Trip Recap: 56-Nights North East Summer 2024 RV Trip

This summer, our family set out on an unforgettable 56-night, 5,000+ mile RV adventure. Stella, our 2022 Airstream International 27FB, became our home on wheels. Starting in Austin, Texas, we explored the Northeast, New England, and parts of the Midwest back home, crossing 19 states. From iconic national parks to thrilling river adventures and downhill mountain biking. Along the way, we reconnected with old friends, family, and made new memories that will last a lifetime. It wasn’t all smooth sailing—joyful moments were paired with unexpected challenges. Here’s a snapshot of our epic journey, capturing the highs, lows, and everything in between.

For many, the planning phase of a road trip is the most exciting part. To map out our travel route, book campgrounds, and plan activities, we relied on some key tools and resources such as RV Trip Wizard to make the process smoother.

Note :The driving distances and durations listed below are estimates between campgrounds or stops, as calculated by the RV Trip Wizard tool or Google Maps. These estimates do not account for meal breaks, restroom stops, fuel stops, or unplanned detours—like when we pulled over to check out something interesting along the way.

Week 0: Prepping, Loading and Logan’s 10th Birthday

The week leading up to our departure was nothing short of hectic. Between hosting Logan’s 10th birthday party with friends and family, deep-cleaning and purging the house to prepare it for renters, and organizing everything we needed to bring along, it sometimes felt like we’d never hit the road. But, as always, we thrive under pressure—especially with a hard deadline. Our renters were moving in on Sunday, July 14th, just one day before our scheduled departure. Talk about cutting it close!

For many, the planning phase of a road trip is the most exciting part. To map out our travel route, book campgrounds, and plan activities, we relied on some key tools and resources such as RV Trip Wizard to make the process smoother.

Note :The driving distances and durations listed below are estimates between campgrounds or stops, as calculated by the RV Trip Wizard tool or Google Maps. These estimates do not account for meal breaks, restroom stops, fuel stops, or unplanned detours—like when we pulled over to check out something interesting along the way.

Week 1: Easing Into the Journey – A Humble Start to Our Epic Adventure

Day 1: Packing, Lunch, and Long First Day (Jul 13)

Austin to Shreveport KOA, LA – 316 miles, 5 hours.
As always, final packing took longer than expected—but at least we didn’t have a flight to catch! With our bellies happily full from a delicious send-off meal at Thao’s parents’ house, we finally hit the road. Our late start meant a very late arrival at the Shreveport / Bossier City KOA, pulling in around 10 p.m. for a quick overnight stop. Could we have skipped the Buc-ee’s pit stop near Dallas? Maybe. But let’s be honest—who actually drives past Buc-ee’s without stopping?

By the time we arrived, all the regular campsites were taken, so we had to settle for an overflow spot. Backing up a 28-foot trailer in the dark? Let’s just say it’s not our favorite way to start an adventure. But we made it work and got some much-needed rest before hitting the road again the next day.

Days 2-5: Mooch-docking with Friends and Outdoor Water Play (Jul 14 – Jul 17)

Shreveport KOA, LA to Madison, MS – 235 miles, 3.5 hours.
Our slow start to RV life turned into a highlight of the trip as we spent three days mooch-docking at our friends’ house in Madison, Mississippi. Their driveway became our campsite, and their home became a hub of fun and connection.

From shared meals and endless catching up to outdoor adventures, the days flew by. We explored the Mississippi Children’s Museum and LeFleur’s Bluff Playground in Jackson, where the kids unleashed their creativity and energy. Afternoons were spent relaxing by the pool or hitting the water for some boating and tubing on their community lake. This is mooch-docking at it’s finest!

Week 1.5: Tennessee & Virginia

Days 5-8: American Civil War Historical Sites and Outdoor Attractions in Chattanooga, TN (Jul 17 – Jul 20)

Madison, MS to Raccoon Mountains Cavern & Campgrounds, Chattanooga, TN – 399 miles, 5.5 hours.

Leaving our friends’ place around noon, we hit the road for our next stop in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Along the way, we stumbled upon some unexpected gems, like the Statue of Liberty replica in Vestavia Hills, Alabama—a perfect place to stretch our legs and snap a quick photo. Dinner was a scenic break at Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden, AL, where we soaked in the beautiful waterfall views before continuing on. After another long drive, we arrived at Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground just before midnight (yes, we’re getting good at these late check-ins!).

Chattanooga didn’t disappoint. We dove into history at Lookout Mountain Battlefield – Point Park, learning about the Battles for Chattanooga during the American Civil War. For outdoor enthusiasts like us, the city was
a treasure trove of experiences. Ruby Falls dazzled us with a 90-foot underground cascading waterfall and its stunning light show. We ascended Lookout Mountain on the historic Funicular Railway at the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, marveling at its impressive 72.7% grade and breathtaking views. And, of course, we couldn’t miss Rock City Gardens, a natural wonder with massive ancient rock formations and the iconic Lover’s Leap, where you can see seven states on a clear day.

We balanced adventure with relaxation, spending time at Coolidge Park and strolling across the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge. At 2,376 feet, it’s one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges and a piece of history, dating back to 1890.

