californiadesert

Sometimes the best adventures come from taking the road less traveled. That's just one of the great tips Soterios Johnson uncovers on this episode of the California Now Podcast, which is all about finding unique California road-trip experiences.

To start things off, Johnson connects with Jessica Dunham, who has authored multiple road-trip guides. Dunham discusses an otherworldly cruise through the California deserts, raving about the magical experiences to be found in and around two national parks—Joshua Tree and Death Valley.

Next Johnson talks with travel writer Ann Marie Brown about some of her favorite roadways in California. Brown talks about what makes a highway an officially designated “scenic byway,” and then goes deep in describing three of her favorites.

And then Johnson chats with Lia and Jeremy Garcia, cofounders of the travel blog Practical Wanderlust. The pair talks about a recent trip they took to the northern stretch of the famously gorgeous Highway 1—a remote part of the state where travelers can explore historic lighthouses, ancient trees, and unique beaches.

What’s the future of campgrounds? How can you find a great place to stay even when the campgrounds are full? Mark Koep from CampgroundViews is back with us talking about some exciting technology coming soon to help campers. He also shares some great tips for finding that campground today.

Then we spend some time in the California desert exploring Rainbow Basin and a great inexpensive hidden gem. 

Mentioned on this episode

Tips from Mark Koep from Campground Views on finding places to stay:

• Open your horizons - be willing to try new places and be more flexible with times. 
• Understand your fellow RVers buying habits - many RVers book more than they need and cancel at the last minute. Often you can find what you want at the last minute. 
• Have lots of options - know the places you want to go within an area.
• If a place is critical - make reservations well in advance. 

Also mentioned:

• Access Parks - https://www.accessparks.com
• RV Self Park with Jim Turntine: https://www.stresslesscamping.com/podcast/0045
• Peggy’s article on Rainbow Basin
• Harvest Hosts discount
• Lion Energy discount
• Question of the Week - do you care if there are permanent residents when you stay at an RV park?
• Ego Power+ PAD1500 Nexus 150 watt power inverter.