Two Years in a Camper Van, Then an Off-Grid House: Why a Couple Gave Up Both Dream Lives

A fire in unincorporated Lockport Township, Illinois, on February 2, 2026, spread through a detached garage, outbuildings, a motor home, and several passenger vehicles. The blaze also reached the exterior of a house but was quickly extinguished. Occupants evacuated safely and are being assisted by the Red Cross. The cause is under investigation.

More Americans over 50 are opting for motorhome life. Patty Gill, 52, and her husband visited all US states in five years, saving over $100,000. Beverly Brown, 63, has lived in a converted van since 2019.

Gone Mobile Vans from Costa Mesa, California, has unveiled an off-road camper van based on a long-wheelbase all-wheel-drive Ford Transit. The wheelbase length is 3.76 meters. The vehicle is aimed at the summer season.

The Carolina Coastal Motorcoach Resort near Holden Beach, North Carolina, will feature about 90 motorcoach lots with optional casitas—small house-like structures. Amenities include a clubhouse, pool, and pickleball courts on a 17-acre lake. Owners can live year-round in both RV and casita. Opening is set for September 2026.

The Dooley family from Florida sold their 1,900-square-foot house and moved into a 450-square-foot RV. They report reduced stress and improved family relationships. The father works remotely, while the mother homeschools their children. They estimate their expenses have decreased, though exact figures are not provided.

Woahink Lake, less than two hours from Eugene, Oregon, offers an RV resort, fishing, and water recreation. The 820-acre freshwater lake borders Jessie M. Honeymoon Memorial State Park and is one of the deepest in the state at 74 feet. The public northwest shore features a boat launch, swimming area, and group camping. Woahink Lake RV Resort has over 70 dog-friendly sites with full hookups, a private boat dock, and access to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.