After checking out of our campground site, we decided to extend our time in Chattanooga by a few more hours. The kids had a blast at the Creative Discovery Museum, and we even capped off our visit with a memorable glass-blowing experience at Ignis Glass Studio. In just three days, we covered so much ground, making Chattanooga a perfect blend of history, adventure, and family fun.

Days 8-9: Natural Bridge State Park and Junior Ranger Badge (Jul 20 – Jul 21)

Chattanooga, TN to Lexington Natural Bridge KOA, VA – 402 miles, 6 hours.
Another day, another late campground check-in—this time just before midnight at the Natural Bridge / Lexington KOA. By now, late arrivals were becoming a theme, but we were getting the hang of setting up in the dark!

The next morning we did an easy and scenic hike thru the lush forests and rolling meadows at Natural Bridge State Park. At the center of the park, the 200-foot tall Natural Bridge sits in a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. Quite awesome natural wonder!

To top off the experience, the kids were thrilled to earn another Junior Ranger Badge, adding to their growing collection

Day 9-10: Double Feature at the Largest Outdoor Drive-in Movie Theatre in the U.S. (Jul 21 – Jul 22)

Natural Bridge/Lexington KOA, VA to Bengies Drive-in, Middle River, MD – 251 miles, 4 hours.

Our next stop was a unique one—our first Harvest Host stay at Bengies Drive-In Theater, located in Middle River, Maryland, just outside Baltimore. I believe Bengies has the largest outdoor movie screen in the U.S., measuring an impressive 52 feet high by 120 feet wide (a whopping 6,240 square feet!).

We finally got to make full use of our Airstream’s rear hatch by opening it up, pulling down the bug screen, and settling in for a cozy double feature. From the comfort of our Airstream, we enjoyed Despicable Me 4 and Twisters under the stars.

The summer heat and humidity made things a bit toasty since we weren’t hooked up to shore power and couldn’t run the AC. But no worries—we rolled out our trusty battery-powered USB fans, which helped keep things somewhat comfortable.

Week 2: NYC Adventures and Legoland New York

Days 10-14: Jersey City Home Base While Exploring New York City (Jul 22 – Jul 26)

Middle River, MD to Jersey City, NJ – 160 miles, 3 hours
We arrived at Liberty Harbor RV Park at 4 p.m. EST—early for once! This campground is the closest RV park to NYC, making it an ideal home base for exploring the city. Its convenient location meant just a 15-minute walk to the nearest subway station or a quick 7-minute bike ride to the ferry.

Our first evening in the city began with an impromptu adventure to Times Square via subway. Feeling a bit lost, we were grateful when a random kind gentleman we met while purchasing our subway ticket helped us navigate the subway route—and even accompanied our family until our final train connection.

Over the next few days, we packed in as much as possible. We explored Ellis Island and learned about the history of immigration, stood in awe of the Statue of Liberty, and soaked in stunning 360-degree views of NYC and Jersey City from the sky deck at Edge NYC at Hudson Yards. For the first two days, we traveled into Manhattan by subway but later discovered the ferry as a scenic and bike-friendly option.

We also visited the 9/11 Memorial, shopped the Lego Store by the Rockefeller Center, and enjoyed a family picnic in Central Park. The kids especially loved the incredible playscapes in Central Park and Battery Park, both of which lived up to NYC’s reputation for world-class green spaces. The Heckscher Playground next to Umpire Rock was a top favorite–it is the oldest playground in Central Park, it is also the largest at almost two acres. The water fixture running throughout the playscape and giant rocks for climbing was super fun.

For me, the highlight was biking across both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. The inclines were just challenging enough to keep it exciting. The kids confidently led the way, and Thao (Mom) powered through like a champ—just a couple of minutes behind us!

Along the way, we stopped to enjoy the sports courts at Pier 2 and playgrounds at Pier 6 where kids can climb up and go down the Slide Mountain, jumped in Sandbox Village to play in one of the largest sandboxes, and swing adventure at Swing Valley! And if that wasn’t enough, they got to cool down with water features in the Water Lab!

We capped off this adventure-filled day with a delicious dinner in Little Italy which included La Nonna and gelato at Ferrara Bakery, a well-deserved treat after conquering the Manhattan Bridge on our way back.

Day 14-17: Legoland and Florida, NY (July 26 – July 29)

Jersey City to Florida NY – 62 miles, 1.25 hours.
After a late final night in NYC, we departed Jersey City mid-morning at 11 a.m., heading toward Legoland in Goshen, NY. On the way, we made an impromptu stop at Woodbury Common Premium Outlet for lunch—those large parking spots are a win for RV travelers! By the time we arrived at Legoland around 1 p.m., we still managed to conquer most of the rides and attractions the kids were excited about before the park closed at 6 p.m.

