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The Pacific Northwest forest is full of secrets, and some of its most fascinating treasures are growing right beneath our feet. In this immersive audio story, we head into the woods with mushroom foragers and our good friends, Jeff and Laurel, to discover the wild world of mushroom hunting, edible fungi, and the incredible ecosystem hidden beneath the forest floor. Come along for an audio journey through the damp forests of the Pacific Northwest as we search for wild mushrooms, listen to the sounds of the forest, and learn how experienced foragers read the landscape. From recognizing promising growing spots to understanding how rainfall, temperature, and seasonal conditions influence mushroom growth, Jeff and Laurel share their knowledge and reveal what makes mushroom foraging such a rewarding outdoor adventure. But there’s more to mushrooms than what we see above ground. We also explore the remarkable underground fungal networks that connect with trees and help sustain forest ecosystems. And just when our search seems to be winding down, an unexpected discovery gives us a reason to keep looking. For RVers, mushroom foraging offers another way to experience the Pacific Northwest beyond the campground. Imagine spending a day exploring the forest, returning to your camp with a harvest and preparing a meal with ingredients gathered along the way. It’s an outdoor adventure that combines curiosity, learning, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Always positively identify wild mushrooms before eating them and check local harvesting regulations before collecting. The forest is hiding a wild feast, and we’re hunting for the ultimate prize. What will Jeff and Laurel uncover before the day is over? Grab your coffee, press play and join us in the woods to find out. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

The best RV road trips aren't always the ones everyone talks about. Sometimes, the most memorable adventures happen when you take a different highway, explore beyond the usual stops, and give yourself time to discover what lies around the next bend. In this episode of RV Out West, we're sharing seven Pacific Northwest road trips that deserve a place on your bucket list. These routes take you beyond the familiar destinations and into landscapes that might surprise you, from wide-open spaces and winding mountain roads to sparkling lakes, dramatic river valleys, and scenic stretches of highway made for exploring. Spanning Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and British Columbia, these adventures offer something for every kind of RVer. Some are perfect for a long weekend, while others call for several days on the road. Each one offers a fresh perspective on the Pacific Northwest and plenty of reasons to make the journey part of the destination. We'll share what makes these routes worth exploring, when to plan your trip, and the practical details RV travelers need to consider before hitting the road. Mountain grades, seasonal closures, campground availability, and remote stretches all deserve a little planning, especially when you're towing a travel trailer. Consider this your inspiration for the next time you're staring at a map and wondering where to go. You might discover a new favorite route, find the perfect destination for your next getaway, or add several more adventures to your growing travel wish list. Fire up the map, grab a cup of coffee, and join us for seven Pacific Northwest RV road trips worth putting on your radar. Subscribe to RV Out West, the award-winning podcast dedicated to RVing in the Pacific Northwest, for more road trip inspiration, regional travel guides, and stories that make you want to hitch up and head out. Book your stay with Bar Run Golf and Resort and use this discount code to book your stay today. RV Out West listeners use promo code OUTWEST to receive 10% off stays from October 2026 through March 2027. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Discover the wild beauty of Olympic National Park as we head to Washington’s rugged Pacific coastline in Part 2 of our Olympic National Park adventure with our two dogs, Beau & Roxy. This is where towering forests meet the ocean, the shoreline tells a story of constant change, and some of the most unforgettable sights on the Olympic Peninsula are waiting to be explored. In Part 1, we explored the northern side of Olympic National Park, discovering trails, waterfalls, lakes and places to adventure with our pups in tow. Now, we’re heading west to explore a completely different side of this incredible national park. Along the way, we’ll encounter a remarkable tree that seems to defy gravity, a beach where massive sea stacks rise from the surf, and a dramatic stretch of coastline at the edge of the contiguous United States. Each stop reveals another reason why Olympic National Park is one of Washington’s most extraordinary places to explore. We’ll share our experiences, talk about what makes this stretch of the Pacific Northwest so special and offer helpful insights for anyone planning an Olympic Peninsula road trip, camping getaway, or RV adventure. From the sounds of crashing waves to the untamed beauty of the coastline, this is a side of Washington that deserves a place on your travel list. Join us on RV Out West, the award-winning podcast celebrating RV travel, outdoor adventures, and the people, places and stories that make the Pacific Northwest worth exploring. Hit play and discover the wild beauty waiting along Washington’s Pacific coast. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Crystal-clear water, mountain views, Olympic marmots, waterfalls, dog-friendly trails, and an RV adventure through one of Washington’s most spectacular national parks. This summer, we packed up the RV, brought the dogs along, and explored the northern side of Olympic National Park and the Olympic Peninsula. Part 1 of this two-part mini series takes you along for the first half of our adventure, combining our real-world RV travel experience with practical tips for planning your own Olympic National Park RV trip with dogs. We start around Port Angeles and Lake Crescent, sharing where we camped, how we planned our days, and what we learned about bringing dogs into Olympic National Park. From finding dog-friendly hiking options to understanding where your pups can and cannot go, we’ll share the information we discovered along the way. Then we head toward Hurricane Ridge, one of the most spectacular destinations in the park. Along the way, we’ll talk about the hikes we found at the visitor center, the story behind the name Hurricane Ridge, the surprising fact that there is a ski area here, and the wildlife we encountered along the way. We even spotted Olympic marmots, a species found only in the Olympic Mountains. This episode is part RV travel guide, part Olympic National Park adventure, and part trip report, giving you a look at what we actually did during our visit and what you can expect when planning your own trip. And this is only Part 1. In Part 2, next Monday, we’ll continue exploring the Olympic Peninsula with more RV camping, dog-friendly hikes, Lake Crescent, waterfalls, trails, and places to explore. Grab your coffee and join us for an RV adventure through Olympic National Park with our dogs in tow. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Public lands belong to all of us. This episode takes a deeper look at why they matter and what their future could mean for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. National Public Lands Day was just this past Saturday, September 26, a day dedicated to celebrating and caring for the parks, forests, trails, rivers, mountains, and open spaces that connect us to the outdoors. For RVers, campers, hikers, hunters, anglers, climbers, mountain bikers, paddlers, and anyone who loves getting outside, these places are more than destinations. They are where we make memories, find adventure, reconnect with family, and escape the noise of everyday life. In this episode we’re talking about public lands, conservation, outdoor recreation, public access, and the future of the places we all enjoy. Our guest is Land Tawney, co-chairman of American Hunters & Anglers and a longtime public lands and wildlife advocate. Land previously served as president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers for a decade, helping lead national efforts focused on public lands, public access, wildlife, hunting, fishing, and conservation. Land brings decades of experience to this conversation, and we go beyond the usual talking points. We discuss why public lands matter to all of us, the role hunters and anglers play in conservation, and what Land describes as the “Three D’s” of public lands: dismantle, defund, and divest. This conversation is for anyone who hikes, camps, RVs, fishes, hunts, bikes, paddles, climbs, or simply enjoys spending time outside. Our public lands enrich our lives. This episode is about understanding their value, the challenges ahead, and the role each of us can play in their future. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

