Tag: Voyageurs National Park

5 Steps To Winterize Your RV In Northern MN

Winterizing your RV is crucial to ensuring that it stays in good condition while not in use during colder months, especially so you can stay at Headquarter’s RV park located in Crane Lake, MN the gateway to Voyageurs National Park when summer comes around again. Here’s a breakdown of the five essential steps every RV owner should take to prepare their camper, travel trailer, motorhome, or 5th wheel for winter:

1. Winterize Your RV Water System

  • Why: To prevent freezing, bursting pipes, and water damage.
  • How: Drain all water from your RV’s plumbing, water heater, and appliances like ice makers and washing machines. Using an air compressor is the most common method, requiring a “blow out” plug to connect to the city-water line. Keep PSI under 40 to avoid damaging your plumbing.
  • Alternative: Consider a drain-down system like Floë, which simplifies the process by integrating directly into your RV for easy use.

Many RV owners also use antifreeze in their lines after blowing out the system. Propylene glycol is recommended over ethanol-based antifreeze, as it is less likely to dry out rubber seals.

2. Wash Your RV Inside & Out

  • Exterior: Wash the outside thoroughly, ensuring all doors, windows, and vents are closed. Use a garden hose or portable power washer. Avoid washing in confined spaces like small car washes.
  • Interior: Clean and vacuum the inside of your RV. Remove all food and water-based appliances to prevent mold, rodents, or bad odors.

Some RV owners place dryer sheets inside their rig to keep it smelling fresh over the winter.

3. Inspect Seals & Repair Leaks

  • What to Check: Examine seals around doors, windows, roof vents, AC units, and skylights for any cracks or damage.
  • How to Repair: Use compatible sealants, tapes, or adhesives, like those from Alpha Systems, to fix leaks and maintain your roof and seal integrity. Regularly checking these areas can prevent water damage from melted snow or rain.

4. Clean & Inspect Tires

  • Why: To prevent flat spots, freezing damage, and sinking into soft ground.
  • What to Do: Clean your tires and, if storing on asphalt or concrete, place them on cardboard or wood. Avoid parking on grass or dirt, which can lead to your RV sinking when the ground thaws.
  • Additional Tip: Move your RV periodically throughout winter to relieve pressure on one spot of the tire. Check tire pressure using a TPMS (Tire Pressure & Temperature Monitoring System) or a gauge to ensure they remain properly inflated.

5. Check Your RV Regularly During Winter Storage

  • Why: Regular checks help you catch issues like leaks, rodent infestations, or low tire pressure early.
  • How: If possible, visit your RV periodically to ensure everything remains in good condition. Checking for leaks, testing tires, and ensuring no smells or pests have developed can save you from a major headache when spring comes.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your RV is well-maintained and ready for use as soon as the weather warms up. Book you next stay in Crane Lake MN in Northern Minnesota at Headquarter’s RV Park, Call Today!!!

Escape the City, RV in Northern Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret: Crane Lake

Crane Lake MN RV

Do you want to enjoy the summer to the fullest? One increasingly popular way to do this is by taking an RV vacation. Given the vast size and diverse natural beauty of the United States and especially northern Minnesota, it’s no wonder that many families are considering this type of getaway. However, choosing the perfect destination can be a daunting task unless you choose Headquarters RV Park in Crane Lake MN.

Ideally, you want a location that combines stunning natural landscapes with RV facilities that cater to all types of vehicles and offers a variety of nearby attractions. Fortunately, Northern Minnesota has numerous areas that fit the bill, but deciding on Crane Lake MN is a guaranteed great time.

One standout choice is the Voyageurs National Park wilderness, specifically the Headquarters RV Park, which is located on the border of Crane Lake and Buyck, Minnesota. This destination offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern comforts, making it an ideal spot for families looking to escape the stresses of city life and enjoy nature’s splendor. Wether your boating, riding a ATV or hiking there is always something to do at Headquarters RV Park.