That evening, we checked in to Black Bear RV Park in Florida, NY. It was a quiet spot to enjoy dinner, relax, and recharge for our next adventure to Boston. Or so we thought…

The morning of Day 15 (Saturday, July 27) threw us a major curveball. Our trusty Ford F-250 decided it had other plans. It quickly became clear that the truck wasn’t in a condition to keep going, derailing our carefully planned RV itinerary. Sad. We spent the next few hours on the phone with our insurance company, coordinating towing arrangements and finding a dealership for repairs. Eventually, our truck was towed to Sunshine Ford in Newburgh, NY, while our Airstream was returned to Black Bear Campground. Let’s just say we unlocked a new fear and learned a few valuable lessons—but I’ll save those details for another post.

Despite the hiccup, our adventure didn’t come to a halt. We made the most of the extra day at the campground, exploring the Main Street in the charming small town of Florida, NY, on our bikes. The boys made fast friends with some other kids at the campground, and they spent the evening playing outdoors with glow sticks and catching fireflies.

Week 3: Boston and Visiting Family

Days 17-23: Wonderful Family Time, Museums and Parks (Jul 29 – Aug 04)

Florida, NY to Abington, MA – 239 miles, 4.5 hours

The morning of Day 17 saw us back on the road, this time in a rental car, determined to stick to our plans and reach Boston. “Sometimes, it’s the detours that make the journey unforgettable”—at least that’s what I kept reminding myself!

For this leg of our adventure, we stayed with our aunt and uncle, along with our two cousins and their fluffy white cat, in the suburbs of Boston. It had been nine years since our last visit, so it was a perfect time to relax, enjoy home-cooked meals, and reconnect with family. There was plenty of creative art time for the kids, too, and of course, lots of exploring around the Boston area.

We visited the Boston Children’s Museum, which the kid hit up most things they wanted to in 2-hours. We stopped by The Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum but did not participate in the tour. For a quick lunch bite, we stopped by James Hook & Co for lobster rolls. I know it’s been 9 years since we visited the New England area but what a sticker shock at $40 for one lobster roll! We also discovered Martin’s Park, a wonderful playscape built in memory of an 8-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in the Boston Marathon bombing.

True to form, we couldn’t resist exploring Boston by bike. On the next day, the kids rode their bikes while we rented e-bikes (the adult bikes couldn’t squeeze into our rental Jeep), making it easy to cover more ground. One of our favorite stops was the Boston Naval Yard, where we explored all three levels of the historic U.S.S. Constitution. The Boston Museum of Science was a highlight of the week for the kids, especially the interactive engineering exhibits and the electrifying electricity show—they loved it so much, we went twice!

Day 22 marked our last day in Boston, and we made it count. We started with a homemade Pho Ga brunch, a comforting way to fuel up for the day. Touring Boston with our family who lives in the area, we strolled through Boston Common–America’s oldest park, wandered around a bustling farmers market, and indulged in desserts at Lady M Cake Boutique on Newbury Street.

One short but memorable stop was the Boston Public Library, where we marveled at its massive halls and beautiful architecture. Logan even checked out a Spy School book during our visit! Afterward, we cooled off at the Prudential Mall area before hopping on the Green Line subway to cap the day with sushi at a local dinner spot.

Week 4: Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

Days 23-26: Hiking, Scenic Views and More Lobsters (Aug 04 – Aug 07)

Abington, MA to Bar Harbor, ME – 290 miles, 5.5 hours.

Our original plan was to make our way to Acadia National Park with a Harvest Host overnight stay, a visit to Portland, ME, and two nights at Sherwood Forest Campsite before settling into the Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA Holiday. Unfortunately, none of that was possible without our Airstream in tow.

Original Plan:

Days 19-20: Old Orchard Beach, ME – 137 miles. Portland’s seafood scene.
Days 20-23: Sherwood Forest Campsite – 65 miles. Beach and lighthouses.
Days 23-28: Five days exploring Acadia National Park.

On Sunday, August 4 (Day 23), we packed everything into our rental Jeep, including the kids’ bikes, and set off for Acadia National Park.

We drove 2.5 hours to Portland, Maine for lunch and lobster rolls at Luke’s Lobster right by the marina. After our bellies we’re full with lobsters, we made our way to Bar Harbor, ME that evening.

After a short-lived Airbnb stay (a story for another time!), we scrambled to find accommodations and managed a last-minute booking at a nearby hotel for three nights. Despite the unexpected changes, we made the most of our time exploring Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor.

In just two full days, we covered many of Acadia’s iconic hiking trails and scenic spots. We tackled the thrilling Beehive Loop Trail, a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the coastline, and strolled around Jordan Pond, famous for its crystal-clear waters and the Bubble Mountains in the background. We marveled at sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the US., admired the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and biked along the picturesque Carriage Roads, a network of well-maintained gravel paths designed by John D. Rockefeller Jr.

Originally, we had planned four full days in the Acadia National Park area, but limited hotel availability (and high prices) meant we had to cut our visit short. On our final morning, we had planned to cross the sandbar to Bar Island during low tide, but unfortunately, we missed the timing. Instead, we enjoyed a relaxing picnic at Agamont Park, a charming spot in downtown Bar Harbor with beautiful views of the harbor, before heading out to our next destination.

