Girl Camper

The world of campgrounds is changing fast — from rustic overnight stops to luxury RV resorts with Wi-Fi, EV charging, and craft coffee bars. But with more people hitting the road, are there enough places to camp? In this episode, Lesa sits down with Jeff Crider, journalist, PR professional, and Go RVing brand ambassador, to talk about the state and future of campgrounds in America. Jeff shares his...

Thinking about skipping the tow hitch and going all-in on a motorhome? In this episode, Janine Pettit sits down with Tom Stoate, President of The Hitch House —a family-owned Canadian dealership specializing exclusively in motorhomes for over 50 years. Together they talk about why a motorhome can be the perfect fit for solo women travelers, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to choose a...

It’s peak fall color season, and the forests are showing off! ???? In this episode, Lesa McDermott sits down with Ali Rasmussen, co-owner of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, to talk about why national forests in the fall are some of the best places to camp, hike, and explore. From Maine’s brilliant maples to Georgia’s golden oaks, they follow Spacious Skies’ 15-Stop Fall Color Trail — a scenic route th...

In this episode, Janine Pettit sits down with Theresa Leppert to share exciting news—Girl Camper has officially launched a new membership platform! ???? Find out why we created it, what’s included, and how you can be part of a growing community of women who love the open road. From early access to events to exclusive content and giveaways, there’s never been a better time to join Girl Camper. Link...

Join Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit as she takes you inside the Hershey RV Show 2025, one of the biggest RV events in the country. From compact travel trailers to rugged adventure vans and innovative truck campers, Janine explores the latest models and highlights the features that make them stand out for every kind of camper. ???? In this episode, Janine checks out: The Blue Compass Aurora – li...

What are the must-have items that make life in a small camper easier, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun? In this week’s episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott is joined by nuCamp Brand Ambassador, outdoor educator, and fellow T@B 360 owner Jenn Grover. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear: The small luxury items we never camp without Cooking gear that makes camper meals simple...

It’s time for the final part of our Buying a New RV series on the Girl Camper Podcast! I’m your co-host, Lesa McDermott, and in this episode I’m joined once again by Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. This time, we’re pulling back the curtain on the hidden costs of RV buying—dealer fees, financing, and trade-ins. These are the areas that can make or break...

Welcome back to the Girl Camper Podcast! I’m your co-host, Lesa McDermott, and this is Part 2 of our three-part series on buying a brand-new RV. I’m joined again by Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida, to talk about what every buyer needs to know about warranties, pricing, and dealer practices.

Thinking about buying your first RV—or upgrading to your dream rig?

Not all RVs are created equal — and knowing what to look for can save you years of headaches on the road. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott shares the five key signs of a quality‑built RV using the nuCamp TAB 360cs as an example of how craftsmanship, materials, and company values make all the difference. From cabinet construction and framing materials to warranty coverage...

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can safely tow a camper with a Jeep, you’re not alone. In a recent Girl Camper Podcast episode, Lesa McDermott teamed up with Tony and Peggy Barthel from StressLess Camping to talk all things Jeep towing. As a former Jeep owner, Lesa brings real-life experience—and some hard-learned lessons—to the conversation. Know Before You Tow Many Jeep Wranglers have a maxi...

In this special joint episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott teams up with Tony and Peggy Barthel from the StressLess Camping podcast to dive into the ins and outs of towing with a Jeep. From tongue weight and payload to the realities of towing capacity and gear ratios, this episode is packed with valuable insights—especially if you're thinking about hitching a camper to your Wrangler....

Join Lesa McDermott on this Girl Camper adventure to Fort Robinson State Park in northwest Nebraska—a place where history meets hospitality and outdoor fun. In this episode, Lesa explores the deep roots of this former military outpost, including the tragic death of Lakota leader Crazy Horse, the role of Buffalo Soldiers, a WWII German POW camp, and more. But Fort Rob isn’t just about the past—it’s...

In this heartfelt and empowering episode, Janine Pettit—founder of Girl Camper and Editor-in-Chief of Girl Camper Magazine—explores what it really takes to camp solo. Drawing from her own road trip experiences and stories from the annual Girl Camper Camporee, Janine shares honest advice, practical safety tips, and inspiring encouragement to help you step outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re t...

In this episode, Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit chats with Rayma Waters—Girl Camper Guide Emeritus and lifelong adventurer—about what it means to keep exploring through every season of life. From raising boys and teaching PE to towing a vintage trailer solo and eventually driving a Class C motorhome across the country, Rayma has done it all. Now in a new chapter, she’s camping in a ground tent,...

Traveling with pets? You're not alone—and you're not unprepared! In this episode, co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Dawn Polk, Girl Camper Magazine’s go-to pet expert and co-founder of RV Education 101, about what it really takes to camp successfully with pets. From choosing the right campground to knowing what to pack and how to handle emergencies, Dawn covers: Pet-friendly gear must-haves Safety...

In this essential episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott talks with Nancy Martinz, an advanced EMT and veteran law enforcement ranger, about real-life campground medical emergencies—and how to survive them. From burns and snake bites to getting lost off-grid, Nancy shares life-saving advice every camper should hear. You'll learn: How to prepare before heading to remote areas What...

Ready to hit the road more often without breaking the bank? In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, founder Janine Pettit shares clever, creative ways to uncover extra money for your next camping adventure. From reducing food waste and prepping budget-friendly meals to turning clutter into cash and canceling sneaky subscriptions, Janine offers practical tips that can make a real impact on your...

June 14 is National Go RVing Day, and we’re here to help you celebrate—whether you’re an RV newbie or a seasoned traveler!

This week on the Girl Camper Podcast, we’re taking you straight to a cozy corner of South Jersey, where we hosted an unforgettable Girl Camper weekend at Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground. Janine Pettit, founder of Girl Camper, and RV Life podcast host Patti Hunt sit down with campers from across the country to talk about what it really means to camp like a girl—solo or not.

Thinking about hitting the road solo in a van—but wondering if it's too late to start? In this episode, Lesa McDermott chats with full-time traveler Charlie Grace about the realities of van life over 50. From downsizing and safety to boondocking, budgeting, and traveling with pets, Charlie shares her honest advice and inspiring journey. Whether you're van-curious or ready to roll, this episode wil...

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott is joined by Cameron Hahn and Hannah Woolery from Buzz Bikes to explore how e-bikes are transforming the RV and camping lifestyle. From riding scenic trails and hauling camp gear to zipping into town without breaking a sweat, e-bikes offer fun, freedom, and practical convenience for campers of all ages. Buzz Bikes shares what sets the...

Welcome back to the Girl Camper Podcast! Join co-host Lesa McDermott as she talks campfire cooking with Michael O'Russo from Rome Pie Irons. Discover the history behind these nostalgic campfire treats, learn delicious new recipes, and get essential cooking and care tips for pie irons. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to pie iron cooking, this episode is packed with valuable insights and fun...

Welcome back, Girl Campers! In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott dives deep into the essential topic of caring for your RV's gray and black tanks. Joined by expert Matt Foxcroft, owner of Liquified, you'll learn crucial tips, tricks, and common mistakes to avoid to keep your tanks clean and odor-free. From proper tank valve management to effective cleaning practices and...

Welcome to the Girl Camper Podcast! In this episode, co-host Lesa McDermott talks to Susan Lanier Graham, the founder of 'Wander with Wonder' and a full-time RVer. Discover the challenges and joys of living on the road, get valuable tips on RV life, and find out how Susan manages her work and adventures. Whether you're dreaming of a full-time RV lifestyle or just love extended RV trips, you won't...