Set on 30 acres of pristine land, Headquarters RV Park provides a spacious and serene environment, unlike many crowded RV parks. It offers only 15 full-service sites, each equipped with 30 or 50 AMP service and set on a natural rock surface. These sites are designed to cater to families looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love, with hiking and walking trails that wind through the breathtaking Voyageurs National Park wilderness. Water lovers will also appreciate the easy access to the Boundary Water Canoe Area, which offers endless opportunities for canoeing and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

The allure of Crane Lake and the surrounding North Woods area is irresistible to visitors. Evenings spent under Minnesota’s clear, star-filled skies, relaxing by the rock fire pits that are a feature of every RV site, provide the perfect end to a day of exploration and adventure.

For families looking to recharge and reconnect, an RV excursion to Headquarters RV Park offers not just a short-term escape, but an experience that will create lasting memories. This unique destination promises a combination of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty that can be cherished for decades to come. Call Headquarters RV Park today for both short term and seasonal RV sites!

Tips to Save on Power Use During RV Travel

northen minnesota adventure

northen minnesota adventureDid you know almost 10 million homes plan to buy an RV in the next few months?

The RV is a great way to travel around the United States, whether you are on a mini-vacation or extending your vacation. It’s important to learn how to use an RV generator if you have never owned one before.

You don’t want to overdo it.

Charge your devices in advance

You and your family will need to charge a variety of devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. You can prevent draining the power of your devices by charging them before you leave.

Be sure to turn off the RVs during your trip so their batteries won’t drain. You can then relax and reduce your RV’s power consumption when you arrive at a northern Minnesota campground.

Keep Your Fridge Cold

Each time your fridge turns on, it uses a lot of energy. It’s best to keep your RV fridge cold rather than yo-yoing the power consumption.

You can achieve this by placing a lot of bags of ice inside. It will help keep your food and other items cool without having to put the fridge through its paces.

The temperature can rise if you open the fridge frequently. It’s best to only open the refrigerator when it is absolutely necessary.

Choose Propane Appliances

Want more RV travel advice? You should invest in propane appliances instead of hooking up everything to your generator. Propane can be cheaper than generators and is also more efficient.

Generators are required to be running at all times when an appliance is being used.

Keep an eye on your air conditioning usage

It’s easy to forget about an air conditioner once it is turned on. This is an excellent way to burn off all your energy.

The best RV travel tip is to turn your AC off when not necessary.

Are you ready to have fun with RV travel?

You can now make your RV trip a success by following these useful tips. You’ll be able to create many wonderful memories with your family while on the road.

Consider staying at the Headquarters RV Park Crane Lake if you are looking for a beautiful and comfortable place to stay. Our RV park is located close to the Voyageurs National Park and other beautiful locations in northern Minnesota.

Book now! We are looking forward to meeting you.

Escape The City And Enjoy Summer To The Fullest

northern Minnesota rv parks

northern Minnesota rv parksIt’s no exaggeration to say that the last year has been among the most stressful imaginable for many families. But with the Coronavirus thankfully on the way to being brought under control, many families (especially those with young children) will be looking to shrug off the effects of Cabin Fever by heading out into the welcoming arms of Mother Nature.

The increasing popularity of RV vacations, in part due to flight restrictions has led many families to seriously evaluate this sort of vacation option. In a country the size of America, with varied climates and such enormous natural beauty, this would come as no surprise. However, given this choice deciding where to go becomes an enormous challenge.

One would ideally find a region with great natural beauty and RV facilities that cater to all sorts of RV’s – and offers attractions close by that would offer an incredible variety and that beauty that nature can provide.

Fortunately, the United States has a variety of such areas. But again, what is the best choice?

The Voyageurs National Park wilderness, the Headquarters RV Park which can be found on the border of Crane Lake and Buyck, Minnesota simply ticks all the boxes. This a place where one can experience the wonders of the Minnesota wilderness – but still have all the comforts of home when it comes to RV amenities.

Set on 30 acres of natural beauty you will not be crowded. Unlike other top-class RV parks, there is only room for the select few (and for those who book their space early). The 15 full-service sites (with 30 or 50 AMP service and a natural rock surface) have everything that the family wanting to escape the confines of the city and the stress of daily life could ever wish for.

Those who want to immerse themselves in nature will be spoiled for choice with hiking and walking trails in the Voyageurs National Park wilderness – and for water lovers, easy access to the Boundary Water Canoe Area provides even more opportunity to enjoy the wonderful natural beauty of the area.

