RV travelers love fall at Ontario Parks even after Canadian Thanksgiving (the second Monday in October). Some even camp in winter. Park staff affectionately call these campers ‘winter warriors’ since staying warm and maintaining the water systems in your RV in Ontario’s winter temperatures is a challenge. These four Ontario Parks are your best bet for late fall camping in an RV. Know that trailer fill stations for water are normally closed later in the season, based on weather. However, three parks have campgrounds offering electrical service and comfort stations with hot showers that are open year-round. The fourth, Killarney Provincial Park, does not have electrical service. The park also closes its comfort stations and turns off its water systems following the Canadian Thanksgiving, but the bathrooms outside of the main office remain open along with a tap so campers can access water to fill large jugs. Don’t forget that you need a park permit to camp in any season at Ontario Parks. More detailed RV information is on the Ontario Parks web site.
In Algonquin Provincial Park, is Ontario’s oldest provincial park and its most famous. It’s about 3.5 hours north of Toronto at km 30.8 on Highway 60 which runs east-west through the southern portion of Algonquin. You can get cell phone reception at the Algonquin Visitor Centre which is open on weekends. Algonquin’s legendary fall colors generally peak in late September. Late fall colors known as the ‘golden encore’ are worth experiencing too, especially on the park’s many hiking trails. Ian Shanahan, a former Algonquin Natural Heritage Education Specialist, describes the ‘golden encore’ in this Park Blog post. In winter, Algonquin’s cross-country ski trails are fantastic. They’re groomed, well-signed and include heated warming huts. Pine Tree Loop, one of Algonquin’s Leaf Trails is regarded by many as the finest cross-country ski trail in ‘southern’ Ontario. For Algonquin’s news, follow @Algonquin_PP
Along with its year-round Birch Boulevard Campground is on Lake Huron near Port Elgin, about 4 hours northwest of Toronto. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served or reservation basis, depending on the time of year. Birdwatchers ‘flock’ to this park especially during spring and fall migrations. Visit in spring for the park’s annual spring Huron Fringe Birding Festival which celebrates the return of songbirds. And in the fall, Wild for the Arts art festival is another popular park event. Electrical sites in Birch Boulevard are large, level, and well-treed. Staff suggest you pack an extra-long electrical cord to ensure you can reach your site’s electrical outlet. Park hiking trails range from easy to moderate. Mountain biking is also permitted on some trails so pack your bike. In winter, the park’s heated yurts are popular for overnight stays. Eleven kilometers of trails are groomed for cross country skiing, and you can ski or snowshoe many more kilometers of unplowed park roads. If you love to skate (weather-permitting). MacGregor Point’s cool skate path through the woods is worth the drive. For the latest park news, follow @MacGregorPoint on Twitter.
The sunsets here on Lake Huron are rated by National Geographic as “among the top 10 best in the world’. This popular beach park is booked solid in summer but in late fall it is far less busy and offers some good year-round recreation in its rare Carolinian forests and rolling dunes. There are 10 kilometers of walking trails, a 14-kilometer bike trail and 38 kilometers of groomed ski trails (weather-permitting). Thousands of Tundra Swans pass by the park in spring. In winter, Red-tailed Hawks and Tufted Titmice hang out at the park’s Visitor Centre feeders. The park’s Riverside Campground Area 1 stays open all year and has electrical outlets and a winterized comfort station with flush toilets and showers. Heated yurts and a winterized cabin are also available for rent in the campground. Get Pinery’s latest news on Twitter @PineryProvPark
A wild Lake Huron- Georgian Bay coastline, the LA Cloche quartzite mountain range and 50 sapphire-colored lakes are what you can expect to see at Killarney Provincial Park. Fall hiking trails range from two to sixty kilometers in length and their degree of difficulty runs from moderate to strenuous. You can also bike Killarney’s roads or the bike trail which runs along the Chikanishing Creek to the Chikanishing Access Point. George Lake Campground is open year-round but as mentioned earlier in this post, it does not have electrical sites and turns off its water and closes its comfort stations following the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday (second Monday in October). Park staff do leave the main office outside bathrooms open and have installed a tap specific to fill large water jugs. In winter, George Lake campground is walk-in only. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers rent the campground’s heated yurts. Park staff provide toboggans so campers can haul their gear to a heated yurt. Staff say winter campers love the walk-in since it gives them a sense of “remoteness”. The trail is between 500 and 700 meters long.
