RV Out West - podcast cover

RV Out West

Brooks Smotherswww.rvoutwest.com
RV Out West is all about RVing around the Pacific Northwest with some sprinkled in adventures that radiate out from there. I pull a travel trailer with my family in tow and this show discusses sweet camping spots, gear and equipment, to tips & tricks — all to make your camping experiences as enjoyable as possible. #RVoutwest
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Episodes

PNW Hot Springs Tour: An RV Soaking Adventure

Steam rises through the trees, the scent of pine fills the air, and a natural hot spring bubbles quietly nearby, this is what RV travel through the Pacific Northwest can offer. In this episode, we take you on a scenic tour of the best hot springs in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, perfect for RVers who love blending the outdoors with deep relaxation. From developed hot springs with soaking pools, changing areas, and full hookups to primitive, hike-in springs surrounded by wild landscapes, the PNW...

Sep 08, 202520 minEp. 165

Destinations: Ocean Shores, WA

Ocean Shores is a RV destination offering the perfect mix of coastal beauty, outdoor adventure, and RV-friendly convenience. Located along the scenic Washington coast, this laid-back beach town welcomes travelers with wide-open shorelines, charming local spots, and plenty of space to unwind. Find the top-rated RV parks in Ocean Shores, including beachfront campgrounds with ocean views and full-hookup sites close to town. Discover the best places to set up camp, enjoy long walks on the beach, dig...

Sep 01, 202520 min

Struggling with RV Burnout

Feeling drained after your RV weekend trips instead of refreshed? You might be dealing with RV weekender burnout. In this episode, we dive into the all-too-common experience of RVers who try to cram adventure, relaxation, and travel into a short weekend; only to come home more exhausted than when they left. Whether you're a new RV owner or a seasoned weekend warrior, we explore why burnout happens, how to spot the signs and what you can do to avoid turning your love of RVing into another source ...

Aug 25, 202516 minEp. 163

The Airstreamer Life

Ever dreamed of selling everything and hitting the road full-time in an Airstream? In this episode of RV Out West, we sit down with Jim and Michelle, the inspiring couple behind Airstreamer Life , who did exactly that. After raising a family and spending years working hard in the suburbs, Jim and Michelle made the bold decision to trade the traditional lifestyle for one of adventure, simplicity, and freedom. They sold their home, downsized their belongings, and embraced full-time Airstream livin...

Aug 18, 202523 minEp. 162

Discover the Top 3 Scenic Drives Through Idaho

Idaho’s scenic byways offer travelers an immersive journey through some of the most untouched and diverse landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. With 31 officially designated scenic routes, Idaho invites road trippers to explore winding mountain highways, dense pine forests, dramatic river canyons, and rich cultural landmarks. These scenic drives aren’t just routes—they’re experiences that highlight the state’s unique blend of natural beauty and frontier history. From national parks and historic m...

Aug 11, 202517 min

Getting Lost in British Columbia with Nick & Jess

British Columbia is a dream destination for RVers—where snowcapped mountains, wild coastlines, and lush rainforests converge into one breathtaking road trip experience. It’s a place that invites slow travel, spontaneous adventure, and awe-inspiring discovery around every bend. In this episode, we explore the beauty of RVing in British Columbia through the eyes of Nick and Jess, the duo behind The Lost and Found in Canada on Instagram. Based in BC, Nick and Jess share their off-grid adventures, b...

Aug 04, 202534 minEp. 160

Skagit Valley’s Newest Luxury RV Resort

Skagit Valley, nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, is one of Washington State’s most scenic gems. From vibrant spring tulip fields to views of Mount Baker and peaceful evergreen forests, it’s a haven for RVers craving nature, adventure, and serenity. Just minutes from downtown Mount Vernon, a brand-new luxury RV resort has opened its gates, Town & Country Motorcoach and RV Resort , offering a premium experience for travelers looking to park in style. In this episode, we we...

Jul 28, 202530 minEp. 159

Jenn & Kyle Bethune: Life on the Road

Meet Jenn and Kyle Bethune—digital nomads, YouTubers, and a full-time RV family—who traded the traditional lifestyle for life on the road with their three kids and dogs. In this inspiring conversation, the Bethunes share their journey into full-time travel, what it’s like raising a family while living nomadically, and their favorite memories from exploring the Pacific Northwest. Known for their popular YouTube presence, Red, White & Bethune , Jenn now hosts Jenniungly Being , diving into min...

Jul 21, 202535 minEp. 158

Exploring Three of Oregon’s Most Scenic Byways

Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the country, where every mile tells a story and every turn offers a new perspective. In this episode, we highlight three of Oregon’s 29 designated scenic byways—from Hells Canyon, to the fossil-rich terrain of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway. These drives aren’t just routes—they’re immersive experiences. You’ll navigate through volcanic landscapes and glacial lakes, and cruise into quiet high desert towns steeped in pioneer a...

