285 Industrial Circle – Mifflintown, PA 17059

Toll Free: (877) 714-0415 | Local: 717-436-8883

Welcome to the Juniata Valley RV Blog

Maximize Your Space: Tiny Camper Organization Tips

Choosing to explore in a tiny camper is one of the best ways to travel off the beaten path and spend more time in the great outdoors. However, the confined space of a tiny camper can quickly turn from cozy to chaotic if not organized efficiently. At Juniata Valley RV, we’re tiny camper enthusiasts and we’re here to help! Check out our camper organization ideas, practical tips, and indispensable products that will transform your RV into a place of efficiency and comfort.

Compact Camper Space-Saving Ideas

The art of camper organization is about maximizing space without sacrificing comfort or functionality. This is especially true in a small RV, where space to store is already limited. Organizing your RV is the process of arranging your belongings so that everything has its place, is easily accessible, and serves multiple purposes whenever possible. A well-organized camper ensures a more enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Start with a Plan

Before you dive into organizing, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the space you’re working with. Take note of the storage areas, hidden nooks, and available surfaces in your tiny camper. Most brands design their models with smart storage solutions in mind, so be sure to explore every inch of your camper for potential storage spots. If it’s a new RV, you can ask the dealership representatives for an in-depth tour of all the secret storage compartments.

Woman loads clothes into a donation box in the process of decluttering and camper organization.

Declutter and Prioritize

The first step in effective camper organization is to declutter. Bring only what you truly need. Prioritize items based on their necessity and frequency of use. Remember, the goal is to travel light and avoid clutter that can quickly consume your limited space. It’s more than just a Marie Kondo, getting rid of items that don’t spark joy, but a focus on belongings that are truly essential to your trip.

Use Vertical Space Wisely

Vertical space is often underused in RVs. Consider installing hanging organizers, shelves or hooks on walls and doors. These can hold everything from kitchen utensils and toiletries to clothes and outdoor gear. There are tons of products that can help you better organize your RV.

Multi-functional Furniture and Accessories

When space is at a premium, every item in your camper should serve multiple purposes if possible. Look for furniture that doubles as storage, like benches with internal compartments or tables that fold away when not in use. Even small additions, such as collapsible kitchenware or a cutting board that covers the sink, can make a big difference.

Organizational Tools and Accessories

Invest in organizational products designed for small spaces. Drawer organizers, vacuum-sealed bags, and magnetic strips for knives or tools can help make sure everything has its place. Additionally, over-the-door organizers are perfect for taking up otherwise unused space and keeping essentials at hand.

Embrace Digital Solutions

To save physical space, consider digital alternatives for entertainment and information. Instead of packing books, games, and guides, use e-books, online streaming services, and tablets. This approach saves space while keeping you connected and entertained.

Regular Maintenance is Key

Camper organization is an ongoing process. Regularly assess what’s working and what isn’t, and don’t be afraid to reorganize as needed. This is especially true after you’ve been on a few trips and have a better understanding of what you need, which places collect clutter, and how your space is used.

Invest in Compact Kitchen Appliances

The kitchen is one of the first places to become a magnet for unwanted items. This is why compact appliances can be a game-changer. Look for multi-functional appliances, like an Instant Pot, that can save space without sacrificing functionality. These help to streamline the cooking process and offer the flexibility and convenience of having all the necessary tools to whip up delicious dishes within limited space.

Customize Storage Solutions

Consider customizing your storage solutions to fit your specific needs. Custom-built shelving or cabinets can be designed to use every inch of space, tailored to the dimensions of your belongings. This can be particularly useful for storing bulky items, like winter clothing or sports equipment, in a way that’s accessible and orderly.

Two women at the sink in their RV. Cooking together.

Use the Outside of Your Camper

Don’t forget about the exterior of your camper and tow vehicle for additional storage. Bike racks, roof boxes, and rear-mounted cargo carriers can significantly increase your storage capacity. These solutions are ideal for storing items that don’t need to be accessed frequently or are best kept outside, such as kayaks or bicycles.

