bars are designed to be easy to use and maintain, and they offer a range of options to fit different needs. Some popular Blue Ox tow bars include:
- The Blue Ox Alpha Tow Bar, designed for use with towed vehicles up to 6,500 pounds. It's made with aircraft-grade aluminum and features rubber boots to protect against road grime.
- The Blue Ox Avail Tow Bar, a heavy-duty option designed for use with towed vehicles up to 10,000 pounds. It features a longer and wider design than many other tow bars, making it easier to connect to your RV and towed vehicle.
Roadmaster Tow Bars Roadmaster is another popular brand of tow bars, known for their high-quality and easy-to-use products. They offer a range of options to fit different needs and budgets. Some popular Roadmaster tow bars include:
- The Roadmaster Falcon All-Terrain Tow Bar, designed for use with towed vehicles up to 6,000 pounds. It features a unique design that allows it to be used on uneven terrain, making it a great choice for RVers who like to explore off the beaten path.
- The Roadmaster Sterling All-Terrain Tow Bar, a heavy-duty option designed for use with towed vehicles up to 8,000 pounds. It features a non-binding design that allows for easy disconnects, and it can be used on uneven terrain.
Other Alternatives While Blue Ox and Roadmaster are two of the most popular brands of tow bars, there are plenty of other alternatives on the market. Some other options to consider include:
- Demco Tow Bars - Demco is a lesser-known brand of tow bars, but they offer a range of high-quality options that are worth considering.
- CURT Tow Bars - CURT is a well-known brand in the towing industry, and they offer a range of affordable tow bars that are designed to be easy to use and maintain.
- Reese Towpower Tow Bars - Reese is another popular brand of tow bars, known for their durability and reliability.
Choosing the Right Tow Bar When choosing a tow bar, there are several factors to consider. You'll need to think about the weight of your towed vehicle, the terrain you'll be driving on, and your budget. It's also important to consider the ease of use and maintenance of each tow bar.
In conclusion, finding the right tow bar is an important part of towing a vehicle behind your RV. Whether you opt for a Blue Ox or Roadmaster tow bar, or another alternative, make sure you choose a high-quality product that's designed to meet your specific needs. By taking the time to choose the right tow bar, you can ensure that your vehicle is safe and secure while on the road, and that your towing experience is as hassle-free as possible.
Hue Light Vornado Fan? 5 Things We Should Have Brought for Full Time RV!
Now that we've been on the road awhile ( we went full time RV in late 2020), we realized that some things just should have made the trip with us instead of being gifted to the big Goodwill or sold on Craigslist. We tried to make the best guesses on what we really needed, but sometimes you just have to get on the road to figure it out!
Top 5 things we should have kept for full time RV
Extension Cords
The first item on our list is extension cords. We did a good job balancing the amount of outdoor extension cords, but we really underestimated the amount we needed for the inside of our coach! Mainly power strips and those 3-way prong things.
Keurig Coffee Maker
Christy just LOVES her coffee - we make a big pot every morning. But sometimes we liked to have a single cup and loved our Keurig Coffee Maker for just that. The downside of it (and the reason we didn't bring it along) is it takes a fair amount of counter space, and that is limited (even in our 45 foot coach!).
Hue Light Bulbs for Full Time RV
We LOVED our home automation when we were in a sticks and bricks - having all the lights voice-controlled was super handy and we quickly became dependent on it. Most our our automated lights came from Hue - while hue bulbs are the most expensive, they are also clearly the best. Unfortunately we sold ALL of them (except for a strip and one lucky color bulb I missed!).
Now we realize using AC lights in a big coach is not a big deal! While we don't have a ton of fixtures, we did add one additional color strip in the master bedroom and
Full Time RV Silverware
Silverware you say? You didn't bring silverware? Well of course we did silly! BUT we got rid of a lot more sets than we should have. Christy was in "camping mode" when she downsized what we had, and it turns out we are not really camping, but essentially living in a small apartment! We ended up buying 4 more settings of silverware to fill up the drawer. Part of the reason for this is that we love our dishwasher, and we wanted enough silverware to not run out before the dishwasher was completely filled up. If you wash your dishes immediately after a meal, this won't be a problem for you!
