Question Of The Week

Snowbird In Your Truck Camper

This week’s Question of the Week is, “Would you snowbird in your truck camper all winter?”

snowbird-routt

“We are generally tied close to home (Atlanta) through the holidays in November and December for family, but come January we are on the road. Our favorite warm weather spot is Death Valley.  It’s dry and warm, but not too warm and it’s gorgeous.  We may stay in one campground for a few weeks, but then we get the itch and move around to other campgrounds. We would never stay in one of the big, private resort campground.  We take our time getting there by hugging the Mexican border and then take our time coming back.  We would never sell our house, but we meet up with some full-time RVing friends and have a great time.” – Larry Routt, 2005 Ford F-350, 2004 Lance 820

“Yes, I would go to South Texas, unload the camper and day trip.  I’d ride bikes and enjoy life!  We would spend much of our waking hours outside.” – Bill Dalton, 2001 Dodge 2500, 1999 Lance 845

“Last year we did South Padre Island in Texas.  This year, we toured Florida from the west coast to east coast staying a week a each place we stopped.  We took time to visit and there was always a place for us.” – Richard C. Raymond, 2005 Chevy Silverado 3500, Palomino Winter Creek 11.5 RS

“We have been in Arizona for as long as two months at a time over the last five years.  It is not the truck camper that is the drawback.  It usually winds up that we either get homesick or get bored, and just want to move on.” – David and Lila Weinstein, 1999 Dodge 3500, 2005 Arctic Fox 1150

“We are off to see the USA.  We sold our house last fall and retired just before Christmas.  We spent Christmas with the family and headed south the day after in a snow storm.  Our mantra is to never have to scrape the windshield.  We are exploring Florida this winter and then will follow the weather north and southwest over the next five plus years.  Your magazine has been our inspiration and help with our equipment decisions since we met at the Springfield show three years ago.” – Philip McEachen, 2000 Ford F350, 1998 Bigfoot 3000

“We would definitely stay in our camper during the winter.  We either go to Florida or Arizona.  We visit friends and family, play golf and fish.” – Joe Vieites, 2013 Chevrolet 3500HD, 2005 Lance 1181

“I love the Four Wheel pop-up camper, but it would be way too small for that amount of time.  Being from Canada, I’m sure that I’ll want to snowbird once retired.  But the truck camper would have to be bigger, like the Lance 1172 or Adventurer 116DS, which are two of my favorites.  I also think that I’d have a hard time staying in one place for the whole time and would rather move around.  If I were going to stay put for six months, I’d get a full mobile home or condo!” – Darrin P, 2014 Ford F-150, 2014 Four Wheel Hawk

“We actually did snowbird for two years, and visited Illinois, Maryland, Texas, Massachusetts, Florida, and California. We mostly visited friends and relatives.” – Henry Huizenga, 2005 Chevy 2500 HD, 2004 Arctic Fox 860

snowbird-elliott

“We just returned from a three week trip to the east and west coast of Florida and the Gulf Coast.  The only challenge would be to stay where the weather allowed outside activities for us.  Cabin fever would overtake us if we were stuck inside.  We are planning a four month Alaska trip the summer of 2015, so we have no issue long term tripping.  Camp on.” – Tom Elliott, 2012 Dodge Ram 1500, 2012 Outfitter 6.5 Lite

“I am a snowbird.  In two words, “cabin fever”.  We spend four months every winter in a triple slide, 36 foot, fifth wheel.  By the end of the winter it is pretty confining and we are ready to go home where we live in a house. We love our Lance for summer fishing, travel, towing toys, etc.” – Ron, 2014 Dodge 3500, 2012 Lance 850

“I am retired and my husband will be retired in one and a half years.  We would like to get away from the snow and cold in New England, however, we do not want the expense or responsibility of owning an place far away.  We do not want to leave New England but do want to get away in the winters.  We have family in Georgia and Florida and would definitely spend our winters with them in our truck camper.  We have no problem living in it for a season and it would give us the opportunity to stop and explore different places.” – Rich and Denise Snyder, 2006 Dodge Ram 3500, 1997 Bigfoot

“We would head south on the east or west coast and then start working my way toward the other coast.   We would go see the sites as we moved. We would probably spend a week or so at each location where we found interesting things to do.  We would try surf fishing and play along the beach.” – Butch Evans, 2013 Dodge Ram 3500, 2012 Northern Lite 10-2 CDSE

“We would leave on January 6th, towing our Jeep, and would head to Florida.  We would explore the Keys and Gulf Coast and visit with friends. Then in February we would head West to Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico to visit with friends, go off roading, and explore off the grid locations.  Then we would slowly head back east with an estimated time of arrival of sometime in May!” – Joe Mac Donald, 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500, 2013 Northstar Igloo U