That evening, we enjoyed dinner at The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, perfectly timed with a stunning sunset over the ocean. Afterward, we drove another two hours to check into our hotel in North Conway, NH

Week 5: New Hampshire & White Mountains

Days 27-30: North Conway, Franconia and Saco River (Aug 07 – Aug 11)

Bar Harbor, ME to Twin Mountain, NH – 234 miles, 4.75 hours.

Without our Airstream Trailer, we had to adjust our original plans and opt for a hotel stay in North Conway, NH, instead of the Twin Mountain / Mt. Washington KOA campground for this leg of the trip.

During our first few days in New Hampshire, we found ourselves zipping back and forth between North Conway, Franconia Notch State Park, and Crawford Notch State Park. One of the most random and fun discoveries was the Saco River. We spotted it from the side of the road, pulled over, and let the kids splash and play in its crystal-clear waters—a simple yet memorable moment.

I highly recommend Echo Lake Beach at Franconia Notch State Park (not to be confused with Echo Lake State Park in North Conway). It’s an easy spot for water and sand play that’s perfect for families. Bring a shovel and bucket for the kids! Kayak rentals are available if the weather isn’t too windy, making it a great way to enjoy the lake.

We also visited the Willey House Historical Site, where we learned about the area’s tragic history, and stopped by the nearby Crawford Depot, a historic passenger train station surrounded by beautiful views.

Of course, we couldn’t miss driving the famous Kancamagus Highway, a scenic route known for its incredible views and access to multiple hiking and waterfall trails, including the Sabbaday Brook Trail and Sabbaday Falls. We would love to return during peak fall foliage to fully appreciate the vibrant autumn colors some day.

Day 30-32: Lincoln, Mt. Washington, Downhill MTB (Aug 11 – Aug 13)

North Conway, NH to Lincoln, NH – 41 miles, 1 hour.
We checked into another hotel in Lincoln, NH for the second part of our New Hampshire adventures. Loon Mountain Bike Park was just minutes away. This made it easy to get to our morning lessons on time without the early wake-ups to drive an hour. Spending a full day at Loon Mountain for downhill mountain biking was filled with adrenaline and super fun!

The next day, we rode the iconic Mount Washington Cog Railway, an incredible experience that offers a choice between the historic steam engine or a modern biodiesel train to reach the summit of Mount Washington. The views along the way and at the top were breathtaking. Don’t forget to bring a warm coat or thick sweater as the temperature drops massively even on a hot summer day! After our ride, we stopped by the nearby Mt. Washington Hotel & Resort for a relaxing lunch and refreshments in a stunning historic setting.

Week 6: The Adirondacks

Days 32-36: Airstream Pickup, Flat RV Tire, Olympic Museum (Aug 13 – Aug 17)

Lincoln NH to Lake Placid, NY – 165 miles.
Lincoln, NH to Abington, MA – 152 miles, 2.75 hours.
Florida, NY to Lake Placid KOA, Wilmington, NY – 250 miles, 4.5 hours.

Our next destination was Lake Placid, NY—but first, we had some logistics to tackle! On the morning of Day 32, we checked out of our hotel in Lincoln, NH, and headed back to Abington, MA, to gather our belongings from our relatives’ house (with a quick visit to the John Adams Historical House). After resting for the night, Day 33 was all about retrieving our Ford F-250 and Airstream.

We picked up our fixed-up truck from Sunshine Ford in Newburgh, NY, then drove to Florida, NY, to collect our Airstream. By 7 p.m., we were back on the road, headed toward the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA. But the road had other plans for us!

The Bike Mishap
About 10 minutes after leaving the campground, a kind lady at a red light flagged us down to let us know Thao’s bike had fallen off the back about a mile away near a farm. It was raining so I guess we didn’t hear it fall off! We circled back with the Airstream in tow and parked at a nearby church. I began running to retrieve the bike when a generous couple offered to drive it back to us, saving me a long trek on foot.

The TPMS Alert!
As if one mishap wasn’t enough, around 1 a.m., our TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) alerted us to a drop in the Airstream’s tire pressure—down to 40 PSI from the usual 65–75 PSI. We pulled over just 4 miles from our campground to find a nail-sized puncture in the tire. Swapping it for the spare was a first for me, turning it into a late-night learning experience.

Once the chaos settled, we finally reached our campground and caught some much-needed rest.

Exploring Lake Placid
The following day, we visited the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, where we immersed ourselves in the history of the Winter Olympics, from famous athletes to iconic moments. We also explored The Wild Center, a unique museum in Tupper Lake that combines nature exhibits with interactive trails. Kids had the most fun with the Ball Run.

Day 36-37: The Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks (Aug 17 – Aug 18)

Lake Placid KOA, Wilmington, NY to Ausable Chasm, NY – 25 miles.

We were super excited about our next adventure in the Adirondacks. On this morning, we drove our Airstream straight to Ausable Chasm, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” The scenic canyon activities, guided tours, and cliffside hikes are totally worth it. The highlight of the day for Logan and I was the Rope Adventure Course, a guided rappelling experience that took us over the chasm and along the river. It was an adrenaline-packed activity that gave us a unique perspective of the canyon’s breathtaking beauty.