Vornado Fan - Keeping Cool While Full Time RV
We had a lot of fans throughout the house, and really liked having them as a supplement to the air conditioning (or on their own when it wasn't as hot) - but we figured in the coach we wouldn't need that many. So we ditched everything except one old box fan (which gets a ton of use by the front door in the coach). We also purposely bought a Dewalt Jobsite fan:
The theory was that a fan with a battery would be great to use inside or outside (although the bright yellow industrial look of the Dewalt is hilarious in our coach! As it turns out, this fan sits in the window sill of the master bedroom (and is controlled by an Alexa-enabled plug)
So at this point we had a box fan for the front, and the Dewalt in the back bedroom. What was missing was a small fan that could pull air in from the side window - not as obnoxious as having the big box fan in the front that we trip over, but enough to get some airflow in the coach. Unfortunately we had the perfect fan for this and got rid of it when we sold the house - Vornado fan:
These fans are quiet and move a lot of air for their size. So we had to buy a new one. Since we had good luck with our old Vornado, we went with a small tabletop version for the coach:
This fan has been great! We also have it on an Alexa plug (we went with Kasa, and they have been super reliable). So now, all we have to do is say "Alexa, turn on front fan" and we get a nice air flow through the coach. And this Vornado fits the decor of our coach well, and doesn't stick out at all.
Clear Kayak Tour and Fort Desoto
Clear Kayak Tour and Fort Desoto
We have never done a clear kayak tour until now! We started our day at Fort Desoto, which is south of Saint Petersburg. After spending the day running around Mullet key, we grabbed dinner at Billy's Stone Crab. Then we did a clear kayak tour at night see-thru glow kayaks - they had multi-color LED's that lit up the water - Come join the adventure! The clear kayak tour at sunset is highly recommended also. And Fort Desoto Camping is a must-do if you are in the area!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KRZw4DW1C8
Fort Desoto
We started our day at Fort Desoto - not a bad drive from Bay Bayou RV Resort. After paying a couple tolls to get onto the key ($1.75 in total), we then had to pay $5 to enter the park, which is actually a long key with a nice road that gets you from end to end:
The Fort was built to protect the entrance of Tampa Bay Harbor during the Spanish-American war, but I don't think it ever had to fire it's guns in anger, which consisted of eight 12 inch mortars and two 6 inch Armstrong guns. The main area of the fort that houses the mortar batteries is still well-preserved, and a few of the other buildings still stand. Of special note is the museum, which has a ton of interesting artifacts from the era. This brochure has a bunch of facts if you are planning to visit.
Fort Desoto Fishing Pier
We also made it to the Fort Desoto fishing pier - a very large t-shape pier perfect for doing some bay fishing. It is very long and wide, and when we were there the crowds weren't bad at all. Off to the right is even a beach area that you can hang out in.
Fort Desoto Beaches
Fort Desoto is rightly known for insanely beautiful beaches - the sand goes for miles and the beach is one of the widest we have seen. Kayaks and SUP's are definitely the way to go to explore the area if you have one (or rent one). The sand is clean and smooth and the breeze coming off the gulf is perfect.
Camping at Fort Desoto
The county maintains a pretty large RV camping area, with 236 sites. Full water and hookup are available. The cost is pretty reasonable (for Florida) and can accommodate large rigs. They allow you to stay up to 14 days in any 30 day period. We would highly recommend staying in this area if you can, especially if you like the beach!
Billy's Stone Crab
We had dinner over at Shell Key, at a place called Billy's Stone Crab - and the food was great! We think we met Billy himself, and had a great time. The restaurant is kind of funky - one side is more outdoorsy, and the other has the main dining room. On top of the main dining room is an open long bar with seating facing the water. They had live music up there and that was fun. The only challenge was the late-day sun coming in off the gulf - tough problems to have!
