Free camping at Missouri conservation sites could end under new proposal

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the return of the First-Time Camper Program for the 2026 season, aimed at making camping accessible for New Yorkers, particularly from underserved communities. Participants selected via lottery receive a tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camp chairs, a lantern, and firewood, along with guidance from a DEC Camping Ambassador. The lottery runs until June 12, with campgrounds in the Adirondacks and Catskills.

NPO 3FM DJs Barend van Deelen and Nellie Benner will travel through the United States from June 13 to 26, 2026, in a camper van equipped with a mobile radio studio to cover the group stage of the FIFA World Cup. Their itinerary includes Dallas (match against Japan), Houston (against Sweden), and Kansas City (against Tunisia). The broadcasts will feature fan interviews, visits to fan zones, and match analysis with journalists and experts.

Harvest Hosts, a membership program offering RVers access to unique overnight stays, has announced the return of its 'AleBlazer' role. The selected traveler will embark on a cross-country RV trip, visiting brewery Host locations as part of the 'Brew with a View' collaboration involving over 50 breweries. The winner will receive a daily travel stipend, beverages, a Harvest Hosts membership, and an RV for the journey. Applications are open until July 31, 2026.

Rona RV LLC, a dealership in Pataskala, Ohio, has expanded its inventory of pre-owned travel trailers and towable RVs. The increase is driven by trade-ins, seasonal buying patterns, and unit reallocations. Available categories include lightweight camping trailers, entry-level RVs, and discounted specials. The dealership offers online financing applications and trade-in valuation tools for buyers.

First Baptist Church of Troy, Mo., and the Twin Rivers Baptist Association purchased and delivered two used travel trailers to families in western North Carolina left homeless after Hurricane Helene (fall 2024) and subsequent wildfires. The first 2002 fifth-wheel camper was bought with $8,000 raised by Sunday school classes (goal $5,000) and given to a family of three living in a tent. The second 2004 fifth-wheel RV, costing $8,000, was funded partly by the association ($4,000) and donated to a family displaced by winter wildfires.

The Aironado camper, built in the late 1960s by GM toolmaker Wendell Atkins, is now for sale. It combines a 1967 Airstream trailer with the front clip of a 1969 Oldsmobile Toronado. Power comes from a 455 cubic inch V8 producing 375 hp. The current owner, a YouTuber, added solar panels and renovated the interior.