“I don’t like winters that much unless I’m camping somewhere kind of warm.  I don’t like the basement type truck campers with the necessary heated tanks.  They’re too tall.  Really a flight of stairs?” – Jimmie, 2003 Dodge 3500, 1999 Fleetwood Elkorn

“If I didn’t have church, family, and work obligations here up north all winter long, I would certainly do it.  I would road trip through the south and California with stops no longer than a few days in one spot.  So far it just a dream, but it is fun to think about.  As I said, too many obligations in our lives to be able to do it any length of time.  We will just get out as much as we can when opportunity arises.” – Allen Brummel, 2008 Dodge Ram 1500, 2008 Northstar TC650



“We love to travel in our camper any time of the year, but we need to expand our space after a few weeks.  The camper is great fun, but it is terribly cramped.” – Randall Rice, 2012 GMC Sierra 3500HD, 2002 Bigfoot 2500 10.6

“I have done it for a few winters for 3 (+or-) months periods.  I did however move around every three to four weeks for a change of scenery.  Arizona was my destination along with southern California.  I’m now skipping a few years thanks to the price of gas.  I’ll also be downsizing my rig as I would be outside most of the time down there.  Hiking and biking is what I enjoy doing while snowbirding.” – Mark

snowbird-gadwa

“We normally just go for a month at a time, due to commitments and snow to deal with back in Stanley, Idaho.  When we do go we usually move all around southern Utah, southern Nevada, and all over Arizona.  We don’t stay put very long in any one place.  There are just too many great places to see, so we are constantly moving around, generally finding great quiet places in southern Utah and Nevada.  Our daughter, son in law and granddaughter are in the process of a USMC transfer to Yuma, Arizona so I bet we’ll be spending more time there in the coming years.  We just returned from Yuma where it was in the 90s.” – Gary and Laurii Gadwa, 2012 Ford F350, 2011 Eagle Cap 950

“Yes, I would travel and stay in nice places longer.” – Bruce Ostermann , 2006 Chevy 3500, 2008 Arctic Fox 10’

“Yes, I’ve done it, and that’s why!  Three years ago I spent the entire winter in Florida. And that’s exactly where I would go again and hope to go again next winter. I would spend a part of the winter in a number of different places.  The east coast, the Miami area, the Keys, Lake Okeechobee, the west coast as well as the north central part of Florida.  There are a lot of different things to do in all of these areas and they have different personalities, while all being a whole lot warmer than being home in Annapolis, Maryland.  There are a lot of historical sites to visit as well which may be a bit of a surprise to some.  I like to visit any and all historical places I can while traveling.  And the winter I stayed there, the weather was fantastic nearly every single day.  It was sunny with beautiful blue skies.  Compared to this winter at home, I can’t wait.  And of course Florida has some of the best kayaking of anywhere. Pretty much wherever you are, including inland from the coasts, you can find a beautiful place to drop your kayak in and find some beautiful wildlife.  I could go on and on.  For me, Florida is a great place to winter in a truck camper.” – David MacArthur, 2008 Ford F350, 2011 Lance 992

“We would visit family and friends that are in southern climates, then we would travel to coastal areas where we could enjoy the beach, use our bicycles and do a good deal of walking.  We would also visit desert areas where we could hike and finally find remote areas for kayaking and wildlife watching.  Unfortunately we would still need to heat the house, have someone plow the driveway and rake the roof.  Maybe we should stay home!” – Bob and Jan Bromley, 2007 Chevy Silverado 2500, 2010 Eagle Cap 850

“I enjoy meeting friends (new and old) and family.  I have been to a variety of different campgrounds and boondocked several places.  I have been on the road since early November starting in Maine and I’m currently in Daytona Beach, Florida.” – George Armenteros, 2011 Dodge 3500, 2002 Lance 920

“By snowbird I assume you mean four to six months.  There is just not enough room in a truck camper for this.  We lived in our truck camper for two months on our Alaska trip and that was it.  Now, if I was alone, maybe.” – Stuart Johnson, 1999 Dodge 3500, 2001 Wildcat 5th wheel

“I would, but I’m not sure about my wife.  I would travel the west, southern California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, etc.  I would mix in some skiing and other cool winter activities.  I would look-up old friends.  We function very well in that limited space.” – Don Funk, 1998 Chevy 3500, 1976 Dreamer 11.5’

snowbird-lech

“We have been there, and done that multiple times.  My wife and I head to California, Arizona, Texas, and/or Florida.  We usually stick to the better public campgrounds, drop the camper, and stay two weeks at each place to enjoy the local sites, food, and fun.” – Gary Lech, 2007 Ford F-350, 2004 Eagle Cap 1150