Clear Kayak Tour
Christy found us a tour to take - a night clear kayak tour! This tour group has see-through kayaks with LED lights mounted in them, so they light up the underneath area of the boat. Get up and Go Kayaking is the company, and they have tours set up all over Florida. The kayaks were fun, but seemed a little less stable than the standard 2-man kayaks we have used in the past.
The tour guide was great and we got to see a horseshoe crab up close! Our only complaint was the tour was only 90 minutes, but advertised as 2 hours. She must have had a date, because she hauled ass back to the launch area - we were kayaking full-speed for the last half of the tour. That wasn't cool!
Upper Tampa Bay Trail
Tampa definitely is an urban area. There is no doubt about that. But the Upper Tampa Bay Trail is actually a decent greenway that is available to residents and visitors alike.
Upper Tampa Bay Trail
This is part 1, the lower part of the Trail:
https://youtu.be/NUZ958DYUOA
This is part 2, the upper part:
https://youtu.be/vUrhy7wWf9E
How to Get There
Being an urban trail, there are a lot of options for getting to the Upper Tampa Bay trail (both paid and free). Unfortunately, they still have not completed the entire trail so as of this writing it is basically two separate trails.
Upper Tampa Bay Trail Main Section
If you want to start at the southernmost point of the trail, make your way to the Memorial trailhead.Ehrlich road is another option if you want to enter in the middle of the trail. The main part of the trail ends at Peterson Road Park.
Upper Tampa Bay Trail North Extension
The northern extension can be picked up at Keystone park just north of Van Dyke Road, the Lutz Lake Fern Trailhead and ends at the Suncoast Trail.
Here is the list of trailheads courtesy the Hillsborough county web site:
Trailheads and Access south to north:
- Memorial Trailhead: 7499 Montague Street
- Cold water and parking
- Directions: Take Hillsborough Ave. west past the airport, Memorial Highway and Sheldon Road. Turn right on Montague Street. Follow Montague to the trailhead a short distance on the right.
- Channel Park Trailhead: 9201 W. Waters Avenue
- Restrooms, parking, water and drink machines
- Directions: Hillsborough Ave. West to Sheldon Road. Turn Right (north) onto Sheldon Road to Waters Ave. Turn left (west) onto Waters Ave. The trailhead is a very short distance on the right.
- Wilsky Boulevard Trailhead: 10314 Wilsky Blvd.
- Parking, cold water and restrooms
- Directions: From Tampa, take Waters Ave west to Hanley Ave. Head north on Hanley Ave, Hanley becomes Wilsky Blvd at Linebaugh. Cross Linebaugh, the trailhead is on the left/west side of Wilsky Blvd., before the on ramp to the Veterans Expressway.
- Ehrlich Road
- Parking, water, map
- Directions: From Tampa, take Ehrlich Road west toward Gunn Highway. The trail parking area is just east of Gunn Highway, south of Ehrlich, and adjacent to an old house. It is not directly on the trail and could be easily missed. The trail is two houses to the west, just before the intersection, next to Bally Hoo Restaurant. The water cooler and map are just south of the parking along the trail.
- Peterson Park: 8203 Peterson Road and Rails Road
- Parking, restrooms
- Directions: From Tampa take Gunn Highway north. Peterson Road is a mile north of the Gunn Highway/Sheldon Rd intersection at Sickles High School. Turn right onto Peterson Road. The park and the northern terminus of the trail are located ½ mile on the left.
- Lutz Lake Fern Trailhead: 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road
- Parking, restrooms
- Directions: On the south side of Lutz Lake Fern Road east of Gunn Highway and west of the Veterans Expressway.
What to Do at the Upper Tampa Bay Trail
The Upper Tampa Bay trail is definitely oriented to biking and walking. It is completely paved and well-maintained. The asphalt may be a bit too rough for rollerblades, but we did see people doing it!
