Comprehensive Support, Discounts, and Resources for Over 40 Years
Ever dream of hitting the open road in your RV, the sun kissing your face, the wind whispering tales of freedom? But then the practicalities rear their head – mail, maintenance, the gnawing loneliness of a solitary journey. Or perhaps you’re a seasoned RVer, a veteran of countless campgrounds, but feel a yearning for something more, an edge, a deeper connection?
Enter Escapees RV Club, a name synonymous with worry-free, affordable, and – dare I say – fun RV adventures. More than just a club, it’s a meticulously crafted ecosystem designed to smooth out the bumps and amplify the joys of the nomadic life.
What’s truly in it for you, the intrepid traveler? Imagine a community forged in shared experiences, savings that stretch your travel budget further, and a treasure trove of resources that transform you from a wanderer into a confident explorer. Let’s unpack this intriguing organization and see if it holds the key to unlocking your ultimate RV dreams.
A Trip Down Memory Lane: How Escapees Paved the Way
The story of Escapees is, at its heart, a deeply human one. In 1978, Joe and Kay Peterson, kindred spirits united by their love for the open road, recognized a void in the RV community. Their “Sharing and Caring” vision was born from necessity – solving real-world problems like reliable mail services and fostering a sense of belonging amidst the transient lifestyle. They sought to build a supportive network, a family on wheels, for those who chose to embrace the unconventional.
From this humble beginning, a vibrant network blossomed. The first Escapade rally in 1979 marked the beginning of in-person connections, solidifying the community. The SKP Co-Op parks, established in 1982, offered affordable and welcoming havens for members. Birds of a Feather groups, emerging in 1984, allowed RVers to connect based on shared interests, hobbies, and life stages. And in 1985, the legendary mail forwarding service was launched, providing a stable lifeline for full-time travelers.
The narrative took an exciting turn in 2015 with the birth of Xscapers. This signaled a crucial evolution, shattering the misconception that Escapees was solely for retirees. Xscapers embraced the burgeoning community of working nomads, proving that the RV lifestyle could be a viable option for those still climbing the career ladder, thus injecting fresh energy and perspectives into the established framework.
Today’s Roadmap: What Escapees Offers Now
Escapees proudly boasts a “Total Support Network,” a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted needs of RVers. Let’s delve into some key components:
- Mail Call, Anywhere: The mail forwarding service remains a cornerstone, a reliable home base address that transcends geographical limitations. It’s more than just convenience; it’s a vital link to the stationary world, often accepted by banks and other institutions, allowing full-timers to maintain essential services.
- Roadside Heroes: We all know that things break. That’s where 24/7 roadside assistance comes in, offering peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away when those inevitable hiccups occur on the road.
- Brains & RVs: Education is empowerment. Escapees provides a plethora of educational programs, ranging from immersive Boot Camps to the accessible Online University. SmartWeigh ensures your rig is safe and compliant, while the classic Escapees Magazine keeps you informed and entertained.
- Your Tribe Awaits: Community is the lifeblood of Escapees. Dive into a rich tapestry of gatherings – Escapades (the large rallies), Xscapers Convergences (aimed at the working nomad), Hangouts, HOPs (Hosted Overnight Parking), and the ever-popular Birds of a Feather groups. These connections foster friendships, mentorship, and a sense of belonging that combats the isolation often associated with long-term travel.
Beyond these core offerings, Escapees sweetens the deal with a treasure trove of discounts. Imagine saving 15-50% on campground fees, plus deals on RV products, insurance, tires, and even memberships to other valuable services like Harvest Hosts!
But Escapees goes beyond personal benefit. They actively engage in RVer advocacy, protecting the rights of RVers and fighting for access to public lands.
Bumps in the Road? Unpacking the Controversies
No organization is without its critics. It’s crucial to acknowledge and examine the occasional controversies that arise within the Escapees community.
- Park Potholes & Perfection: Some members voice concerns about the maintenance levels in certain SKP Co-Op parks, a stark contrast to the rising costs of private campgrounds. Balancing affordability with upkeep is a perennial challenge.
- The “Mistreatment” Myth? Reports of negative experiences at parks do surface from time to time, highlighting the importance of managing expectations and fostering respectful interactions within the community.
- Speaking Your Mind (or Not): The Code of Conduct, designed to promote harmony, prohibits discussions about religion and politics at Escapees events. While intended to create a safe space for all, this policy has drawn criticism from those who believe it stifles free expression.
- The Mail Forwarding Conundrum: While widely praised, the mail forwarding service isn’t without its complexities. The Patriot Act implications raise concerns about privacy, and the ongoing debate regarding financial institutions accepting forwarding addresses as physical residences continues to simmer.
