The Freedom Rolling Blog
Trip 7: First Workamping Encounter
Finally, we have arrived at our destination. However, unlike the other trips, this one's for a longer term.
Some have asked how we deal with finances while on the road. Workamping, or working while camping, is one of the ways to do this. In many cases, the compensation for working at the park is a complimentary site for the length of the job, anywhere from a couple months to a year. Some may say that we aren't actually getting anything, but that's not entirely true. One of the easiest ways to save money is to not spend it. Not only are we not spending money on campground fees, but we're also not burning fuel carrying the heavy load of our home from place to place. This advice isn't limited to full-time RVers, though. If you have thoughts about saving money, decide you're not going to spend some in a month and sock it away, even if it's what seems like a small amount. After a while, it adds up.
There still has to be some sort of income despite workamping, as there are food, fuel, health, insurance, and other miscellaneous costs. How much you spend is truly up to you. Some have pensions or investments to be able to use. Others may be lucky enough to be able to get a salary as part of workamping. Some may have their own side businesses. A part-time job outside the park is also an option. However, be very careful about earning salaries when you travel. A number of states will charge you an income tax for earning money while in their state, even if you are domiciled in a state that doesn't have an income tax.
We look forward to this workamping opportunity and improving the experience of our fellow campers. This location is where our internal compass led us to be, and we hope to enjoy it for the entire time we are here.
WRITTEN Sep 01, 2021 at 12:00 PM
TAGS: trip 7, rv living
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Trip 7: Detour in the Forecast
Once again, it's time to travel! The RV lifestyle makes us migratory, so it's time to head south. However, plans may not always be as they seem.
When getting ready to travel, it was previously mentioned that you want to give at least a little bit of extra time when getting to your destination. Along with this, it's necessary to have some flexibility in your route, and not just for construction, either. As we embark on this trip, all of a sudden we receive word about some inclement weather. Ida tell you all about it, but it's all over the news. Bad puns aside, this is where you want your co-pilot to be giving you updates about road and weather conditions around you and your route. In today's day and age, cellular data makes this easy and is what we use, but for those not able, there's always talk radio on the half-hours. As we track the storm, given our destination, instead of heading directly to our end location, we'll take a little trip east before heading south. Sure, it might mean a little more in gas costs, but compared to what it could be, the preventive measure is worth it.
When you live in the RV full-time, mobility is your greatest advantage. With enough advance notice, if work obligations permit, pack everything up and get out of dodge if needed. When looking at routes to get to and from your destination, never limit yourself to the interstate highways. In fact, you may not be able to reach some of the higher speed limits in the west, as clogged as they may be, so taking the state and US highways may be your best option. Remember that everything you have is with you, and it isn't that stable if you choose to abandon it, when compared to a house. But an "evac" doesn't mean you can't tow. Stick to the less-traveled byways while everyone else jams up the interstate, leave a little room for merging and swerving traffic to keep it all moving, and you and your home should be just fine.
So definitely follow your internal compass, but don't let it slam you into bad weather. Consider a byway detour. Who knows? Maybe you'll encounter something you'll like but never thought of visiting.
WRITTEN Aug 29, 2021 at 07:11 PM
TAGS: trip 7, travel, rv living
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Southeastern Missouri and the Mississippi River
From one river to the next, we head south down the Lewis and Clark Trail to Missouri. After spending plenty of time at one of the country's great river, we head a little east to, arguably, its greatest river.
The Mississippi River runs north and south down the center of the United States, serving as a border and/or major water arterial for a total of ten different states. The Mississippi has always had plenty of history, first serving as the western border for the original Colonial America prior to British limitations for governance, and later reinstated once the states gained their independence. Today, call signs for radio and television stations are separated by this mighty river, with most to the east beginning with W, and most to the west beginning with K.
When you hear Missouri and the Mississippi River, most think of St. Louis and the Gateway Arch, or Hannibal, the original home of Samuel Langhorn Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. However, take a ride further south down the river to the city of Cape Girardeau. This city served as an important point during the American Civil War for the Union army, as they sought to hold control of the Mississippi, culminating in a battle in 1863. Some artifacts and ruins still exist, and can be toured. If war history isn't your cup of tea, head to the wall separating the city center from the river. On the city side, enjoy a wonderful mural of Missouri history in general, along with a tribute to several of the state's most famous residents. On the river side, take a lovely walk along the shore, seeing one of the old riverboats once very important to the area.
