After some time at home for a conference, we were back on the road again the second week of March. We headed down to southern Illinois for just under two weeks. Last year we started our full-time travelling in southern IL because we wanted to see spring ephemerals. We should…
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Trip Recap: 2 Weeks in the Missouri Ozarks
We spent most of the winter at our home base in the Chicago suburbs and by mid-February we were itching to get back on the road. We had a conference back home the first weekend of March, so we couldn’t go too far, but we wanted to at least spend…
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Uncovering the Secrets of the Manhattan Project in Oak Ridge, TN
Our visit to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, was like stepping into a hidden chapter of American history. Known as the “Secret City” during the Manhattan Project, Oak Ridge played a pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb, and today, it offers a unique glimpse into its mysterious past. We…
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Driving the Natchez Trace Parkway: A Complete Guide to Mile Markers 261–320
The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the South, and the stretch between Tupelo, Mississippi, and Cherokee, Alabama, is packed with history, nature, and some unexpected hidden gems. Over the course of three days, we explored this 59-mile section while camping at Tishomingo State Park,…
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Norris Dam State Park Camping Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Norris Dam State Park turned out to be the perfect home base for our 2 week stay in November. We camped in the East Campground, enjoying crisp fall weather while exploring nearby Oak Ridge and Knoxville. With miles of trails, a scenic lake, and plenty of history, this park has…
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Visiting the National Arboretum: Everything You Need to Know
Washington, D.C., is packed with famous landmarks, but one of its most beautiful spots often flies under the radar- the U.S. National Arboretum. This massive, 446-acre green space is home to stunning gardens, scenic walking trails, and one of the most unusual photo ops in the city: the Capitol Columns,…
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Exploring Michigan City’s Maritime Past at the Old Lighthouse Museum
While staying near Indiana Dunes National Park, we took a day trip to Michigan City, Indiana, to explore one of the area’s most fascinating historic sites- the Old Lighthouse Museum. Sitting just a short drive from the dunes, this charming museum tells the story of the city’s maritime past, the…
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Cape Henlopen State Park: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
When we spent a couple of months out East last year, we had a little gap between our longer stays in Pennsylvania and Maryland. So we decided to check two more states off our RVing map- New Jersey and Delaware. We kept it simple, staying one night in each at…
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Hidden Beneath Missouri: The Fascinating World of Bonne Terre Mine
Bonne Terre Mine is one of the most unique places we’ve ever toured—where else can you take a boat ride on the world’s largest subterranean lake inside a five-level underground mine? Located in the Missouri Ozarks, this historic site was once a major hub for lead mining, operated by the…
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The Ultimate Guide to Lincoln City: 15 Must-Do Activities
Nestled along the stunning Oregon Coast, Lincoln City is a charming destination known for its windswept beaches, rugged cliffs, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re drawn to tidepool adventures, scenic hikes, or quirky roadside attractions, this coastal town has something for everyone. From exploring hidden gems to indulging in fresh…