Jul 14, 202517 minEp. 157

Prohibition Tales from the Emerald City

We dive into the hidden world of Seattle Prohibition with local historian and author Brad Holden , who uncovers the city’s wild and rebellious past during the 1920s. From underground speakeasies and rum-running operations on the Salish Sea to corrupt officials and forgotten road houses, Brad shares jaw-dropping stories that reveal a bawdy side of Seattle history most people have never heard. Whether you're traveling through the Pacific Northwest by RV or just love untold tales from America's Pro...

Jul 01, 202531 minEp. 156

Bellingham in a Day

Tucked between the rugged North Cascades and the sparkling Salish Sea, Bellingham, Washington is a must-visit Pacific Northwest destination that offers a stunning mix of mountains, forests, and coastal beauty. Just 90 miles north of Seattle and 20 miles south of the Canadian border, Bellingham is ideally located in Whatcom County with easy access to the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and the scenic Chuckanut Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a paradise of glacial lakes, temperate rainfore...

Jun 23, 202521 minEp. 155

Discover 3 Scenic Drives Through Washington State

We’re exploring the soul-filling magic of taking the scenic route—those winding roads that turn ordinary drives into unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re RVing through the Pacific Northwest or just heading out for a weekend escape, there’s something unforgettable about choosing the road less traveled. Scenic drives may not be the fastest, but they offer a kind of beauty and freedom that stick with you long after the trip ends. From winding forest highways to coastal byways, these roads invit...

Jun 16, 202516 minEp. 154

Columbia Riverfront RV Park Review

Escape to the banks of the Columbia River at Columbia Riverfront RV Park in Woodland, Washington. In this episode, we explore the peaceful beauty of this riverside campground with towering cottonwoods, misty mornings, bald eagles and big Mount Hood views. Just 22 miles north of Portland, Oregon, Columbia Riverfront RV Park spans 10 tranquil acres and delivers big when it comes to both location and vibe. Find out what makes this riverside park a gem, plus the honest scoop on what didn’t quite hit...

Jun 09, 202510 minEp. 153

Mount St. Helens: First Impressions

We finally made the journey into the heart of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic and hauntingly beautiful landscapes—Mount St. Helens. More than just the site of a historic eruption, Mount St. Helens is a powerful symbol of nature’s destruction and resilience. Over 40 years ago on May 18, 1980, the mountain exploded with a force that shocked the world reshaping the region in seconds. From lava-scarred ridgelines to lush alpine meadows, we explore how the land has healed and how nature ha...

Jun 02, 202522 minEp. 152

Three Must-See Natural Wonders in Every Pacific Northwest State

The untamed beauty and ecological richness of the Pacific Northwest makes it a region known for its incredible diversity of landscapes, from temperate rainforests and craggy coastlines to alpine ridges, volcanic plateaus and expansive high desert. This convergence of ocean, mountain, and inland ecosystems makes the PNW one of the most biologically diverse and visually stunning areas in North America, perfect for RV travelers. While iconic national parks like Olympic, Crater Lake, North Cascades ...

May 26, 202526 minEp. 151

The RV@Olympic Resort Revolution

We're spotlighting one of the most exciting developments in the RV world for 2025 — the grand opening of RV@Olympi c a brand-new, next-generation RV resort on the Olympic Peninsula. Opening in early July 2025, this flagship resort is set to redefine what it means to RV in the Pacific Northwest by offering a seamless, elevated experience tailored to modern travelers. Located near the entrance to Olympic National Park, RV@Olympic is more than just a place to park — it’s a thoughtfully designed bas...

May 19, 202527 minEp. 150

The Road Is Calling

We’re diving into something we all feel but rarely talk about: the overwhelming weight of constant noise. Lately, it feels like the world is always on. The news never stops, our phones never rest, and the pressure to keep up—at work, at home, and online—can leave us feeling anxious, distracted, and totally worn out. If you've been craving a reset, this episode is your invitation to rediscover peace through the freedom of RV travel. We’ll explore how RVing isn’t just a vacation—it’s a powerful wa...

May 12, 202512 minEp. 149

The Dusty Trails RV Way: Adventure, Lessons, and New Beginnings

After a decade of hands-on home remodeling, Amanda, of Dusty Trails RV , was no stranger to building things from the ground up. But when life threw her a major curveball, she rebuilt more than just walls — she rebuilt her entire life. Now living full-time on the road, Amanda shares her journey into RV life, how her background in construction, firefighting, and emergency medicine shaped her approach to traveling, and the powerful lessons she's learned along the way. Tune in as Amanda dives into h...

Apr 27, 202531 minEp. 148

The State of the State Parks — Oregon State

Oregon’s state parks have a rich history dating back to 1921, when they were first established as part of the Oregon Highway Department. Today, the Oregon State Parks system manages over 170 stunning parks, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities—from scenic hiking trails and forested campgrounds to breathtaking coastal views. Whether you're a lifelong Pacific Northwesterner or planning your first Oregon adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration. In this episode, we’re joined by ...

Apr 21, 202529 minEp. 147

The State of the State Parks — Washington State

We’re launching a two-part mini-series focused on the State of State Parks, starting with the incredible system of Washington State Parks . With over 140 parks, trails, marine areas, and historic sites, Washington offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences waiting to be explored. In this episode we welcome back Sarah from Washington State Parks. If you missed her first appearance on Episode 57, The Future of Washington State Parks , it’s well worth a listen. In this new conversation, Sarah sh...