Resources
Ontario Parks Official Website (https://www.ontarioparks.com/) the official website of Ontario Parks for information on park permits, reservations, and other essential details.
Algonquin Provincial Park (https://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/) the Algonquin Provincial Park’s official website for detailed information on the park, including Mew Lake Campground, facilities, activities, and events.
MacGregor Point Provincial Park Twitter Page (https://twitter.com/MacGregorPoint) the official Twitter page of MacGregor Point Provincial Park to provide users with the latest park news, updates, and announcements.
Pinery Provincial Park Twitter Page (https://twitter.com/PineryProvPark) the official Twitter page of Pinery Provincial Park to provide users with the latest park news, updates, and announcements.
Killarney Provincial Park – Ontario Parks (https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/killarney) the Killarney Provincial Park’s official page on the Ontario Parks website for information on the park, including George Lake Campground, facilities, activities, and events.
In conclusion, late fall RV camping in Ontario offers a unique experience for adventure enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the beauty and serenity of Ontario’s provincial parks. With parks like Algonquin, MacGregor Point, Pinery, and Killarney, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, skiing, and snowshoeing. Be sure to visit the official websites and social media pages of these parks for the most accurate and up-to-date information on facilities, events, and any potential seasonal closures.
This Stretched VW Beetle with trailer is a crazy one-of-a-kind RV. Can you imagine pulling into your favorite National park and seeing this thing parked next to you?
What’s with all the stuffed animals? Ok I don’t really understand why you would do this. I guess you will make kids smile but I still don’t get this RV.
The MotoHome™ is a concept from the mind of Jeremy Carman, a senior architecture student at USC’s School of Architecture. It’s like a truck cap camper, but for motorcycles,
A rare and iconic streamlined motorhome designed by industrial designer Brooks Stevens. It is a classic example of streamlined Art Deco vehicle design, known for its aerodynamic shape and unusually luxurious features for its time.
Based on the visible features in the image, such as the design of the front grille, headlights, and overall shape, the bus appears to be an older International Harvester (IH) model from the 1970s or 1980s, likely an International Harvester Loadstar. This type of bus chassis was commonly used for school buses and utility buses during that era.
Featured Image: 1956 Chevrolet Campervan via Riley / flickr
Traveling is a great pastime, especially when traveling by RV. No one uses paper directions anymore and the days of just winging it and hoping for the best are thankfully behind us. Technology has brought us a slew of apps designed specifically to coordinate multiple stops for gas stations, rest areas, camping spots and more.
Google Maps– Google Maps is by far the most popular app used by travelers. It informs you of traffic issues and gives estimated arrival times based on current traffic conditions. It will automatically reroute you if there is an increase in traffic, an accident, or other problematic road conditions. You can even use this app offline. A couple of things to keep in mind – the GPS requires a lot of battery power and there is no social sharing feature.
Waze– This multi-stop routing app is constantly updating to ensure the information is fresh. Based on traffic conditions, Waze will find the most efficient route. It will also inform you about accidents, construction, police, and road closures. Pair it with one of the free RV GPS apps so your route avoids low bridges and weight limits.
What sets Waze apart from other mapping apps is its social features. It allows you to:
Chat with other drivers.
Share your location.
Share your drive with others.
Send a beep beep to your friends.
Send a private message to other Wazers.
Carpool with other Wazers.
and more…
One pitfall of this app is the speeding alert obscures the speed limit icon for an extended period of time, so you can’t tell what your speed SHOULD be. Like the other GPS apps, it uses a lot of battery power.
Mapquest– has been around for years, and was originally a website that required users to print out directions. The app version offers multiple route options and allows you to use filters to set preferences. The app will alert you to slowdowns in traffic. In addition to mapping routes, this app shares gas prices and even has a function for making hotel and restaurant reservations. Some cons to using Mapquest; the map size can be small, directions are reportedly less accurate than other apps and it cannot be used offline.
