If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a cheap camping experience in Texas, you’re in luck! Texas is home to numerous Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campsites, which offer free camping opportunities. In this blog, we will explore what BLM camping is, why it’s a great option for budget-conscious campers, and highlight some of the best BLM campsites in Texas.
What is BLM camping?
BLM camping refers to camping on land that is owned and managed by the Bureau of Land Management. BLM lands are typically vast stretches of undeveloped land that are open to the public for recreational activities, including camping. While BLM camping may not offer the same amenities as traditional campsites, such as electrical hookups or showers, it does provide campers with a unique opportunity to experience nature in a more raw and primitive way.
Why Choose BLM Camping?
There are several reasons why BLM camping can be a great option for budget-conscious campers:
Cost: BLM camping is free, making it an excellent option for those looking to save money on their camping trips.
Flexibility: BLM camping often has few or no reservations required, giving campers the flexibility to arrive and leave on their own schedules.
Wilderness experience: BLM camping sites often offer a more authentic wilderness experience than traditional campgrounds, allowing campers to connect more deeply with nature.
Top BLM campsites in Texas
Big Bend National Park: Big Bend National Park is a 801,163-acre park located in southwest Texas that offers numerous BLM campsites. Visitors can choose from campsites with a variety of amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Located in west Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the park’s diverse landscape. There are numerous BLM campsites located throughout the park, including sites that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Davis Mountains Preserve: The Davis Mountains Preserve is a 33,000-acre nature preserve located in west Texas that offers free camping opportunities. Visitors can choose from several primitive campsites located throughout the preserve, each offering a unique camping experience.
Sam Houston National Forest: The Sam Houston National Forest is a 163,037-acre forest located in southeast Texas that offers free camping opportunities. Visitors can choose from several primitive campsites located throughout the forest, each offering a unique camping experience.
Tips for BLM camping in Texas
Bring plenty of water: Many BLM campsites in Texas do not have potable water available, so campers should bring enough water for their entire trip.
Respect the environment: When camping on BLM lands, it’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and leave the environment as you found it.
Check the weather: Texas weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before heading out and prepare for any potential weather changes.
In conclusion, BLM camping is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable and unique camping experience in Texas. Whether you’re looking to explore the rugged landscape of Big Bend National Park or experience the solitude of the Davis Mountains Preserve, there are numerous BLM campsites throughout the state that offer a chance to connect more deeply with nature. By following these tips and guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and memorable camping trip in Texas.
Camping with your dog can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it’s important to be prepared to ensure that you and your furry companion have a safe and comfortable trip. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips for camping with a dog to help you make the most of your time in the great outdoors.
Research the Campsite’s Pet Policy
Before you hit the road, it’s essential to research the campsite’s pet policy. Some campgrounds have specific rules about where pets are allowed, leash laws, and more. Make sure you know what to expect so that you and your dog can have a stress-free experience.
Pack the Right Gear
To ensure that your dog is comfortable and happy, it’s important to pack the right gear. This may include a leash, collar with identification, food and water bowls, a dog bed, and toys. If you’re camping in colder weather, you’ll want to bring a warm blanket or sweater for your pup.
Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Even if your dog is well-behaved and trained, it’s important to keep them on a leash while camping. This will prevent them from wandering off and potentially getting lost or injured. Additionally, it will prevent them from disturbing other campers and wildlife.
Bring Plenty of Water
Just like humans, dogs need plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make sure you bring enough water for your pup, and don’t rely on natural water sources like rivers or lakes, as they may not be safe for drinking.
Keep Your Dog’s Vaccinations Up to Date
Before you head out on your camping trip, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date. This will protect them from diseases like rabies, which can be transmitted through contact with wildlife.
Be Mindful of Wildlife
Speaking of wildlife, it’s important to be mindful of the animals in the area. Keep your dog on a leash and don’t let them chase after wildlife, as this can be dangerous for both your dog and the animals. Additionally, be aware of any potential hazards like snakes or poison ivy.
Clean Up After Your Dog
Last but not least, make sure you clean up after your dog. This means picking up their poop and disposing of it properly. Not only is this the responsible thing to do, but it will also help keep the campsite clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Conclusion:
Camping with a dog can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared. By following these tips, you can ensure that you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable trip in the great outdoors. Remember to research the campsite’s pet policy, pack the right gear, keep your dog on a leash, bring plenty of water, keep vaccinations up to date, be mindful of wildlife, and clean up after your dog. Happy camping!
