RV Out West

Brooks Smothers
  • 4.9 (47)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

  1. 3d ago

    They Started With $100: The Story Behind Clasica Campers

    It started with $100 and an idea. Today, Gerson and Jackie are building small, retro-inspired European campers in Eugene, Oregon, using molds dating back to 1972 and sourcing parts from across Europe. The result is Clasica Campers, a company putting a fresh spin on a classic style of caravan and creating some seriously cool options for RVers who want to go small. We sit down with the husband-and-wife team behind Clasica Campers to hear the story of how it all began. They share how a small investment turned into a passion-driven camper company, why they chose to focus on smaller campers, and what goes into creating these unique European-inspired caravans. We also get into the craftsmanship behind the campers, including the challenges of finding parts in Europe and bringing together old molds, modern components, and plenty of hands-on work. Gerson and Jackie take us behind the scenes of the building process and explain what makes these little campers so special. And because this is RV Out West, we also talk about their adventures around the Pacific Northwest. From getting out on the road to exploring the places that inspire them, Gerson and Jackie share how their love of RV travel and the Pacific Northwest connects to the story of Clasica Campers. If you’re interested in small campers, retro RVs, European caravans, vintage camper design, camper craftsmanship, or exploring the Pacific Northwest, this conversation is worth a listen. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  2. Sep 7

    This Oregon RV Resort Surprised Us

    What if you could park your RV, grab your golf clubs, and spend the day playing a beautiful golf course without ever leaving the campground? That’s exactly what we discovered at Bar Run Golf and RV Resort in Roseburg, Oregon. We’re heading to Southern Oregon for a closer look at this golf-focused RV resort and everything it has to offer. Bar Run is more than a place to park your RV. With an on-site golf course, recreational amenities, and an impressive pool complex complete with a lazy river, there’s plenty to keep campers entertained both on and off the course. We’ll share our own camping experience at Bar Run, including what it’s like to stay at the resort, the campground atmosphere, and what stood out during our visit. Then we sit down with Cris Risley, the General Manager of Bar Run Golf and RV Resort, to hear the story behind the property and learn how this Southern Oregon destination came to be. Cris takes us through the history of Bar Run, the story behind the golf course, and the vision for the RV resort. We also talk about one of the resort’s biggest attractions: the pool complex and its lazy river, which gives campers another reason to spend some time enjoying the resort after a day on the road or out on the golf course. If you’re planning an Oregon RV trip, looking for RV campgrounds near Roseburg, or searching for an Oregon RV resort with golf, this episode gives you an inside look at what makes Bar Run worth putting on your travel list. And there’s a bonus for RV Out West listeners. Use promo code OUTWEST for 10% off your stay from October 2026 through March 2027.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  3. Aug 31

    Your RV Has Too Many Manuals. There’s a Better Way

    Brad Thompson, a full-time RVer from Oregon, joins us on the show to share his journey on the road, his favorite places to explore and camp and the RV maintenance problem that inspired his big idea. An RV includes many systems and components, each with its own maintenance schedules, manuals, warranties, service records and quirks. For used RV owners, tracking down that information can be especially difficult. Even new RVs often come with a mountain of paperwork that can quickly become overwhelming. Brad created RV Keeper to help RV owners organize important information in one place and stay on top of maintenance. We discuss the inspiration behind the app, the challenges it is designed to solve, and how better organization can make RV ownership less stressful. This conversation also explores Brad’s experience with full-time RV living, his favorite Oregon destinations and the lessons he has learned from spending so much time on the road. If you enjoy RV travel, camping, Oregon, full-time RV living or practical tools for becoming a more prepared RV owner, this episode is for you. Listen now and join us on the road. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  4. Aug 24

    Destination: La Conner, Washington

    La Conner, Washington, offers a memorable RV getaway where you can park the rig and spend a few days exploring one of the state’s most scenic corners. In this special Destination episode of RV Out West, we’re heading to La Conner, a charming Skagit Valley town that deserves a spot on your RV travel list. La Conner is more than a stop along the way. It’s a place where waterfront views, Pacific Northwest history, local food, art, and outdoor adventure come together. We’ll take you beyond the town’s picturesque streets and show you what makes the surrounding area such a great destination for RV travelers. We’ll explore the best things to do in La Conner, from strolling along the Swinomish Channel and exploring the town’s waterfront to discovering nearby trails, wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures throughout the Skagit Valley. We’ll also highlight some of the area’s must-see attractions and explain why spring, summer, and fall each offer something different for travelers. We’ll break down some of the best places to camp near La Conner, including what you can expect from the campgrounds, hookups, locations, and experiences that make each one worth considering. La Conner is an excellent addition to a Pacific Northwest RV adventure, with plenty to see and do beyond its charming downtown. Press play and discover why La Conner, Washington, could become a favorite RV getaway. Listen now and start planning your next adventure. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  5. Aug 17