Maps.Me– The main feature of this app is that it is entirely offline. This is perfect when you are in a spotty cell service area as you can still navigate to your destination. Because everything on this app can be used offline, the app uses much less battery power. Not too many complaints from users, but there have been reports that the maps load slowly after being updated and businesses on the maps are not updated frequently.
Inroute Route Planner– A benefit of this application is that you can design your trip based on weather, elevation, and road curviness. Simply drop pins where you are looking to stop, and the app compiles a route for you. You will be able to search along this route for gas stations, hotels, or restaurants. There are also special features for motorcyclists, RV’ers, and truckers. With the free version, you can specify up to 8 locations. Users have reported that it can be hard to get back on track if you go off route and that it may be difficult moving and changing pins.
Apple Maps– a rival of Google Maps comes preloaded on every iPhone. It includes turn-by-turn directions and voice navigation. It plots the fastest way to get to your destination based on traffic, location, time of day, and your schedule. Another helpful feature is that it gives guidance on which lane you should be in. On your map, you will be able to see the current weather and air quality for your location. Some users have reported that exit directions and information about businesses are not always correct. On iOS 17 and later, Apple Maps supports downloadable offline maps with turn-by-turn directions, although coverage is not available in every region. The street view function does not have images for everywhere in the US.
Mapfactor Navigator– is a free offline multiplatform GPS navigation app, with maps for over 200 countries. There is also voice navigation to assist you in your journey. Keep in mind that even though the maps are up to date, the traffic information is not. Some users have stated the maps have some inaccuracies and can be slow to load or crash. To receive premium features, you will also have to pay a yearly or monthly fee.
Roadtrippers– collaborate with your friends and family to find exciting hot spots along your planned route, such as national parks, gas stations, restaurants, and more. This app is free to use but there is an upgrade needed to use all features.
Plotaroute– is an application that allows you to plan out routes for outdoor activities. It is the perfect app for designing your perfect walk, run, or bike ride. It allows you to check out scenic routes, so it is a little different than the typical road trip app.
Scout GPS– Typical features are included in this app such as turn-by-turn navigation and real-time updates on traffic and speed. Scout prides itself in being a social destination app, as users can recommend restaurants to each other, notify their contacts of ETA, and can see in real-time when their friends will be arriving. One downfall of this app is concern over privacy because of location sharing.
When it comes to planning a trip, it is always best to have the best resources available. As much as we want everything to run smoothly, there are times that catastrophe happens, and the plan you had falls through. By downloading a few of these apps, you will have plenty of information in your arsenal to help you get to all your destinations, and find new ones along the way. Not only will you be able to get to your locations seamlessly, but you will be able to find exciting places to stay, eat, buy cheaper gas, and more.
Hey there, fellow travelers and craft beer lovers! If you’re looking for a unique blend of hoppy goodness, scenic views, and small-town charm, let me introduce you to Meier’s Creek Brewing Company in Cazenovia, NY. Tucked into the rolling hills of Upstate New York, this modern brewery greets you with a sleek, industrial-chic vibe—and a warm, welcoming spirit that makes you feel right at home. At the time of this 2022 visit, Meier’s Creek participated in the Harvest Hosts program and allowed eligible RV members to stay on the brewery grounds. Host participation and availability can change, so verify the current listing in the Harvest Hosts app before planning an overnight stay.
Over the years, I’ve ventured through a fair share of taprooms and breweries, but there’s something about Meier’s Creek that immediately stands out. Maybe it’s the stainless-steel tanks glinting in the afternoon sun, or the camaraderie that forms when patrons toss cornhole bags outside. Or perhaps it’s the scenic location just minutes from the charming village of Cazenovia. Regardless of the reason, if you love craft beer and enjoy exploring lesser-known travel gems, this place should be on your radar.
A Deep Dive into Meier’s Creek Brewing Company
The first thing I noticed when I pulled up to Meier’s Creek Brewing Company was its architecture: a modern, industrial-chic exterior framed by lush greenery. Once inside, you’re greeted by exposed brick, gleaming brewing tanks, and the easygoing hum of conversation from fellow beer enthusiasts. The team behind the bar is equally welcoming, readily offering suggestions on what to sample.