It started with $100 and an idea. Today, Gerson and Jackie are building small, retro-inspired European campers in Eugene, Oregon, using molds dating back to 1972 and sourcing parts from across Europe. The result is Clasica Campers, a company putting a fresh spin on a classic style of caravan and creating some seriously cool options for RVers who want to go small. We sit down with the husband-and-wife team behind Clasica Campers to hear the story of how it all began. They share how a small investment turned into a passion-driven camper company, why they chose to focus on smaller campers, and what goes into creating these unique European-inspired caravans. We also get into the craftsmanship behind the campers, including the challenges of finding parts in Europe and bringing together old molds, modern components, and plenty of hands-on work. Gerson and Jackie take us behind the scenes of the building process and explain what makes these little campers so special. And because this is RV Out West, we also talk about their adventures around the Pacific Northwest. From getting out on the road to exploring the places that inspire them, Gerson and Jackie share how their love of RV travel and the Pacific Northwest connects to the story of Clasica Campers. If you’re interested in small campers, retro RVs, European caravans, vintage camper design, camper craftsmanship, or exploring the Pacific Northwest, this conversation is worth a listen. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

What if you could park your RV, grab your golf clubs, and spend the day playing a beautiful golf course without ever leaving the campground? That’s exactly what we discovered at Bar Run Golf and RV Resort in Roseburg, Oregon. We’re heading to Southern Oregon for a closer look at this golf-focused RV resort and everything it has to offer. Bar Run is more than a place to park your RV. With an on-site golf course, recreational amenities, and an impressive pool complex complete with a lazy river, there’s plenty to keep campers entertained both on and off the course. We’ll share our own camping experience at Bar Run, including what it’s like to stay at the resort, the campground atmosphere, and what stood out during our visit. Then we sit down with Cris Risley, the General Manager of Bar Run Golf and RV Resort, to hear the story behind the property and learn how this Southern Oregon destination came to be. Cris takes us through the history of Bar Run, the story behind the golf course, and the vision for the RV resort. We also talk about one of the resort’s biggest attractions: the pool complex and its lazy river, which gives campers another reason to spend some time enjoying the resort after a day on the road or out on the golf course. If you’re planning an Oregon RV trip, looking for RV campgrounds near Roseburg, or searching for an Oregon RV resort with golf, this episode gives you an inside look at what makes Bar Run worth putting on your travel list. And there’s a bonus for RV Out West listeners. Use promo code OUTWEST for 10% off your stay from October 2026 through March 2027.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Brad Thompson, a full-time RVer from Oregon, joins us on the show to share his journey on the road, his favorite places to explore and camp and the RV maintenance problem that inspired his big idea. An RV includes many systems and components, each with its own maintenance schedules, manuals, warranties, service records and quirks. For used RV owners, tracking down that information can be especially difficult. Even new RVs often come with a mountain of paperwork that can quickly become overwhelming. Brad created RV Keeper to help RV owners organize important information in one place and stay on top of maintenance. We discuss the inspiration behind the app, the challenges it is designed to solve, and how better organization can make RV ownership less stressful. This conversation also explores Brad’s experience with full-time RV living, his favorite Oregon destinations and the lessons he has learned from spending so much time on the road. If you enjoy RV travel, camping, Oregon, full-time RV living or practical tools for becoming a more prepared RV owner, this episode is for you. Listen now and join us on the road. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