Browse Tiny Campers for Sale in Pennsylvania

Now that you have some camper organization ideas and tips, it’s time to put them into action! At Juniata Valley RV, we have a wide selection of tiny campers for sale that are perfect for those looking to minimize their travel style and focus on time spent outdoors. Browse our inventory online or visit our dealership to find compact campers from top brands like Aliner, nuCamp and Winnebago. We have a variety of other RVs for sale if traveling small is not for you, like fifth wheels and even motorhomes for sale.

Organizing a tiny camper requires creativity, flexibility and a bit of strategy. By implementing these tips and making the most of the specialized products available, you can turn your compact space into a functional and cozy home away from home. Remember, the key to successful camper organization is to continually assess and adapt to your changing needs. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just starting out, Juniata Valley RV is here to help!

Begin Your Adventure

Fifth Wheel vs. Travel Trailer: Which One is Right for Me?

Find the Perfect RV for Your Lifestyle

When it comes time to choose your next RV, the debate between a fifth wheel vs. travel trailer is one of the most common crossroads many enthusiasts encounter. It’s essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle, budget and travel aspirations. We’re here to help you break down the key considerations, pros and cons of each type to help you discern which RV suits you best.

Understanding the Basics: Fifth Wheel vs. Travel Trailer

Before we compare the two, let’s define what sets a fifth wheel apart from a travel trailer. The primary distinction lies in their hitching mechanism and design structure.

First, known for their distinct “gooseneck” style, fifth wheels attach directly to the bed of a pickup truck through a special hitch. This design offers enhanced stability and spacious living quarters, often including split levels that provide a home-like feel.

Travel Trailers, on the other hand, are a more traditional type of RVs. They hitch to the rear bumper of your vehicle through a ball and coupler. Travel trailers are incredibly versatile, available in a wide range of sizes and layouts to accommodate different needs and budgets.

Key Considerations

When weighing fifth wheel vs. travel trailer options, consider the following factors:

Tow Vehicle: Your current or planned tow vehicle plays a significant role. Fifth wheels require a pickup truck with a bed-mounted hitch, whereas travel trailers can be towed by a broader range of vehicles, including SUVs and trucks.

Budget: Generally, fifth wheels are more expensive due to their size and luxury features. Travel trailers offer more budget-friendly options. You can find models with a wide range of prices.

Space and Comfort: If you prioritize space and luxury, fifth wheels typically provide more room and amenities. Travel trailers, however, are no slouch in comfort and can offer excellent living spaces.

Travel Style: Consider how you plan to use your RV. If long-term living and extensive road trips are in your plans, a fifth wheel might be more suitable. For weekend getaways and shorter trips, a travel trailer could be more practical.

Fifth Wheel

Pros:

  • Stability and Towing: The gooseneck hitch offers superior stability and easier towing, reducing sway and enhancing maneuverability.
  • Spacious Interiors: They often feature higher ceilings and more slide-out sections, providing extra living space and improved comfort.
  • Luxurious Amenities: Many fifth wheels come equipped with high-end features, including full-size appliances, sophisticated entertainment systems and large bathrooms.
Travel Trailer

Pros:

  • Versatility in Towing: Can be towed by a wide range of vehicles, offering greater flexibility in vehicle choice.
  • Variety of Sizes: Available in sizes from compact campers to large models, catering to different vehicles, family sizes and travel styles.
  • Cost-Effective: Travel trailers are typically less expensive than fifth wheels, both in purchase price and ongoing maintenance.

Cons:

  • Vehicle Requirements: Fifth wheels require a pickup truck with a fifth-wheel hitch, potentially limiting your vehicle choice.
  • Price: They are generally more expensive than travel trailers, both in initial cost and potential fuel consumption.
  • Height and Weight: Their larger size can be a limitation when navigating low bridges, tight roads or weight-restricted areas.

Cons:

  • Towing Stability: With their traditional hitches, travel trailers may experience more sway and less stability than fifth wheels. Especially in larger models.
  • Space Constraints: While there are spacious models, they generally offer less space and height compared to fifth wheels.
  • Amenities: Travel trailers may lack some of the high-end amenities found in fifth wheel models.

Making Your Decision

When choosing between a fifth wheel vs. travel trailer, consider your lifestyle, travel plans and budget. Think about the long-term comfort and practicality of the RV, how often you plan to travel and what type of trips you envision.

