Overall, our first full camping trip went without a hitch. We loved it, even though it never stopped raining in Manistee, Michigan. The June 24th weekend trip we made to the Little River Casino campgrounds was our choice because our main focus was to go to a place familiar to us (my husband attended high school there and we have been going to Manistee for decades whenever we could during his Army career) so the weather, although leaving much to be desired, was of no consequence. We wanted to concentrate on really getting to know “The Blast” as we affectionately call our rig.

We are not gamblers, but we chose Little River Casino just outside the city limits because it was the only campgrounds that was close to downtown Manistee and had cement pads. Plus, when you purchase the full hook-up stay, you have access to all the amenities inside the Casino which includes the swimming pool.

We were extremely pleased with the clean grounds, including the free shuttle right to your site to and from the casino with just a call.

Overall, we actually didn’t make any huge rookie mistakes (that we are aware of). We didn’t intrude on anyone’s camp area, I always picked up after our little Yorkie Levi, no exceptions. We were quiet by 9 pm even though there were no stated “quiet” times on any of the literature. No outside lights on actually ever. We didn’t “knock” on anyone’s door, a big no-no that I guess many newbies make.

One rookie mistake I definitely made though was purchase a way, way too tiny outdoor rug. Given the constant rain and the fact that the grass grew on sand, it was a red hot mess walking into the coach—which is why I adhere to a strict no outdoor shoes inside The Blast anyway. However that teeny rug was absolutely, completely useless. An utter waste of money. So useless, we threw it in the dumpster when we left. You can see the tiny thing in front of the door to the motor home in the photo above.

So no outdoor barbecuing even though my husband bought me this awesome little one that is a perfect fit for the Jayco set up to the natural gas hook up on the side of the rig. The weather just didn’t permit it. None the less, we saw family and this brings me to a heads up about those of you who are considering a new RV and have never owned one.

During my research, and it was truly a sensory overload, and what I didn’t consider was entertaining. Never crossed my mind. I only thought, “grandchildren.” However, at one point in my research I did consider Class B RVs and that always meant one area for seating in the front and then if it was an option, turning the drivers seat and passenger seat around.

Jayco actually offers this, even though there is plenty of room to entertain in the 31FP model. Our seats do turn around.

So it was quite by accident I ended up getting this great layout by Jayco because I ended up wanting the sleeping capacity for my grandchildren and foregoing the compact ability of being able to park the Class B van-like RV anywhere which was tempting.

It dawned on me while on this trip and the relatives came to the campsite to see the rig and since it was pouring when they arrived, we were able to go inside and sit comfortably without having to turn the drivers or passenger seat around. A convenience because despite what the commercials show you, or on-line dealer demonstrations, while you technically can do it, it is a pain to actually execute.

Trust me, we have tried. It is doable, and you can turn them to face inside the cab. but it is quite the chore.

So if you want to be strictly solo, or just the two of you, then a small rig meant for two is for you. However, if you are social and don’t care to sit in the pouring rain when you are with friends and family, you might want an RV that accommodates some guests inside during inclement weather. The Jayco Greyhawk 31FP manages this comfortably. Or the very least, test those “easily tunable seats” before buying a small RV is you are social animals and want to get in out of the rain.

Overall, the entire experience, driving to the campsite, setting up, camping, even though it truly was dreary weather conditions, all of it exceeded my expectations. I was afraid I had set the bar too high, but it turned out to be the opposite. Listening to the rain outside the rig was something I loved to fall asleep to.

Looking at all the other RVs in the campground (and thinking that ours was the nicest one there—yes I was a bit prejudice—I will admit) because I am such a nerd about this newfound hobby, I geeked out every time someone new drove in and even talking to other RVers while we walked around in-between the raindrops, all of it was just, well, a blast! I know our Levi enjoyed it too and already seems to feel the rig is a second home because when we had to leave him inside without us for short periods he never made a sound. Good boy Levi!

I do not get one thing for saying this, but I am quite impressed with Jayco, so I’m sure that is one of the reasons our camping experience was so pleasant. Our coach is so beautiful inside and out and works so well, no problems so far!

Well until next time where we’ll be camping at a Naval base in New Jersey—-

Duty, Honor and Seeing the Country RV Style!