The Future’s Horizon: What’s Next for Your RV Journey
The landscape shifted dramatically in July 2024 with the acquisition of Escapees RV Club by Harvest Hosts. This is not merely a merger, but a strategic alignment of forces, promising to reshape the future of RVing. Harvest Hosts is now at the helm of membership, events, and education, while the Carr family maintains control over mail forwarding and SKP parks.
So, what does this mean for the average RVer?
- What Stays the Same: The beloved events, the distinct focus of Xscapers, and the pledge of no immediate fee hikes should reassure existing members. The two entities retain their separate identities, at least for now.
- What Might Change: The acquisition opens doors to potentially enhanced educational offerings and expanded event experiences, leveraging the strengths of both organizations.
Furthermore, several broader industry trends are driving the RV wave and influencing the future of Escapees:
- Community is King: The intrinsic human desire for connection is amplified on the road, making Escapees’ community-building efforts more vital than ever.
- Digital Nomads Roam: Remote work fuels longer stays and a demand for specific amenities, prompting Escapees to adapt to the needs of this growing demographic.
- Younger Wheels on the Road: Gen Z and Millennials are embracing the RV lifestyle in droves, bringing fresh perspectives and technological savvy to the community.
- Green Machines: The shift towards sustainable and electric RVs necessitates education and infrastructure development, areas where Escapees can play a crucial role.
- Tech-Enabled Travels: Smart RVs and advanced safety systems are transforming the RV experience, requiring RVers to stay abreast of the latest technological advancements.
Looking ahead, exciting adventures await! Keep an eye out for future events like the DND Odyssey and the Xscapers Annual Bash, offering opportunities to connect, learn, and explore.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Escapees RV Club, and how long has it been in operation?
A1: The Escapees RV Club is one of the oldest, largest, and most popular RV membership organizations in the world, and it has been serving RVers for over 40 years.
Q2: What benefits does the Escapees RV Club offer to its members?
A2: The Escapees RV Club offers a variety of benefits to its members, including a mail forwarding service, 24/7 roadside assistance, educational resources, and a tight-knit community of like-minded RVers.
Q3: What is the mail forwarding service offered by the Escapees RV Club?
A3: The mail forwarding service offered by the Escapees RV Club allows members to have their mail and packages securely delivered to a permanent address, even while they’re on the move.
Q4: What kind of educational resources does the Escapees RV Club offer?
A4: The Escapees RV Club offers a range of educational resources, including RVers Boot Camp, RVers Online University, SmartWeigh, and Escapees magazine, to help members enhance their RVing knowledge and skills.
Q5: Why should I join the Escapees RV Club?
A5: Joining the Escapees RV Club offers a comprehensive support network for all RVers, making your travels worry-free, affordable, safe, and enjoyable. With over 40 years of experience and a mission to provide valuable resources and services, it’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their RVing journey.
Overall, whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just starting, the Escapees RV Club can help you make the most of your RVing adventures. With a range of benefits, including support services, educational resources, and a tight-knit community, you can ensure that your RV travels are worry-free, affordable, safe, and enjoyable.
Conclusion:
Escapees RV Club, now interwoven with the expansive network of Harvest Hosts, stands as a testament to the enduring power of community, education, and support in the world of RVing. It’s not just about finding a place to park your rig; it’s about finding your place within a vibrant and welcoming community.
The mission that began with Joe and Kay Peterson’s simple act of “Sharing and Caring” continues to resonate today. As the RV lifestyle evolves, Escapees remains a constant, adapting to the changing needs of its members while staying true to its core values.
So, I ask you, are you ready to embark on an extraordinary RV adventure? Explore how Escapees can transform your RV dreams from mere possibilities into breathtaking realities. The open road awaits, and with Escapees as your guide, the journey promises to be richer, more rewarding, and undeniably unforgettable.
Resources
- Escapees RV Club Official Website (https://www.escapees.com/): The official website of the Escapees RV Club, where you can find comprehensive information about the club, its benefits, resources, and events, as well as instructions on how to become a member.
- RVers Online University (https://www.rversonlineuniversity.com/): An online educational platform provided by the Escapees RV Club, offering various courses and resources designed to enhance your RVing knowledge and skills, ranging from RV maintenance to trip planning.
- Escapees Magazine (https://www.escapees.com/escapees-magazine/): The official magazine of the Escapees RV Club, featuring articles on RV lifestyle, travel destinations, technical advice, and personal stories from fellow RVers. Access to the digital edition of the magazine is included in the club membership.
- RVers Boot Camp (https://www.escapees.com/event/rvers-boot-camp/): An in-person training event offered by the Escapees RV Club, focusing on essential RV knowledge and safety practices, with experienced instructors sharing their expertise in a classroom setting.
- SmartWeigh Program (https://www.escapees.com/community/smartweigh/): A service provided by the Escapees RV Club that offers an accurate and thorough weighing of your RV, helping to ensure safe and optimal tire inflation, weight distribution, and overall vehicle handling while on the road.