At Juniata Valley RV, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect match for your adventures. Whether you lean towards the grandeur of a fifth wheel or the versatility of a travel trailer, we have a diverse selection of new and used RVs for sale. Our team is here to answer any questions and guide you through the various options, ensuring you make a decision that brings you joy and satisfaction on the road. By considering the factors outlined above and evaluating the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that enhances your travel experiences.

RVs for Sale in Pennsylvania

Shop RVs for sale in Central Pennsylvania! Visit Juniata Valley RV to explore our extensive inventory and speak with our experienced staff who can provide further insights and assist you in finding your ideal RV. Join the countless adventurers who have found their perfect RV with us. Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country expedition or planning leisurely weekend escapes, the right RV awaits you at Juniata Valley RV!

Begin Your Adventure

How to Prevent RV Slide Out Problems

Owning an RV can be plenty of fun, but it can also be a huge responsibility. The price tag that comes along with RV issues is often quite hefty. When your unit malfunctions, it can be difficult to spot what’s wrong without the help of a professional. The best way to avoid the headaches that come along with owning an RV is to focus on preventing issues before they occur.

RV slide out problems are one of the most common mechanical malfunctions in RVs. When your RV doesn’t slide out, there isn’t much you can do to save your camping trip. Although problematic, RV slides are almost always necessary. Without their ability to create extra width inside your camper, your vacations would be pretty cramped. RV slide out problems are common, so we gathered some info on how they happen and what you can do to prevent them.

Assess and Prevent RV Slide Out Problems

How RV Slide Outs Work

RV slide outs have become an industry standard for almost every type of unit — motorized and towable. Since the late 90’s, most RV models have included at least one slide to increase the livable space on the inside of your camper. There are different types of RV slide outs, but most use electric motors or hydraulics to operate.

Electric RV slide outs use a rack and pinion, or pulley and cable, system powered by an electric motor. The motor spins a shaft or pinion which moves the slide in one direction, and adding a gear allows it to slide in the opposite direction. The electric motor uses a 12-volt DC power, which runs directly off the main house battery.  This makes them usable when you’re not plugged into a power source at the campground.

RV slide out extended on a travel trailer parked in the woods.

Though less common, some RV slide outs use pull and cable systems. Others use the well-known Schwintek slides. Finally, though very rare, a few units are equipped with the power gear slide out system. The rack and pinion, however, is by far the most common slide out system, so that’s what we’re focusing on today.

Common Problems

The top five reasons for a slide out malfunction are lubrication issues, motor burnout, power issues, foreign objects and leaks. Some are easily treatable on your own, but others will need professional attention from RV service technicians.

Lubrication Issues

Likely the most common slide out problem, a lack of proper lubrication results in your RV slide having issues smoothly moving in and out. This is often an easy fix with a lubricating product like WD-40’s RVcare line, which we’ll discuss later. Be careful not to force a slide that needs lubrication as you can damage the rail system and make the situation much worse.

Motor Burnout & Power Issues

Another common culprit, motor burnout occurs when the motor that moved the slide in and out stops functioning. Somewhat similarly, power issues occur when your slide out can’t pull power from your RV, or your RV isn’t properly connected to a power source. This isn’t as easy to fix on your own, so you’re better off scheduling an RV service appointment for professional help.

Other Issues

Finally, leaks and foreign objects will prevent your RV slide out from functioning properly. Anything blocking the slides or interfering with their movement can cause slide out issues. It’s best to assess the situation and then decide if you need to call a professional. If you aren’t confident that you can repair the leak or remove the object, it’s probably best to find an RV technician. You may end up making the issue worse, which will only drive up the cost of a fix.

Manual RV Slide Out Overrides

If you’re stranded at a campground with a stuck RV slide out, consider manually moving the slide in or out. Your RV should come with an owner’s manual, which has more unit-specific instructions on manually moving a slide out.

Start by finding the slide out motor, often below the slide out room. Remove the brake assembly from the motor by unscrewing it. Find the crank extension and attach it to the crank handle that comes with the trailer. If you don’t have the crank handle. Use a wrench or socket and ratchet. Turn the crank extension by hand to manually move the RV slide out in or out.