“Yes, of course.  We have done it and we shall do it again.  We even did it once in the middle of June in Helena, Montana.  Thank you guys for all your good work.  We don’t tell you often enough.” – Jake and Sylvie Mathis, 1994 Dodge Ram 2500, 2003 Northern Lite 9Q

“With our current minimalist truck camper we would not spend the winter in it.  Two or three weeks at a time maybe, but six months would be a bit too much.  We have given this snowbird idea some serious thought over the last couple years.  We actually got an unplanned taste of snowbirding this past winter when we had to care for an elderly parent in Spring Hill, Florida just north of Tampa.  We stayed in our Four Wheel Camper from mid December 2013 to mid February 2014.  It wasn’t really a vacation as we were very busy everyday, but we did get a taste of snowbirding in our truck camper.  A larger, fully contained truck camper, maybe even with a slide-out, might work okay.  Our FWC is nice, but it is not designed for that purpose.  An option we are considering is to place a luxury fifth wheel trailer in a snowbird RV park and use it as a base.  Then we’d explore the region in our nimble, go anywhere, truck camper.  Then the next winter find another snowbird RV park in a different part of the country and explore in a new region.  We are still studying the various snowbirding options.” – Buzz Merchlewitz, 1998.5 Dodge Ram 2500, 2007 Four Wheel Grandby

“From Alaska we would start in Missouri and Arkansas, and once the weather cooled we would move on to the Destin, Florida area.  We will weather watch and move as needed.  It’s not only a hypothetical question for us, but it’s our five year retirement plan.” – Tom Warren, 2013 Dodge Ram 3500HD, 2013 Eagle Cap 1160

“We are greatly looking forward to traveling the Parks to Parks highway and exploring the southwest, as soon as we can rid ourselves of the four letter word, work.  We are not really planning to not have a home to come back to, but we might put everything in storage and rent it out.” – Bonnie Pascucci, 2011 Chevy 3500, 2012 Adventurer 865

“We will try Florida again and hope the weather will be better.  Also, there’s Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and southern California.  We might even spend October and some of November in Alaska and work our way down south. (Nancy just rolls her eyes about the Alaska part).” – Keith and Nancy Rivers, 2004 Ford F250, 2013 Northern Lite 9’6″ Classic

snowbird-Niehus

“I would as long as I could travel, and not stay in one spot all the time.  If it wasn’t comfortable to be outside most of the time, I’m not sure.  The seating isn’t that comfortable when you sit for long periods of time.  I’m 73 and still in good health, riding ATVs all over Arizona the last two winters.  But when I can’t get around very well, a comfortable chair or sofa would look good.  Now this is a great way to get around. It’s easy and less expensive.  I have been on the road for seven weeks now and haven’t stayed in a RV park yet.  I try to use the BLM, dispersed areas, stay in front of friends houses, etc.  My wife was with me for a month, went home for a month, and is coming back for the last month.” – Frank Niehus, 2007 Ford 350, Arctic Fox 1150

snowbird-swanson

“I go down to Harlingen, Texas.  You can do just about anything.  The park I stay at has a great wood shop.  I pull a twelve foot utility trailer that I have setup as a traveling wood shop.” – Marc Swanson, 2004 Dodge 2500, 2011 Northern Igloo U

“Since December 2011 we have been workamping and full-timing in our Lance 1181.  The winters have been spent workamping in the Florida Keys where we have a FHU RV site.  Last summer we camp hosted in the Colorado mountains at 9,200′ at a USFS property where we had a water and sewer hookup.  Power came from our 250 watts of on-board solar and an inverter (which powers our Dish Network satellite setup nicely).  If we did not have to work in winter, we would tour between the Florida Keys and Arizona all winter.” – David Knapp, 2012 Ford F-350, 2012 Lance 1181

snowbird-mount

“I could snowbird in my camper all winter, but I enjoy some winter and wouldn’t want to give it all up.  This year I spent most of January and early February in Texas and really enjoyed the break.  Now that I’m home I am looking forward to getting the maple trees tapped and boiling down syrup in a week or so.  Then I’ll watch the snow melt and the woods come alive again over the next couple of months.  I guess I just want it all!” – Richard Mount, 2013 Ford F150, 2013 Four Wheel Camper Grandby

“We camp in out camper a lot and next year we intend to start going to south Florida, with our bass boat to fish for a long period of time.  Why not?  I couldn’t take my boat with a trailer.” – Bill Patt, 2002 Dodge Ram 3500, 1998 Coachman 1130

“You bet we would if (and when) we could.  We would hang out in either the Florida, Arizona, or San Diego areas.  Most likely we not be in one spot.  We like to move about.  There is the possibility that we would look into some work camping along the way.” – Barry Schoenwetter, 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD, 2005 Lance 1030

