Workamping, Investments, and Preparing for the Ultimate RV Adventure

 Workamping has been a cornerstone of our RV lifestyle for years. For those who don’t know, workamping is the art of combining work and travel—living the RV life while taking on seasonal, part-time, or full-time positions at campgrounds, parks, or local businesses. For us at Me Gone RVing Adventures, it’s not just a way to keep traveling affordably; it’s a strategy to secure our financial future while still enjoying life on the road.

For the past 3 and a half years, we’ve been working at Willard Peak Campground, a role that has allowed us to build strong community connections, maintain consistent income, and enjoy the perks of working in a beautiful outdoor setting. But this year, we’ve decided to take our workamping lifestyle to the next level by adding a second job at Willard Bay Sauna.

Why Take a Second Job?

Adding a second position isn’t about working ourselves into exhaustion. It’s about strategic financial planning for the long-term. Every dollar earned from Willard Bay Sauna is being put 100% into investments designed to protect our RV lifestyle for years to come. Our goal is to ensure that as we transition into our “golden age,” we’ll have the financial stability and freedom to fully enjoy full-time RV travel without worrying about income interruptions, unexpected repairs, or other financial stressors.

Full-time RVing is a dream for many, but it comes with unpredictability. Campsites close, businesses shift, and travel expenses fluctuate. That’s why having investments specifically allocated to protect your RV lifestyle is essential. With this plan in place, Me Gone RVing Adventures can confidently continue exploring, boondocking, and visiting state parks while knowing that our future is safeguarded.

The New 5th Wheel: Remodeling for Adventure

March brings an exciting milestone: our new-but-older 5th wheel arrives, and we’ll be dedicating significant time to get her road-ready. This remodel is extensive. From removing the roof, installing a new membrane, to adding a solar system, every improvement is made with future adventure in mind.

Why such an investment? Because the minute we leave Willard Peak Campground, we plan to take a long break from staying at traditional RV parks. Our vision is to immerse ourselves in boondocking, state parks, and remote locations, truly embracing the freedom that comes with full-time RV living. A solid roof, reliable solar power, and a well-maintained rig mean fewer unexpected costs and more focus on the adventure itself.

Why Investments Matter for Full-Time RVers

It might seem counterintuitive—why focus on investing when you’re traveling full-time? But here’s the truth: financial security is freedom. Investments provide a cushion for slow months, unexpected repairs, medical emergencies, and future retirement. They allow RVers to travel longer, safer, and with peace of mind.

We personally use Roots Investing to manage our investments, ensuring that every dollar we put away continues to grow and compound. This strategy aligns perfectly with our full-time RV goals, allowing us to explore and enjoy life today while building a financial foundation for the future.

Balancing Work, Travel, and Adventure

Managing two jobs while preparing a 5th wheel for full-time adventure may sound overwhelming, but it’s all about balance and intentional planning. Workamping provides structure, community, and consistent income. Our remodeling project ensures our home-on-wheels is safe, reliable, and energy-efficient. Meanwhile, investments secure our future. Together, these strategies allow Me Gone RVing Adventures to maintain the perfect equilibrium of work, play, and financial security.

The beauty of self-employment, workamping, and smart financial planning is that we can set our own pace. We can work for a season, save aggressively, remodel our RV, and then take extended breaks to explore without worrying about income interruptions. This combination creates a flexible lifestyle that grows with us, protecting our travels and our golden years.

Looking Ahead

The new year is full of excitement for Me Gone RVing Adventures. With the 5th wheel remodel underway, a second income stream at Willard Bay Sauna, and strategic investments in place, the path ahead is clear: continue working and adventuring until we’re ready to fully embrace long-term RV freedom.

Investing in your future as a full-time RVer is not optional—it’s essential. Slow months will happen. Repairs will surprise you. Health expenses will arise. But with investments dedicated to protecting your travels, you can keep exploring, keep adventuring, and keep living the life you’ve dreamed of.

If you’re serious about protecting your RV lifestyle and building long-term security, consider starting your own investment journey today with Roots Investing. It’s never too early to create a financial cushion that lets your RV dreams flourish.

Me Gone RVing Adventures is proof that with strategic work, smart investing, and intentional planning, you can balance earning, saving, and exploring—turning the dream of full-time RV living into a sustainable, rewarding lifestyle.

Escape to Mantua, Utah: Scenic Beauty, History, and Adventure

Snow fun early SPRING

Sometimes, life needs a pause—a place to step back, breathe, and take in the beauty around you. For us at Me Gone RVing Adventures, that place is Mantua, Utah. Just a short drive from our home base at Willard Peak Campground, Mantua has become our go-to escape when work stress builds or we simply crave a moment of calm in nature. With its 360-degree panoramic scenery, rolling hills, and sparkling reservoir, it’s the perfect place to recharge both body and soul.

A Hidden Gem Near Willard Peak Campground

Mantua is tucked away in a canyon between Brigham City and Logan, Utah. Despite its modest size, this small town offers big experiences. It’s a place where adventure, history, and serenity come together, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway or even a leisurely day trip. For RVers, travelers, or anyone who enjoys the outdoors, Mantua is a destination that delivers more than just scenic views—it offers a complete immersion in natural beauty and local culture.