After you’ve moved the RV slide out to the desired position, be sure to reattach the brake assembly to the slide out motor. Replace and tighten the screws to prevent the slide out from moving.

Slide Out Problem Prevention

Anything that can be fixed with WD-40 and a Craftsman wrench is approved by Toby Keith, RV parts included. Luckily for RVers, WD-40 has our backs with their 3-in-1 RVcare product line. WD-40’s RVcare Slide-Out Silicone Lube is perfect for preventing, and sometimes treating, slide out problems.

Simply spray the trusted brand of lubricant on the tracks and your slide out will be moving smoothly once again. WD-40 RVcare also makes Window and Track Dry Lube, which helps prevent messes and works well on RV window tracks, or other interior slides. Both products are a great way to lubricate your RV after long, stationary months in winter storage.

Most RV slide outs move with simple rack and pinion technology. Overall, troubleshooting and preventing RV slide out problems doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow our advice to keep your unit functioning well and save yourself a few headaches and canceled vacations. If you have no choice, manually moving your RV slide out is an option, though difficult.

If you continue to have RV slide out problems, bring your unit by Juniata Valley RV. Our friendly and experienced service staff can assess the issue and make the repairs that get you back on the road as soon as possible. If you’re ready to make a change, our sales staff would be happy to help you find a new or used RVs for sale ready to leave the lot today. Stop by our Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, location, contact us online or give us a call if you have any questions about our RV sales or service.

Begin Your Adventure

10 RV-Friendly Jersey Shore Campgrounds

Best Jersey Shore RV Campgrounds

Camping season is just around the corner and beach vacation destinations are booking up fast. Although we love our home state of Pennsylvania, it’s noticeably lacking in ocean views, so we’re hitching up the travel trailer, hopping in the truck and heading east to the Jersey Shore. Enjoy summer sunshine and peaceful ocean waves, splash around with the kids at the water park, or relax with a drink by the pool at these ten gorgeous Jersey Shore campgrounds.

Ocean View Resort Campground

The Ocean View Resort is easily one of the best Jersey Shore campgrounds, with tons of water activities inside and outside the park. One camp amenity sure to be a hit is the Buccaneer Bay Splash Park – a pirate-themed water park in the campground! Play on the “anchored” pirate ship, spray water on unsuspecting parents, and slide down the wreckage into the shallow waters. The campground is pet-friendly and has access to Greenbriar Pond for relaxing catch-and-release fishing. Other notable camp amenities include the Ocean View Café, the lake pavilion, two playgrounds, an 18-hole mini golf course, free boat storage during your stay and more!

Ocean Isle Campground

In Ocean View, New Jersey, Ocean Isle Campground offers RV, tent and cabin sites for campers of every style. The 28-acre campground provides easy access to all your favorite South Jersey towns, from historic Cape May to action-packed Atlantic City and all the beaches in between. The campground includes a large pool to cool off, two playgrounds and plenty of group activities.

Boardwalk in Atlantic City on the Jersey Shore in the evening.

Baker’s Acres Campground

On TripAdvisor, Baker’s Acres is ranked the number one campground in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, thanks to the mixture of on-campground activities and local history hubs. The campground includes games like horseshoes, bocce ball, volleyball, and even has a dedicated photo op spot. The campground was founded in 1968 by the Baker family, giving it a family-owned feel. You can also dive into the local, and surprisingly bloody, history of a small town like Egg Harbor – first mentioned by Captain Cornelius Jacobsen May in 1614.

Sea Pirate Campground

Just a few miles from Long Beach Island, this pirate-themed campground is a treasure chest of fun for the whole family. The campground paths have pirate-themed names like Peg Leg or Calico Jack, and you can enjoy sea-themed activities such as fishing, crabbing, kayaking and more. On the not-so-pirate side, the campground includes a camp store, dog park and arcade.

Sea Grove Camping Resort

Connect with the nature of the Garden State at this campground for all ages located in the heart of Cape May County. Just minutes away from South Jersey beaches, enjoy splashing in the waves, playing in the sand and relaxing in the sun. In the evening, nearby local boardwalks open along the shore with food, shops and more. Just a few in-camp activities include a game room, ice cream parties, family hayrides, basketball, horseshoes, volleyball and more.

