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Manufacturer Highlight: Heartland RV

by | Feb 21, 2023 | Juniata Trailer Sales

All images courtesy of Heartland RV.

Heartland RV at Juniata Valley RV

At Juniata Valley RV, we only carry campers from the top manufacturers in the country. Our RV manufacturers must build high-quality, dependable campers that will keep our customers at the campground, rather than in the service department. One manufacturer who has long held to our standards is Heartland RV. In over 20 years of building towable RVs, we’ve found Heartland to be a brand we can confidently recommend to our customers.

Heartland RV’s Story

In 2003, a group of dedicated people with a variety of industry backgrounds came together to build a better RV. Their mission was to build a luxury RV that would help people “hit the road and enjoy life’s great adventures.”

By 2004, the company had introduced its first fifth wheel: Landmark. This fifth wheel was loaded with new technologies and advanced storage capabilities. Decades later, Heartland fifth wheels are still industry leaders with a camper-first mindset. Over the next few years, Heartland continued to introduce new models. The company also established its owner’s group, so Heartland RV owners could connect and share experiences.

Heartland’s biggest shift came in 2010, when the company was purchased by Thor. This acquisition helped the brand double-down on their dedication to luxury RVs, which Thor is known for. Over the next decade, the manufacturer continued to expand with growing facilities and developed new, innovative RVs. Here at Juniata Valley RV, our team is always excited to see what Heartland does next!

A man loads an ATV into his Heartland RV Cyclone toy hauler.

Heartland Toy Haulers and Travel Trailers at Juniata Valley RV

Our Pennsylvania RV dealership carries toy haulers and traditional travel trailers by Heartland RV. The models we often keep in stock are the Cyclone, North Trail and Torque. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight trailer or are in need of a luxury fifth wheel with a garage area to store your ATV, we have a Heartland RV for you!

Heartland Cyclone

Take on any adventure when you bring your powersports vehicles and other outdoor toys along with this fifth wheel toy hauler. The Cyclone features luxury fifth wheel amenities while including enough garage space to bring along whatever toys you need. One of the most popular features of these models is the ground stable outdoor patio that can be lowered from the garage entrance. This area is perfect for outdoor relaxation or keeping the kids safe while still enjoying the sunshine.

View Heartland Cyclone Inventory
A North Trail travel trailer is driven down the road.

Heartland North Trail

When it comes to lightweight towing, Heartland RV’s solution is their North Trail travel trailer. This ultra-light trailer allows your family to travel with ease. You can sleep anywhere from three to eight people depending on your North Trail floorplan! These open-concept trailers feature a carpet-free slide for a modern look and easy cleanup. The North Trail also features one of the largest pass-through storage areas in the industry at over 67 cubic feet – finished and insulated in all models.

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Interior of the Heartland Torque showing the open-air patio.

Heartland Torque

In addition to the Cyclone fifth wheel toy hauler, we carry the Torque travel trailer toy hauler at our dealership. This versatile travel trailer allows you to conveniently take your toys along with almost any vehicle, not just a pickup truck. Heartland Torque travel trailers are built with comfort and safety in mind, from the elegant interiors to the 2,500 lb. tie-downs in the garage. Heartland RV also offers the Torque toy hauler in a fifth wheel model, so you can choose the towable RV that works best for you.

 

View Torque Inventory

Shop Heartland RV in Pennsylvania

You can browse our Heartland RVs for sale online, or you can visit our Pennsylvania RV dealership in person in Mifflintown. In addition to Heartland, we carry RVs from top manufacturers and in any type you need. Shop truck campers, tiny campers, motorhomes and more all at Juniata Valley RV! Check out our new RVs for sale page to find out what we have in stock and on order today.

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Truck Camper Basics: What You Need to Know

by | Feb 16, 2023 | Juniata Trailer Sales

What to Know Before You Buy a Truck Camper

Truck campers are a popular RV type for campers who need little indoor space and value the ability to easily travel with and store their camper. Since they’ve been added to the inventory at our Pennsylvania RV dealership, we chose to cover the truck camper basics for our customers.

If you’re considering a truck camper, here’s what you need to know and what you should consider. So, when you’re ready to head to the dealership, you’ll have a general idea of what you are looking for in a camper and which campers will fit your truck best.