Sand dunes are one of the most mesmerizing natural landscapes that you can explore in the United States. The unique features of these dunes, including their shape, size, and color, make them an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the best sand dunes to visit in the United States.
1. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
Located in southern Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to some of the tallest sand dunes in North America. The dunes are surrounded by majestic mountains. They provide a stunning backdrop to the sandy landscape. Visitors can hike, sandboard, and explore the dunes, or take a dip in the nearby Medano Creek during the summer months.
2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
The White Sands National Park in New Mexico boasts of the largest gypsum dune field in the world. The bright white sand, which is made of gypsum crystals, creates a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can hike, sled, and stargaze in the dunes, or explore the unique flora and fauna that call the park home.
3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a popular destination. It is great for beach-goers and nature enthusiasts alike. The park features towering sand dunes that offer stunning views of the lake. Also offers several hiking trails that wind through the dunes and forests. Visitors can also swim, kayak, and explore the nearby historic towns and lighthouses.
4. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, California
Located in Death Valley National Park, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are a stunning example of the rugged and diverse desert landscapes of California. The dunes are easily accessible from the nearby parking lot and offer a range of activities. It includes hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing. Visitors can also explore the nearby canyons and badlands for a full desert experience.
5. Jockey’s Ridge State Park, North Carolina
Located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Jockey’s Ridge State Park features the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern United States. The dunes offer stunning views of the nearby Roanoke Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can hike, sandboard, and explore the nearby maritime forests. The park also hosts several events and activities throughout the year, including kite festivals and live music performances.
In conclusion, the United States is home to some of the most stunning and diverse sand dunes in the world. From towering dunes in Colorado to surreal gypsum fields in New Mexico, these natural wonders offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, a trip to these sand dunes is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Bentonville, Arkansas, is a picturesque city with a rich history and natural beauty. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, it offers plenty of outdoor activities that make it an excellent destination for camping enthusiasts.
Vandoit has begun a yearly owner’s experience in Bentonville. If you’re planning a camping trip or attending owner’s experience, here are some of the best things to do while you’re there.
Explore the Ozark National Forest
The Ozark National Forest is a vast wilderness area that covers more than 1 million acres of land. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, backpacking, camping, and fishing. The forest has numerous trails, including the Ozark Highlands Trail, which runs for more than 165 miles and passes through some of the most scenic areas of the forest. You can also enjoy fishing in the many streams and rivers that run through the forest, including the White River and Buffalo River.
Visit Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a world-class museum that’s located in Bentonville. It has an extensive collection of American art, including works by famous artists like Norman Rockwell, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol. The museum also features several outdoor art installations, including sculptures and a walking trail that winds through the surrounding woods.
Take a Bike Ride on the Razorback Greenway
The Razorback Greenway is a 36-mile bike trail that runs from Bella Vista to Fayetteville, passing through Bentonville along the way. The trail is a great way to explore the area and take in the scenery. You can rent bikes from several local bike shops, including Phat Tire Bike Shop, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way.
Visit the Walmart Museum
Bentonville is the birthplace of Walmart, and the Walmart Museum is a great place to learn about the company’s history. The museum has exhibits that showcase the evolution of the company, including its early days as a small-town variety store. You can also see a replica of Sam Walton’s office and the original Walton’s 5&10, which is now a gift shop.
Go Fishing at Lake Bentonville
Lake Bentonville is a small lake that’s located in the heart of the city. It’s a popular spot for fishing and boating, and there are several fishing piers and boat ramps around the lake. You can fish for bass, catfish, and bluegill, and the lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout.
Conclusion
Bentonville is a fantastic destination for camping enthusiasts. With its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking through the Ozark National Forest, visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, or taking a bike ride on the Razorback Greenway, you’re sure to have a memorable camping trip in Bentonville.
If you’ve spent any time researching the purchase of an RV, you’ve undoubtedly come across an ad or Youtube video about a camper van.
Camper vans aren’t truly new to the market (think 60s VW hippie van), but they’ve taken off in recent years. This was especially true during the height of the Covid pandemic when everyone was looking for a safe way to stay at home while itching to not be at home. Traveling the country in a van or an RV was an appealing way to get out and enjoy the world while still avoiding getting sick or spreading germs.