Lake & Shore RV Resort

Thousand Trails’ Lake & Shore RV Resort is a step up from your normal campground. Its biggest summer attraction is the full water park, complete with slides. The park has its own beach entrance with a private fishing pier and boat dock. On the resort beach, relax in the lounge chairs, play a game of beach volleyball, cool off in the water and adventure around the campground.

Ponderosa Campground

This campground is packed with activities you won’t find at many other RV resorts. Ponderosa Campground includes a pirate ship play area, playgrounds, cornhole, hammocks, a pool and more. It is most well known for its Little Hooves Farm. Little Hooves Farm, established in 2013, is home to goats, chickens, ducks, mini horses and a cow! Come by to feed the animals, play, pet and get a few pony kisses. Nearby, visit Avalon Beach, historic Cape May, Wildwood Beach Boardwalk, Ocean City Boardwalk and more.

Chestnut Lake RV Campground

This tranquil Thousand Trails RV resort is tucked away in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Fish in the campground lake, swim in the pool or enjoy a good book on the poolside lounge chairs. Chestnut Lake provides easy access to the beautiful Jersey Shore beaches, neon-lit Atlantic City and bustling boardwalk nightlife. Nearly every weekend is booked with campground events. Each weekend has a theme such as space, hot dogs, s’mores, animals or holiday-focused festivities.

Sun Outdoors Cape May

Midway between Cape May and Wildwood, New Jersey, sits Sun Outdoors Cape May, formerly Holly Shores Camping Resort. This campground is known as a great place to stay for campers of all ages and camping styles, with RV sites, cabins and tent sites. They have over 100 large, shaded RV campsites and offer short vacations or seasonal camping reservations. They accommodate RVs up to 42 feet long and offer two dog parks, daily activities and equipment rentals for endless summer fun.

Family of three swimming in the ocean.

Sea Pines RV Campground

Thousand Trails’ Sea Pines RV Campground is loaded with quiet campsites and surrounded by peaceful woods, while just a few miles from the beautiful beaches of Cape May. The campground includes shuffleboard, basketball, a game room, volleyball and more. It’s right near the beach, and has on-campground fishing opportunities and waterfront sites. If you’re looking for Jersey Shore campgrounds with tons of amenities, close to the beach, and plenty of activities, Sea Pines is the place for you.

If you stay at one of our best Jersey Shore campgrounds, make sure to let us know! Shopping RVs for sale near New Jersey or in need of RV parts and accessories? Stop by Juniata Valley RV just a few hours from the Jersey Shore, located in central Pennsylvania. Our RV experts will be happy to help you choose the right unit for you. Be sure to kick off camping season right!

Begin Your Adventure

8 Easy Campfire Dutch Oven Recipes

Tools and Meals to Cook with the Dutch Oven

If you’re looking for a way to add meal options to your camping menu, there’s nothing more versatile than cooking with a campfire Dutch oven. When camping, it is best to have a Dutch oven with both the pot and lid made of cast iron. Cast iron is great for campfire cooking because it can handle very high temperatures without damage and conducts heat evenly throughout the cooking surface.  A Dutch oven can be used as a pot over the fire or an oven when covered in hot coals, making cooking with it very popular. Dutch ovens can also be used in an oven at home or on top of a gas heater if other fuel is hard to come by, which makes them a convenient way to cook all year round, in any environment.

Campfire Dutch Oven Cooking Materials

If you haven’t used your Dutch oven at the campground, here are a few tools to help give the best experience when trying campfire Dutch oven recipes:

  • Campfire Tripod – A tripod or over-hanger can be used for cooking or keeping your dish warm above the heat.
  • Campfire Grate – A campfire grate can function as either an object to position your Dutch oven above the heat or become a cooking surface itself for other pots and pans.
  • Long Metal Tongs – Long-handled tongs are a little awkward to use but are needed to move food and position coals around hot campfires.
  • Gloves – Heat-resistant gloves add another layer of protection when handling hot food and materials over the campfire.
  • Dutch Oven Lid Lifter – Lids can be both hot and heavy, so having a lid lifter is necessary. Some lid lifters can also be used to adjust food while cooking.
  • Chimney Charcoal Starter – Charcoal starters are designed to preheat briquettes quickly, which can trim down your preparation time.
  • Cooking Thermometer – A little bit of a luxury, but necessary if you want your meals cooked to perfection every time.
  • Liners & Oils – Having liners or cooking oils to separate the food from the inside surface of the pot will make it easier to remove food for serving and to clean the oven afterward.
  • Potholders – If you don’t have a tripod or a grate, a simple potholder can help you safely raise your warm Dutch oven off the ground without overcooking your dish in the hot coals.

Dutch Oven Recipes to Cook Over the Campfire

Dutch Oven Bread

Total Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 1

Bake soft, flaky, fluffy bread with this campfire Dutch oven recipe from Uno Casa. It requires only a few ingredients and just 30 minutes of baking time. You’ll have your lovely loaf ready to slice and serve with your favorite spread in under an hour.

Dutch Oven Pot Roast

Total Cook Time: 4 hours and 10 minutes

Servings: 10

This campfire Dutch oven recipe brings home-cooked comfort from the warmth of your campfire to your campsite. There is nothing better than the taste of tender beef lying in a bed of fresh vegetables and savory spices, all steamed and baked slowly over charcoals. This Dutch oven recipe delivers maximum taste with a few basic ingredients and your favorite blend of spices.

Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler

Total Cook Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Servings: 6 to 8

This simple Dutch oven recipe only requires eight ingredients. In 12 easy steps, you can bake up a soft and sweet peach pastry with a warm, flaky crust that is sure to top any meal or evening under the stars. Bring a taste of grandma’s cooking to your campfire with this winner for (after) dinner!

Chopped peaches, sugar and other ingredients to make peach cobbler.

Campfire Lasagna

Total Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Meat-free dinner guests? No problem! This vegetarian lasagna is sure to be a favorite for all pasta lovers. Break up a boring dinner routine and spend the night cooking this meal over the campfire with friends and family.

Dutch Oven Campfire Nachos

Total Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

When the kids get hungry, try this quick and easy dinner option. Grab your Dutch oven for a hearty nacho dish, which can function as a snack or a meal. Crispy chips and smooth refried beans, topped with fresh chopped veggies and stringy melted cheese; this is a recipe that can please any hungry camper. Vegetarian campers can enjoy this meal as well since no meat is included.

The Dublin Coddle (Bratwurst Casserole)

Total Cook Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Servings: 4

The Dublin Coddle is an easy campfire Dutch oven recipe. Sink your teeth into soft potatoes, glazed onions, crunchy bacon, and succulent sausage all boiled in zesty chicken broth and beer. Enjoy an Irish classic from the comfort of your campsite. As a bonus, this recipe works in your oven at home too!

Campfire Steamed Clams

Total Cook Time: 28 minutes

Servings: 2

Perfect for coastal camping, these light buttery clams are steamed in a white wine sauce. Add in some garlic and pepper flakes for a kick of heat and a bit of spice, and you have a meal that is both flavorful and fragrant. Don’t discard the broth, as it doubles as both a sauce for the clams and as a dip for the bread. Get acquainted with your environment and a taste of the ocean with this campfire Dutch oven recipe!

Dutch Oven Pork Chops and Potatoes

Total Cook Time: 1 hour and 24 minutes

Servings: 4

Enjoy succulent pork chops covered in breadcrumbs, cooked along with hearty cubed potatoes bathed in creamy mushroom soup to blend it all together. With only eight ingredients and an hour of cook time, this meal will quickly crush your hunger and keep your tank full while on the go!

When it comes to campfire cooking, there is nothing wrong with going Dutch! Now that you have some exciting new Dutch oven campfire recipes to cook on your next camping trip, are you ready for your journey? Let us here at Juniata Valley help you with the details from RV parts and accessories, to new and used RVs for sale, including motorhomes, travel trailers, and more! Give us a call, contact us online,

Begin Your Adventure

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team. You'll get camping tips, featured units, special events, and more...

You have Successfully Subscribed!