After an exciting day at Ausable Chasm, we checked into the Ausable Chasm Campground, conveniently located just two minutes away. We capped off the evening by grilling burgers, enjoying live music, and soaking in the lively yet peaceful campground atmosphere before calling it a night.

Days 37-40: Adventure Courses, Museums, Forts, and Farms (Aug 18 – Aug 21)

Ausable Chasm, NY to Rancho Pines Campground, Chestertown, NY – 71 miles.

The Rancho Pines Campground, nestled along the Schroon River in the heart of the Adirondacks in Chestertown, NY, became our home base for several days. From here, we explored a variety of attractions, including the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, the Adirondack Experience: Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, Fort Ticonderoga, and even ventured into Vermont.

Rancho Pines Campground

The kids were very much looking forward to the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course since we started this trip. The Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is a treetop experience featuring zip lines, rope bridges, and other high-flying challenges. I love that it has courses designed for two age groups: 6+ and 9+ years old. Both our boys, aged 10 and 8, were able to enjoy the courses together, while our 10-year-old joined me for the more advanced challenges

We spent Day 38 diving into the rich history and culture of the Adirondack Experience: The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. Plenty of hands-on activities , historical exhibits, and stunning views of Blue Mountain Lake, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area. Unfortunately, the rain kept us from enjoying some outdoor activities like canoeing on the lake, but the museum itself was entertaining and informative nonetheless.

Mishap at Rancho Pines Campground
When we returned to the campground, I noticed something odd about our Airstream awning—or rather, our 8-year-old noticed. “Uhm, Dad, I think there is something going on with the awning,” he said nonchalantly. I looked up and immediately thought, “Oh sh*t.” I had left the awning halfway out and untilted, and the sudden heavy rain created a puddle that weighed it down significantly. Another lesson learned: always retract or tilt the awning when expecting rain!

Day 39: Pencils, History, and Farms. We visited the Ticonderoga Pencil Museum, For Ticonderoga, and drove our Truck onto a ferry to visit Vermont.

Our next day started with a quirky stop at the Ticonderoga Pencil Museum, where we learned the fascinating history behind one of the world’s most iconic writing tools, produced right here in Ticonderoga, NY. It was a quick but interesting visit that left us appreciating the humble pencil a little more.

Afterward, we visited Fort Ticonderoga, a historic site that transported us back to the Revolutionary War era. The interactive exhibits and reenactments made history come alive, and the breathtaking views of Lake Champlain added to the experience. The kids especially enjoyed navigating the Corn Maze, a fun addition to the historic site.

Later, we crossed Lake Champlain on the Ticonderoga Ferry to visit Daona Farm, an American Wagyu beef farm. The lovely owner gave us a personal tour, sharing her expertise and passion for sustainable farming. It was both educational and inspiring—a unique way to end the day.

Both Vermont and New York are famous for their maple syrup, and Landon, a true maple syrup enthusiast, took full advantage. During our time in the region, he built up an impressive collection, including maple candy, maple cotton candy, and both dark and medium maple syrup. Let’s just say we’ll be well-stocked for breakfasts for a while!

Week 7: Upstate New York and Niagara Falls

Days 40-43: Mooch-Docking, Disc Golf, Soccer (Aug 21 – Aug 24)

Rancho Pines Campground, NY to Binghamton, NY – 203 miles.

We spent the next three days mooch-docking at our friends’ house in Binghamton, NY. Their driveway became our little campsite, much like the mooch-docking we did in Madison, MS at the very beginning of our trip. It is a nice change to just hang out and enjoy time with friends after previous week’s adventures and thousands of miles on the road.

We did a mix of things—played some disc golf and hit up a brewery nearby, and then just relaxed at their place. The kids biked around the neighborhood, took turns playing VR games, swimming in the pool, and even sharing each other’s piano musical talent. Of course, we wrapped up one of the evening at the firepit with s’mores, which is basically mandatory at this point!

On the last morning, the kids had this big idea to play a soccer game—parents vs. kids. They’d been talking about it the night before, and there was no way we were getting out of it. It ended up being such a fun way to end our stay, with lots of laughs and some pretty competitive moves on both sides!

Days 43-45: Lake Cabin with Friends and Hometown Memories (Aug 24 – Aug 26)

Binghamton, NY to Canandaigua / Rochester KOA – 141 miles, 2.5 hours

One of the highlights I was looking forward to on this trip was reconnecting with my childhood best friend, Jon. We went to Francis Parker Elementary School #23 together in Rochester, NY, from 3rd to 6th grade. We met up at his family’s cabin on Lake Canandaigua, along with his wife and their two boys. To make it even more special, I got to see his mom, who I have so many fond memories of from my childhood. The next day, we invited them to hang out with us at Canandaigua / Rochester KOA, where the fun continued.

After saying goodbye to our friends, we spent the afternoon driving to Rochester, NY. I took the opportunity to pass by the homes I grew up in as a kid, which brought back so many memories. We also visited the schools I attended—Francis Parker Elementary and Cosgrove Middle School—and took a drive through downtown Rochester. It was nostalgic to spot Kodak, where my grandfather used to work, and relive little pieces of my childhood through the city’s streets.