Now that Covid restrictions have been lifted, many people who jumped on the camper van bandwagon are discovering that it’s not just a way to escape quarantine but a new way of life. And many find that their nomadic lifestyle is more sustainable in a camper van than in an RV.
So if you’re ready to launch into your own nomadic lifestyle but are unsure whether an RV or a camper van is right for you, we have a few reasons why a camper van is the way to go. (And yes, we’re a little biased. But we’re also confident that we make a pretty amazing van.)
1: Size
An obvious reason to go with a camper van is the size. A camper van is just that – a van and a class B vehicle that can still fit in a standard parking space. The Ford Transit, which is the platform Vandoit builds on, is 19.6 feet (long chassis) or 22 feet long (EL chassis) and just over 8 feet wide, compared to an RV that can be up to 41 feet long and 2 to 3 feet wider than a van.
Vans are easier to park and back up and handle more like an SUV than you might think. So when you arrive at your campsite after dark, you can roll right in with your van rather than having to maneuver a large RV into the campsite.
Many people who go the RV route opt for a pull-behind trailer or fifth wheel. These RVs come with their own logistical challenges, from hooking and unhooking from the hitch, leveling, backing into a parking spot, and storage. Not to mention that it requires another vehicle altogether to tow it. With a campervan, especially the Ford Transit, towing is your choice, not a necessity.
In fact, if you’re worried a van won’t give you enough room to store all your toys like bikes and kayaks, the Transit standard factory tow package allows you to tow those items behind the van, and you can always opt to add a Thule bike rack for easy exterior storage.
2: Offroad Capabilities
Because the camper van is smaller and has a lighter load capacity, it can go places RVs simply can’t go, like washboard roads or offroad altogether. You can travel to even more hard-to-reach destinations when you add options to your camper van, like all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension, and the Quigley QLift. So, rather than parking your RV and hiking to see the sunset from a canyon vista, why not just park at the vista?
3: Camper Van Modularity
Camper vans clearly have less interior room than RVs do – an important limitation to consider while shopping for your next adventure vehicle. But with Vandoit’s modular design, you can have all the comforts an RV offers, just in simplified form. And by modular, we mean that your kitchen, water system, and rear passenger seats aren’t permanently installed. You can move them around in the van or remove them altogether.
How many RVs allow you to move furniture like that, much less an entire system? And how many other camper vans allow you to do that at all?
4: Multifunctionality
Because of Vandoit’s modular design, your van can be truly multifunctional.
One weekend, you can install all the seats to haul the kids to basketball practice. The next, you can remove the seats, load in the outdoor gear, and lower the beds for a camping trip. And during the week, you can remove everything to haul cargo for work and construction materials for that home DIY project.
In fact, so many Vandoit owners use their vans for both pleasure and business, it made a lot of sense for Vandoit to launch a Commercial Van Division in 2023. This multifunctionality is a feature that not only sets Vandoit apart from RVs, but apart from other camper van builders, too.
5: System Simplicity
This is a HUGE one. The simplicity of camper van systems, especially water and electrical, in comparison to RV systems is a plus we can’t emphasize enough. We could go on all day about this one, but we’ll save you with a few handy bullet points instead.
In an RV, bleach and other chemicals are needed to treat the water tanks. In a camper van, bleach is still an option for a when-you-need-it cleaning job, but a good water and vinegar solution will do in the Vandoit water system.
The gray water tank in an RV has to be emptied using a multistep process, hoses, and a gray water dump site. In a Vandoit, just remove the gray water tank, dump at an appropriate site, and re-install.
RVs have black water (sewage) tanks that can be a pain to drain, not to mention a potential health hazard. Vandoit has no sewage system to deal with at all. Instead, you have the option to use a dry-flush toilet, which operates in a clean, mess-free fashion. (Think diaper genie.)
Most RVs require a water pressure regulator. Since the Vandoit water system requires no hookup, no regulator is needed. It’s a simple, self-contained system.
Winterizing (and de-winterizing) the water system in an RV is a laborious, multistep process that can take hours. It requires adding gallons of antifreeze and removing water filter cartridges, among other things. De-winterizing requires sanitizing the water lines with bleach and waiting for hours before draining and using the water system. Winterizing the water system in a campervan is often much more straightforward. In fact, winterizing the Vandoit water system involves only a handful of simple steps, depending on the model of your van.