Those arriving will soon find themselves subject to the lure of Crane Lake and the greater North Woods area. If that is not enough, evenings under the clear, star-studded sky of Minnesota offer a fabulous opportunity to simply relax at the side of the rock fire pits which are a feature that is part and parcel of every RV site at this venue.

For those who want to just recharge tired emotional and physical batteries an RV excursion to Headquarters RV Park is one that will not only provide a reward in the short term but an experience that will live on in memory for decades, if not generations.

Tips For Feeling Right At Home In An RV Park

RV parks in northern mn

Are you looking for a way to feel comfortable as you travel from one campground to the other or state? Well, you should consider moving around in a recreational vehicle (RV). You can enjoy the feeling of home as you camp and enjoy the outdoors. Here are some of the best tips to help you feel at home while in your RV at an RV park.

1. Choose The Best Spot To Park Your RV

When looking for an ideal spot to park your RV, you need to ask yourself the following questions. Do you want to be separated from the other campers? Are you looking for a pet-friendly parking spot for your RV? Do you want an area with trees bordering instead of other campers?

Don’t forget to consider the needs of your RV such as electrical hookups, outdoor grill, fire pit or somewhere you can pull through instead of backing up. Once you consider the amenities you need, you should be able to pick a great spot and feel right at home in the RV park.

2. Bring Your Own Dishes, Cookware And Silverware

The best thing about traveling with an RV is that you can camp without leaving the comfort of your home behind. Well, if you want to make the feeling ideal, you should come with real dishes, cookware and silverware.

Some of the recommended kitchen supplies you should bring include a coffee maker, cooking sheets, pots and pans, seasoning, cooking basics, forks, knives and spoons among other kitchen accessories.

3. Invest In Your Outdoor Set-up

Yes, you might be moving from one RV campground to the other. However, you need to make your temporary campsite feel like your own backyard. You can personalize the area in many ways to make it familiar to your camping needs.

Conclusion

When you are traveling with an RV, you might not spend 24/7 in it. However, you want to feel at home when you are cruising around in it. You can achieve this effortlessly by bringing your own items. Take some time to decorate and plan ahead and your RV camping will feel exactly like home. You can personalize your space and enjoy your home away from home effortlessly.

Tips for Better RVing.

RV Park Campgrounds

RV Park CampgroundsExploring what nature has to offer is very enjoyable. This is what has made going to RV Parks very popular. Despite its various benefits, RVing has its own set of challenges such as wind, bugs, spiders, dark, heat and so on. However, the challenges should not stop you from enjoying what RVing has to offer. This article will give you tips for overcoming these challenges.

Bugs & Critters
-Use dryer sheets to repel bees by hiding unscented dryer sheets below your table cloths
-Mixing water with Pine-Sol in the ratio 50:50 in a spray bottle can help keep your tables, furniture, and patio clean and also repels flies.
-Sage is a good bug and mosquito repellent. So, to keep mosquitoes and bugs away, add it to your campfire.
-Applying a mixture of Listerine and household vinegar on your body is a good way to keep bugs away as the smell is repulsive to them.
-Use Peppermint oil as a spider repellent (spiders don’t like strong scents).

Storage Solutions
-An old ketchup bottle can be a good pancake mix container. Use it to store your pancake batter.
-Store spices in old tic-tac or pill containers
-Store a mixture of water and salt in an old milk jug and then keep the jug in your cooler.
-Lining shelves and drawers in your cupboards can help you prevent your items from sliding around.
-Before RVing, pick condiment packages free of charge from a restaurant, carryout or fast food joint. These packages keep a variety of choices and don’t take up much space.
-Store your curling irons, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash and all your bathroom essentials in a plastic door hanging shoe rack.

Campfire Tips
-Use birthday candles to start a fire as they are effective and cheap fire starters particularly in damp conditions.
-Place dryer lint under the wood when starting a fire
-Use Corn chips/Fritos to start a fire

Other Important RVing Tips
-Make your Flashlight using a Mountain Dew bottle, baking soda, and peroxide. To make this flashlight, pour most of the soft drink from the Mountain Dew bottle leaving only a little in the bottle, add 3 caps of peroxide and a little baking soda, top the bottle with lid and shake the mixture.
-Fill your RV with ambient light by strapping a headlamp to a gallon jug of water
-Prevent your dog from spilling water by using Bundt pans on stakes
-Pack a map to help you in case your cell phone loses service.