“Actually, we plan to live full time in our camper for a couple years after we retire next year.  We will probably spend the winters in the Southwest USA, but also plan to spend time in Baja and maybe the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the Puerto Vallarta area.  I expect we may move a few times, but would probably spend at least a month or so at each area.  It all depends how much we like it at that particular area.  In a truck camper it’s a simple thing to pull up stakes and move.” – Joanne Hall, 2014 Chevy Silverado 3500, don’t have one yet

snowbird-diehl

“I’ve been snowbirding at Lake Mead National Recreation Area in my truck camper since 2003.  I generally spend the entire winter there boating, fishing for stripers in Lake Mead, hiking, biking and visiting friends.  This will be my last year visiting Lake Mead in a truck camper because Forever Resorts who operates all the full service RV parks at LMNR have instituted a new rule that forbids campers from being unloaded from their trucks.  I consider this rule to be highly discriminatory and an imposition that I am not willing to put up with. (The fact that the National Park Service has “signed off” on this ridiculous rule makes me wonder why; is the NPS in someones pocket?)” – Douglas Diehl, 2010 F450, 2011 Chalet DS116

“We have now been in Florida two weeks and plan to spend another two weeks.  We started in Daytona for race activities and then moved to Fort Myers to visit friends.  We will spend the next two weeks split between Bradenton and St. Augustine.  We enjoy beach, bike riding and just relaxing in warm weather.  Absolutely fantastic!” – Peter J. Milot, 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD, 2011 Palomino Bronco

“Yes, in Florida.” – Gerard Estelle, 2005 Ford F350, 2003 Lance 1072

snowbird-crane

“We have RVed in our truck camper four of the last five winters for as long as six months.  On two of those years we circumnavigated the USA starting in the Pacific Northwest where we live, traveling east to Pennsylvania then south (one year to Florida), then west to Arizona, and then north along the Pacific Coast.  Other years we’ve traveled to the Texas Gulf Coast for a month or two, then back to the southwest.  We have done both long-term (one to two months) and overnight camping.  We’ve stayed at RV parks (mostly Escapees), but we favor public lands because we spend most of our daylight hours outdoors.  The key to our successful long-term truck camper living is that we really like each other’s company.” – Julianne G. Crane, 2001 Ford 350, 2007 Northern Lite 10.2

“I travel the racing circuit from Newfoundland to Florida to west Texas to north Wisconsin and back around.  This year I will be going to Long Beach.” – Jesse Black, 2012 Chevy 3500, 2009 Lance 1055

“First of all, as a Canadian I prefer the term ‘Sunbird’.  I am traveling to the sun, not escaping the snow.  We spent a little over two months this year 2013/2014 mostly in the southeastern USA, primarily Florida as a trial run for a full winter in the near future.  We paddle (canoe and kayak), cycle and hike.  We also enjoy photography, shelling, beach walks, good food, and live music.” – Dann, 2011 Ford F350, 2013 Lance 855S

“I’m 72 and if I were single I’d sell this place in a heart beat, hook up the boat, and travel full time as long as this old body would let me.  I have friends and relatives in Alaska, California, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Idaho, and Oregon.  There are definitely enough places to visit and fish until they put me in the ground.” – Larry Goosey, 2007 Chevy 3500, 2005 Snowriver 9.5

“Yes, I would snowbird and travel.  I would like to get to Quartzite and back to Daytona where I used to live.  I would just travel the warm areas of this country but not California.  If I must base myself in New York for health reasons I would definitely snowbird.  I presently live in south Texas.  A small simpler truck camper is a beginning.  If in two to three years I’m still healthy, I will upgrade to a larger truck camper.” – Carol, 2012 Dodge Ram 3500, about to get a 2014 Capri Sportsman

“This is certainly pertinent to myself, as I have just this month, made the transition out of my apartment, and into my camper, here in Washington State.  I plan to see the sights in this area of the country, including possibly a trek up the AlCan highway this spring, to return by ferry.  This is a tentative idea, before venturing further south over time.  I’m fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on your point of view) to be free of responsibility of others (single), so it could get interesting over here!  It’s a long way from here.  I’m planning a little bit at a time!” – Tony Sills, 2014 Chevy Silverado 3500, 2008 Arctic Fox 1140

“Yes, in Cochella Valley, California.” – Dale

snowbird-eliseo

“We would go to the Eastern and Western slopes of the Sierras, Jackson Hole, and Island Park, Idaho doing all the skiing and winter fly fishing two human beings can handle.” – Kevin and Laura Eliseo, 2006 Ford F-350, 2006 Lance 1055

“We spent the winter of 2012 in our previous camper.  We traveled around Florida to Daytona Beach, Naples, Key West, and back to Daytona Beach. We enjoyed it for a winter break.  We do like the snow, too.  This spring we are going to Arizona to check things out.  We have a friend living in a motor home outside of Tucson who feels we should check it out.” – Dee Bartel, 2010 Chevy 2500HD, 2013 S&S 8.5