La Conner, Washington, offers a memorable RV getaway where you can park the rig and spend a few days exploring one of the state’s most scenic corners. In this special Destination episode of RV Out West, we’re heading to La Conner, a charming Skagit Valley town that deserves a spot on your RV travel list. La Conner is more than a stop along the way. It’s a place where waterfront views, Pacific Northwest history, local food, art, and outdoor adventure come together. We’ll take you beyond the town’s picturesque streets and show you what makes the surrounding area such a great destination for RV travelers. We’ll explore the best things to do in La Conner, from strolling along the Swinomish Channel and exploring the town’s waterfront to discovering nearby trails, wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures throughout the Skagit Valley. We’ll also highlight some of the area’s must-see attractions and explain why spring, summer, and fall each offer something different for travelers. We’ll break down some of the best places to camp near La Conner, including what you can expect from the campgrounds, hookups, locations, and experiences that make each one worth considering. La Conner is an excellent addition to a Pacific Northwest RV adventure, with plenty to see and do beyond its charming downtown. Press play and discover why La Conner, Washington, could become a favorite RV getaway. Listen now and start planning your next adventure. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

We’re joined by author and full-time RVer Kristy Halvorsen, who made the bold decision to leave behind a more conventional way of life and make her Airstream, Coddi, her home. The name comes from “coddiwompling,” meaning to travel purposefully toward an unknown or vague destination, and it perfectly reflects a journey that has taken Kristy far beyond simply exploring North America. Her first book, Perfect Unfolding, chronicles one year of life on the road, from May to May. This is not a typical RV travel story. While the miles, destinations, campgrounds, and adventures are part of the experience—including her time exploring the Pacific Northwest and the beautiful landscapes of Oregon—the deeper narrative emerges when travel creates space for reflection and inner discovery. Kristy speaks openly about love, loss, identity, starting over, and what it means to give yourself permission to live life on your own terms. Her story is intimate, honest, and at times raw. Full-time RV living brings unexpected clarity when you are no longer just passing through places, but using the journey to better understand yourself. That is the focus of this conversation. For anyone who has dreamed of selling everything, hitting the road, living in an Airstream, or simply choosing a different path through life, Kristy’s story offers plenty to reflect on. This is a conversation about RV travel, full-time RV living, and the unexpected places the road can lead, both physically and emotionally. Hit play and join us for a conversation about the journey behind the journey with Kristy Halverson, author of Perfect Unfolding. Follow Kristy on Instagram at @Kristy.Halvorsen and learn more about her story and life on the road. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Washington is home to incredible lakes that offer some of the best RV camping in the Pacific Northwest. We’re sharing six lakes where you can park your RV just steps from the shoreline and spend your days swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. The lakes we explore in this episode highlight what makes each destination worth the trip. You'll learn about each lake's location, size, campground amenities, RV hookups, dump stations, campsite availability, and the recreational opportunities that make these lakes ideal for a summer camping adventure. From full hookup campsites at state parks to peaceful forest campgrounds and private waterfront RV resorts, these destinations offer something for every style of RVer. If you're traveling in a travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, you'll find practical information to help you choose your next Washington lake camping destination. You'll also hear about our conversation with world class whitewater kayaker Dave Fusilli, who shares valuable paddling safety tips that apply to everyone spending time on the water, including kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders exploring calm lakes. If you're planning an RV trip in Washington State or searching for waterfront campgrounds with easy lake access, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire your next adventure. Grab your swimsuit, load up the paddleboards, and discover six Washington lesser known lakes that deserve a spot on your RV travel list. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