Plan the Perfect Autumn Leaf Viewing Trip

northern mn rv parks

northern mn rv parksFall is the perfect time for a vacation. You miss many of the summer crowds and the weather is fantastic.

Northern Minnesota has the most beautiful fall colors. Colors typically peak between mid-September and early October in northern Minnesota. Beyond simply chasing the fall colors, fall is the perfect time for “up north” outdoor adventures. Thanks to its brisk weather, dwindling mosquito population and beautiful backdrop of changing leaves, fall is one of the best times to get outdoors.

Fortunately, you need not look any further than HeadQuarters RV Park, located in the beautiful Crane Lake area of Northern Minnesota.

This is an ideal area in which you can unplug and get back to your roots in nature. We have the amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable as possible while you are still able to enjoy the absolute splendor that a natural setting has to provide. Our water system will guarantee that you have strong water pressure throughout your stay. We also have 20, 30 or 50 amp electrical service so that you can enjoy your creature comforts in your RV.

If you are looking for a wonderful place that can provide fishing, hiking and other outdoor options, this is it. We are surrounded by a number of clean, beautiful lakes and forests. A few of the best lakes include Echo, Crane, Black Duck and Myrtle Lake. Our location borders on Both Voyagers National Park and Superior National Forest, so there are miles of trails to explore.

While you will be surrounded by gorgeous forests, you are still just a stone’s throw away from a wide variety of activities and attractions. Of course it is great to fully unplug and escape to the woods, but if you enjoy a little dining or nightlife, you definitely will not be disappointed with the local restaurants, historic buildings, specialty shops and even a 9 hole golf course.

We offer a wide variety of options when it comes to your length of stay. You can rent spots for as little as one day, or for a whole season. Our rates are extremely competitive and include all of the great amenities that you may desire. However, spots can fill up very quickly due to high demand and the beautiful location, so be sure to contact us as soon as possible to make your reservation.

Give us a call today with any questions you might have or to book your stay. The phone number is: (218) 570-1376. Just be sure to book your stay as soon as possible so that you do not miss out on the opportunity to spend your fall in the northern woods of Minnesota. A fall leaf themed vacation can be a wonderful experience and definitely a trip to remember. Fall is a lovely and unique season that can truly be appreciated.

RV Camping Tips

rv park near northern mn

rv park near northern mnAre you planning for your first RV camping trip? Are you looking for newer tricks to help you when you go RV camping? Well, here are some of the best RV camping trips you should know if you are traveling alone, with kids or with your pets.

RV Camping With Pets

If you are going RV camping with your dog or any other pet, here are some camping tips you need to consider.

• Make a list of everything your pet needs while on the road such as food, bowls, wipes, toys, a leash and much more. It will help you avoid any stress later on. Make sure you get plenty of dog food and make sure it’s available anywhere on the road.

• Make sure the pet has been fully vaccinated for ticks, fleas and heartworms. Have the medical information in handy if you have to visit a different pet.

• Contact any campgrounds you plan on attending to see whether or not they allow pets on site to avoid any last minute inconveniences.

RV Camping With Kids

If you are going RV camping with your kids, here are some useful tips to remember while on the road.

• Make a list of everything your kids will need while on the road such as change of clothes, games or books. Even better, you should bring along some items to keep your kids busy such as glow sticks.

• Bring enough food for the trip to avoid multiple stops when looking for food. Make sure the bathroom in the RV is functional to avoid any unnecessary stops on the way.

• Choose the best places to visit while you are on the road to give your kids. Don’t settle on theme parks or beaches only. You can opt for some museums, science centers and many other places.

RV Camping With Seniors

If you are going RV camping with seniors you need to pay a little more attention to then. Here are some RV camping tips to consider in this effect.

• You should be prepared to take a lot of rest stops along the way. Make sure you get plenty of sleep at night and drive only during the day to avoid any restlessness.