“No, the nights are too long and dinette seats are not up to extended sitting.” – Larry, 2008 Dodge Ram 2500, 2013 Arctic Fox 811

“We would spend the first couple of winters touring the various campsites/locations available.  The United States has more than a considerable number of great places to visit.  So why not experience a number of them?  Or just keep touring the south and keep it all interesting.  Just as long as we drive out of the snow!” – Dennis Sherratt, 2007 Dodge 350, 2014 Northern Lite 10′ 2″ CDSE

“I go as far south as the road allows me, to Key West, Florida.  I’m retired military and stay on the Navy’s Trumbo Point until the heat arrives, and then start heading north.  I consume myself with a routine of light reading, biking, bocce ball, happy hours, and doing nothing.” – Paul Foster, 2005 Ford F250, 2008 Lance 845

“Last year I spent one winter month along the Florida panhandle in national forest, state forest, and state parks.  I would love to spend more time from Florida to Arizona.  There is plenty to do and see!” – Mike McMahon, 2006 Ford F-350, 1999 Lance 1030

snowbird-gary

“I really don’t need my truck camper since I have a home in Key West, but this year so far we have enjoyed 80s and very pleasant weather.  We do use the camper if too many people show up.” – Gary Raymond, 2012 Dodge Ram 3500, 2006 Lance 1191

snowbird-gary-2

“I have spent the past three years in Marathon Key, Florida.” – Al Robi, 2008 ford F-450, 2000 Adventurer 105

“We love Arizona and would probably pack a load of books, the cat, and head down for the winter, especially after the long, snowy and cold winter we have had here in Minnesota.  After we get there we would roam around a little just to enjoy the state.  Then we would sight see on the way home.  We have relatives in Florida so maybe every other winter we would go to the south east.” – Mike and Nancy Pohl, 1999 Ford F-150, 1985 American Pilgrim 8.5

“Yes, I would go to Texas, near a lake, and bring my float plane.” – Andy, Ford F350, 2014 Northern Lite 10-2 CDSE

“For travel, truck campers are the best.  But, this is the last year that I am staying two months in a campground in Florida.  The inside is too small for staying a long time.  I use my truck camper only the weekends.” – Alain Major, 2011 Ford F350, 2011 Arctic Fox 990

“Yes, I would start out by going to Texas first and finish up in Arizona.  We would stay a week somewhere to sightsee and then move on and spend a week somewhere else to sightsee.  We wouldn’t necessarily make any plans as we’d be roaming around looking for interesting places to go.” – John Patterson, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, 2012 Travel Lite 960RX

“I would, but I’m not so sure my husband would.  He is not as comfortable in the camper in the evenings, watching television, reading, etc.  The seating just isn’t that comfortable for him.” – James Cornwell, 2011 Chevy Silverado 3500, 2012 Lance 1191

“Texas and Arizona interest me.  There is a lot to see.  I would gladly snowbird all winter.  The nice thing about doing that is that you can say you did it.  And with the age of computers, I could always send a note home to my wife.” – George Randall, 2013 Ford F350, 2000 Lance 915

“I’ve been an avid reader of Truck Camper Magazine for about two years now.  I’m planning for retirement and my spouse and I want to full-time in a truck camper.  I wasn’t aware that doing so would place us in the minority until I read your comment for this survey.  We are Canadian and would spend our winters in the United States to avoid the snow and cold.  We’d visit Arizona, Texas, New Mexico and California to get away from our winters.  We’d return to Canada in the spring and travel throughout Canada as well.  As full-timers, we’d be content with visiting your typical iconic sights and also enjoying the tranquility of places. 

We have owned seven travel trailers to date however, we don’t feel that we’ll be able to go where we want to in a travel trailer.  You’ve convinced us that truck camping provides the freedom to take the back roads and less traveled roads to see magnificent sights.  We hope our decision is well founded and that we won’t become too shack happy in a truck camper.  We need a two slide model at a minimum.” – Mike, No truck, No camper

“Yes, to Texas and Arizona.  I would take two of our horses with us and camp and ride different trails that are too hot to ride in the summer.” – Linda, 2006 Dodge 3500, 2008 Snowriver RK10-2

“We are planing to travel all the southern states from southern California to Florida.  On the way we will be stopping and visiting with family and friends.” – Ed and Dianne Evans, 2000 Ford 250, 2005 Travel Lite 960RX

“Yes, I would go to the Rio Grande Valley, and to Apache Junction, Arizona to visit my son, and look it over.” – Anthony F. Jones, 2001 Chevy 2500HD, 2005 Hilo pop-up