    Coddiwompling with Kristy Halvorsen

    We’re joined by author and full-time RVer Kristy Halvorsen, who made the bold decision to leave behind a more conventional way of life and make her Airstream, Coddi, her home. The name comes from “coddiwompling,” meaning to travel purposefully toward an unknown or vague destination, and it perfectly reflects a journey that has taken Kristy far beyond simply exploring North America. Her first book, Perfect Unfolding, chronicles one year of life on the road, from May to May. This is not a typical RV travel story. While the miles, destinations, campgrounds, and adventures are part of the experience—including her time exploring the Pacific Northwest and the beautiful landscapes of Oregon—the deeper narrative emerges when travel creates space for reflection and inner discovery. Kristy speaks openly about love, loss, identity, starting over, and what it means to give yourself permission to live life on your own terms. Her story is intimate, honest, and at times raw. Full-time RV living brings unexpected clarity when you are no longer just passing through places, but using the journey to better understand yourself. That is the focus of this conversation. For anyone who has dreamed of selling everything, hitting the road, living in an Airstream, or simply choosing a different path through life, Kristy’s story offers plenty to reflect on. This is a conversation about RV travel, full-time RV living, and the unexpected places the road can lead, both physically and emotionally. Hit play and join us for a conversation about the journey behind the journey with Kristy Halverson, author of Perfect Unfolding. Follow Kristy on Instagram at @Kristy.Halvorsen and learn more about her story and life on the road. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  6. Aug 3

    6 Washington Lakes Every RVer Needs to Visit

    Washington is home to incredible lakes that offer some of the best RV camping in the Pacific Northwest. We’re sharing six lakes where you can park your RV just steps from the shoreline and spend your days swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. The lakes we explore in this episode highlight what makes each destination worth the trip. You'll learn about each lake's location, size, campground amenities, RV hookups, dump stations, campsite availability, and the recreational opportunities that make these lakes ideal for a summer camping adventure. From full hookup campsites at state parks to peaceful forest campgrounds and private waterfront RV resorts, these destinations offer something for every style of RVer. If you're traveling in a travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, you'll find practical information to help you choose your next Washington lake camping destination. You'll also hear about our conversation with world class whitewater kayaker Dave Fusilli, who shares valuable paddling safety tips that apply to everyone spending time on the water, including kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders exploring calm lakes. If you're planning an RV trip in Washington State or searching for waterfront campgrounds with easy lake access, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire your next adventure. Grab your swimsuit, load up the paddleboards, and discover six Washington lesser known lakes that deserve a spot on your RV travel list. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  7. Jul 27

    Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood Travel Guide with Kristy of Willa Wanders

    From towering waterfalls and dramatic basalt cliffs to alpine lakes and Oregon's tallest peak, the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood are two of the Pacific Northwest's most unforgettable destinations. In this episode of the RV Out West Podcast, host Brooks welcomes Oregon photographer & RV wanderer, Kristy, of Willa Wanders to share the story behind her passion for exploring the region and why these landscapes continue to inspire her adventures. Kristy takes listeners on a journey through the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, highlighting some of her favorite viewpoints, waterfalls, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small towns that make this stretch of the Pacific Northwest a must-visit destination. If you're planning your first trip or looking to experience the Gorge beyond the most popular stops, you'll discover practical travel tips and firsthand advice. The conversation then climbs into the shadow of Mount Hood, Oregon's highest peak and a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Kristy shares recommendations for exploring Mt. Hood's scenic byways, hiking opportunities, historic landmarks, and seasonal activities, along with advice for RV travelers looking to make the most of the area. If you're searching for the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, planning a Mt. Hood road trip, looking for Oregon travel ideas, or seeking RV-friendly destinations in the Pacific Northwest, this episode offers just what you need for planning your own Oregon and Pacific Northwest adventure. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

  8. Jul 20

    John Day, Oregon: The RV Destination You’re Missing

    We’re heading to John Day, Oregon, a destination filled with incredible scenery, outdoor adventures, fascinating history, and some of the best lesser-known experiences for RV travelers. Located in Eastern Oregon, the John Day area is a great getaway for RVers looking to explore beyond crowded campgrounds and discover wide-open landscapes, scenic drives, and memorable places to visit. From the dramatic colors of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument to the winding roads of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, this region showcases a side of Oregon that feels far from the coast and the Cascade Mountains. In this destination episode, we’ll share what makes John Day a must-visit stop for Pacific Northwest RVers, including where to camp, what to see, and the outdoor adventures waiting around every corner. We’ll explore hiking opportunities, geological wonders, local character, and the rich history that makes this part of Oregon so special. If you’re planning a weekend RV getaway, building an Eastern Oregon road trip itinerary, or searching for new places to explore with your family, John Day deserves a spot on your travel list. We’ll also share tips to help you plan your visit, including things RVers should know before hitting the road, what makes this destination stand out for campers, and why shoulder season may be one of the best times to experience the area. The Pacific Northwest is full of incredible destinations, and John Day, Oregon is a reminder that some of the best adventures are found when you take the road less traveled. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and get ready to discover your next RV adventure. Listen to this episode of RV Out West and start planning your John Day, Oregon getaway today. Send us Fan Mail Support the show RV Out West has been named a finalist for Best RV & Camping Podcast in The Campie Awards. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider voting for RV Out West. Voting takes about a minute, and you can vote in this category without completing the others. Vote for RV Out West Thank you for supporting the podcast and helping us bring home a Campie Award. SUPPORT THE SHOW Keep RV Out West Rolling Please consider supporting the show with a monthly contribution.  Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

See All (215)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
47 Ratings

About

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

Information

  • Creator
    Brooks Smothers
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    215
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 RV Out West
  • Show Website
    RV Out West

You Might Also Like