Mantua Reservoir: Water, Adventure, and Relaxation

The centerpiece of Mantua is the Mantua Reservoir. This man-made lake isn’t just a visual delight; it’s a hub for outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a fan of kayaking, boating, or water skiing, the reservoir provides endless opportunities for adventure. Families can enjoy the swimming beach, picnic areas, and campground, making it a perfect day trip or overnight stop for those traveling in RVs or tents.

For us, the reservoir is a place for rejuvenating walks. There’s something about following the shoreline, feeling the breeze off the water, and watching the sun glint across the surface that instantly melts stress away. On days when work feels overwhelming at Willard Peak Campground, we hop in the truck, take a short drive, and find ourselves completely immersed in nature’s therapy session.

Hiking Trails Around the Reservoir

Mantua isn’t just about water sports. The surrounding hills and trails offer a peaceful escape for hiking enthusiasts of all levels. You can wander along well-maintained paths that weave through forests, open meadows, and streams. Wildlife sightings are common here, including deer, moose, and even the occasional cougar. For anyone wanting to connect with nature, these trails provide a safe and serene environment to explore.

Mantua Poppy Fields: A Photographer’s Dream

One of Mantua’s most famous attractions is the poppy fields. Every year in early June, bright orange poppies and yellow wildflowers blanket the fields, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. Photographers, nature lovers, and Instagram enthusiasts flock to this area to capture the perfect shot.

Even if you’re not a photographer, walking through these fields is a magical experience. The vibrant colors, combined with the fresh scent of wildflowers, make it a perfect setting for meditation, sketching, or simply enjoying a quiet picnic. Just remember—the bloom is fleeting, lasting only a couple of weeks, so timing is everything!

Preserving Danish Heritage: Little Copenhagen

Mantua’s charm isn’t just in its natural beauty; it’s also in its history and architecture. Settled by Danish immigrants, the town preserves a strong Danish heritage, earning it the nickname “Little Copenhagen”. Walking through Mantua, you’ll notice brightly colored doors, thatched roof homes, and architecture reminiscent of Denmark.

This cultural touch makes Mantua unique among Utah towns. It’s not just a place for outdoor enthusiasts—it’s also a destination for history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of preserved heritage. The combination of nature and history makes Mantua a rare gem that appeals to everyone.

Wildlife Around Mantua

One of the joys of visiting Mantua is its abundant wildlife. Nestled in the mountains, the area is home to moose, deer, cougars, and snakes, among other species. Birdwatchers will find joy in spotting local and migratory species along the reservoir and in the surrounding forests. For us, seeing wildlife up close is a constant reminder of how lucky we are to experience RVing life in such a pristine environment.

Even casual visitors are likely to encounter wildlife, though safety is key. Observing from a distance, carrying bear spray if hiking in remote areas, and keeping food secure are simple steps that ensure a safe, memorable experience.

Why Mantua is Perfect for RVers

For full-time RVers like us at Me Gone RVing Adventures, Mantua offers everything we look for in a travel destination:

• Accessibility: Just a short drive from our workamping location at Willard Peak Campground.

• Adventure opportunities: Water sports, hiking, and wildlife observation.

• Scenic views: 360-degree panoramas perfect for photography and relaxation.

• Cultural immersion: Preserved Danish heritage and small-town charm.

• Peace and quiet: A break from the busy campground environment and the daily grind.

Boondockers and state park visitors alike will find Mantua ideal for both day trips and overnight stays. With well-maintained campgrounds, easy access to the reservoir, and nearby hiking, it’s a destination that combines nature, culture, and tranquility.

Personal Experience: Finding Calm in Mantua

For us, Mantua isn’t just a destination—it’s therapy for the soul. Workamping can be rewarding, but it’s also demanding. The physical work, long hours, and interactions with guests sometimes create stress that needs release. Mantua’s reservoir walks, poppy fields, and quiet streets provide the perfect antidote.

On any given day, you might find us walking the perimeter of the reservoir, spotting deer grazing, or snapping photos of the poppies in bloom. Even with our three cats in tow at Me Gone RVing Adventures, the serenity of Mantua makes the short drive worthwhile.

    WALKING HIKING STICKS

Tips for Visiting Mantua

• Timing is everything: Visit the poppy fields in early June to catch the bloom.

• Pack for adventure: Hiking shoes, water, and a camera are essentials.

• Respect wildlife: Observe from a safe distance and don’t disturb animals.

• Explore history: Take a stroll through the town to enjoy Danish-inspired architecture.

• Plan ahead: If camping, check local guidelines and reservations for Mantua Reservoir Campground.

Final Thoughts

Mantua, Utah, is more than a beautiful small town. It’s a place where nature, culture, and serenity converge. For full-time RVers, weekend travelers, and adventure seekers, it offers adventure, relaxation, and inspiration all in one spot. Whether you’re kayaking across the reservoir, photographing the poppy fields, or walking through the streets of Little Copenhagen, Mantua leaves a lasting impression.

