Camping\hiking Experience | CampBrood
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Where we share our experiences to help your next experience

ABOUT US

We're a family that focuses on beginner hiking and traveling the National Parks

Hello, we share our experiences to help your next experience.  We're here to help the 300 million people hiking the national parks here in the United States.  We will catalog the campgrounds we stay at, the hikes, the bikes, the lakes, and other experiences.  Our hope is to help you decide whether to take that hike, visit that campground, or partake in that experience you are not sure about living.  I'm sure we can all agree that some choices we've made, have made our lives better and some haven't.  The more we read, the more we are amazed at the number of great people in the travel community and how nice and supportive everyone is.  We are looking forward to giving back through sharing our experiences.  Visit us here, and twitter @campbrood, youtube, and facebook  (links below).

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VIDEOS

Please check out our YouTube channel by clicking on a video below. We're always welcoming new subscribers

Brandywine Falls, Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
06:48

Brandywine Falls, Cuyahoga Valley National Park!

Come hike with us as we show you the easiest way to see Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. As the most impressive waterfall in the park this is a top 5 destination for visitors. Let’s get Started! The first thing many people ask is Why is Brandywine Falls so Special? Or maybe the question is What are some fun facts about Brandywine Falls? Rock made of Bedford Shale and Berea Sandstone. At 65 feet this is the tallest waterfall in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. But did you know in the early 1800s a man by the name of George Wallace harnessed the waterfall's power by building a saw mill? This endeavor expanded into a grist mill and mill for making wool. Later in the 1920s the location was used by the Champion Electric Company making appliances. But if you want to see more living history the Inn at Brandywine Falls is actually the home of James Wallace who was the son of the Sawmill operator. What do you need to hike to Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? If you are just hiking to the falls make sure you have comfortable shoes that provide good support. Here is the gear we recommend for longer day hikes including the trekking poles we use. Teton Sports Hydration Pack Video Review: https://youtu.be/KEBrYwp8RQk Amazon Link: 2021 model https://amzn.to/3SnKcGR 2022 model https://amzn.to/3vIogMZ Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E hydration backpack Video Review for younger hikers: https://youtu.be/WbRgZr6C20g Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Zpj91p Merrell Moab II Men's Hiking Shoes: https://amzn.to/3Ardw8k The First Aid Kit we carry: https://amzn.to/3Lcvu2h Trekking Poles: https://amzn.to/3DHj54L Tactical Flashlights: https://amzn.to/3QLY25T Compass: https://amzn.to/3GahGU5 Here are dad joke books for great gifts: Dad Jokes Around the Campfire: https://amzn.to/3JinFJ2 600 Funniest Dad Jokes: https://amzn.to/3EPGv7D To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. How is the parking at Brandywine Falls? there are about 100 parking spots at the falls trailhead. How far of a walk is Brandywine Falls from the parking lot? Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is very accessible to most visitors. In just a short distance of about two tenths of a mile, the falls reveal themselves, offering a serene and picturesque view. How long does it take to hike Brandywine Falls? The Brandywine Falls Gorge Trail is a 1.5 mile loop that takes about 1-2 hours to complete. But if you are in a hurry you can hike a paved trail and wooden boardwalk and see the falls in about 20 minutes total time and see the highlight of the area. Can you see Brandywine Falls without hiking? From the moment you step foot in the parking lot of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brandywine Falls remains tantalizingly out of sight, shrouded in a veil of mystery and anticipation. But a mere stroll unveils the hidden gem that lies just beyond Is Brandywine Falls Kid Friendly? The trail is very kid friendly. Many kids see Brandywine Falls on the short hike. Light strollers can be taken on the short walk and carried up and down stairs. Are dogs allowed at Brandywine Falls? Pets are welcome in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Brandywine Falls is no exception. Can you go to the bottom of Brandywine Falls? The gorge trail at Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga National Park is setup more for a hike through the woods. The trail does guide you down to Brandywine Creek and you can cross the creek using the bridge. But, from that view you can’t see the waterfalls. What else can you do at the Brandywine Falls Trailhead? At Brandywine Falls there is a picnic area where you can sit and enjoy some time outdoors. But did you know that you can spend the night here, too. The Inn at Brandywine Falls is currently taking reservations and has six rooms inside the Greek Revival architecture. But you can also bike, jog, walk and run, the Metro Parks Bike trail. The trail is connected to the Brandywine Falls Parking lot and connects Brandywine Falls with Bridal Veil Falls and runs along the East side of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. music by creatormix.com Timecodes: 0:00 Brandywine Falls 0:19 What are some fun facts about Brandywine Falls? 1:24 How is the parking at Brandywine Falls? 1:59 How far of a walk is Brandywine Falls from the parking lot? 2:35 How long does it take to hike Brandywine Falls? 3:16 Can you see Brandywine Falls without hiking? 3:48 Is Brandywine Falls Kid Friendly? 4:10 Are dogs allowed at Brandywine Falls? 4:52 What do you need to hike to Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park? 5:31 Hiking Dad Joke 5:41 Can you go to the bottom of Brandywine Falls? 6:09 What else can you do at the Brandywine Falls Trailhead?
10 Shenandoah National Park Tips Most Visitors Don’t Realize
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10 Shenandoah National Park Tips Most Visitors Don’t Realize

