Weekdays from Scratch - Tales of the Homemade Life at Springs RV Resort

Great blogpost from Weekdays from Scratch .......



          It's no secret that for a while now our family has been lusting after own own little slice of paradise- a home away from home- a get away of sorts. In Vancouver and surrounding area the real estate market is fierce and even recreational properties in our budget are difficult to come by. So when we were offered a weekend out in Harrison Hot Springs at the Springs RV Resort we of course jumped at the chance. We are always game for a new adventure!



          When we pulled into the resort we were greeted by the ever friendly Natalie and her staff- they introduced us to the resort- explaining the ins and outs as well as showing us the way to our home for the weekend. Being experienced tenters we have never really considered Rving before- we are pretty happy with our nomadic and compact way of travelling- Our in-laws are RVers and we have always been curious about the appeal of RVing- more glamping than camping! When we opened the door to our RV for the weekend- in an instant- I understood- a queen bed, flush toilet and running hot and cold water-  all the amenities of home!




        Springs RV Resort takes a really unique approach to the traditional RV resort- complete with beautiful wooden decks and "shabbins" at the back of each lot. In addition to being beautifully laid out the resort really caters to families of all ages- there were many multi- generational family groupings that we encountered over the weekend. Grandparents with their children and grandchildren- everyone together having a good time. During our time at the resort we participated in a number of events designed for the younger crowd- arts and crafts on Saturday morning as well as an awesome animal encounter with the folks from Urban Safari Rescue.





          When we weren't busy hanging with giant tarantulas and snakes there was plenty for us to do- in spite of the rain we hit the pool and hot tub at the Whistler style kid's clubhouse- which of course no one wanted to leave! The feeling of family permeates everything at Springs RV Resort- from Friday night burgers to movie night and Saturday morning coffee- this is a place to be social- a real community of weekenders. More of a luxury resort than your average trailer park!



           Springs RV Resort offers so many different types of escapes- from overnight rentals, seasonal leases to sites for purchase- making the dream of affordable recreational property a reality for many folks. We enjoyed our getaway from the city- exploring a corner of B.C. we had yet to visit- we had no idea that such a place existed only a 90 minute drive from downtown Vancouver! Many thanks to the owners and staff of Springs RV Resort for our wonderful weekend- we can't wait to make a return visit!

#rvlifestyle #explorebc #familytravel #rving #recreationalproperty #harrisonhotsprings

Family Travel: Springs RV Resort (Harrison Hot Springs)

Listen to what Bits of Bee is saying about Springs RV Resort......

Our family loves to explore local travel destinations, and Harrison Hot Springs has always been at the top of our list of family favourite getaways. And while we’ve always vacationed at the same resort in years past, this year we were invited to try something a little different – a weekend stay at Springs RV Resort.

I had never stayed in an RV, and had preconceived notions of what an RV park would have to offer as a travel destination, but I kept an open mind and was excited to explore my favourite BC spot from a new perspective.

When we arrived at the resort, I was in awe. As we drove into the gates, I realized that this wasn’t your average trailer park, this was a luxury retreat – complete with a plethora of kid-friendly amenities and family activities.

When we pulled up to our site, I was impressed by the cleanliness of the grounds – each site was well cared for and carefully landscaped, and each featured its own unique, custom-built deck made of rough-cut timber, and cedar shake roofed gazebos with outdoor kitchens. Each site also featured a shabin (a shed-cabin!) with built-in bunk beds for the kids. The shabin was definitely a highlight for my little ones who spent hours playing in their own little fortress.

While we had originally planned on spending most of our weekend enjoying the Sasquatch Festival in the lakeside village of Harrison Hot Springs, we found that there was just so much to do in our own little RV community, so we opted for outdoor activities that were a bit closer to home base.

Steps from our door were some lovely forested trails, perfect for a family stroll on a hot Summer’s day.

With record-high temperatures, we also loved splashing in the beautiful pools.

And after dinner, our kids loved playing on the treed playground, featuring an antique carousel (originally from The Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, a true heritage piece).

We quickly learned that there was so much more to do at Springs RV Resort than just glamping in an RV – it’s no wonder they’ve received recognition as one of the top RV resorts in North America!

There were so many great things to love about this resort, including:

• Brand new three-storey clubhouse
• New adult pool and over-sized hot tub
• Large heated family pool with hot tub
• Spa-like bathrooms with heated tile floors
• 5 outdoor community fireplaces
• Two big screen TV areas
• Library with fireplace
• Games room – darts, pool, ping pong, foosball
• Stone and cedar social pavilion for BBQ’s and dances
• Laundry Room
• Large treed playground
• 1930’s Antique Carousel
• Walking trails & dog walk
• Free Wi-Fi & Shaw Hotspots

But what I loved most of all was the sense of community that I felt while living amongst the people who call this unique and special place their Summer home. People waved as we passed them by, and there were many family-friendly events and activities designed to unite the people of Springs RV Resort, including outdoor movies, community BBQs, and kids’ crafts.

Interested in checking it out for yourself?

The Springs RV Resort offers overnight rental, seasonal leases and sites for purchase, making the resort dream within reach. Ownership provides a home base in a resort community of friends and family. Yet, an RV’er is still free to go travel and explore where their time and interests carry them. 