For us at Me Gone RVing Adventures, it’s a place to recharge, reflect, and reconnect—with ourselves, our RV lifestyle, and the natural world around us. The next time you need a quiet, beautiful place to escape, make sure Mantua, Utah, is on your list.

It's almost 5 miles around the entire waters. 

Time to take in the quiet and the beauty.

Tradition for us!!
Always makes for a perfect date!!

There is so much beauty and we didn't see a soul which made it more magical.

As Me Gone RVing Adventures makes more memories, we do have to slow it down a bit, for health and budget reasons. So we are going to continue to do simple fun things that cost little to no money at all. This will allow us to do more when we are able to hit the road again. (5 year plan but we know in the RV world that means nothing).

RVing Family ClassCfor3 One Year on the Road Anniversary

Do you like traveling by RV? This last year, a family of 3, a Dad, a Mom, and a Daughter all trekked through the traveling howling winds and blinding weather with plenty of good ole fashion traffic jams. The goal: to hopefully find some major adventures. After one year of crushing successes of ups and downs, this family of 3 have developed a wealth of knowledge of the  biggest RV secrets of all for their lives! This family is here to tell their story. In this article, I'll tell you all about it.

A little back story of how we come to meet this ClassCfor3 rving family. It's from a little town called Quartzsite (yup, I went and said it). Quartzsite, Arizona is a great destination for the experience. Every creature makes their way there at one time or another in their lifetime.  Millionaires, middle class, struggling class, those that don't have any class, and those that just love life on the road. We have met them all. 

We learn from our mistakes (at least we hope too). And this family has seen us make a ton of them, and yet, being the true wonderful example of friends, still accept us and love us for who we are. But enough about us, this is all about them.

I sat and thought about some great questions to introduce them as our Friday RV Guest. We hope you enjoy their answers and reach out to them to include them in your RV wealth of friends - for us they are SOLID GOLD!!

Who are you? And where do you hail from? Do you travel with any pets?

~Dad, but we'll call him by his given name Ron

~Mom, and I am Denise

~Our Daughter is, Cinn 

~We hail from the great state of Washington in a town called Ellenburg and we would never travel without our Heidi, she's a white Chiweenie, (you'll see her in a number of our TikTok videos) - Check this one out DINNER IN A CASTLE

What is the name of your RV and why in the world did you pick it?

~Boondoggle, ummm not sure but based on the boondocking and on the fact of how old she is. (we all know how sensitive it is to ask a female her age, so that applied here too lol)

ClassCof3
Visit their website
https://honeyspark.weebly.com/

How long has this wonderful family been traveling in Boondoggle?

~Wow, it's been a year already. Our departure day was July 2, 2021 that makes me proud, because the adventures we find ourselves in are more than the days in a year!!

How long were you on the road before you had your first breakdown with Boondoggle? 

~Mt Hood, Oregon on a trailhead, 20 miles south of the town of Hood River. My husband Ron had to ride his bike into town to get a solenoid and I was able to triangulate a messenger boy to give him a ride back for $70 :) #PraiseBEEEEE our AAA ended up not having been activated by our insurance agent, Melissa :( 

Do you prefer Boondocking or Paid Camping? And Why?

~Boondocking for sure but we do appreciate RV paid Parks for our TV watching, Showers and Laundry. We do about a day of park for every 5 days of boondocking. This allows us to save money for more on the road travel experiences. 

Is RVing everything you envisioned it to be?

~Yes, Yes, Yes... That's 3 yes from each member... That's a major win-win-win!!

What is your Favorite Campsite Location. And your favorite Restaurant?

~Without hesitation so far it has to be Dougan Falls BLM Campground located in Washington State is our favorite campground, and our favorite RV Park to date would have to be in Arco, Idaho. It is an interesting place. FREE power site for travelers with some strict rules because his dog has food allergies. Our daughter has severe food allergies, so it really touched our hearts leaving a deep respect for this RV park. 

~Favorite Restaurants? We all each have our own answer for this question.

Ron is The Panda Express

Cinn and I both love Subway #nom-nom-nom

We would love to ask you all so many more questions but we want the fans that find you on the road, to be able to ask you in person what questions they may have that we didn't get to go over here. So probably the most important question would be geared to all the newbies of the road.

What is the BEST advice to pass on to the Newbies of road that you didn't know about until you were faced with it?

~Pick up where you go, worry only about yourself and not how crappy other travelers might be, and try to find a SLOW pace in Life. (I have to say I had to read this twice because I never want to forget this piece of advice - it's so true. It's the biggest lesson Mark and I learned while we were in Quartzsite)

Here are all of their Social Media Sites you can follow and reach out to them at:

Facebook 

Instagram

TikTok

 If you would like to be a Friday Guest Feature - email MeGoneRVing@gmail.com we do this for FREE to show support for our fellow RV full time Travelers. 

If you are a FAN, Family, Friend of ClassCfor3 please consider sharing this post on your personal twitter, facebook, pinterest, by doing this you are helping this wonderful brand their adventures. Please be sure to check out their Facebook Reels to help them earn more adventure money - gas can be a beast on the RV travelers. Or you can make a donation directly to their venmo @ClassCfor3