• If you have a senior who is suffering from any condition, make sure you consult a doctor before you go for the camping trip, no matter how long it might be.

• Don’t go to rural areas without any nearby medical centers in the event of any medical emergencies.

Use these tips to prepare for RV camping effortlessly!

Living The RV Lifestyle – What Is Essential?

HQ RV Park Campground Crane Lake

HQ RV Park Campground Crane LakeMore and more people are throwing off the shackles of that boring job with its stresses and taking to the open road in an RV. The question is why? What could make a man or woman – or a couple with kids give up a lifestyle of stability for life on that tarmac ribbon? There are a number of reasons including freedom from the shackles of daily humdrum existence.

But before you sell the house and the dog/cat here are few things that you should know about setting off on that long-awaited trip of exploration.

The first thing that you have to keep in mind before you set off on an RV trip is that space will always be at a premium. So whatever you take with you must be functional – and serve its purpose with a minimum of fuss and bother.

The first of these is a small card. Roadside assistance. If you have not paid your dues – the best time to do it is before you set off into that RV adventure. Everything might look rosy – but mechanical things do break. You do not want to stick on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Sure you have everything you need – but it’s going to get really boring after a while.

Let’s talk about food. A folding grill (propane best) is going to make your life a lot much more pleasant. It does not take up that much space and makes that overnight stay much more pleasant.

When you stop off there will always be that night when the stars shine brightly and the gentle wind is warm. On that perfect night, a folding table is worth its weight in gold. Do not skimp on paying for quality. Buy the best that you can get. Fortunately, even big box stores have a great selection so your choice will not break the bank.

Here’s the killer. You never want to be out of contact with the big wide world while you are exploring. Although many of the newer RV’s boast built-in Internet connectivity some of the older models do not – and those are the models that many people are drawn to. But do not despair – there are aftermarket mods that will make connectivity a breeze. Sign up to reputable carrier and you should be great. If you are a heavier user – or run an online business – call them – they will usually have a package that will suit your needs.

The idea of an RV lifestyle might not suit everyone – but it is certainly worth exploring the open road and the freedom that provides.

Why Choose Headquarters RV Park As Your Travel Destination

Northern MN RV Parks

Northern MN RV ParksGoing on vacation entails a lot of planning and financial backing for it to be considered successful. You need to find a way to fit your budget while not compromising your outdoor adventure. During your travel duration, you need to have a home base where you can relax and chill when you’re not feeling outdoorsy. Seeking out hotel residency can prove to be expensive in the long run considering that you won’t spend most of the time in the room. So how can you do this? Going to Headquarters RV Park during your travels can prove to be both economical and fun. Headquarters RV guarantees to make your experience feel like a home away from home.

Local Attractions

Attractions are the basis for fun summer memories. Though located at the center of Voyageur wilderness, Headquarters RV Park is filled with fun summer events that are sure to excite. Some of the events and attractions to check out during your stay include: exploring the vibrant birding wildlife in the county, ATV rides, live music bands, art festivals, shopping and even golfing. At the Voyageurs National Park, you can enjoy fishing, hiking or boat through the lakes. The beauty and serenity of this place is to die for so ensure you book your spot today! There is also an annual 4th of July crazy fun parade with fireworks along the Crane Lake street that really light up at night.

Seasonal Rental

One of the major issues for RV travelers is accommodation and rental rates. Headquarters RV Park provides competitive rental prices that are sure to fit traveler budgets. Whether you are visiting for a day, week or months, you can still get to enjoy the taste the beautiful wilderness north woods location regardless. So for your summer getaway or cross-country pit stop, we can offer the right visitor package for you. We understand that the summer season is for relaxing, traveling and experiencing new adventures which is why you need to have a home base of operations where you can call your temporary refuge. We eliminate the headache of travel while providing a full summer season of fun and excitement.

Make a reservation with us today! Our spots book up fast so reserve your slot early and you will be assured to have the best summer of your life. Our reservation policy requires a non-refundable $50 deposit to hold on to your slot and for any cancellations, your card will be charged the entire rate of the reservation. You can call us on (218) 750-1376 or email us at headquartersrvpark@gmail.com for additional information.