Truck Camper Basics Breakdown

A truck camper is a type of recreational vehicle that is designed to be mounted onto the bed of a pickup truck. They typically include a sleeping area, kitchenette, and bathroom facilities. As we expand our inventory to include more of these RVs, we decided to go over the truck camper basics for our customers. This includes why you should choose a truck camper, and how to decide which one will work best for you.

Truck camper parked camping in early morning.

Unlike other types of RVs, truck campers are highly portable and offer greater flexibility when it comes to accessing remote or off-road locations. Since they are more compact than other types of RVs, making them easier to maneuver and park in tight spaces. They’re also easy to store at your residence, like inside your garage, without taking up too much space.

Truck campers come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from basic models with minimal amenities to more luxurious options with all the comforts of home. Some truck campers are even designed for year-round use, with insulation and heating systems that allow them to be used in colder climates.

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How to Choose a Truck Camper

Your Truck

Are you using your current truck to haul your camper, or are you planning on buying a new one? This is absolutely the most important aspect to buying a truck camper. If the camper doesn’t fit or is too heavy for your vehicle, you aren’t going to get very far.

First, determine the payload of the pickup truck. This is the amount of weight that a truck can carry safely. It includes everything that will be packed in your truck, like your passenger and luggage. You need to abide by your truck’s weight restrictions to keep yourself and others safe on the road with others.

In addition to weight, length is an important factor when it comes to truck camper basics. Normal truck bed lengths range from about five to eight feet. Truck campers are made to fit different truck bed sizes. You don’t want to purchase a truck camper made for long bed trucks if your truck has a five-and-a-half-foot bed.

Finally, make sure you know the axle weight as well. The last thing you want is too much weight in the back, which may cause your axle to break while on the road!

Your Needs

Even when discussing truck camper basics, there are many different sizes, styles and floor plans to consider. You’ll want to think about the different types of truck campers and features they offer, such as pop-ups and hard sides, or slide outs and non-slide outs.

Think about what you plan to use the camper for, and who will be attending most of your trips. Are you planning to stay at a private campground, go off-road, or just use it for a place to sleep while traveling? Maybe you need a queen bed for sleeping, more space for the kids, or you’re concerned about saving fuel. These are all important to consider when you shop truck campers for sale. Different types and what fits your traveling style best will help you narrow down your search.

Woman hikes with her dog as she learns truck camper basics on her camping trip.

Type of Truck Camper

When it comes to truck camper basics, it’s important to note that truck campers come in two distinct types: hard-site or popup. Hard side campers typically have more storage and allow you to feel more secure on the road.  You will have good insulation, often have more living space, and you can plan and organize your camper prior to traveling. Pop up campers are lightweight and often more affordable.

Obviously, what you use the camper for will determine what type of camper you get. You also need to consider what you want the camper to be equipped with on the interior. Depending on the model you may have an interior kitchen, shower and toilet, or none of the above. If you plan to travel alone versus bringing along the family and kids, this will be a huge factor in your decision.

Truck Campers for Sale in Pennsylvania

Overall truck campers are a great option for those who value maneuverability and easy storage. There are very few limits with this type of camper. They can often go wherever you and your truck want to! Truck campers are easy to drive and maneuver, which makes your trip less stressful. After reading through these truck camper basics, you can shop truck campers for sale in Pennsylvania at Juniata Valley RV. Not interested in a truck camper? Find fifth wheels, tiny campers, motorhomes and more when you shop our RVs for sale in Mifflintown!

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Why Choose a Truck Bed Camper?

by | Jan 19, 2023 | Juniata Trailer Sales

Advantages of a Truck Bed Camper 

The thought of campers often conjures up images of classic travel trailers, or maybe a motorhome. Truck bed campers are sometimes overlooked when it comes to choosing a new camper. But these compact campers can be a great choice – especially if you’ve already got a pickup truck and you’re traveling with a small group. 

About Truck Bed Campers 

A truck camper is ultimately a small RV that is mounted on a pickup truck’s bed. While they are arguably the most compact campers, truck bed campers offer a variety of features comparable to larger RVs in today’s market. Like any other RV, truck bed campers come in a range of models and floorplans.  

Though they are not considered the most luxurious RVs, today’s truck campers offer conveniences such as large kitchenettes with stoves and refrigerators or dry bathrooms with toilets, sinks and showers. Additionally, some models have laundry centers with washers and dryers and optional features such as couches and fireplaces. 