“Only if I had to.  We have a 2011 Big Country 34 foot fifth wheel that we snowbird in each winter.” – Ronald Day, 2008 Chevy 2500HD, 2005 Sunlite 865

snowbird-lucien

“Yes, we are right now.  And would you believe we are nearly dry camping?  We’re in Key West, Florida.  We have a hose connection thirty feet away.  Fellow RVers lone us a blue boy to empty the tanks.  We have the truck camper unloaded.  We ride bikes around the Island, and go to the latest run movies for free.  We enjoy watching the prettiest sunsets in North America.  How can we do this?  I’m retired military.” – Lucien and Helen Langlois, 2012 Ford 350, 2004 Lance 1025

“Yes, I’d travel Florida top to bottom.  I’m retired, and my wife just retired.  I have been trying to talk her into it for the past six months.” – Joe Rella, looking to buy, looking to buy

“I live in my 1979 eight foot camper for two years and three months.  I’m living North Dakota working in the oil fields.  I haven’t pay rent yet!  So me, my old truck, and new camper would love to be snowbirds.  I’m thinking Costa Rica on the equator or closer to home in Key West, Florida.  Or any where I can put water in my camper and take shower with out it freezing up for nine months out of year.” – Robert Gregory, 1994 Ford F250, 1976 Excel, 1996 Fleetwood Caribou

snowbird-obert

“It’s been in the 70s here the last several weeks and some days have hit mid-eighties.  I live in Southern California.  For me, this is prime season for exploring desert parks and camps.  Although, I must say, I have gone to the local mountains and the Sierras just to camp in the snow!” – Mark Obert, 1999 Ford F250 SD, 1999 Lance 920

“I would like a larger camper, but right now we have the 825.  We would spend the time in the four corners area of the southwest USA; Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado.  We would enjoy the national and state parks, BLM land, and the fantastic scenery.” – Mike Pinchers, 2013 Ford F350, 2013 Lance 825

“I would ice fish in northern Maine, travel to Pismo beach, California, and take my grandkids to Fort Wilderness in Disney.  It’s the best campground in the world.  DVDs and smart phones keep them busy since the live in northern Maine.” – Jon Hight, 2001 GMC Sierra 2500 HD, 2004 Adventurer 8.5wbs

“Yes, we would go to Southern Utah, Arizona, and Southern California. We would take our Jeep or quads and explore.” – Bruce Moses, 2006 Chevy 3500, 2008 Lance 1191

“Yes.” – Gordon and Sue, 2006 Ford 350, 2007 Bigfoot 3000

“Yes, we would go to Key West, Florida.  There are many outdoor activities during this time period.  As such, the Fox would only be used as an eatery and sleeping.  Those days not doing an adventure or enjoying the beach would be catching up on news, emails, etc. outside under our awning.  We have everything in our Fox like satellite televisions, etc.  What more would we need with that type of environment?  Health or family issues.” – Cliff Cizan, 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, 2013 Arctic Fox 1150

“I haven’t seen all of Canada yet, and hardly any of the United States, so I could spend all winter down south exploring.  Now only if I was retired and had the time, but it will come to pass soon enough.” – William C. Steger, 2005 GMC 2500HD, 1995 Kodiak SC83

“No, it’s just too small and we are too old.” – Bob Martin, 2008 GMC 2500HD, 2011 Northstar Laredo SC

“In the last three years, Don and I have spent three months from January through March in our truck camper.  Our preference is to travel from one place to another, exploring and enjoying the different areas of the country. Everyday is an adventure filled with new experiences.  Meeting people from different regions of the country is amazing!” – Pat and Don Rose, Ford 350, Chalet TS 116 RB

“As far south as possible, say Key West!  We would visit multiple parks and would like to take a float plane ride out to the Dry Tortugas Island to camp and snorkel for a few days.  I’d probably take my wave runner and a kayak as well to do some of my own exploring and photography.  Work doesn’t transport well!  I need that mobile job to work out!” – Tim Holman, 2013 Ford F-350, 2014 Wolf Creek 850

“I live in New Braunfels, Texas, so I don’t have to snowbird.” – John Schlobohm, 2013 Ford F150, Lance 825

“We left Vermont in early December and drove to Northern California and are now in Desert Hot Springs in Southern California.  Because of the gorgeous weather we spend most of the day outside.  We’re in a hot spring resort called Caliente Springs.  We’ve been out almost three months and traveled about 5000 miles.  The camper is somewhat cramped but because we go swimming, exercising, bicycling, shuffle boarding, etc., it really works well.  We fix our grub here and sleep here and do some computer work.  The rest is sun and fun.” – Ronnie Bosch, 2005 Dodge Ram 2500, 2012 Northern Lite 10-2 CDSE