Although we didn’t have time to explore everything Rochester has to offer, the visit was meaningful for me. We managed a brief walk down Park Avenue, soaking in its charm, and wrapped up the evening with dinner at Roux, a French restaurant that served as the perfect way to end the day.

Days 45-48: Niagara Falls, Clifton Hill and Laser Tag (Aug 26 – Aug 29)

Canandaigua / Rochester KOA to HTR Niagara Campground & Resort, Grand Island, NY – 93 miles, 1.5 hours

Day 45: Scenic Farmland Drive to Niagara Falls
On the morning of Day 45, we checked out of our campground in Canandaigua / Rochester and drove through miles of scenic farmland on our way to Niagara Falls. Along the way, we hoped to visit one of the area’s alpaca farms but couldn’t secure a last-minute tour. However, we did stumble upon the Alpine Adventure Zone Natural Playground in Spencerport, just outside of Rochester, NY. We love the freedom to find gems like this playground on the road which gave the kids a chance to stretch their legs and have some fun.

We arrived at Niagra Falls HTR around 4pm! It felt so good to finally arrive early. The kids quickly started exploring the campground on their bikes and also rented one of those 2/4 seater pedal bikes which was a free perk at this campground.

Day 46: Exploring Niagara Falls
Our Niagara Falls adventure began with the iconic Maid of the Mist boat ride, where we experienced the thundering falls up close. We then ventured into the Cave of the Winds, an exhilarating walk right below the falls. We further explored the American side of Niagara Falls, including the Niagara Falls Observation Tower extending far out into the Niagara Gorge providing breathtaking views of all 3 falls and the Niagara River.

Later, we crossed into Canada to see the falls from a different perspective. The views from the Canadian side were incredible, and we topped it off with a visit to the Skylon Tower, where we enjoyed panoramic vistas of the falls, the surrounding gorge, and the city skyline from high above.

Day 47: Campground Fun and Clifton Hill
On our last full day, we decided to enjoy the amenities at the campground. The kids had a blast playing a few rounds of outdoor laser tag and joined other campground kids in multiple games of GaGa Ball. In the late afternoon, we headed to Clifton Hill for some fun by the falls. Clifton hill is a very vibrant area filled with attractions, restaurants, and shopping. You could easily spend a day given all the attractions but we enjoyed the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum, and Zombie Attack in particular. Of course, the highlight of the night was the Niagara Falls Fireworks and illumination show. Watching the fireworks over the lit-up American Falls was the perfect way to end our Niagara Falls adventure.

Week 8: Mid-West Route Home-Ohio, Lousiville, and Memphis

Days 48-49: Quick visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Aug 29 – Aug 30)

HTR Niagra to Sunbury / Columbus North KOA, OH – 317 miles, 5.25 hours

Day 48 was yet another long travel day. We took breaks along the way, including a brief stop at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Unfortunately, we arrived after the park had closed, so we only had time to walk near the entrance and browse the gift shop before continuing our journey.

We arrived at Sunbury / Columbus North KOA at 9pm, ready to rest for the night after a long day on the road.

Days 49-50: Airstream Factory Tour and Terraport Campground (Aug 30 – Aug 31)

Sunbury / Columbus North KOA to Airstream Factory Terraport – 76 miles, 1.5 hours

Day 49: Nearly Missed The Airstream Factory Tour
One of the experiences I was most excited about on this trip was the Airstream Factory Tour at the Airstream Mothership in Jackson Center, Ohio. We had scheduled it months in advance, and the on-site Terraport Campground next to the Airstream Service Center, with full hookups for just $20/night, made for an inexpensive and convenient stay.

We almost missed our scheduled Friday 1 p.m. tour! We pulled into the campground at 12:40 p.m., thinking the tour was at the same location, only to realize it was about a mile away. By 12:53 p.m., I was frantically unhitching the trailer—probably the fastest I’ve ever done it—and we made it to the tour doors just in time at 12:58 p.m.

The tour itself was amazing, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at how Airstream travel trailers are crafted. That evening, we relaxed back at the Terraport, cooking steak and salmon on the grill for dinner.

Days 50-52: Louisville, KY & Churchill Downs – Kentucky Derby (Aug 31 – Sep 02)

Airstream Factory Terraport to Grandma’s RV Park, Louisville, KY – 147 miles, 2.5 hours.
Day 50 started with an unexpected hiccup: our truck battery was completely dead. After an unsuccessful attempt with a neighbor’s jump starter, Logan and I biked to a nearby NAPA Auto Parts, just half a mile away. They had one battery in stock and quickly sourced another from a nearby city.

The staff went above and beyond—Danny delivered the battery to our campsite, while William and Spencer came out to help us install it. While I could have replaced it myself, they were so quick and kind that we were back on the road faster than expected. What a fantastic crew!