Biking Campbell Causeway
The Courtney Campbell Causeway in Clearwater/Tampa is definitely one of the unique fun things to do in the area.
https://youtu.be/vNbamZUtuOs
Courtney Campell Causeway
How to Get to It Courtney Campbell Causeway
Courtney Campbell Causeway is one of the main arteries between Tampa and Clearwater. It is pretty close to the Tampa airport, and comes out near Safety Harbor on the Clearwater side. One simple place to park (paid) Ben T. Davis Beach Park - map here. A little further away is a neighborhood park called Cypress Point Park , but will put you further away from the causeway. There is also free parking along most of the causeway, so if you don't mind starting in the middle, that is always a good option! Don't forget - this place can be VERY busy during the weekends. Crowds can be big, and parking can be tough.
Another option on the south side close to Clearwater is a paid beach lot. The sand is really nice there and it can be a bit quieter than anything on the Tampa side.
Things to Do at Courtney Campbell Causeway
Courtney Campbell Causeway is a great place to hang out when the weather is nice! Especially during the week, when you can avoid the biggest crowds. Biking is always a favorite here, along with walking. Because the path is so well maintained, roller blades or roller skates are also really good options. We mainly biked there because we wanted to cover a lot of ground. Most people use the causeway to hang out, have picnics, or chill with friends. On the Sunday we visited it seemed to be "battle of the car stereos" in may areas, and the volume in a couple cases was excruciating. If that's not your thing, definitely go during the week!
One thing to be aware of - the breeze off the bay can be very strong on many days. When we biked, the headwind was almost unbearable going from the Clearwater side over to Ben T. Davis beach. But we were rewarded with a tailwind that made our mountain bikes feel almost like electric bikes! So it can be a trade-off, but something to be aware of.
One of the nicest things we enjoyed was the sunsets - you can't beat watching the sun set over Clearwater. Almost anywhere along the causeway has a good view for a sunset!
Bathrooms
The only public bathroom we found was at Ben T. Davis beach. It was small, but we never had to wait very long even when we went on the weekend. If your bladder is small, you may want to plan your trip so you can hit this area if you need to go! Or don't drink a lot of coffee or water before your visit!
Fishing
A lot of people were fishing close to the Campbell Causeway bridge, and also on the north side of the Causeway. Just east of the bridge is the causeway boat launch. As of this writing, parking is $5 and it is a pretty large boat launch. There also usually is porta potties if you really need to go!
Food Options
Not a lot of food options right on Campbell Causeway, but one notable fun place is Whiskey Joes - They can be super busy, but the view is amazing and this is probably the closet you can be to Tampa and feel like you are in the middle of nowhere at a beach! Since they are on the south side of the causeway, they also get that great sunset view.
Because this is really an urban area, once you leave the causeway in either direction you can find a ton of food options. But if you want to save money, pack a picnic and enjoy your food on the causeway!
Bay Bayou RV Resort - A Hidden Gem!
We spent the entire 2021 winter at Bay Bayou RV resort in Florida - one of the nicest resorts we found so far! They have 300 full size RV lots. Surrounded by water, there are easy access for Kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats. You can walk out on the one of the two docks on site to catch a beautiful sunset or just relax. They have a heated pool to enjoy all year round as well as very clean bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities that are some of the amenities. Bay Bayou is conveniently located close to Tampa’s top attractions and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches.
Bay Bayou RV Resort - A Hidden Gem!
How to Get to Bay Bayou RV Resort
One of the biggest advantages to Bay Bayou is the proximity to a major metropolitan area - it is in Hillsborough county (Tampa), but very close to the border of Pinellas county (Clearwater/St. Petersburg). If you're looking for camping in Clearwater, this gives you great access to pretty much any store or activity you would want, but also a quick 30 minute drive to gems like Honeymoon Island State Park or Caladesi Island State Park. And if you drive a little further, you can go to the main Clearwater beaches (we try to avoid, too crowded!) or Fort Desoto beach which is amazing!
One thing to note is do not rely on Google for your directions to Bay Bayou. We came down I-75 and Google routed us some strange way down Countryway Blvd - which is not big-rig friendly! A lot of trees, speed bumps and generally annoying. Your best bet is to stay on 580 to Double Branch Road. Two easy turns to the entrance of Bay Bayou!