“We love the snow, so we snowmobile and use our camper as a base.  But we do get away and head south to visit family in Georgia.  We have also been caught in snow storms and stranded (of all places, in the south).” – Tom and Nancy Best, 2008 Ford F450, 2010 Chalet TS116

“Yes, we would go the southwest to go boondocking, hike, and explore.” – Jim Wilson, 2004 Ford F-250, 2013 Palomino

“I am doing this right now!  I left New Hampshire with my dogs during one of many ice storms in January.  I drove down the eastern seaboard, then over California, and now I am up in Washington state.  I drove a big U-shape of the country to avoid snow in the Midwest.  I love living in the truck camper and it’s been wonderful being on the road.  It’s been a little too cold everywhere to dewinterize the lines though.  This has been kind of a bummer.  Maybe I should have stayed longer in Arizona with the rest of the snowbirds!  With inspiration from my full-time RV friends, I am now debating whether to stay full-time in the truck camper or whether to park it and dwell in an abode without wheels for a while.” – Erika Hokanson, GMC Sierra 2500HD, 2010 Northern Lite 8-11 Q Classic

“My winter is not that long.  I would like to try January and February some place.  I can’t ever see myself giving up the farm so we would still have to heat the house.” – Matt Reinker, 2006 Chevy 1500, 2007 Northstar TC650

“Yes, I would go to Florida, Texas, Arizona, or California to hike, bike, RV caravan, or work camp.” – Carol Bowman, 2005 Dodge 3500, 2014 Lance 1191

“If I had the time and money (something I never have) I’d probably bum around Florida or take that bucket list trip to Mexico I’ve dreamed about since I was in high school.” – Blake Hooper, imaginary truck and camper for now (currently living in Japan)

“This is exactly what we have planned after retirement, which is unfortunately still a decade away.  We are in New England but have been blown away by the southwest.  The mountains and deserts and everything in between are calling us.  We’ve been out for vacations but can’t wait to really explore.” – Michael Voldahl-Vorliss, 2012 Chevy 1500, 2012 NorthStar 650SC

snowbird-graf

“We have been on the road since November, but have not stayed in one location.  We worked our way from Maine to Florida and west to California. Our goal was to find warm.  We are currently in Kentucky headed for home.  It’s cold and there’s a dusting of snow on the ground.  It makes us want to turn around and head south.” – Don and Sue Graf, 2008 Ford F350 Diesel, 2013 Arctic Fox 865

“Yes, I would go to South Texas, South Florida, the Inland Empire of Southern California and the Mexican Baja.  My wife and I snowbirded by accident.  We bought a home in South Texas and moved down in November.  The house was a fixer-upper and as a result we lived in our camper for about three months; me, my wife, and our four dogs ranging from five pounds to eighty pounds.  Not only was it fun and the dogs absolutely love it, but it was an overall enjoyable experience.  Our camper has one slide.  The dogs love to live under the dinette table and there was plenty of room for all of us.  We have full timed in a forty-five foot motor-coach with three slides.  That was a year long experience that none of us enjoyed as much as our camper.  Does it take a bit of getting used to? Sure!  You cannot both be in the bathroom at the same time, nor is there much room for more than one cook in the kitchen.  The result is that I sit down at the dinette and drink my coffee while my wife fixes breakfast.

Truck camping may well be the best kept secret in the RV world.  We sure are a lucky group to have discovered it.” – Don Pryor, 2011 Ford F350, 2009 Arctic Fox 1150

“I would travel west first to Texas, then Arizona, and California.  I would stay for a few days in parks and with friends and family.  I would head back east through all southern states to spend time in Florida with friends.  That’s just a general idea for now.  Retirement is a few years away, so I have plenty of time to get my game face on and get ready to travel.  I would also upgrade to a double slide ten footer.” – Sue Surateaux, 2002 Silverado 2500, 2008 Arctic Fox 811

snowbird-brad

“Yes, to Florida.  I’m looking for places to relocate in retirement.” – Brad, Dori, Elsa, 2008 Ford F250, 2013 Arctic Fox 865

“Yes, I think I could do the Southwest all winter in the truck camper, but I doubt if the little woman could!  I believe I would not park in one spot for the whole time.  I would enjoy being able to explore the area for a few months.” – Howard Bisco, 2007 F150, 2012 Palomino Bronco 1251SB

“Yes, to Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern California.  I would visit the relatives (naturally), explore places I have not been to, fish a little, read a lot, eat regional foods, and camp most of the time in remote and uncrowded areas, such as BLM, and live economically. ” – Harvey Keene, 2002 Ford F-350, 2002 Northern Lite Ten 2000CD

“I’m fine for three months on the road.  After that I miss my home and shop.” – Thomas Emerick, 2011 Chevy 3500, 2012 Arctic Fox 990