I’m more of a hop-head at heart, so I gravitated toward their bold IPAs. But for those who prefer lighter flavors, they’ve got crisp lagers and refreshing ales too. One thing I love about craft breweries in general is the seasonal rotation—you never know what new experiment they’ll debut next. And at Meier’s Creek, their limited-release offerings might just surprise you. Whether you’re into fruity sours or roasty stouts, you’ll find a style that intrigues your palate.
While you sip, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere. The taproom’s contemporary design pairs well with Upstate New York’s natural beauty. Huge windows overlook rolling fields and distant hills—a reminder that you’re in a part of the state blessed with four glorious seasons. And if you’re a social type, you’ll have no trouble striking up a conversation with fellow patrons or the friendly bartenders.
Pro Tip: If you visit during warmer months, I highly recommend grabbing a seat on their outdoor patio. You can watch cornhole matches or even try your hand at disc golf if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring or driving your rig through the scenic byways of Upstate New York.
Harvest Hosts: Meier’s Creek as Your Home on Wheels
If you’re an RV traveler like me, you’ve probably heard of the Harvest Hosts program (Harvest Hosts, 2023). It’s a membership service that connects adventurers with unique overnight stays at wineries, breweries, farms, and museums across North America. Instead of jostling for space at a crowded RV park, you can settle in for the night amid the scenic charm of places like Meier’s Creek.
Here’s how it works: you pay an annual fee to join Harvest Hosts, then search their extensive directory of participating businesses. Each host typically provides parking (and sometimes hookups, although not always), in exchange for supporting their business—like enjoying a meal, grabbing a souvenir, or, in this case, buying some craft beer. For me, this arrangement feels like the ultimate win-win: I get to park my RV in a gorgeous location, and the local business gets a bit of well-deserved patronage.
The best part about staying at Meier’s Creek overnight? Waking up to serene farmland and sipping your morning coffee with a gentle breeze drifting off the surrounding hills. No early morning traffic noise, no rushing to check out of a bustling campground—just the calm presence of nature. And hey, you can even snag a fresh pint later in the day before continuing your journey!
Beyond the Beer: Unveiling the Charm of Cazenovia, NY
Of course, Meier’s Creek is only one piece of what makes Cazenovia so special. This village may be small, but it boasts an outsized personality and plenty of attractions for a variety of tastes. Whether you’re into the great outdoors, local history, or simply exploring quaint downtown streets, Cazenovia has something to keep you entertained.
For the nature lovers among us, the Cazenovia Lake Nature Preserve (Cazenovia Recreation Department) is a serene oasis. Meander along walking trails while enjoying the lakeside views. If you’re lucky, you might spot herons or other native birds taking a dip. Cazenovia College closed permanently on June 30, 2023. Older references to the college arboretum describe the former campus; verify current ownership, public access, and operating conditions before visiting.
For history buffs, the Lorenzo State Historic Site (NY Parks, 2023) is a must-see. This meticulously preserved 19th-century mansion not only offers guided tours but also hosts educational events. Wandering the grounds feels like stepping back in time—and it’s easy to imagine horse-drawn carriages rolling across the sweeping lawns.
If you’re yearning for a taste of small-town ambiance, downtown Cazenovia will warm your heart. Picture this: tree-lined streets, inviting shop windows, cozy cafés, and friendly smiles from passersby. The local art galleries are well worth a stop, offering an eclectic selection of pieces created by regional talents. And if your stomach starts growling, you’ll find no shortage of restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to comforting baked goods.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Cazenovia Farmers Market if your trip aligns with its schedule. Strolling through stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goodies is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Grab some ingredients for a picnic by the lake or even for a meal back in your RV.
Outdoor Pursuits and Community Life
Looking to stay active? The Cazenovia Country Club (Cazenovia Country Club) features a scenic 18-hole golf course that can challenge both newcomers and experienced golfers alike. You’ll be rewarded with fairways offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside—and there’s nothing quite like teeing off when the leaves are in full autumn color.
