Like many kids, I always had an image of my parents as solid, responsible people. Then they retired, and without any forewarning, they came home one day and announced that they'd bought an RV (recreational vehicle, or motor home). Yikes! Impulse buy! I had my doubts, but they took it out for a few long trips and loved the lifestyle. Terms like "cab over," "class C," and "gray water" started to pepper their vocabulary.

They continued to camp while looking at places to spend their retirement. Then one day, these two crazy kids announced that they were selling their townhouse... despite the fact that they did not have a new home lined up! So they put some things in storage, climbed into the RV, and headed off to find somewhere to live. A few months later, they found a place they liked and settled in the southwest. But they still like to take out the RV for trips to visit friends and family.

We were curious about how they chose campgrounds, so we asked. They recommended Woodall's Campground Directory for campground ratings. According to the Woodall guide, their representatives visit and inspect the private campgrounds in their directory annually. The directory is organized alphabetically by state, and there are separate ratings for facilities and recreation. You can find the latest directory in our reference collection at REF 917.3 W. Older editions, which can be checked out, are in the adult nonfiction collection at q917.3 W.

Given the enthusiasm displayed by one of my family members, I may need to track down some information on RV camping. Here are some titles that seem likely to help a newbie RVer:

• Wheelers RV resort & campground guide. (call number q647.942 W)


• The complete idiot's guide to RVing; by Brent Peterson. (call number 796.79 P)


• Exploring America by RV; text and photographs by Shirley Slater & Harry Basch. (call number 796.79 S)


• 301 ways to make RV travel safer, easier, and more fun; Bernice Beard. (call number 796.79 B)


• At your own pace : traveling your way in your motorhome; Bernice Beard. (call number 917.3 B)