The Number one tip for Shenandoah National Park is to plan for hiking in some of the most beautiful forests in the United States. From gear essentials to safety tips, we'll answer questions you don’t realize like: How to prepare, what to wear, and whether you need bear spray. Here are 10 tips for day hiking in Shenandoah National Park. Let’s Get Started! We’ll talk about whether it’s safe to hike in the rain in Shenandoah National Park later but while hiking Stony Man trail the first thing many people ask is Should you Carry Bear Spray in Shenandoah National Park? for Shenandoah National Park carry bear spray if you prefer to have that last line of defense and know how to use it. What to Bring when hiking in Shenandoah? When day hiking in Shenandoah National Park remember the essentials like enough water, snacks, and a packed lunch so you and your brood stay hydrated and fueled throughout the hike. Bring maps, compass, flashlight, first aid kit, For examples of the gear we took on our hike check out these links below for more details. Teton Sports Hydration Pack Video Review: https://youtu.be/KEBrYwp8RQk Amazon Link: 2021 model https://amzn.to/3SnKcGR 2022 model https://amzn.to/3vIogMZ Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E hydration backpack Video Review for younger hikers: https://youtu.be/WbRgZr6C20g Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Zpj91p Merrell Moab II Men's Hiking Shoes: https://amzn.to/3Ardw8k The First Aid Kit we carry: https://amzn.to/3Lcvu2h Trekking Poles: https://amzn.to/3DHj54L Tactical Flashlights: https://amzn.to/3QLY25T Compass: https://amzn.to/3GahGU5 Rescue Rope: https://amzn.to/3TgNvRd Best Easy Day Hikes of Shenandoah: https://amzn.to/3wXtkk0 Falcon Hiking Guide Shenandoah: https://amzn.to/3Phwrcz Here are dad joke books for great gifts: Dad Jokes Around the Campfire: https://amzn.to/3JinFJ2 600 Funniest Dad Jokes: https://amzn.to/3EPGv7D To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Do you have to pay to drive through Shenandoah National Park? At the time of this video the fee per vehicle is $30, motorcycles are $25 and if you are walking or cycling through, the fee is $15 per person. Do you need Hiking Boots for Shenandoah? The easy answer is no you don’t need hiking boots for Shenandoah but it really depends on the type of hiking you are doing. Can you Hike Shenandoah National Park in the Rain? Yes, you can definitely hike in the rain in Shenandoah. Can you drink the water in Shenandoah National Park? There is potable drinking water provided by the National Park Service throughout the park. But, you shouldn’t drink water from streams, waterfalls, or ponds without filtering first with an approved purification device. What should I wear in Shenandoah National Park? Hiking in Shenandoah can provide all types of weather. To feel comfortable, dress in layers to adjust as you need to. Make sure you bring a good hat and sunglasses for hot sunny days. What is the best time of day to hike Shenandoah National Park? The best time of day to hike in Shenandoah National Park is determined by what you are looking for. If you want that amazing sunset or sunrise plan on hiking before dawn or at dusk. For wildlife lovers it is best to hike early when animals and birds are more active. Popular hikes will be busier between 10am and 3pm but the middle of the day might be best for those that enjoy an afternoon walk and then dinner and don’t mind sharing the trail with others. What not to miss in Shenandoah National Park? We’ve included some hikes here and for the casual hiker Stony Man and Dark Hollow Falls are great hikes that showcase the valley views and beautiful waterfalls of Shenandoah National Park. If you want a dog friendly trail pick Rose River Falls. Old Rag Mountain trail is for the more adventurous but Bearfence Rock Scramble is a bit easier. Mary’s Rock near Thornton Gap provides for another great view of Shenandoah National Park. Music by creatormix.com Timecodes: 0:00 Shenandoah National Park 0:27 Should you Carry Bear Spray in Shenandoah National Park? 1:31 What to Bring when hiking in Shenandoah? 2:47 Do you have to pay to drive through Shenandoah National Park? 3:51 Do you need Hiking Boots for Shenandoah? 5:01 Can you Hike Shenandoah National Park in the Rain? 6:13 Can you drink the water in Shenandoah National Park? 6:48 Hiking Dad Joke 6:58 What should I wear in Shenandoah National Park? 7:35 What is the best time of day to hike Shenandoah National Park? 8:17 What not to miss in Shenandoah National Park?
9 Secret HACKS to Score A GREAT " Campground Near Me "  MOST Only use 3!
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9 Secret HACKS to Score A GREAT " Campground Near Me " MOST Only use 3!