We originally planned to visit the ARK experience on our way to Lousiville but decided to skip it. We did stop for a dinner break at William Arnold Log House in Williamstown, Kentucky, an authentic early 1800s log cabin. We arrived at Grandma’s RV Park in Louisville at 9:15 p.m. Note: the campground had strict rules—no bicycles, hoverboards, or scooters were allowed.

Day 51: Churchill Downs
The next morning, we started our day exploring a nearby flea market before heading to the iconic Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. It was fascinating to walk the grounds and imagine the historic horse races that take place there.

Later, we visited the Big Four Bridge and Waterfront Park, where the kids enjoyed the playground and we crossed the pedestrian bridge for scenic views of the river and city as it connects Kentucky to Indiana.

Days 52-54: Lincoln Birth Place Historical National, Mammoth Cave, Jellystone (Sep 02 – Sep 04)

Louisville, KY to Jellystone Mammoth Cave, KY – 97 miles, 1.5 hours.

Day 52: Abraham Lincoln Birthplace and Mammoth Cave Jellystone

We checked out of Grandma’s RV Park and made a stop at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. The kids were excited to earn their next Junior Ranger badge, but this one took longer than previous ones, so we took a lunch break before they completed the requirements.

We arrived at Jellystone at Mammoth Cave in the late afternoon, and the kids immediately went off to explore the campground on their own—they love that independence! While they roamed, we restocked groceries at a nearby DG Market, then grilled burgers and pork chops for dinner, accompanied by a hearty soup.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Day 53: Mammoth Cave Tour
We spent the day exploring Mammoth Cave National Park, where we joined the Domes and Dripstones Tour, which included the famous Frozen Niagara.

Days 54-56: Memphis and National Civil Rights Museum (Sep 4 – Sep 6)

Jellystone Mammoth Cave to T.O. Fuller State Park, Memphis, TN – 319 miles, 5 hours.

Day 54 was another long driving day as we made our way to T.O. Fuller State Park, Memphis TN.
Along the way, we made a pit stop at a Tennessee Buc-ee’s for snacks and, of course, the world’s cleanest restrooms.

Just when we thought we were in the clear, disaster struck—a loud pop at 65 mph on the highway told us one of our Airstream tires had blown. Thankfully, we were able to safely pull over onto the shoulder. It turned out to be the front passenger-side tire. Having already changed an Airstream tire earlier on this trip, I am now considered a pro but it was nerve-wracking with trucks whizzing by at 70+ mph.

Once we were back on the road, Thao called around to find a tire place that has at least 4 set of tires we needed in stock, given that we are now out of spare tires. We found a Discount Tire in Southaven, MS and scheduled to come by for a replacement the next morning.

We made a quick dinner stop at a Love’s Truck Stop, stocked up on water and rice at Costco, and finally arrived at T.O. Fuller State Park after 9 p.m. Backing into the campsite in the dark was, as always, a challenge, but we managed.

Day 55: Fresh Airstream Tires and National Civil Rights Museum
We started our morning by towing our Airstream to Discount Tire where they replaced all 4 tires for us on the Airstream. Our Stella got 4 brand new Good Year Endurance ST225 /75 R15 tires. We felt so much more at peace for final leg of our trip home. With fresh rubber on the road, we decided to relocate to Jellystone Horn Lake MS, which offered laundry facilities and was closer to the attractions we wanted to visit.

While we initially planned to visit Elvis Presley’s Graceland, we realized we wouldn’t have enough time to fully enjoy it. Instead, we headed to the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on the balcony of Room 306. The museum provided a powerful and educational experience, teaching the kids about slavery in America and the Civil Rights Movement.

To wrap up the day, we enjoyed delicious fried chicken dinner at Hattie B’s, a perfect ending to a busy and meaningful day.

Day 56-57: One Last Overnight Stop (Sep 6 – Sep 7)

Jellystone, Horn Lake, MS to Dallas Northeast Campground, Caddo Mills, TX (429 miles, 6.5 hours)

Day 56 was yet another long and grueling driving day. We made a quick stop at Hot Springs National Park Visitor, where we ate lunch in our Airstream and refilled our water jugs with hot spring water before continuing. Having visited Hot Springs twice before, we didn’t spend much time there this trip and were ready to move on.

Originally, we had planned to stay overnight at a campground near Paris, TX. However, we decided to push a bit further to shorten our driving time the next morning. Our final overnight campground stay before returning to Austin was at Dallas Northeast Campground in Caddo Mills, TX.

Day 57 – 58: Back in Austin, But Not Yet Home (Sep 7 – Sep 8)

Caddo Mills, TX to Austin – 291 miles, 3.5 hours
Finally, the homestretch! We had a deadline to make it back to Austin in time for Logan’s first soccer game of the season. Driving straight to the soccer field, we made it just in time for his 2 p.m. game!

Even though we were back in Austin, we weren’t quite ready to head home yet. Logan’s friend was celebrating her birthday with a campout at McKinney Falls State Park, so after the soccer game, we drove straight to the park and spent one more night camping—this time just minutes from home.

The next morning, after one final dump stop, we drove back to our sticks-and-bricks home, officially concluding our epic summer RV adventure!

