Instructors: Joe and Vicki Kieva
Where do I go, how do I get there, what do I do? To get the basic information on travel, the Kievas suggest the Good Sam or Woodalls directories. These useful books also have sections on state laws, turnpike and tollway information, bridge restrictions, etc. Other directories include the KOA, AAA and other auto clubs.
Subscribe to a national magazine such as Trailer Life or Motorhome. In addition, subscribe to a regional magazine for your area or one in which you are interested. Various RV clubs have magazines also. The "Workkamper News" details places where persons may work, and also may just visit.
Join RV clubs. Good Sam offers discounts, insurance, mail forwarding services, rallies, etc. The Escapees have their own RV parks, offer discounts, mail services, and rallies. FMCA is an excellent club for motor home owners. There are many "brand name" clubs, such as Alpenlite and WIT (Winnebago-Itasca) etc.
Visit your libraries and bookstores for books on areas of interest. [See also RVers Bookshelf, elsewhere at this site for a complete bibliography of books for RVers].
The department of tourism can give you information for regional and state parks. Counties often have nice parks. Send for information from the National Park Service, the National Forest Service, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and the Bureau of Land Management.
RV accessory stores such as Camping World often have books and magazines. Here you can find RVer's friend - a list of truck stops and the amenities to be found there.
Don't forget state welcome centers. These will often give you a map and tour books free for the asking. (Texas is especially good.)
Truck stops often have books such as "Truckers Guide", listing height, bridge and tunnel restrictions, and East and West versions of the Mountain Directories, giving the grades of passes on the major highways.
Last, but not least, the campground stores and laundry rooms have information. Here you can find advertisements for attractions in the areas -- and you can talk to the people who have been there. And don't forget to chat with your campground hosts and other RVers staying there with you.