After experiencing Cape Girardeau, cross the river to Illinois and head south along the famous Great River Road. After passing the city of Cairo, head to Fort Defiance State Park. This is the point where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers meet, along with the borders of three states. Wonderful views exist from a small tower, or head to the rocky point. After visiting, you find a junction of several US highways. Cross the Ohio River bridge and head into Kentucky, towards the towns of Wickliffe and Paducah. While on the bridge, a lovely view of barges and riverboats can be seen. Or perhaps cross the older Mississippi River bridge into Missouri. Either head towards the towns of Wyatt and Sikeston, or do some fishing at Bird's Blue Hole.
So next time you head to the Mississippi River, follow your internal compass. Perhaps it will take you to southern Missouri and the views of the great river.
WRITTEN Aug 28, 2021 at 12:00 PM
TAGS: trip 6, missouri, illinois, kentucky
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Park Review: Dakota Sunsets
Trip number five found us visiting the Dakota Sunsets RV Park and Campground in Salem, South Dakota. Equidistant from Sioux Falls and Mitchell, Dakota Sunsets lies within the prairies of the eastern part of the state. We originally elected to stay for a week, but due to circumstances, elected to extend our stay by a couple more days.
Grounds: This park has an easy access off Interstate 90 on US Highway 81, near 255 Road. Although a billboard exists, signage at the park is somewhat blocked by a tree when driving north, meaning you might miss the park the first time through. Never fear, the town of Salem lies just north, with a couple fuel stations making it easy to turn around. Farming fields surround the property, with a clear view of the plain as far as the eye can see.
Sites: Fifty-two sites adorn this park, mostly for RVs but some tent availability, with an assortment of back-in and pull-through sites having full and limited hook-ups. Park your rig on the very level dirt and miniature stone pads, with plenty of room to extend your awning around the tree and personal fire pit area. The sites are well marked with an easy to understand map, along with access warnings for one of the pull-through rows. If you tow, some diagonal parking may be needed to fit your additional vehicle, but it can fit rather decently.
Staff: Hoping that we do not ruin anyone's "street cred", the husband and wife owners of the park are some of the nicest people ever. They are the only workers with their house on the grounds, and the park being small and easy-going enough to handle. They are always welcoming to the human and canine visitors, even giving graham cracker pieces to the pups.
Amenities: Extras the park has to offer are minimal, but sufficient for the visitors finding their own entertainment. Many guests will walk the road loops to visit with the very friendly other patrons. A small playground exists for children, along with a large open grass area in the back to exercise, meditate, or view the sunset. Find peace on the small stone maze as you make your way to the center of the work. A pool was under demolition during our visit, intending to be replaced with a gated dog park. The bathhouses were very clean and well-maintained. Showers are coin-operated, so many RV visitors will choose to use what comes with their rig. A small, reasonably priced laundromat exists on the premises, as well as the opportunity to purchase basic camping consumables. Borrow a DVD or book during your stay if that's your cup of tea.
Atmosphere: When you come to this place, you truly feel like you're at home. You'll want to take a couple walks around the park each day to say hi. Not too many children visit, so that entertainment will need to be done as a family. Everything is easy going; even if you want to sit outside your RV to enjoy the world around you, it's a very relaxing time. Even after just a few days, you'll want to stay forever.
Out of a possible 10, Dakota Sunsets has become the first of our stays to receive the elusive 10 rating. The price was very reasonable, and it justs fits the lifestyle of the full-time RVer. You're just close enough to a small town for everyday needs, and the larger city of Sioux Falls is a reasonable distance away. This park is on the short list of places to return, and the next time your internal compass takes you to eastern South Dakota, this is the place to go.
WRITTEN Aug 26, 2021 at 09:24 PM
TAGS: south dakota, park review, trip 5
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Trust the Grid
When you're driving around the midwest, take a look at the roads around you. You may notice an underpass or overpass every mile in some areas. It may seem odd if you're not used to it, but it's by intentional design.
Back in the original days of the United States, when the country was combing over its newly won or purchased territories, organization was needed. The land ordinances, created by the Founding Fathers, called for the land to be split into square mile chunks. Four 160-acre parcels would then be allocated, with a chunk reserved every now and again for a "city center" to handle official affairs. Postal roads would be established along the boundaries in many cases to help the land prospectors access these lands.