The electrical system in an RV can be complex and confusing, especially when it stops working the way it’s supposed to. Depending on where you purchase your RV, you may not have support from the RV dealer to troubleshoot these electrical issues. The Vandoit Support Team is available to work with you to troubleshoot your issues and get your system up and running in no time. The team has even published a catalog of Knowledge Base Articles that may provide just the instruction you need to troubleshoot and resolve an issue on your own!
Unlike an RV’s electrical system, there is no need to add water to lead-acid batteries in the Vandoit electrical system. In fact, there is little maintenance to do on the batteries at all, aside from monitoring the voltage levels and making sure they stay well charged to preserve cycle life.
When setting up at a campsite, every RV requires water and electrical hookups. The Vandoit water system, on the other hand, requires no hookup, and an electrical hookup is optional. Choosing to boondock is something you can do on a whim in a Vandoit.
Nearly all RVs require propane to run the heater, water heater, and cooking implements. In a Vandoit, the Espar heater sips off of the gas tank, the water heater is electric, and cooking elements are up to you!
6: Camper Van Maintenance Cost
If you’ve spent any time RVing, you know that the number (and cost) of accessories you can (and often should) buy for maintenance, cleaning, and organization is endless. With a camper van, a much smaller number of items are needed, and in the case of purchasing from Vandoit, many of these are included with your van. That way, you can spend more of your money on the bells and whistles you really want to put in your van.
7: The Cool Factor
Let’s admit it: A van with a bumper, lift, aggressive all-terrain wheels, and floodlights just looks a whole lot cooler coming down the road than a boxy RV. And the curb appeal (pun intended) of a van can be easily enhanced with the addition of a vinyl wrap–think subtle nature scene, rather than the industry-typical stripes (the color of which you don’t get to choose) down the side of an RV.
In general, a camper van can be more stealthy and subtle than an RV. When you see a Ford Transit on the road, you can’t always tell if it’s a family’s kid-hauler, company work truck, or adventure vehicle. But when you see an RV? Well, it’s most likely an RV. For those who prefer not to be the center of attention, a nondescript Transit can be the way to go.
On the other hand, if you enjoy your vehicle being the center of attention, you can create a colorful, eye-catching wrap design that makes it impossible not to spot your van, which can be great for your company’s branding–or just for your family’s fun. It’s a lot easier to make a camper van look like you.
Try Before You Buy
The choice of your next (or first) adventure vehicle is a big one. We encourage you to do plenty of research, ask RV and camper van owners lots of questions, and try them out for yourself.
If you’re planning a road trip in your campervan, it’s important to ensure that you have access to electricity for your various appliances and devices. However, when you’re overlanding in a remote area, getting electricity can be a challenge. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best ways to get electricity for your campervan in remote areas.
Solar Power
One of the most popular ways to get electricity for your campervan in remote areas is through solar power. Installing solar panels on the roof of your campervan can generate a significant amount of electricity. The power can be stored in batteries for later use.
Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy that can be used to power everything from your lights and refrigerator to your electronics and appliances. With the right solar setup, you can enjoy all the comforts of home without worrying about running out of power.
Portable Generators
Another option for getting electricity for your campervan in remote areas is by using portable generators. These compact devices can be fueled by gasoline or propane and provide a reliable source of power for your campervan.
Portable generators come in a variety of sizes and power outputs, so it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs. They can be used to power everything from your lights and appliances to your air conditioning and heating system.
When using a portable generator, it’s important to be mindful of noise levels and to follow safety guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, it’s important to store fuel safely and securely to avoid any potential accidents.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to use solar power or a portable generator, getting electricity for your campervan in remote areas is essential. This allows for a comfortable and enjoyable road trip. Consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which option is best for you. Always prioritize safety when using any type of electrical equipment. With the right setup, you can enjoy all the conveniences of home while exploring the great outdoors.
As summer approaches, many surfers are eager to hit the waves and enjoy the sunshine. May is a great month for surfing in the United States. The water temperature starts to warm up and the crowds are still relatively light. If you’re planning a surf trip in May, here are some of the best places to catch a wave in the United States:
Southern California
Southern California is known for its consistent waves, warm water, and sunny weather. In May, the water temperature can range from the mid-60s to low 70s. This makes it comfortable for surfing without a wetsuit. Popular surf spots in Southern California include Huntington Beach, Malibu, and Trestles. While these spots can get crowded, there are plenty of other beaches and breaks to explore along the coast.