From towering waterfalls and dramatic basalt cliffs to alpine lakes and Oregon's tallest peak, the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood are two of the Pacific Northwest's most unforgettable destinations. In this episode of the RV Out West Podcast, host Brooks welcomes Oregon photographer & RV wanderer, Kristy, of Willa Wanders to share the story behind her passion for exploring the region and why these landscapes continue to inspire her adventures. Kristy takes listeners on a journey through the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, highlighting some of her favorite viewpoints, waterfalls, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small towns that make this stretch of the Pacific Northwest a must-visit destination. If you're planning your first trip or looking to experience the Gorge beyond the most popular stops, you'll discover practical travel tips and firsthand advice. The conversation then climbs into the shadow of Mount Hood, Oregon's highest peak and a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Kristy shares recommendations for exploring Mt. Hood's scenic byways, hiking opportunities, historic landmarks, and seasonal activities, along with advice for RV travelers looking to make the most of the area. If you're searching for the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, planning a Mt. Hood road trip, looking for Oregon travel ideas, or seeking RV-friendly destinations in the Pacific Northwest, this episode offers just what you need for planning your own Oregon and Pacific Northwest adventure. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

We’re heading to John Day, Oregon, a destination filled with incredible scenery, outdoor adventures, fascinating history, and some of the best lesser-known experiences for RV travelers. Located in Eastern Oregon, the John Day area is a great getaway for RVers looking to explore beyond crowded campgrounds and discover wide-open landscapes, scenic drives, and memorable places to visit. From the dramatic colors of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument to the winding roads of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, this region showcases a side of Oregon that feels far from the coast and the Cascade Mountains. In this destination episode, we’ll share what makes John Day a must-visit stop for Pacific Northwest RVers, including where to camp, what to see, and the outdoor adventures waiting around every corner. We’ll explore hiking opportunities, geological wonders, local character, and the rich history that makes this part of Oregon so special. If you’re planning a weekend RV getaway, building an Eastern Oregon road trip itinerary, or searching for new places to explore with your family, John Day deserves a spot on your travel list. We’ll also share tips to help you plan your visit, including things RVers should know before hitting the road, what makes this destination stand out for campers, and why shoulder season may be one of the best times to experience the area. The Pacific Northwest is full of incredible destinations, and John Day, Oregon is a reminder that some of the best adventures are found when you take the road less traveled. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and get ready to discover your next RV adventure. Listen to this episode of RV Out West and start planning your John Day, Oregon getaway today. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

For more than 15 years, Jeremy Puglisi has explored North America by RV, building a lifetime of experiences that have inspired thousands of campers through RV Atlas. In this episode of RV Out West, host Brooks Smothers sits down with Jeremy for an honest conversation about family travel, campground culture, and the lessons that only years on the road can teach. Jeremy reflects on how a simple decision to buy a pop up camper evolved into a career creating RV content while also giving his family countless opportunities to explore the United States together. He shares why RV travel remains his favorite way to vacation, the value of slowing down, cooking outdoors, and connecting with friends around a campfire. The conversation also explores raising kids who genuinely enjoy spending time outside, navigating the teenage years while keeping family camping traditions alive, and why the campground community continues to be one of the best parts of the RV lifestyle. Brooks and Jeremy discuss common mistakes made by new RV owners, practical advice for reducing stress during trips, and why focusing on experiences instead of equipment leads to more rewarding adventures. They also revisit favorite destinations including Acadia National Park, Assateague State Park, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and Nova Scotia. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

Some people chase adventure on well-marked trails. Paul Boomhower has built a life exploring where the pavement ends. Known to many as Smokey and the Vandit, Paul is a photographer and van traveler whose passion for the outdoors has taken him across the Pacific Northwest and beyond in search of unforgettable landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters. Paul joins us for a conversation about photography, van life, outdoor travel, and the moments that have shaped his perspective on life. Years spent camping, wandering backroads, and waiting patiently for nature to reveal itself have taught him lessons that extend far beyond the camera lens. He shares stories from the road, the joy of slowing down, and the importance of staying curious while exploring the places many travelers overlook. The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Paul reflects on a sudden medical emergency that changed the course of his life. He discusses the long road to recovery, the challenges he faces and how that singular experience strengthened his appreciation for every opportunity to get back outside and continue creating beautiful photographs. Fans of RV travel, van life, camping, road trips, landscape photography, wildlife photography, and Pacific Northwest travel will find plenty of inspiration throughout this conversation. From remote campsites to unforgettable wildlife sightings, Paul's experiences offer a reminder that some of life's greatest rewards come from patience, persistence, and a willingness to explore beyond the familiar. Subscribe to RV Out West for weekly conversations about RV travel, camping, outdoor recreation, and destinations throughout Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, Idaho, and the Pacific Northwest. If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share it with friends who love exploring the great outdoors. Proud to be recognized as the #7 camping podcast on Feedspot's Best Camping Podcasts list, a ranking that reflects our passion for sharing RV travel, camping adventures, and outdoor destinations across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook