Top 10 stories that drove RVwest in 2025
From family memories to industry milestones, these were some of the top RVwest stories chosen by our readers this year
As any of our readers can tell you, RVing is about the people, the places, and the moments that linger long after the engine cools. In 2025, the RVwest audience gravitated toward stories that celebrated connection: Between generations, communities, businesses, and the landscapes that make life on the road unforgettable.
This year’s most-read stories reflect a hunger for authenticity and practical insight, whether that meant learning from seasoned RV families, discovering destinations that welcome all ages, or understanding the shifts shaping Canada’s RV industry. From heartfelt personal journeys to expert advice and industry deep dives, these articles captured the spirit of RVing today.
A teacher, a veteran, and their son turned a moment of uncertainty into a full-time RV journey, and never looked back. - Photo courtesy of the Clayton family
1. The Clayton family’s road map to living fully
When Melodie and Kurt Clayton sold their house and hit the road full-time in early 2022, it wasn’t a spontaneous leap, but rather a deliberate decision to live fully. Kurt, a disabled Army veteran and cancer survivor, had once been told he might lose his mobility by age 65.
Rather than wait for the “right time,” the couple embraced life on the road with their youngest son, Marcus. Now known on Instagram as RV Plus 3, the Claytons have turned their 42-foot Forest River Cedar Creek fifth wheel into a true home on wheels.
This Vancouver Island family shares travel advice, must-haves and meaningful moments. - Photo courtesy of the McCaw family
2. How the McCaws built a lifetime of camping memories
For Andrea and Craig McCaw, RVing has always been about family, fun, and making lasting memories. What began as weekend camping trips with five young children has grown into more than 20 years of Pacific Northwest adventures. Starting with a simple tent and eventually moving up to a Thor Quantum KW29 motorhome, the McCaws have embraced every stage of RV life, cherishing the lessons, laughter, and shared experiences along the way. Today, their daughter Caylee still joins them on the road, keeping the family tradition alive.
Though based on Vancouver Island, B.C., the McCaws’ travels have taken them as far as the Oregon Coast. Their story demonstrates how family travel evolves over time—and how life on the road continues to offer growth, connection, and discovery.
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With iNaturalist, every stop on your journey becomes a chance to identify species, share your finds, and connect with nature in a new way. - Kerry Shellborn photo
3. Travel, snap, discover: Turn every campsite into a classroom
How many times have you found yourself wondering about an interesting plant or animal you’ve seen in the wild?
Introducing iNaturalist, the app that transforms ordinary travel into a citizen science adventure.This article struck a chord with RVers who are looking to blend travel and learning. By reframing campgrounds as hands-on classrooms, the iNaturalist app offers a fresh perspective on how RV travel can spark curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning in kids of all ages.
The CRVA has grown to become a national advocate for Canada’s RV community. - Photo courtesy of the CRVA
4. Celebrating 50 years of the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association
The Canadian RV Association (CRVA) was established in 1975, ushering in a new chapter for the country’s recreational vehicle industry. Prior to that, RV manufacturers were grouped with mobile homes under the Canadian Mobile Home and Travel Trailer Association. As the popularity of RVing grew, it became clear that the two sectors had distinct needs, priorities, and regulatory challenges—leading to the creation of a dedicated association for RVs.
Fifty years on, the CRVA has evolved from a grassroots initiative into a national advocate for Canada’s RV community. To celebrate this milestone, we spoke with CRVA President Shane Devenish about the association’s early days, its achievements over the past five decades, and what the future holds for RV enthusiasts and the industry at large.
Readers followed BC Campers’ bold move to chart an independent path, offering a case study in resilience and adaptation within the RV community. - Photo courtesy of BC Campers
5. BC Campers blazes its own trail after Good Sam’s exit
After decades as part of the international Good Sam network, BC’s local RV chapters found themselves without support when the organization shifted its focus to retail. Rather than disband, volunteers like Irene Freeman stepped up to create BC Campers, an independent club grounded in affordability, inclusivity, and community spirit.
Today, BC Campers flourishes with chapters across the province, from the Lower Mainland to the Cariboo. Members gather for campouts, themed rallies, games, and social events—no fees, no pressure, just a welcoming community of camping enthusiasts. We spoke with Freeman, the club’s Director and Secretary, about its origins, what sets it apart, and the future of this growing grassroots organization.
The Roberts have built a life around spontaneity. - Photo courtesy of Jason and Julie Roberts
6. Trading stuff for stories
This DIY enthusiast transforms forgotten RVs into road-ready masterpieces—and she can teach you how! - Photo courtesy Janelle Payne
7. Nailgun Nelly brings RVs back to life
Food lovers flocked to this story about elevating campsite cuisine. - Photo courtesy David Lee
8. The Jedi chef of RVing: Meet David Lee
9. Top family-friendly RV destinations in Western Canada
Family RV adventures are all about creating lasting memories, and Western Canada offers a wealth of incredible destinations for RVers of all ages. From expansive national parks to attractions perfect for kids, the region boasts a variety of experiences that will delight every member of the family.
This list isn’t exhaustive—just a taste to spark your wanderlust and highlight some of Western Canada’s most popular RV spots for family fun.