Original Travel and Campground Plan

Day# / Date / Driving Distance & Duration	Stays – Check-in / Check-out	Activity Summary
Day 1-2 Sat, Jul 13 (1 night) 316 mi / 5.0 hrs	Home in Austin to Shreveport KOA	Final packing and 1-night rest
Day 2-5 Sun, Jul 14 (3 nights) 235 mi / 3.5 hrs	Friends Mooch-docking – L & J Fam (Madison, MS)	Hanging out with friend, cooking, Children’s Museum, boating & tubing
Day 5-8 Wed, Jul 17 (3 nights) 399 mi / 5.5 hrs	Raccoon Mountains Cavern & Campgrounds	Incline Railway, Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens, Coolidge Park & Pedestrian Bridge
Day 8-9 Sun, Jul 20 (1 night) 402 mi / 6 hrs	Natural Bridge / Lexington KOA – Virginia	Very late check-in, sleep. Hiked Natural Bridge State Park in morning
Day 9-10 Sun, Jul 21 (1 night) 251 mi / 4 hrs	Bengies Drive-in Movie Theater (Harvest Host)	Boondocked while watching Despicable Me 4 and Twisters
Day 10-14 Mon, Jul 22 (4 nights) 160 mi / 3 hrs	Liberty Harbor RV Park – Jersey	Stayed in Jersey; Adventured to NYC via subway, ferries and biking; City parks, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, 360 View of NYC @ Edge Hudson Yards,
Day 14-15 Fri, Jul 26 (1 night) 62 mi / 1.25 hrs	Black Bear RV Park, Florida NY	Legoland New York
Day 15-19 Sat, Jul 27 (4 nights) 239 mi / 4.5 hrs	Family Moochdocking – Abington, MA	Catching up with family & home cooking, Boston Museum of Science, Boston Library,
Day 19-20 Wed, Jul 31 (1 night) 137 mi / 2.5 hrs	Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach Campground	Portland, Lobsters
Day 20-21 Thu, Aug 01 (1 night) 136 mi / 2.5 hrs	Orchard Ridge Farm (Harvest Host)	Boondocking farm, Portland
Day 21-23 Fri, Aug 02 (2 nights) 65 mi / 1.5 hrs	Sherwood Forest Campsite & Cabins	Lighthouse, Beach
Day 23-28 Sun, Aug 04 (5 nights) 118 mi / 3.0 hrs	Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA	Acadia National Park
Day 28-33 Fri, Aug 09 (5 nights) 234 mi / 4.75 hrs	Twin Mountain / Mt. Washington KOA	Mt. Washington Cog Ralway, Echo Lake, Loon Mtn MTB, Kangcamagus Highway, Flume Gorge
Day 33-36 Fri, Aug 14 (3 nights) 165 mi / 3.5 hrs	Lake Placid/Whiteface Mtn. KOA	The Wild Center, Olympic Museum
Day 36-37 Sat, Aug 17 (1 night) 25 mi / 0.75 hrs	Ausable Chasm Campground	Ausable Chasm
Day 37-40 Sun, Aug 18 (3 nights) 71 mi / 1.25 hrs	Rancho Pines Campground	Adirondack Extreme Adventure course, Adirondack Experience: The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake, Fort Ticonderoga, FortTiFerry
Day 40-43 Wed, Aug 21 (3 nights) 203 mi / 3.5 hrs	Moochdock – Q & J Fam	Catching up with friends, Disc Golf, Parents vs Kids Soccer, Backyard swimming pool, S’mores
Day 43-45 Sat, Aug 24 (2 nights) 141 mi / 2.5 hrs	Canadaigua / Rochester KOA	Hung out with friends J & N Fam at their lake cabin; hung out at our KOA campground; visited Rochester, NY
Day 45-48 Mon, Aug 26 (3 nights) 93 mi / 1.45 hrs	HTR Niagra	Niagra Falls, laser tag at campground, fun at Clifton Hill
Day 48-49 Thu, Aug 29 (1 night) 317 mi / 5.25 hrs	Sunbury Columbus North KOA	Cuyahoga Valley NP quick visit, 1 night rest at KOA
Day 49-50 Fri, Aug 30 (1 night) 76 mi / 1.5 hrs	Airstream Factory Terraport, Jackson Center OH	Airstream Factory Travel Trailer Tour on Friday
Day 50-52 Sat, Aug 31 (2 night)s 147 mi / 2.5 hrs	Grandma’s RV Park	Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby Track),
Day 52-54 Mon, Sep 02 (2 nights) 97 mi / 1.5 hrs	Jellystone Mammoth Cave	Abe Lincoln Nat’l Historical Park, Mammoth Cave National Park
Day 54-56 Wed, Sep 04 (2 nights) 319 mi / 5.0 hrs	T.O. Fuller State Park	National Civil Rights Museum, Lorraine Motel where MLK was assassinated.
Day 56-57 Fri, Sep 06 (1 night) 365 mi / 5.5 hrs	Paris, TX	Rest at campground
Day 57 Sat, Sep 07 291 mi / 4.5 hrs	Home in Austin	Logan’s first Soccer game (U11)

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