Girl Camper

Campgrounds Are Evolving Fast The world of camping looks a lot different than it did just a few years ago. From luxury RV resorts with Wi-Fi and EV charging to classic family campgrounds that keep traditions alive, there’s never been more variety—or more demand. In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , Lesa sat down with Jeff Crider , journalist, PR professional, and Go RVing brand ambassa...

Thinking about skipping the hitch and going all-in on a motorhome? For many campers—especially solo women travelers—owning a motorhome means freedom, comfort, and confidence on the road. In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , Janine Pettit sat down with Tom Stoate , president of The Hitch House , a family-owned Canadian dealership that’s been specializing in motorhomes for over 50 years....

There’s something magical about national forests in the fall. The air turns crisp, the bugs disappear, and the forests explode with color. From fiery reds and glowing golds to deep amber and russet tones, autumn transforms our public lands into a living postcard. In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast , co-host Lesa McDermott sits down with Ali Rasmussen , co-owner of Spacious Skies Campgrounds , to e...

Exciting news for women who love adventure and community— Girl Camper has launched a brand-new membership platform designed to bring more connection, perks, and exclusive access to its growing nationwide network of campers! In this episode of the Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit and Girl Camper events manager Theresa Leppert chat about why this new Girl Camper membership is a game-changer for wom...

The Hershey RV Show 2025 did not disappoint! Known as “America’s Largest RV Show,” it’s the place where manufacturers debut their newest models, campers dream about their next upgrade, and adventurers discover innovative features designed to make camping easier and more fun. Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit walked the show floor and shared her favorite finds for every style of camping. Why the He...

When it comes to camping in a small RV, every inch of space counts. The right gear can make your adventures easier, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun. In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast and as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper YouTube series, Lesa teamed up with nuCamp Brand Ambassador and outdoor educator Jenn Grover to compare their favorite small camper essentials. Some of these...

When making such a big purchase, it’s critical to know the right questions to ask when buying a new RV . In Part 3 of our Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott and Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center , explore the final steps of the buying process: fees, financing, and trade-in values. Understanding Dealer Fees Dealer fees can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming....

When it comes to RV shopping, the questions to ask when buying a new RV go far beyond floorplans and tow ratings. In Part 2 of our three-part Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida . This episode digs into the details of warranties, pricing, and the dealer practices every buyer...

Are you shopping for your first RV? Before stepping onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a new RV . In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Mike Harlan , General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. Together, they explore how to prepare for RV shopping and avoid common pitfalls. Avoiding Common RV Buyi...

When it comes to buying a new RV, it’s easy to get distracted by floorplans, décor, and shiny features. But if you want a camper that lasts, the real magic is in the quality of the build . In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , Lesa McDermott breaks down the five key signs that show you’re looking at a well‑built RV — using the nuCamp TAB 360cs as a prime example. 1. Quality Cabinetry and Ha...

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 episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , Lesa McDermott heads out on a weekend camping adventure to Fort Robinson State Park , nestled in the Pine Ridge region of northwest Nebraska. This park offers something for everyone—stunning scenery, deep-rooted history, and activities for all ages and abilities. 🪖 Step Into the Past Originally established in 1874, Fort Robinson played a pivotal role i...

Are you dreaming of hitting the road on your own but feeling a little unsure? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not the first woman to feel that way. In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , founder Janine Pettit shared practical advice and inspiring stories about the courage it takes to go solo camping as a woman —and why it might just change your life. What Does “Solo Camping”...

In this inspiring episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Janine Pettit sits down with longtime friend and Girl Camper Guide Emeritus, Rayma Waters. Together, they explore Rayma’s evolving solo female camping journey and her fearless approach to embracing every new season of life. From Vintage Trailers to a Class C Motorhome Rayma’s camping story began with a vintage 1978 Serro Scotty trailer, la...

Camping with pets is easier and more enjoyable when you travel by RV. Pets thrive on routine, and having a familiar space like your camper reduces their anxiety. In this Girl Camper Podcast episode, host Lesa McDermott talks with Dawn Polk—Girl Camper’s pet expert and co-founder of RV Education 101 —about how to set up a safe, comfortable environment for your pets on the road. Must-Have Pet Gear f...

Ever wondered what to do when a medical emergency happens far from the nearest hospital or cell tower? Camping medical emergencies can be particularly challenging. In this eye-opening episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , co-host Lesa McDermott talks with advanced EMT and former federal law enforcement ranger Nancy Martinz. They discuss how to handle real-life campground emergencies. Nancy’s experi...

Dreaming of more camping adventures but feeling the financial pinch? In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , founder Janine Pettit shares practical, creative ways to uncover extra money for your next RV trip or weekend getaway. If you’re wondering how to afford camping on a budget, these tips are for you! 🛒 Cut Costs with Smart Meal Planning Janine kicks off with one of the biggest mon...

In the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , host Lesa McDermott chats with Monika Geraci , Senior Director of Public Relations and Communications at the RV Industry Association , to talk all about National Go RVing Day , happening this year on June 14, 2025 . Created to encourage people to explore the RV lifestyle, Go RVing Day is the perfect excuse to hit the road, try something new, or fi...

What happens when women step out of their comfort zones, pack their bags, and hit the road—often for the very first time? At a recent Girl Camper event in South Jersey, we discovered the answer: courage, connection, and a whole lot of joy. Whether you’re new to camping or dreaming about your first solo trip, these real-life stories from Girl Campers prove that there’s no wrong way to c...

Have you ever dreamed of hitting the road solo in a camper van—but thought it was too late to start? In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , Lesa McDermott sits down with van lifer Charlie Grace to talk about what van life over 50 really looks like: the independence, the unexpected costs, the safety concerns, and yes, the joy of living on your own terms. Whether you’re an experience...

If you’ve been curious about how e-bikes fit into your RV or camping lifestyle, this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast is for you. Host Lesa McDermott chats with Cameron Hahn and Hannah Woolery from Buzz Bikes , a trusted brand backed by Huffy’s 130-year cycling legacy. Whether you’re running to the camp store, exploring trails, or hauling firewood, e-bikes are quickly becoming a favorite among c...

A Mountain Town in Need When Hurricane Helene struck in the fall of 2024, few expected the western North Carolina mountain town of Spruce Pine to be in its path. But when the storm moved inland, it caused catastrophic flooding, washing away roads, damaging homes, and flooding every storefront on Main Street. Months later, this resilient community is still working hard to recover—and Girl Campers a...

Getting a good night’s sleep can be a challenge—especially when you’re camping or RVing. On a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast , co-host Lesa McDermott sat down with Hailey Sousa from RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding to talk all things sleep wellness and how to sleep better in an RV. Why Sleep Wellness Matters on the Road Whether you’re drifting off under the stars or parked be...

The Art of Campfire Cooking with Rome Pie Irons If you love campfire cooking pie irons as much as we do, you’re going to love our latest Girl Camper Podcast episode! Co-host Lesa McDermott had the chance to sit down with Michael O’Russo, president of Rome Pie Irons, and chat about one of the most iconic brands in campfire cooking — a name that’s been around since the 1960s and is still...

Hey there, Girl Campers! Dive into the world of RV tank maintenance on this podcast episode. Lesa McDermott is your host and she explores “the proper care of your gray and black tanks.” Joined by Matt Foxcroft, founder of Liquified and Matt’s RV Reviews , they unlock the secrets to keeping your tanks clean and odor-free. **Avoid Common Mistakes** Matt reveals some big blunders RV...