A truck camper driven on a red dirt road.
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So, whether you are new to RVing or considering a change, consider that truck campers may be the answer to balance convenience and comfort. So, with that in mind, let’s look at what makes them advantageous over some of the other types of RVs out there. 

Mobility 

Undoubtedly, one of the best parts of RV life is the freedom to change locations. When it comes to switching campsites, truck bed campers are easily the most mobile of campers. In fact, their overall mobility may be the most beneficial aspect of truck bed campers. Because they are so compact, they can adventure to places outside of the constraints of larger RVs. Scenic drives through National Parks and overlooks? No problem! Boondocking in a remote location? Why not!  

With truck bed campers, you are typically able to get to any destination that you can access in your pickup truck. So, not only can you take your adventure off road, but you can also access experiences you might not be able to with a large RV. Also, you will struggle less to fit in regular parking spaces at attractions and avoid additional fees thanks to their design. 

Drivability 

The mobility of truck bed campers is ideal, and it goes hand in hand with their drivability. While their size makes them conducive to a broader scope of activities, they are also generally easier to drive. Unlike towing a camper or driving larger Class C motorhomes, driving a truck camper is as simple as driving a truck. Albeit you need to be aware of their height and they are top-heavy, but you’re basically driving a truck with cargo.  

They take corners well, can easily be reversed and fit into ordinary parking spaces. So, although you do need to take safety precautions when driving with them, they’re typically as maneuverable as a truck. So, if you’re comfortable driving your pickup truck, it’s not much more difficult with the addition of the camper.  

Convenience  

As you might have guessed, overall convenience is unquestionably on our list of truck bed camper benefits. Not only do they have nearly unmatched mobility and drivability, but these campers are also low maintenance, self-contained, and easy to store.  

First, because truck campers are essentially cargo, you won’t have much more upkeep than routine maintenance on the truck. The main camper maintenance tasks include inspecting seals to prevent water damage and maintaining the camper jacks.  

Another convenience factor stems from the fact that they are self-contained. While you can detach the camper for use of the truck, for camping you can simply park. Of course, there are other features that require preparation before you settle in, there is little to no additional camp set up or breakdown. Thus, park hopping is made easy as you can just get up and go.  

Lastly, we must once again mention the ease of access with parking. Easily navigating congested areas and finding parking for routine stops, such as gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants cannot be taken for granted! Fitting in ordinary parking spaces undeniably makes life easier. Likewise, truck bed campers are easy to store as they can fit in the garage or driveway of most homes.  

Pickup truck camper with topper shell parked in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. RNMP has 3,176,941 annual visitors (2011).
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Versatility 

Another benefit of truck bed campers is their incredible versatility. We’ve already mentioned the wide range of models and floor plans, so whether you want luxury features or just need a bed to crash in after your adventures, there’s a truck camper for you.  

While truck campers can offer added features for comfort, they offer the utility benefits of travel trailers. Like other towable campers, truck campers can be detached and left at their campsite or stored when not in use. Not only does this facilitate more off-road adventures, but it also gives you full use of the truck and truck bed.  

Additionally, when you use a truck camper, your truck still has towing capacity. You can take advantage of your truck’s hauling capabilities to tow boats, ATVs, trailers and more. And if you want more towing power, you can upgrade your truck and still be able to use your camper. In fact, because truck campers slide in, you can use it for years to come on any truck that it fits.  

Older recreational vehicle at the parking lot in Everglades National Park. Florida, United States

Affordability  

Lastly, we cannot fail to mention the affordability of truck bed campers. We’ve already discussed that they are low maintenance and can be used through multiple truck upgrades, but we also must mention the purchase prices and associated savings.  

To start, the average cost for a new truck camper ranges from $5k – $60k, while towable campers can quickly reach $100k. Additionally, because there are fewer truck campers available, they hold their value better.  

Beyond the difference in initial purchase price, truck campers are also more cost effective when it comes to associated expenses. They’re low maintenance, which helps you avoid costly repairs, and you also save on everyday expenses. You avoid fees on parking and storage, and truck campers are better on gas than other RV types. Also, because they are mounted to a truck, not motorized or towable, they are not considered an RV in many states. So, you can save annually on registration costs and insurance as they’re not required in most states.  