“I would boondock around Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, changing locations every few days.  I did this in July, August, September and October of 2012 in Canada, Alaska and the west coast traveling over 17,000 miles.” – Mike Herzfeldt, 2011 Chevy 3500 HD, 2005 Arctic Fox 990

“Yes I would.  We have never stayed in the camper for more than two weeks at any one time.  We have decided that we are going to this winter starting in Thanksgiving 2014.  We are going to leave St Louis, Missouri and head to south Texas.  We would probably move around some since most of the camp sites we looked at only allow you to stay between 15 to 20 days at a time.  We will work are way to Florida.  We have never done this before so it will be a real experience for us.  I work from home and can work anywhere as long as I can connect with my hot spot and phone.  Mail is the only problem I can see.  We can forward that if we could get a long term location at an affordable price.  So if anyone out there has the solution for that I am all ears.  We are planning to take the cat.  She has never been camping at all so I figure it will be a big thrill for her too.” – Barry, 2005 Ford F350, 2013 Arctic Fox

“Yes, we would go to southern Texas to the Rio Grande Valley.  The key is being able to use the outdoors to play in while having full hook-ups to offset the limited water/dump issues.” – Chip Cartwright, 2000 Ford F-350, Eagle Cap 1160

“I would go to the southern states and volunteer at campgrounds.” – Gerald Rivers, 2008 Ford F350 SD, 2010 Palomino

“Yes, first, the southwest, next year South America, and the next year the southeast.  I’d definitely move every month or so because there’s so much to see.  I would also take my motorcycle with me.  I keep trying to talk my wife into doing just such a thing.  It would be cool to do a rotation like that. That way I wouldn’t tire of the same area.  I’d have to do Yellowstone at least one winter.  Imagine having the place to yourself.” – Michael Murphy, in the process of getting one

“Yes, I would go to the Florida Keys and go geocaching, kayaking, hiking, and lay on the beach.” – Bandit, 2003 Chevy 3500, New Palomino on order

“Our 8’6″ truck camper is too small.  We need more room for extended periods of time.” – Tom Bender, 2011 Ford F250, 2009 Sun Valley Apache Chief 8.65 WS

“Yes, we would be hauling a nineteen foot Boston Whaler, and staying at various Florida State Parks, near the water for fishing.  Later into the spring we would stay near Lakeland, Florida to watch our Detroit Tigers in spring ball, and then work our way north, fishing our way back to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (home) in time for the Walleye opener May 15th.” – John Katona, 2013 GMC 3500HD, 2009 Lance 981

“We could and, hopefully, will travel for a few months at a time.  Warm weather would be on the agenda, but we would have to have some ski days in there as well!” – Bill Tex, 2006 Chevy Silverado, 2013 Eagle Cap 850

“Price and availability would drive the decisions.  We’d research ahead to see what specials there were at federal, state, and private campgrounds. There would probably be a mix of inland a coastal camping.  We like to bicycle ride and kayak, so would also choose places that have good recreation in the park or nearby.  We’ve spent time in Florida, so I might be interested in spending time in other areas along the Alabama and Texas coasts.” – Laurie Brokaw, 2006 Ford F250, 2010 Lance

“I would definitely snowbird!  I wouldn’t just hang out in the warm.  I would take the two lane road less traveled and see the parts of America in the winter cold or warmth.  There are many beautiful areas just made for truck camping with tons of adventure all around. I have camera and will travel!  The longest I’ve lived on the road in a truck camper is five weeks, which is not bad at all!  I just returned from a trip to Washington’s Olympic Penisula (Cape Flattery, Olympic National Park, and Lake Ozette) in sub-freezing weather not above twenty degrees Fahrenheit.  No issues, no freezing, no worries.  Bring it on! “ – Bud, 2005 Dodge Ram 3500, 2006 Lance 1191

“Yes, I would go to Prescott, Arizona to relax and do a bunch of target shooting!” – Roy Bertalotto, 2006 Dodge 2500, 1998 Palomino Bronco 1200

“I would travel, staying in various locations to see the country.” – Dave Miller, 2012 Ford F350, 2003 Bigfoot 10.6E

“I worked in Bradenton and Sarasota on Swimming poles as a campground host.   I’m an Electrician so I did little jobs and had fun.  You don’t have to work every day!  Learn to have fun and enjoy life.

While reading the stories about snow birding you have to realizes truck camper people don’t sit around.  We camp, we explore, we kayak, we ride bikes, and we have fun.  We’re very active people.  That’s why we buy truck campers.  There is so much to see.  That’s why we bought our camper and we pull what we want!” – Neil Steirer, 2008 Ford F350, 2008 Lance 1181

“Yes, I go to Quartzsite, Arizona.” – Wilbert Griggsby, 1992 Ford, 1990 Lance Camper

 

Truck Camper Chooser
To Top