Come walk with us to Learn 9 great ways to find campgrounds near you and your favorite destinations that you are actually excited to stay at! Sometimes the simplest questions are often the hardest to answer. Come walk with us through some of our favorite campgrounds as we go through ways to find campgrounds near me and campgrounds where you want to stay. Let’s answer this first question while walking through Adventures on the Gorge at New River Gorge National Park How can Google help to find Campgrounds Near Me? Search engines can be the best place to find campgrounds near me. We’ve noticed that this is the best place to start. But, we don’t start on Google Search, we go straight to Google Maps. In the address bar type in Maps.google.com or open the Google Maps app. Where it says Search Google Maps type in Campgrounds Near Me or in this case Campgrounds Near New River Gorge National Park. Are there campground Directories or Apps to help find Campgrounds Near Me? KOA campgrounds have been around since 1962. They are probably the most notable campground franchise known for their Yellow and Black branding and family friendly campgrounds as you can see here at the Albuquerque KOA. But, there are also Jellystone franchises that are known for their Yogi Bear branding and laser focus on providing a great experience for kids. Other apps you can consider are campspot.com which is a growing reservation system many campgrounds are installing. But there are also websites like Campendium and Allstays which are RV Park and Campground listings websites that offer details about campgrounds and campground reviews. But with all these options. Who has the best campground website? After Google maps we go to KOA.com. How can you use Google Maps to find the best campground? Google maps is amazing for researching campground properties. Once we have a few campgrounds that we are interested in at a location we continue with google maps to zoom in on the property and get a closer look like here at Spacious Skies near Shenandoah National Park. We use the satellite layer to look down on the campground to see details of the RV park. How do you find State Park and National Park Campgrounds Near Me? From Google Maps it’s best to click on the website for the government campground you are interested in. But, each state has a network of campgrounds on their websites. For example on alapark.com you can reserve great Alabama campsites like Gulf State Park. midnrreservations.com is the place to go to reserve campsites at Michigan State Parks. But, if you want to make a campsite reservation in the national parks you need to go to recreation.gov. But what if you are traveling and need to find a campground near me along your route? Apps are starting to get more sophisticated. We’ve been using the Roadtrippers app on our mobile devices and laptops for years. Roadtrippers coupon: https://roadtrippers.com/plus?fpr=lk9bx use Promo Code BTR5QTP at checkout using the promo code we earn a small commission from Roadtrippers. How do you know if these remote campgrounds are ok to stay at? We get back into Google Maps and search for the specific campground. On the screen look for a photo, usually of the campground like here at Streetsboro KOA. But, click on the photo and you can see other photos from the campground and also from people who have stayed there. What is happening in the campground industry? Over the last few years many companies have gotten into the campground game. There is a land grab happening where private equity and other corporations are buying up campgrounds and building large networks. Some that we have stayed at include Sun RV Resorts and Spacious skies. How do you get unfiltered reviews of campgrounds that you want to learn more about? There are a lot of websites that provide reviews by people that have stayed at campgrounds across the country. Some include Tripadvisor, Campendium, RVlife, and Good Sam. The easiest place to find a lot of reviews is on maps.google.com. check out our blog: https://www.campbrood.com/post/9-secret-hacks-to-score-a-great-campground-near-me-most-only-use-3 maps courtesy of google maps images from websites including koa.com campendium.com, campspot.com, maps.google.com, roadtrippers.com music by creatormix.com
The BEST Trail In Shenandoah NP That Nobody Hikes
08:52