Truck Bed Campers for Sale  

Although truck campers may not be ideal for all RVers, we think they’re always worth considering. Truck campers can go almost anywhere so they’re great for those after off-road adventures and camping in remote locations. Overall, they are relatively easy to drive and convenient to use and maintain. Their versatility and affordability are unmatched when it comes to an RV meant to enjoy the outdoors.  

So, if you’re interested in investing in adventure, get in touch with our sales team and shop our truck campers for sale in Mifflintown, Pennsylvania! We have several truck camper manufacturers and models to choose from. If you’re still not sure about a truck camper, you can always shop all of our new RVs for sale! Once you’re ready to purchase a new camper, you can contact us online, give us a call, or stop by in person. Our team is here to help you find your dream RV! 

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How to Perform a Spring RV Inspection

by | Jan 17, 2023 | Juniata Valley RV

Guide to Seasonal RV Maintenance

As the weather warms, the time comes to uncover your camper and get ready for camping season! After long, cold months in storage, a spring RV inspection is often necessary. Before you head to the first campground of the season, you’ll want to make sure your RV is clean and ready to go. Avoid RV breakdowns and campground headaches: check out these tips for taking your RV out of winter storage before you get back on the road!

General Inspection

Before you get to the more detailed steps, it’s a good idea to check that all the basics are covered. This includes your power source, doors, windows, and propane. Confirm that all of these are functional before digging deeper into your spring RV inspection. If you run into issues with any of these, it’s likely time to consult the RV service technicians at Juniata Valley RV’s service department.

A woman seals the RV interior with caulk.

Electrical Checkup

After you’ve confirmed your RV’s power source is functional, it’s time to check individual power outlets. With the right tools, troubleshooting outlet issues can be a pretty simple process. First, check the generator circuit breaker(s) and reset. Next, check outlets and reset after you turn on the generator. We sometimes have to do that to get the outlets to work.

If you’re still having trouble, recheck and reset all your 120 Volt breakers in the main house panel after you turn on the generator. Check for power when you leave the generator. If the outlets still do not have power, the diagnosis may involve a power transfer switch. If so, contact our service department so we can help you get this fixed right away.

Sealing Leaks and Cracks

It may not seem like a big deal, but during a spring RV inspection you’ll want to check for leaks and cracks that may have occurred during the off season. Moisture can seep in over the winter and create an RV owner’s nightmare: mold! Make sure to check all windows for old caulk. If needed, remove and repair the area with new caulk after. If it’s going to rain, wait until you know you’re going to have clear weather for at least 24 hours to ensure a clean, dry repair.

Check the Tires

After months in storage, your RV tires are likely deflated. Before you hit the road, you need to do this essential step in RV dewinterization. Driving an RV, or even towing an RV, on underinflated tires can be dangerous, possibly leading to a blowout or an accident. You should use a tire pressure gauge to check PSI and reinflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can search these recommendations online or consult your owner’s manual.

Aside from reinflating, you should inspect your tires for overall quality. This includes checking for cracks in the sidewall and examining the tread. If your tires look worn down, it’s a good idea to replace them before the camping season starts.

RV Service in Pennsylvania
RV mechanic pushes jack under vehicle.

Wash and Inspect the RV Exterior

The last step to a spring RV inspection is a wash and wax. You can use a mild car washing soap, a big sponge for scrubbing and a microfiber towel to wipe down your RV. A thorough wipe-down to dry off the RV can prevent water marks. Make sure you wash the roof, the wheels, windows and panels. Check awnings for mold growth or tears as you may want to replace them before hitting the road. Once you’re done with the wash and dry, apply a generous coat of wax to get that like-new shiny look.

Man opens a camper fridge during a spring RV inspection.

Clean and Inspect the Interior

Your RV is probably stuffy and full of stale air after months closed up in storage. You can start your interior inspection by opening all the doors and windows, which allows your RV to air out. While you do this, you can also clean any dust or dirt that settled on the surfaces, as well as vacuum the floors.

We recommend opening the fridge and cabinets as well to let them air out. You should keep an eye out for any unwanted settlers who may have taken refuge in your RV during the winter, like spiders, mice and squirrels. Finally, check your ceiling for discoloration, which may be a sign of leaks.

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Getting Back on the Road

Juanita Valley RV has an array of supplies you may need for repairs including awning accessories, plumbing supplies, a variety of vent covers, light bulbs, drain hoses and so much more. If you’re ready for a new RV this spring, you can contact us for a fair trade in. Browse new RVs for sale on our website, and stop in, give us a call, or contact us online when you’re ready to find out more!