Today, evidence of this grid setup is still seen and very commonly used today. In North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, farm roads about a mile apart are given numbers, sequentially increasing from their starting point of the state border. This starting point can vary in other states. In Indiana, when driving along US Route 20, the numbers are a percentage of a mile north and south of the highway itself. In Detroit Michigan, counting begins at the Detroit River, separating the United States from Canada. If you've ever wondered where the term "8 Mile" originates, it references this grid setup, being 8 miles from the start of the grid. In Ohio, letters and other names may be used for these farm roads, but the grid still very much exists.
The grid in these areas isn't perfect, either. In some cases, a land owner will own a couple square miles in succession, and will let the road going through their land fall out of maintenance. Not to fear, the grid still remains mostly intact, and there's another intersection down the road. Maybe, as you're driving along a state or US highway, you'll have to take a detour. If you use their signs, they're take you sometimes 20 miles out of the way to another US or state road. Why waste the gas, especially if you're trailing your RV with you? Trust the grid. Use the farm roads. They're able to handle a small amount of heavier traffic, as these farms have to make deliveries somehow. Be mindful that a number of these are dirt roads, so take weather and kicking up dust into account. Also try to keep to just the area needed. Some municipalities ban through truck traffic as a result of the road being a good shortcut, so keep local ordinances in mind.
So the next time you're following your internal compass in the midwest, know that you'll always have a way to get there. All you need to do is trust the grid.
WRITTEN Aug 24, 2021 at 09:09 PM
TAGS: travel
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Western South Dakota
"Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam..." That's what you'll be singing when you visit this next destination, a very popular spot at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Western South Dakota brings many tourists to its hills and buttes every year. Many are attracted to the Mount Rushmore national monument. During the 1930's, the likeness of four United States Presidents were carved into the mountain, and continues to stand to this day as a wonderful viewing opportunity. National Park seekers also head a few miles to the east to visit Badlands National Park. Breathtaking views and drives through the buttes (said as with the single letter "U", and not to be confused with a person's backside) may be had by those who enter the park. Even if you don't visit the park itself, take a drive along the northern edge of the park on Interstate 90, or the southern edge along South Dakota Highway 44, an empty yet peaceful stretch through the Badlands, as well as the Buffalo Gap National Grassland.
If you long for the buffaloes, head a little south of Mount Rushmore to visit Custer State Park at an altitude of about 4,000 feet. While there, take a ride on the Wildlife Loop and its side access roads. View the herds of bison, along with pronghorns and prairie dogs in their natural habitat. However, don't be dismayed if you don't see any buffalo in the area, as the buffalo is native to Africa and Southeast Asia, while the bison is native to the United States. Instead, humor yourself with the incredibly awkward yet perfectly legitimate English sentence, "Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo." Many are familiar with the place of "Buffalo" and the animal "buffalo", but there is also a verb "buffalo", meaning "to bewilder or baffle". In other words, set A of animals from a particular place, which are baffled by set B of animals from that same place, also baffle set C of animals from yet the same place.
While in Western South Dakota, if you need to re-supply, stop by Rapid City, the second largest city in the state. When coming from the east, be sure to stop by the world famous "Wall Drug". The town of Wall, South Dakota hosts this old western style mall with novelty stores and small monuments abound, and is advertised throughout the entirety of the state. If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, the beginning of August may call you to head to the town of Sturgis, which hosts an annual 10-day festival that can see over a quarter of a million bikers. Those with connections to the military may also recognize the city of Box Elder, which is home to Ellsworth Air Force Base.
After your visit to Western South Dakota, you'll seldom hear a discouraging word. All you'll likely hear is your internal compass telling you to return again and again.
WRITTEN Aug 22, 2021 at 06:00 PM
TAGS: south dakota, trip 5
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Trip 5: Eastern South Dakota
When most people hear about South Dakota, they think about Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. However, there's another wonderful part of the state to experience.
Extending north from Iowa, the Missouri River valley extends along the border between South Dakota and Nebraska, before turning north into South Dakota alone, and on from there. Along the way, consider stopping in Yankton, SD. Yankton is known for being one of the childhood homes of longtime NBC news correspondent Tom Brokaw, with a boulevard named in his honor. While in Yankton, go to Riverside Park and take a walk across Meridian Bridge, originally built in the 1920's to connect South Dakota and Nebraska. If walking isn't your fancy, head a few miles west to Gavins Point Dam. Built by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950's, the dam provides hydroelectric power to the area, as well as a drivable bridge and several recreational opportunities for visitors.