The BEST Trail In Shenandoah NP That Nobody Hikes

Come Hike with us on one of the best trails in Shenandoah to two of the best waterfalls in the National Park. Have you ever wondered if there's a secret trail in Shenandoah National Park, a hidden gem that only a small percentage of hikers have stumbled upon? Picture this: a trail that boasts two of the 12 best waterfalls in the park, deep views of the Shenandoah forest that rival postcards, and an atmosphere of untouched serenity. Intrigued? Stick around as we uncover the mysteries of the Rose River Falls Loop Trail, the best trail in Shenandoah National Park that nobody knows about. Get ready for an adventure off the beaten path, where nature's secrets await your Brood. Let’s Get Started. Where is Rose River Falls Trail Located? But the trailhead is located between mile marker 49 and 50 on Skyline Drive just north of the Big Meadows Visitor Center and is unmarked. How long is Rose River falls hike? The Rose river Falls trail is a 4 mile loop. You should plan on about 4-5 hours of hiking this trail. Can you swim in the waterfalls in Shenandoah? Shenandoah National Park allows swimming in the park. All water is available for swimming. How hard is the Rose River Trail? The Rose River Trail is a moderate trail. Are dogs allowed at Rose River Falls? One of the reasons hikers find this trail is because dogs are allowed on Rose River Falls Trail. But, this is a great trail for dogs and we can see how our dogs would have enjoyed it. Do you need hiking shoes for Shenandoah National park? For vacationers and casual hikers hiking shoes are not needed. Here is our complete gear list for day hiking Shenandoah: Teton Sports Hydration Pack Video Review: https://youtu.be/KEBrYwp8RQk Amazon Link: 2021 model https://amzn.to/3SnKcGR 2022 model https://amzn.to/3vIogMZ Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E hydration backpack Video Review for younger hikers: https://youtu.be/WbRgZr6C20g Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Zpj91p Merrell Moab II Men's Hiking Shoes: https://amzn.to/3Ardw8k The First Aid Kit we carry: https://amzn.to/3Lcvu2h Trekking Poles: https://amzn.to/3DHj54L Tactical Flashlights: https://amzn.to/3QLY25T Compass: https://amzn.to/3GahGU5 Here are dad joke books for great gifts: Dad Jokes Around the Campfire: https://amzn.to/3JinFJ2 600 Funniest Dad Jokes: https://amzn.to/3EPGv7D To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. What is the most popular waterfall hike in Shenandoah National Park? Dark Hollow Falls Trail is the preferred way by many to see this waterfall. The trail is only 1.4 miles round trip which is much shorter than Rose River Falls. So why would we choose Rose River Falls over Dark Hollow Falls to see the most popular waterfall in Shenandoah? We had more than one day in Shenandoah and we like to find hikes that are less popular. We hiked Stony Man and the Bearfence rock scramble which are two of the 10 popular trails in Shenandoah. But we wanted something different for this hike. The chance to see 2 of the 12 waterfalls in Shenandoah in one hike also excited us. But, what we didn’t know was all of the time we spent hiking along the Rose River watching the water flow over rock. These views, about an hour of the hike, were more memorable than the waterfalls. We also like the Rose River Falls trail for being dog friendly. Are there cemeteries in Shenandoah? From the research we found that there are over 100 cemeteries in Shenandoah national Park. here just off the fire road you’ll find a variety of grave markers for the Cave Family, some very old, some newer, and some from Civil War military. background music by creatormix.com maps from the nps website
What is so Special about Shenandoah National Park?
09:27

What is so Special about Shenandoah National Park?