Apr 14, 202533 minEp. 146

Exploring the PNW National Parks

We dive into the magic of our National Parks—those incredible public lands that belong to all of us. These national treasures are more than just scenic landscapes—they’re places where family memories are made and future generations can fall in love with the great outdoors. Joining the conversation is Hope, a former National Park Ranger based in the Pacific Northwest. She brings insider knowledge, trail-tested tips, and deep passion for protecting our public lands. Plus, she shares what can be ex...

Apr 07, 202527 minEp. 145

The RV Snack Guide with The Snackin’ Shack

Snacks are the unsung heroes of RV life—whether you’re cruising to your favorite campground or tackling a multi-day road trip, having the right munchies on hand makes all the difference. We are diving deep into the best road trip snacks, from classic favorites to new, exciting flavors that will take your taste buds on an adventure. But that’s not all! If you’re looking to upgrade your snack game, we chat with Jaxen aka Snax of The Snackin’ Shack , the world’s first and largest snack museum locat...

Mar 31, 202525 minEp. 144

The Latest in Hiking: Updates from the WTA.org

Hiking is more than just a pastime—it’s a source of joy, challenge, and connection to nature. In this episode, we’re joined by Anna Roth from the Washington Trails Association (WTA) to talk about the incredible work they do, from maintaining trails, creating hiking resources, to advocating for public lands. We dive into exciting new trails in Washington State, the launch of WTA’s new app, and how you can get involved in protecting our shared outdoor spaces. Plus, Anna shares key insights on what...

Mar 24, 202523 minEp. 143

Exploring Portland by Keeping It Weird

Portland, Oregon never fails to surprise. From its vibrant culture and thriving art scene to its world-class food, coffee, and craft beer, Portland isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning a trip or just passing through, this city is worth a few extra days of exploration. From quirky urban adventures to must-visit favorites, Portland is a "choose your own adventure" city where every turn leads to something amazing. While Portlandia pokes fun at the locals, there’s no ...

Mar 17, 202520 minEp. 142

The Best Way to Book Popular Campgrounds

A few years ago, we sat down with Thomas from Camper Alerts as he launched his innovative online tool to help campers snag campsites at sold-out campgrounds. Back then, he wasn’t even an RVer yet! Fast forward to today, and a lot has changed. Now that Thomas and his wife have joined the RV LIfe, he’s back to share firsthand camping tips, fun destinations and exciting new features to Camper Alerts that make finding last-minute campsites even easier. If you’ve ever struggled to book a campsite at ...

Mar 10, 202528 minEp. 141

Exploring Iconic Movie Locations in the Pacific Northwest

Both big studio filmmakers and independent directors have long been drawn to the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. For those of us who call this region home, it’s easy to see why. The lush forests, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains create the perfect setting—not just for movies, but also for our RV adventures. It’s no surprise that some of the most iconic films have been shot in this breathtaking bioregion. Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for unique destinations or...

Mar 03, 202526 minEp. 140

Destination: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

If you love lakeside camping, small-town charm, and access to world-class outdoor recreation, Coeur d’Alene should be at the top of your RV travel list. Nestled in Northern Idaho, this stunning destination is home to one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. In this episode, we explore why Coeur d’Alene is the perfect spot for RV travelers. From scenic byways and lush forests to a historic downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and local charm, this town is an RVer’s dream. Send us a tex...

Feb 24, 202513 minEp. 139

What Do You Wish You Had Known Before You Started RVing?

RVing is an incredible adventure, but let’s be real—it’s not always smooth sailing. In this episode, we’re tackling a question "What do you wish you had known before you started RVing?" These are the kinds of conversations we have around the campfire, swapping stories about lessons learned, rookie mistakes, and those little tips that make life on the road easier. From RV maintenance and campground reservations to trip planning, budgeting, and the reality of storage space, there’s a lot to figure...

Feb 17, 202517 minEp. 138

Top 10 Summer Festivals in the Pacific Northwest

Summer is the perfect time to hit the road in your RV and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of festivals across Washington and Oregon. In this episode, we’re sharing our Top 10 list of summer festivals here in the Pacific Northwest. From music festivals in the mountains to coastal food fairs and artisan markets, festivals offer a unique blend of live entertainment, delicious local eats, and a buzzing sense of community. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood at a charming coastal event or st...

Feb 10, 202520 minEp. 137

Camping with Kayla: Escape the Ordinary

After years of feeling stuck in a rat race, Kayla’s family made the bold decision to escape the ordinary and explore the extraordinary. We welcome Kayla from Camping with Kayla , who, along with her family, made the leap to living the full-time RV life. Kayla shares what led them to this life-changing decision, the challenges and rewards of traveling full-time, and their favorite must-visit spots in the breathtaking Pacific Northwest. From hidden coastal gems to awe-inspiring national parks, she...

Feb 03, 202520 minEp. 136
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