Forum Discussion

boatswain2PA's avatar
boatswain2PA
Explorer
Apr 15, 2015

First RV (old class A), and want to take it to Yellowstone

Newbie to the boards, and to RVs. Bought a 1987 33' Holiday Rambler Presidential Class A. Low miles, everything works except generator - working on that now.

Want to take extended family on trip to Yellowstone, just over a thousand miles away. Will have 2 other vehicles in entourage.

So, old RV, brand new to me, and I'm a brand new RV owner, what could go wrong, right?!?

I've been to Yellowstone before, but it was almost 20 years ago and we were tent camping out of our car.

My plan is (if RV makes it there) to find a good campsite for the motorhome, get an extra campsite or two for a few tents (kids, parents, in-laws) nearby, and use it as a base camp for exploring Yellowstone for a few days.

Any advice on where to stay? Am I completely crazy to take new (old) motorhome that far for first trip? (we will be going back and forth to local lake before that).
Class A
  • darsben's avatar
    darsben
    Explorer II
    Apr 15, 2015
    How old are the tires? The amount of tread is not a good indication of tire condition. ANY TIRE of 7 years old should be looked at as a blowout waiting to happen. This can cause thousands of dollars in damage (first hand experience) and ruin your trip.
    The problem with RV's is the tires sit in the sun baking . This lessens their life dramatically.
    AGAIN I SAY they can look great but be a blowout waiting to happen. They are unlike automobile tires in that they give out before they wear out.

    Buy new tires all around and save 2 old for spares. They do not need to be mounted. Buy a road service plan and then have at her.
  • prstlk's avatar
    prstlk
    Explorer
    Apr 15, 2015
    Tires are most important look that the threads on these boards for more. Other than that go if it breaks, fix it.
    Your insurance carrier or others offer cheap tow coverage I would do this without a doubt. If you break down they will at least get you safe and to a place to determine your next move.
    Being broke down is one thing. But on the side of the f way and not sure how or what to do sucks. A $1500.00 tow costs $50.00 or even 0 with most major carriers.
    Keep us posted on your adventures.
    jw
  • 2gypsies1's avatar
    2gypsies1
    Explorer III
    Apr 15, 2015
    I'd definitely take it on some shorter trips and up the steepest hills you can find to see how it is mechanically. You'll be doing some hills once you get near Yellowstone. If o.k. - then go for it.

    For what you're planning with lots of people, tents and a RV site, it would be best if you stayed in Yellowstone itself. The RV can go into any campground there but Fishing Bridge is the only one with hookups and tents are not allowed because of bear activity.

    Here's Yellowstone's official site for lots of information, including campgrounds:

    Yellowstone Nat'l Park
  • Two_Jayhawks's avatar
    Two_Jayhawks
    Explorer
    Apr 15, 2015
    Johno02 wrote:
    If it runs OK, have at it!! West Yellowstore has lots of nice places to stay, easy drive into park. Be sure you have your old Fa--s pass.


    X2
  • Johno02's avatar
    Johno02
    Explorer
    Apr 15, 2015
    If it runs OK, have at it!! West Yellowstore has lots of nice places to stay, easy drive into park. Be sure you have your old Fa--s pass.

About Motorhome Group

38,708 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 04, 2025