Come hike with us on some of the best hiking trails in Shenandoah while we share with you 10 facts to help you learn what is so special about Shenandoah National Park. Let’s Get Started. For other videos to go deeper in your planning of Shenandoah watch this playlist: Gear Recommendations for day hiking Shenandoah: Teton Sports Hydration Pack Video Review: https://youtu.be/KEBrYwp8RQk Amazon Link: 2021 model https://amzn.to/3SnKcGR 2022 model https://amzn.to/3vIogMZ Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E hydration backpack Video Review for younger hikers: https://youtu.be/WbRgZr6C20g Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Zpj91p Merrell Moab II Men's Hiking Shoes: https://amzn.to/3Ardw8k The First Aid Kit we carry: https://amzn.to/3Lcvu2h Trekking Poles: https://amzn.to/3DHj54L Tactical Flashlights: https://amzn.to/3QLY25T Compass: https://amzn.to/3GahGU5 Here are dad joke books for great gifts: Dad Jokes Around the Campfire: https://amzn.to/3JinFJ2 600 Funniest Dad Jokes: https://amzn.to/3EPGv7D To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. How likely is it to see a bear in Shenandoah National Park? Bears live in the mountains of Shenandoah National Park but bear sightings are rare. Do I need Bear Spray in Shenandoah? We did not take bear spray on any of our hikes in Shenandoah. Here is a great page by the National Park Service all about bear sightings: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/bear-safety.htm more on the Shenandoah Salamander: https://www.nps.gov/shen/learn/nature/shenandoah_salamander.htm Who founded Shenandoah National Park? Shenandoah is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. At least two men, one being George F Pollack of Skyland designed a plan to create the park where it sits today. When was Shenandoah National Park established? The national park was established on December 26, 1935 by President Franklin Deleanor Roosevelt as the 22nd National Park for the United States. The State of Virginia and President Herbert Hoover before Roosevelt supported development of the park land before 1935. President Hoover actually had a fishing camp within the boundaries of the park and funded the first section of Skyline Drive that connected his camp, Big Meadows, Skyland, and Thornton Gap. Thornton Gap is the main connector down to the town of Luray and the Shenandoah Valley. How Big is Shenandoah National Park? Shenandoah National Park is over 200,000 acres. The highest elevation in the park is hawksbill mountain at 4,050 feet. How far is Shenandoah National Park to Washington DC? The northern edge of Shenandoah National Park is only 70 miles or an hour and 20 minutes from Washington DC and the White House. Why visit Shenandoah National Park? Shenandoah NP has over 500 miles of hiking trails to discover. 101 miles of the Appalachian trail are also located in the park. Maybe the most popular though is Skyline Dr. that is 105 miles long with multiple hiking trails, viewpoints and stops. How many Waterfalls are in Shenandoah National Park? There are 12 named waterfalls in Shenandoah. The most Popular is Dark Hollow Falls. The second waterfall to mention is 67 feet tall Rose River Falls. the tallest waterfall is 93 feet tall Overall Run Falls. Who Discovered the Shenandoah Valley? A German physician John Lederer ran 3 expeditions into Shenandoah. What rare plants are in Shenandoah National Park? Shenandoah National Park has protected animals, plants, and trees since its establishment in 1935. One of the most valuable in the forest is American Ginseng. Why is it Called Shenandoah? The area might be named after a tribal member with a similar name. The word Shenandoah also means Daughter of the Stars which was used to describe the stars reflecting off waters in the mountains late at night as witnessed by tribes in the region. Over 1.5 million people visit each year but the park can handle it. Discover our Blog here: https://www.campbrood.com/post/what-is-so-special-about-shenandoah-national-park music by creatormix.com timecodes: 0:00 Intro 0:20 How likely is it to see a bear in Shenandoah National Park? 0:49 Do I need Bear Spray in Shenandoah? 1:26 Who founded Shenandoah National Park? 2:12 When was Shenandoah National Park established? 2:48 How Big is Shenandoah National Park? 3:40 How far is Shenandoah National Park to Washington DC? 4:20 Why visit Shenandoah National Park? 4:54 Why is Shenandoah National Park so Special? 5:51 How many Waterfalls are in Shenandoah National Park? 6:42 Dad Joke 6:52 Who Discovered the Shenandoah Valley? 7:19 Was the Civil War Fought in Shenandoah? 7:47 What rare plants are in Shenandoah National Park? 8:13 Why is it Called Shenandoah? 8:46 How many people visit Shenandoah National Park Each Year? How many people visit Shenandoah National Park Each Year?
8 Reasons EVERYONE Is Selling Their RV! Should YOU?
09:29

8 Reasons EVERYONE Is Selling Their RV! Should YOU?

From our way of life getting back to normal, to a recession that is starting to take hold, people are seeing their Motorhome or Travel Trailer investment as a mistake and hoping they can get out fast before the bottom drops out of the RV market. Come walk with us as we dig into 8 questions about RVing and Camping and the economy to learn why people are rushing to put for sale signs on their RVs this year. How many people visit the national parks each year? How hard is it to make a campground Reservation these days? Are people being asked to come back to the office to work? What is the most popular vacation destination this year? Where do you park your RV when you’re not using it? How much does it cost for me to have this RV each year? Are we in a recession? How do you know if RVing is for me? locations filmed for this video: Grand Canyon National Park: https://youtu.be/2bIVb5xt3MM Gulf State Park: https://youtu.be/6tscOEPuGeU Gulf State Park Bike Trails: https://youtu.be/tB5akda9wA4 Goulding's RV Park: https://youtu.be/5L9n-EZzK5k Monument Valley: https://youtu.be/IsagLnMEdf4 Wahweap RV Park Lake Powell: https://youtu.be/bf4luOTLkGg US Space and Rocket Center: https://youtu.be/Y5nmDq90Kmk US Space and Rocket Center Campground: https://youtu.be/Ae1EAZdMmow Hocking Hills State Park: https://youtu.be/ZtImlOHPuJI Zion National Park: https://youtu.be/4fqvyzjnTEg Garden of the Gods Park: https://youtu.be/Cbj_Fe3CSmI Example of an RV Cover: https://amzn.to/48hQfUf To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission. Discover our Blog here: https://www.campbrood.com/post/sell-my-rv music by creatormix.com

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