Bay Bayou RV Resort Check-in
The check-in process couldn't be easier. Pull into the parking lot and go inside to the desk. One thing to note here - Bay Bayou is gated and the front area isn't super large. With our 45 foot rig we felt a little tight when we pulled in (and unhooked our Jeep). But making loop around the bay bayou driveway turned out to be no big deal (click on image to enlarge)
But Don't Do This!
The actual drive for us into the park was another story! You have the option of letting them guide you to your spot, and if you have a big rig it's worth it! Our problem was they told us to take the first right after the gate. Christy was leading the way and she looked right and saw RV's blocking the road (new arrivals also).
So She made the decision to drive further down, which turned out to be a bad idea! We had to navigate through a turn that was next to impossible in our 2015 Entegra Cornerstone. If you have a smaller rig, it would not be an issue, but for us it was the most stressful part of the day!
The reason for this was the bad placement of a concrete sewer port right on the corner of a critical turn (click on the image below). Judging by the marks on it, we weren't the first to make this mistake! The good news is we had a lot of help from neighbors navigating this turn and made it safely to our spot.
The lesson learned is to really study the park map (and the mapped route to your destination every time. Ideally, unhook your toad and drive the route before you pull your rig through. Driving a 50,000 lb. motor home is stressful enough - why add to it?
Park Layout
We loved the layout at Bay Bayou - even though it is pretty much a standard grid layout, the large amount of big trees give it a VERY private feel from almost any campsite. And you have your choice of two distinct sections - The older side (about 3/4's of the park) has gravel lots with a small paved patio, more trees, and is somewhat cheaper. Or you can opt for the newest section which has full paved driveways, more big-rig friendly, and somewhat less trees and less established foliage.
We have stayed at both, and find each to have their charm. On the new side, our lot was huge (it was kind of in the corner by the fire pit and that helped) and we had a ton of room to stretch out. On the older side, we were more packed in, but the trees really kept us feeling less cramped and had a nice nature feel to it. We were also closer to the pool and other amenities, which was a bonus! We thought that the gravel would be a big downside, but that turned out to not be that big of deal.
Amenities
Pool
The pool is heated and opened year-round. They hold water aerobics as long as it isn't freezing out! They don't have a separate hot tub, but a section of the pool does have jets for a hot tub-like experience.
Fishing and Docks
Being on the Bayou has its advantages - there are docks at the back of the property (one that allows fishing). They also have places to launch a kayak if that's your thing. The only downside is the back of the property faces highway 580 - which is a very busy 4-lane that get get noisy.
Laundry and Bathrooms
Large, clean and updated, the facilities are very nice! Since the property is pretty large, there is actually two laundromats on-site.
Mail Delivery
Sadly, mail delivery has now become a big deal at parks - many are charging fees for packages. For people like us that would be horrible! Luckily, Bay Bayou has free mail service, and is excellent. You get your own mailbox and they promptly sort the packages for your retrieval from the clubhouse. They feed our Amazon addiction very well!
Security
We spent 5 months at Bay Bayou RV Resort, and didn't have a single issue here. They are gated with a key code, and have a roving security patrol at night. That was reassuring, but we never saw any activity that warranted the patrols, and that is a good sign! Even though the park is in an urban area, it is tucked into a pretty upper-middle class area of nice homes and shops. That definitely helps keep the riff-raff out of the park :-)
The Area Around Bay Bayou RV Resort
There is so much to do around this area. Check out our other articles for more details:
The People
Since this was the season of Covid, we didn't hang out with people too much (we avoided Covid and are glad we did!). But the people we talked to were super friendly and they have a very welcoming Facebook group for seasonal travelers.
The staff was super nice and helpful also. They worked hard to make sure we got a seasonal spot when we made a last-minute decision to stay for the winter due to Covid. The price was pretty high, but in-line with what you would expect for Florida during the snowbird season! If we were looking for a Tampa RV Resort, we would definitely come back here!