Head further north towards Interstate 90, and you'll find Chamberlain, South Dakota. Stop by the rest area at the high point of the eastern side, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Missouri River valley. After taking the nature trail, stop inside for a small museum about Lewis and Clark. Back in the 1800's, President Jefferson purchased the Louisiana Territory from France, including much of South Dakota. After the purchase, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark were commissioned by the American government to explore what was bought. Their route took them along the Missouri River through South Dakota, and is marked as the "Lewis and Clark Trail" along modern day highways. After taking in the views and history, head across the river to the town of Oacoma. Tourists may wish to stop by "Al's Oasis", an old western themed commercial strip.
As the river winds northwest, stop by to visit Pierre. A small city in the center of the state, Pierre serves as the capital of South Dakota. While in Pierre, view the State Capitol building, along with the Governor's Mansion from a distance. Pierre is twinned by Fort Pierre, South Dakota, originally the site for talks with the Lakota tribe during the Lewis and Clark expedition, and today a small city. Two watches may want to be used when in the area, as the two cities are not only separated by river, but by time zone. Fort Pierre is a small inset in the Mountain Time Zone, also used in the western part of the state, while Pierre, along with most of the route from Interstate 90 despite going through Fort Pierre, lies within the Central Time Zone, along with the majority of the eastern part of the state.
The next time you visit South Dakota, remember that the eastern side of the state isn't just drive-by farms and prairies. The Missouri River valley may just be the place where your internal compass leads.
WRITTEN Aug 21, 2021 at 11:50 AM
TAGS: trip 5, south dakota, nebraska
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Park Review: Arrowhead Park, Neola IA
Fourth trip was a little interesting, as it involved an unplanned destination, the Arrowhead Park in Neola IA. Found in the Loess Hills area of Western Iowa, Arrowhead Park is a county-owned campground and day use area, offering short-term accommodations for visitors and locals alike. A two night stay was had for us.
Grounds: The park is conveniently off Interstate 80, just a couple miles from bypass loop Interstate 880 (formerly I-680) to allow for easy access from all four cardinal directions. After a slight bit of rural driving is a well-marked park that is very easy to navigate with any size of RV. A tiny rural town can be found on the other side of the highway, and only 20 miles from Council Bluffs to re-supply.
Sites: There are approximately 54 RV sites, an additional complement of tent sites, and a few cabins available, all first-come first-served. Six of the sites in the first set are pull-through, with the rest backing in. Paths within the camp area are one lane wide, making for a difficult chore to back-in to a side site. More luck may be had with the corner sites, as the bend of the road can be used to your advantage. Our stay had us lucky enough to find a pull-through with unpaved loose stone. No map is available, but adequate signage makes it easy to understand the layout.
Staff: Any staffing at this site was minimal to not seen at all, seeing how permit and fee payments were done by unmanned envelope station, and likely someone patrolling the grounds to ensure everyone at the park has properly checked in. Maintenance does happen, as the picnic table at our site was moved around our second night, presumably to maintain the small amount of lawn. The check-in envelope offered volunteer opportunities. These aren't out of the ordinary for a municipal park given government budgets, and they maintain the site relatively well.
Amenities: Only electricity is available at the sites, with only one 50-amp and two 30-amp plugs for each electric box covering two sites. Each campground area provides a pit toilet and hydrant to be able to fill potable water by jug. Along the road inside the park is a single dump station for sewer access. A quaint pond is on the grounds for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. A bathhouse adorned the center of the park with six unisex clean modern bathrooms and free accessible showers.
Atmosphere: Those looking for somewhere quiet to relax and connect with nature have come to the right place. Even with other RVers nearby, the grounds are somehwat secluded to allow you to feel at peace. Dogs will have plenty of places to run around, and with the day use amenities, it's just as easy to be able to stay all day as it is to head out to the Loess Hills or the Council Bluffs and Omaha area.
Overall, Arrowhead Park receives a rating of 8 out of a possible 10. For the economical price, we received a good value. The narrow campground paths, along with the lack of a swimming hole, dock some rating points. If you're looking for a short-term place to park on your way to another destination, this is a good place to be, and is going to be on our list of places to return.
WRITTEN Aug 17, 2021 at 12:00 PM
TAGS: trip 4, iowa, park review
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Loess Hills, Iowa
When some hear mention of the state of Iowa, they think of corn fields as far as the eye can see. Others think of "The Music Man", a classic musical turned film starring Robert Preston. An additional group may think of the early political caucuses. When we think of Iowa, though, there's some natural beauty in the western part of the state not to be missed.