Hawaii
Hawaii is a surfer’s paradise year-round. Summer is a great time to visit because the winter swells have started to subside, and the water temperature is warm. The North Shore of Oahu is home to some of the world’s most famous surf breaks. These coastlines include Pipeline and Sunset Beach. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to the south shore of Oahu or Maui. You can find smaller waves and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Florida
Florida may not be as well-known for surfing as California or Hawaii. It still has some great surf spots, especially in May when the water temperature is in the mid-70s. The east coast of Florida, from Cocoa Beach to West Palm Beach, has some excellent breaks, including Sebastian Inlet and New Smyrna Beach. On the west coast, the Gulf of Mexico can produce some fun waves, especially around Clearwater and St. Pete Beach.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island that is a US territory, making it an easy destination for Americans to visit without a passport. May is a great time to surf in Puerto Rico because the winter swells are fading. The water temperature is around 80 degrees. Rincon, on the west coast of Puerto Rico, is known for its long, rolling waves and is a popular spot for surfers of all levels.
Oregon
Oregon may not be the first place you think of when it comes to surfing. The state has some excellent breaks along its rugged coastline. In May, the water temperature is in the low 50s, so a wetsuit is necessary, but the waves can be excellent. Some popular surf spots in Oregon include Seaside, Cannon Beach, and Cape Kiwanda.
In conclusion, May is a great month for surfing in the United States, and there are plenty of excellent surf spots to explore. Whether you’re looking for warm water and sunny skies or rugged coastline and challenging waves, there’s a destination for every type of surfer. So grab your board, hit the road, and catch some waves this May!
Traveling with kids can be a challenging task, but traveling in a Vandoit campervan can make it easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips for traveling with kids in a Vandoit campervan.
Choose the Right Vandoit Model
The first step to a successful trip is choosing the right Vandoit campervan. Make sure it is spacious enough to accommodate your family comfortably, with enough storage space for your luggage, food, and other essentials. Consider amenities like a toilet, kitchen, and entertainment system to keep your kids entertained during the trip.
The LIV package features a hydraulic bed lift that is a queen size platform. It also has a gear slide that can fit a mattress with enough space for two small children. The DO package features a setup that allows for multiple bunks to maximize sleeping capacity. The DO package can also be built on the extended length Ford Transit which also adds more space.
Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Planning your route ahead of time can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Choose family-friendly destinations that offer activities and attractions that appeal to both kids and adults. Consider the length of each leg of your journey and schedule plenty of rest stops along the way.
Pack Smart
Packing smart is crucial when traveling with kids. Make a packing list for each family member and be sure to include essential items like medication, first aid supplies, and extra clothing. Pack snacks and drinks to keep your kids fueled throughout the trip, and bring along toys, games, and other activities to keep them entertained during downtime.
Ensure Safety
Safety should always be a top priority when traveling with kids. Vandoit builds their vans on a Ford Transit passenger van, which means it comes safe seating with seatbelts and side curtain airbags. Ensure your Vandoit campervan is equipped with child safety seats and that they are properly installed. Teach your kids the importance of wearing seatbelts and set rules for behavior in the vehicle. Also, make sure to bring along a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
Keep a Flexible Schedule
Traveling with kids can be unpredictable, so it’s important to keep a flexible schedule. Allow for extra time at each destination, and be prepared to change your plans if necessary. Be open to unexpected opportunities and experiences, and encourage your kids to embrace the adventure of the trip.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids in a Vandoit campervan can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. With careful planning, smart packing, and a flexible attitude, you can enjoy a memorable adventure together. Follow these tips and enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip with your family.
Campervans are a great way to explore the great outdoors while also enjoying the comforts of home on the go. However, one of the challenges of living in a campervan is space. A van may have limited space and it can be tricky to know how to fit everything in. But, with a few tips for saving space t is possible to maximize the space in your. In this blog post, we will cover some tips for saving space in a campervan.
The first step to saving space in your campervan is to plan ahead and declutter. Start by making a list of the essential items you need to bring with you. Then, go through all of your belongings and decide what you can do without. Remember that every item you bring takes up valuable space in your campervan, so be ruthless when deciding what to keep.