5 Things to do at Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island State Park in Florida in Clearwater is a gem of a state park in Clearwater. If you are in the Clearwater or Tampa area, make sure to visit and enjoy what it has to offer!
To get to Caladesi by ferry, you first need to go to Honeymoon Island State Park. Take 586 through Dunedin - you will cross a beautiful causeway that has free beaches on both sides.
Once you pass a few large condos on the right, you will come to the entrance at Honeymoon Island state park.
It costs $8 per vehicle to enter unless you have a Florida annual state park pass (we have one, and it cost $120).
Once in the park, it's just a short drive to the Ferry launch parking lot. When we went, we had to wait about 90 minutes for the noon ferry (the 11 had just sold out). This was in February - the crowds can vary widely throughout the year.
Once you board the ferry, it's a pretty 15-20 minute ride into the harbor at Caladesi Island. Sit back and enjoy the view!
https://youtu.be/v6Ld_sRxU6A
5 Things to do at Caladesi State Park
Take the Ferry to Caladesi State Park
Caladesi Island state park is a little different than many state parks - you cannot reach it by car. So while it's a little more trouble to get there, this also means it will likely be less crowded than most state parks. The only way to the island is by boat. So your options are:
- Take your own boat - Caladesi has a 108 slip marina that you can use to enjoy the island. When we were there, it was almost empty!
- Rent a Kayak - Multiple places inside and outside the park are good for renting a kayak, which you can then paddle over to the island. Here is one good one.
- Take the ferry - This is what we did! You have to enter Honeymoon Island state park, which will cost you $8 unless you have a Florida annual state park pass. The ferry area has ample parking, and run ferries either every 30 minutes or hour depending on the time of day. When we were there the cost was $16 per person, but there is a coupon for a dollar off.
Kayak the Mangroves
You can rent a kayak at the Marina/Cafe for $25 per person. We didn't get a chance to do this yet, but it sounds amazing! Another option is to rent from Sail Honeymoon and paddle over to the island. As of this writing, you can get a 2-man kayak for $60 for all day! If you do go south of the marina, plan to be sitting in the kayak for awhile - there are no areas to beach (it's all mangroves) and some of the currents and waves can get a bit dicey.
Hiking Caladesi Island
The island has a 3.5 mile loop of trails that have a nice mix of mangroves, virgin pines and other flora and fauna native to Florida. When we went in February the hiking conditions were perfect! The trail has a mix of sandy areas and pine needles, and we would rate as very easy (and flat). The trail has routes that dump you out onto the 4 miles of undeveloped beach.
Hang out on the Beach at Caladesi Island State Park
The beach is one of the few in Florida that is truly unspoiled. There is no development anywhere to be seen - just 4 miles of sand and water. There is plenty of seaweed and other ocean stuff that washes up on shore, so don't expect it to look like a groomed resort beach (which is fine by us!).
Most of the people stay near the marina beach, were you can rent umbrellas and beach chairs. Bathroom facilities are also close by on the main beach.
If you go further south, you will easily find areas that have very few people around. Just the perfect place for a quiet day at the beach!
Currently you can walk from Clearwater beach to Caladesi - but it will take you quite a long time, so plan accordingly.
The only downside is it is relatively pricey day - count on $20 per person (before any discount) in fees to get to this beach using the ferry through Honeymoon Island. A decent amount of restrooms are available close to the beach and the marina.
After a long day on Caladesi Island, we suggest you park on the causeway beach right outside of Honeymoon Island. On the south side of the beach you will face Caladesi, right on the water's edge. From here you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over Caladesi Island - a great way to end a beautiful day.
Hang out at the Caladesi Island State Park Marina
Not as fun as the beach or hiking, but the marina provides amenities like a gift shop, a ranger station and a small restaurant that serves bar food like chicken fingers and hamburgers. If you have lunch here plan to spend at least $50 for a couple! They do have 108 slips in the marina, so plenty of place if you show up in your boat.