The Loess Hills (using the German pronunciation for Löss) is a scenic area of rolling hills and natural features along nearly the entire western side of Iowa. Situated just east of Interstate 29, the Lewis and Clark Trail in the Missouri Valley, a number of byways and road loops span seven counties, allowing visitors wonderful views of the natural area. Experience Preparation Canyon near the Loess Hills State Forest, perhaps stop by Small's Fruit Farm on your way in from the Lincoln Highway, or view from the tower at the Scenic Overlook on what is now Interstate 880, if coming in from Des Moines and points east.
While in the Loess Hills, stop by one of the Visitor Centers to pick up a map booklet to show the locations of the scenic byways and excursion loops. If you prefer something a little more self-discovered, the Western Iowa Tourism Region has placed signage all along the highways to mark each byway and loop in the area. Be ready for dirt and gravel roads along some of the loops, as not everything is paved. Perhaps park in one of the designated areas and go on one of the hiking trails.
The Lewis and Clark Trail and the Loess Hills are bound by two mid-major cities should re-supply be necessary. To the south is Council Bluffs IA, an up-and-coming city sistered on the other side of the Missouri River to Omaha NE. To the north is the tri-state metropolitan area of Sioux City. North Sioux City is in SD, South Sioux City in NE, and Sioux City itself in IA. Beautiful views of the Missouri River may also be found along this corridor, and although there are no trails directly along the river, similar to the Mississippi, several bridges span the wide Missouri to witness this mighty river.
So the next time you drive the country, don't count out Iowa as just another pass-through state. Your internal compass may tell you to stop by the Loess Hills in the Missouri Valley and experience its beauty.
WRITTEN Aug 14, 2021 at 11:00 AM
TAGS: trip 4, iowa
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Park Review: Lake George Riverview
The third trip, and first without a return, saw us visiting the Lake George Riverview resort in Warrensburg NY. Situated on the Schroon River, Lake George Riverview provides a family camping experience for visitors to the southern Adirondack Park. Like the last review, we'll rate the site on five criteria and give our overall impressions.
Grounds: The location of the campground is very conveniently located off the interstate highway. However, its only entrance is along the only thoroughfare connecting the highway and the hamlet of Warrensburg, a popular tourist destination in the summer months. A left turn along this stretch to get to the highway can be daunting, especially with a long RV. Not much can be done to improve the situation, but traffic is light enough that a turn can be made.
Sites: The campground has around 150 sites for either RV or tents. Most require a back-in, but a number of pull-through are available. Our site wasn't exactly the most level, but nothing that a few blocks couldn't fix. Unpaved loose stone seems to be the method of choice for the RV sites, a bit unfairly judged against the last time, but you live and learn. The map was easy to understand, although the pull-through sites were only marked on one side. At least one fully grown tree was at the site providing adequate shade while still allowing for the awning. Hookups were easy, although the water at their side had a tendency to "spit".
Staff: Check-in and check-out staff was friendly. Maintenance and security was attentive, as we unfortunately had to witness on account of some badly-behaved neighbors. All of the staff is on salary; there are no "workamping" opportunities, but with everything running smoothly, they don't seem to need any additional hands.
Amenities: For the price that was paid, you would expect some decent amenities, and the park gives some. These include a pool, a beach, an arcade and playground for the children, horseshoes, and a bocce setup. Even simple walks around the property are a joy. Construction was happening during our stay so some amenities changed from what was listed, such as volleyball and a pool bathhouse. A single sheet addendum or sign at the main house would have helped guests understand what was happening. One of the men's shower stalls had a lock that wasn't lined up to the hole, making it impossible to lock. One of the women's houses could have used more regular cleaning, and one of the women's shower stalls had a floor that seemed ready to break.
Atmosphere: If you want something that is family friendly, this is a good place to go. Children, whom we once again had in tow for this special trip, have ample opportunities to make friends and remain entertained. Although many guests will spend the day exploring attractions the surrounding area offers, even those preferring to stay in one place won't be disappointed. The park is also very dog-friendly, many animals of which receive great love and praise from most other guests.
Overall, Lake George Riverview receives a rating of 8 out of a possible 10. The price was the biggest stickler for point deduction, as this is less geared towards the young full-time RVer, and more towards the city dweller. Sure, the amenities were nice, but it doesn't make up for the lack of value for money, especially when premium pricing was not involved. With better rates, it is worth returning, but until such time, other locations may be better.