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Which Truck Camper Manufacturers Does Juniata Valley RV Carry?

by | Dec 22, 2022 | Juniata Trailer Sales

Here at Juniata Valley RV, we take pride in carrying only the best RV brands on the market. When we decided to re-introduce truck campers to our RV dealership, we carefully selected our top three brands. These manufacturers specialize in durable, dependable truck campers that we’re confident will please our shoppers. After careful consideration we chose the following: Capri, Lance and NuCamp.  

Truck Camper Manufacturers at Juniata Valley RV

What is a Truck Camper?

A truck camper is exactly what it sounds like: a camper that is attached to the bed of a pickup truck. These campers are often very small, consisting of a bed, bathroom and kitchen at most. Though tiny campers may have the title, truck campers are truly the smallest campers on the market. They are so small, in fact, that most states don’t legally consider them RVs! Pennsylvania included – here, they are considered cargo rather than an RV.

While truck campers are definitely small, they are a great option for single travelers or couples on the go. One of the main benefits is their maneuverability. They’re easier to drive on winding campground paths or off-road trails for boondockers because they aren’t towed. Additionally, there’s no worry when it comes to parking your truck camper. It’s easy to back into your campsite, and you can fit in almost any parking lot along the way.

A Capri truck camper, one of our truck camper manufacturers, on a truck in the snow.

Image courtesy of Capri.

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In addition to ease of travel, truck campers are an affordable option if budget is a concern when you’re in the market for a new RV. The initial price tag is much smaller than most campers. They range anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 new. Not to mention there’s no need to worry about purchasing a registration or significant insurance rate hikes. Finally, they are easy to store! Truck campers are small enough to store in the garage or driveway of most homes.

The truck camper benefits range from price to drivability, which is why we recommend them for single or duo travelers. So, when you shop truck campers at Juniata Valley RV, what are your options?

Capri Truck Campers

Since 1969, Capri has specialized in “the world’s finest truck camper.” They began in a Texas warehouse and have since expanded to a full manufacturing facility. Their campers are lightweight, well-constructed and affordable. And, of course, many buyers love the vintage style that can only be found on Capri truck campers.

Capri campers were recently seen on Paramount’s hit TV show Yellowstone! They manufacture both cab-over models, Retreat and Lone Star, and a non-cab-over Cowboy model. Juniata Valley RV carries all three of their models, so you can choose the camper that works best for you!

Lance Truck Campers

While based in California, Lance plans to open a second facility in Decatur, Indiana, to help keep dealers in the Midwest and on the East Coast stocked. Lance has built safe, eco-friendly, dependable campers since 1965. All of their campers include a two-year structural warranty, so you know you’ve purchased a camper that the brand believes in.

Lance has truck campers to fit both short-bed and long-bed trucks. Both are available in multiple models at Juniata Valley RV. Their stylish campers include award-winning models and floorplans that maximize limited space. In addition to Lance truck campers, we carry Lance travel trailers at our dealership.

NuCamp Truck Campers

Though NuCamp may be better known for their tiny campers, their Cirrus truck campers deserve just as much recognition! NuCamp’s story begins in Ohio’s Amish country in 2004; the original manufacturing company was name Pleasant Valley. Founder Joe Mullet begin his journey exclusively producing teardrop campers: TAB and TAG. The addition of Cirrus truck campers was a new adventure for the manufacturer.

NuCamp offers the Cirrus 620 and Cirrus 820 in their truck camper inventory. The larger 820 is a hard-side truck camper that comfortably fits a 6.5-foot truck bed. On the smaller side is the Cirrus 620. The 620 is lightweight and perfect for half-ton trucks. It weighs in at less than 1,500 lbs. You can find NuCamp trailers and campers for sale at Juniata Valley RV!

A Cirrus truck camper on a truck.

Image courtesy of NuCamp. 

Interested in a new truck camper? Shop truck campers for sale in Mifflintown, Pennsylvania! You can also shop RVs by brand on our NuCamp, Capri and Lance campers for sale pages.  Once you’re ready to purchase a new camper, you can contact us online, give us a call, or stop by in person. Our sales team is ready to help you find your dream RV!

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Shop Our RVs Today!
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