Meanwhile, the Cazenovia Public Library (Cazenovia Public Library) stands as a community hub, hosting various events, readings, and interactive programs throughout the year. If you’ve got kids in tow, it’s a wonderful spot to spark their curiosity. The former Cazenovia College athletic facilities should not be treated as an active college attraction because the college closed in 2023. Check current local listings for public events and access.
What I love most about Cazenovia is how it balances scenic outdoor pursuits with a vibrant community spirit. One day, you could be canoeing on the lake; the next, you’re browsing local shops downtown. The pace here is refreshingly slow, but there’s still plenty to see and do if you’re up for it. It’s a chance to step away from the noise of larger cities and reconnect with nature, history, and friendly faces.
Craft Beer, Charm, and Community: A Cazenovia Escape Awaits
So, why choose Meier’s Creek Brewing Company and Cazenovia, NY, for your next weekend getaway or extended RV trip? From my perspective, it’s the unbeatable combo of craft beer exploration and pastoral charm. Meier’s Creek offers a fantastic range of beers—bold IPAs, crisp lagers, seasonal brews—and a setting that invites you to kick back and relax.
After you’ve had your fill of brews, step outside and discover why Harvest Hosts members love this location: the rolling hills of Upstate New York, a star-filled sky overhead, and a welcoming taproom waiting if you decide you need “just one more sip.” In the morning, you’ll wake to fresh country air and a sense of calm that’s hard to put into words.
Beyond the brewery, Cazenovia itself unfolds like a well-kept secret. Whether it’s the Cazenovia Lake Nature Preserve, the Lorenzo State Historic Site, or the boutiques and cafés downtown, each corner of this village has something that draws you in. Local residents will tell you they never run out of ways to enjoy the area—and after a few days, I started to see why.
For me, it’s places like this that capture the spirit of small-town America: a blend of history, natural beauty, and community pride. It’s also a testament to how one brewery—Meier’s Creek—can become a central gathering point, uniting travelers, locals, and craft beer aficionados under one roof.
At the end of the day, Meier’s Creek Brewing Company offers more than a great pint—it offers a gateway to the hidden charms of Cazenovia, NY. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur, a history buff, or simply in need of some R&R, this corner of Upstate New York delivers on all fronts. The Harvest Hosts program makes RV camping here a breeze, giving you the freedom to savor the local flavors well into the evening without worrying about a long drive back.
So, if you’re mapping out your next road trip, why not add Cazenovia to the itinerary? Pitch your RV at Meier’s Creek, treat yourself to a frothy pour, and explore the area’s natural beauty and storied past. Trust me—you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and maybe with a few extra cans of craft beer to share with friends back home. Cheers, and safe travels!
Hello, fellow travelers and wine (or beer!) lovers. On my latest Harvest Hosts adventure, I found myself in the tranquil countryside near Cooperstown, New York, staying at the wonderful Rustic Ridge Winery. To my surprise, this charming spot also shares a “campus” with High Burl Brewery. Talk about the best of both worlds—wine and craft beer right at my doorstep! Let’s just say this overnight stop quickly became one of the most memorable and relaxing experiences I’ve had on the road.
Checking In: A Warm Welcome
When I pulled into the property, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. You never know how a Harvest Hosts check-in will go—sometimes the staff barely knows about the program; other times, they’re prepared and excited to host. Thankfully, I was greeted by the lovely Connie, who welcomed me with open arms and had been expecting my arrival. This small gesture alone set the tone for an easygoing and enjoyable stay.
Camping Among the Corn Fields
Connie directed me to a camping area just a short walk from both the winery and the brewery. This spot was adjacent to a cornfield and offered a breathtaking vista of the valley. The entire scene looked like something out of a movie: rolling hills, wide-open skies, and an unmistakable sense of peace. In fact, I was the only camper that evening, giving me a level of tranquility you’d be hard-pressed to find in a bustling RV park.
After getting my rig all settled, I simply stood outside for a moment to soak it all in. The calm rustle of the wind through the corn stalks made for a comforting soundtrack, and the sun cast a warm glow over the landscape. I couldn’t help thinking, “This is why I travel—moments like these where you can truly pause and appreciate nature’s beauty.”