Utilize Vertical Space
In a campervan, space is at a premium, so it is important to utilize every inch of available space, including vertical space. Install shelving units or hanging organizers to maximize your storage space. You can also use hooks and straps to hang items like jackets, towels, and hats.
Use Multi-Purpose Furniture
Multi-purpose furniture is an excellent way to save space in a campervan. Consider installing a sofa bed or a table that can be converted into a bed. Vandoit murphy beds have multiple functions. They can be either a bed, couch, desk, or work bench. This allows you to maximize your living space while still having a comfortable place to sleep.
Invest in Compact Appliances
Compact appliances are essential in a campervan. Look for appliances that are specifically designed for small spaces, such as mini-fridges like dometic fridges, compact stoves, and portable washing machines. These appliances will take up less space while still providing you with all the conveniences of home.
Store Items Underneath the Bed
In a campervan, the bed takes up a lot of space. But, you can use this to your advantage by storing items underneath the bed. Install drawers or bins to store your clothes, shoes, and other belongings. Vandoit beds have t-track underneath that allow for mounting storage bins. Also, the vans can feature a gear slide. This not only allows for maximizing storage, but also making getting to your gear much easier.
In conclusion, saving space in your campervanis all about optimizing your storage space. By following these tips, you can create a comfortable and functional space that allows you to enjoy all the benefits of vanlife without feeling cramped or cluttered.
The drive-in movie theater is a nostalgic and beloved piece of American culture that reached its peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. While many drive-ins have since closed down, the recent pandemic has led to a resurgence in their popularity as people seek out safe and socially-distanced entertainment options. In this blog, we’ll explore the history of drive-in movie theaters, their recent resurgence, and some of the best ones to visit in the United States.
Drive-ins are also a great stop on a roadtrip. You can pull into the theater in your vehicle with your whole family. Many families are utilizing campervans like Vandoit adventure vans. What is great is these units fit into a normal parking space.
A Brief History Of Drive-in Movie Theaters
Drive-in movie theaters first appeared in the early 20th century, but they didn’t become popular until the 1950s and 1960s. At their peak, there were over 4,000 drive-ins across the United States. However, the rise of indoor multiplex theaters and the decline of the American automobile industry led to the closure of many drive-ins. By the early 2000s, there were only a few hundred drive-ins left in the country.
The Resurgence Of Drive-in Movie Theaters
In recent years, drive-in movie theaters have seen a resurgence in popularity. The COVID-19 pandemic has played a major role in this resurgence, as people seek out safe and socially-distanced entertainment options. In addition, the rise of streaming services like Netflix has led to a decline in traditional movie theater attendance, making drive-ins a viable alternative.
Some Of The Best Drive-in Movie Theaters In The United States
Bengies Drive-In Theatre – Middle River, Maryland
Bengies Drive-In Theatre is one of the largest drive-ins in the country, with a 52-foot-tall screen and space for over 700 cars. They also have a large concession stand that serves a variety of food and drinks.
Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre is the oldest drive-in movie theater in America, having opened in 1934. They have a 40-foot-tall screen and a capacity for over 300 cars. They also have a classic snack bar with traditional movie theater fare.
The Big Sky Drive-In Theatre – Midland, Texas
The Big Sky Drive-In Theatre is located in the heart of West Texas and features a large 90-foot-tall screen. They have a capacity for over 400 cars and offer a variety of food and drink options.
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre – Honor, Michigan
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre has been operating since 1953 and features a 60-foot-tall screen. They have a capacity for over 300 cars and offer a variety of food and drink options.
The Blue Starlite Drive-In Theatre – Austin, Texas
The Blue Starlite Drive-In Theatre is a smaller drive-in with a more intimate atmosphere. They have a capacity for around 50 cars and offer a variety of food and drink options, including craft beer and wine.
Conclusion
Drive-in movie theaters may have been a thing of the past, but they are making a comeback in the United States. With their unique atmosphere and socially-distanced entertainment, drive-ins are a great option for movie-goers looking for something different. So why not grab some popcorn, hop in your car, and head to one of the best drive-ins in the country for a night of movie magic under the stars.
One year 0% interest
On select units
Applies for 1 year on our in house lease purchase program. Interest will apply at 2 points over New York prime after one year.
May be used in combination with or in lieu of other incentives
Minimum down payment will be required based on credit, price and other factors.
With approved credit.
“Travel On Us” All National Parks, all access free pass (1 year) may apply…ask your representative for details.
