The Adventure
Our summer camping trip in July 2025 included stops at two National Parks, squeezed in between visits with family and friends. It was the perfect mix of exploration and connection.
The Ordeal
Towing a camper for hundreds of miles is bound to cause wear and tear—and this trip was no exception. To prevent a minor issue from turning into a major ordeal, it is important to carry a few extra tools in your toolbox—including a positive attitude and access to a helpful community. On this trip, we encountered two unexpected problems: our black tank handle rusted shut, and our couch came loose from its wooden frame.
Tips
We try to be proactive at home by fixing anything that looks questionable before we hit the road. Still, you cannot predict every possible mishap. One of the most valuable resources we have found is a Facebook group dedicated to our specific camper model. That group has saved our bacon more than once, providing advice that helped us troubleshoot and repair issues while still on the road.
After arriving at Little Beaver Campground and setting up camp, we realized that New River Gorge National Park was nearby—and we could not resist making a visit. Our first stop was the north visitor center, which offers a wealth of information about the gorge and the iconic bridge that spans it.
A scenic walkway behind the center leads down into the gorge, featuring numerous steps and several viewing platforms. From one of the overlooks, we could see low-hanging clouds drifting beneath the bridge—a stunning sight that emphasized the immense height of the bridge and the depth of the gorge.
After exploring the visitor center, we drove into the gorge on a narrow, paved road (note: not recommended for campers or RVs). Using the National Park Service app, we followed an audio-guided tour, which was both enjoyable and easy to follow. At the bottom of the gorge, we parked and walked across the old metal bridge, taking in unique views from below. We then completed the scenic loop by driving up the other side and returning to camp.
The following day, we visited the south visitor center. While smaller and less impressive than the northern one, it was still a worthwhile stop. We also made a quick detour to the Sandstone Falls Overlook before continuing our journey.