Wine Tasting at Rustic Ridge
Of course, the main attraction (at least in the daytime) was Rustic Ridge Winery itself. With Connie behind the bar, I took a seat and began sampling their selection. According to Connie, the grapes come straight from the Finger Lakes region of New York, known for producing exceptional wines (Finger Lakes Wine Country, n.d.). I wasn’t entirely sure if they produce on-site or if the wine is finished elsewhere, but, truth be told, I was more interested in the flavors than the specifics of its origin.
My personal favorite ended up being a wine made from grapes developed by Cornell University (Cornell University’s Viticulture & Enology Program, n.d.). The taste had just the right balance of sweetness and tartness, perfect for sipping while gazing out at the scenic valley. Cindy, my travel companion, found a light-bodied white that matched her palette beautifully. All in all, we were both quite happy campers after the tasting session—pun intended!
A Perfect Evening at High Burl Brewery
After enjoying the wine, we returned to our campsite for a leisurely dinner and some downtime. As night began to fall, we strolled over to High Burl Brewery for another round of tastings—this time of the craft beer variety. The place was buzzing with a friendly crowd, and to our delight, live music was on the schedule that evening.
We ordered a flight of four different beers each. I’m a sucker for a hearty stout, while Cindy opted for the lighter ales. The real highlight was taking our samples outside to a picnic table, where we could hear the band strumming away under the stars. Sipping on local craft beer, surrounded by warm string lights and music, is my definition of a perfect summer night.
A Rainbow Finale & Quiet Night
Just as the music began winding down, raindrops started to fall—talk about timing! We headed back to the RV, only to witness a spectacular rainbow spreading across the sky. Shortly thereafter, the sunset bathed the fields in warm oranges and pinks, creating one of the most vibrant scenes I’ve seen in a while. I stood there in awe, phone in hand, trying (and failing) to capture its full beauty.
The rainstorm passed quickly, leaving behind a peaceful hush and the faint smell of wet earth. Being the only campers, Cindy and I had the whole place to ourselves for the evening. No car lights, no loud neighbors—just the gentle chirping of crickets and the distant hum of the night’s last vehicles on the highway. Moments like these are why I treasure Harvest Hosts experiences so much; they let you connect with your surroundings in ways a standard RV park just can’t match.
Some Local Things to Do Near Burlington Flats
If you’re traveling through Burlington Flats or the Cooperstown area, you’re in luck. Here are a few local attractions you might enjoy:
Howe Caverns: Embark on underground boat rides, gemstone mining, and mesmerizing limestone formations at this iconic New York State attraction (Howe Caverns, n.d.).
Leatherstocking Trail: A scenic hiking and biking route that traverses the rolling hills of central New York—ideal for taking in the region’s natural beauty.
Cooperstown Baseball Hall of Fame: Immerse yourself in America’s favorite pastime with exhibits and memorabilia celebrating its greatest players (National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, n.d.).
Glimmerglass Festival: Summer opera at its finest, featuring world-class performances in a picturesque lakeside setting (Glimmerglass Festival, n.d.).
Leatherstocking Golf Course: Enjoy sweeping views and challenging holes at this beautiful 18-hole course near Cooperstown.
Fenimore Art Museum: Explore American art and cultural artifacts spanning from the 18th to the 21st centuries.
Oneonta State Athletic Field: Check their events calendar for local sports matches and community gatherings that bring the region to life.
Wrapping Up
In the end, Rustic Ridge Winery and High Burl Brewery delivered everything I could hope for in a Harvest Hosts stay: friendly people, fantastic drinks, and postcard-worthy scenery. If you happen to be in the Cooperstown area—or even just passing through—do yourself a favor and spend an evening here. Between the delicious wine, the laid-back brewery vibes, and the open fields for camping, you’ll leave with a heart full of gratitude and a camera roll brimming with scenic shots.
As always, safe travels and happy tasting. If you’ve been to Rustic Ridge or any similar spots in central New York, I’d love to hear about it—drop a comment and share your own story! Until next time, cheers!
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