Come by anytime for a tour and see why the Springs RV Resort was rated one of the top RV Resorts in North America. Phase two is now completed and there are 62 new RV lots available with 50 amp service. 

Learn More

We are so thankful to the owners for allowing us to enjoy this unique experience, and hope to return for another visit again soon.

The Little Free Library in Harrison Hot Springs

Have you heard of Little Free Libraries?  You will notice them popping up in communities everywhere.  The concept is simple – take a book – return a book.  Often the simplest ideas are the best and Little Free Libraries embody the spirit of community, sharing and a love of literature.

Unique and Quirky Designs

The Little Free Libraries are quite charming – their designs are all unique and often quirky, many resembling bird houses.  You will stumble upon these Little Libraries at beaches, in front of private homes, at bus stops, store fronts, on bike paths and trails in neighbourhoods everywhere from the United State to Ghana and Afghanistan.  They are a unique and creative blend of literacy promotion and community engagement.

Library with a view - Qualicum Beach

 Obviously reading is popular throughout the year, but there is something special about finding that perfect summer book while vacationing.  When I say “summer book”, I mean that low-brow, lightweight page turning novel you have wanted to read all year!  For many of us there is a kind of self-indulgent pleasure in leaving those deep, serious books for our winter reading lists and allowing time to indulge in that “trashy” summer novel.  In this digital age, there is still great pleasure to be found on your lawn chair by the pool with a really good book….enjoy your read.

Little Free Library on the Centennial Trail

Should you be in search of for your next great read, be sure to visit the Springs RV Resort library in the clubhouse.  We invite you to “take a book – return a book.”

Springs RV Resort - Library in new Club House

#littlefreelibrary #rvlifestyle #harrisonhotsprings #books #payitforward

It's a Celebration

Since the beginning of time, man has celebrated!  

The summer solstice, weddings, religious holidays, Festivals, Graduations, Birthdays, Halloween, New Year’s Eve, Ground Hog Day, a new job, retirements, a hole in one…..the list is diverse!  When you think about it, as a species we spend a considerable amount of time celebrating! We sing, we dance, we laugh and we play.  But, why do we celebrate?  Why do we want to come together as a group, and what makes a great celebration?

Is it -?

• Family?
• Friends?
• Balloons?
• Magic?
• Music?
• Ribbons & Bows?
• Location?
• Weather?
• Eats and Treats?

At the Springs RV Resort, we recently celebrated the Grand Opening of our new Club House and development of our Phase II RV lots.

Our new Pool, Hot Tub and Club House are open!

It was a magnificent day.  The weather was perfect, the facilities were immaculate and the atmosphere was festive.

The day was full of smiles and laughter as we enjoyed the official ribbon cutting, Golf Cart demos, RV Show Suite tours, a Magic show and the sounds of Todd Richard and the TR Band.

Young and Old are captivated by the magic of Rod Boss.

Todd Richard and the TR Band get the dance party started.

It's your break

 The folks at Springs RV Resort really do know how to host a celebration.

But when all is said and done, it can be argued that it isn’t about the food, drinks or entertainment.  Celebrations remind us that we are part of a larger community.  When you think about it, maybe it is simply knowing that your friends will be there with you.  Now – that IS something to celebrate!

(“There are no strangers here; Only friends you haven’t yet met.”  William Butler Yeats)

Best Ice Cream in Harrison Hot Springs

ICE CREAM - my favourite food group!  There is always a time and a place for ice cream. However, nothing is better than that special flavour on a hot summer day.

No matter who you talk to, ice cream invokes memories - usually warm, fuzzy ones.  As a child, I fondly remember driving in the car with my family when suddenly the car would take on a mind of its own.  We would scream with joy as Dad valiantly fought for control of the vehicle. He would dramatically gasp, groan and holler, "I can't control it much longer!"  No matter how bravely he fought, the car would turn in to our local Dairy Queen and we would stop in for a round of cones.  As a young child I was convinced we had the best car ever!  To this day, I smile as my car will sometimes take over and turn in to the local ice cream store.  (FYI - This isn't a factory install feature - be sure to ask your auto dealer for the ice cream app next time you are in the market for a new vehicle!)


Ice Cream stories are abundant and I am sure you have one of your own.  From sport team celebrations to birthday parties, ice cream says it best!

I can't believe I ate the whole thing!

In 2013, my partner and I were cycling through Louisiana on our way to New Orleans.  We were taking the back roads and doing our best to meet as many locals as we possibly could.  We were deep in the heart of Cajun country, in a little town that had clearly seen more prosperous days when we encountered a gentleman named Carroll.

We were completely and utterly lost! We had come to a complete stop and were reviewing our maps. Carroll saw us looking dazed and confused and figured since his grand-daddy, his daddy and he himself were born and bred in the area, he might be able to help.  He was true, blue Cajun!  When he started school he could not speak English and was put in a separate class.  He shared wonderful stories of life on the bayou and had us in hysterics.  We visited for quite a long while and learned that when growing up, Carroll and his family were so poor he had never had ice cream.  However, with a bright smile and a wink he told us that he knew a guy who had seen a guy eat ice cream!

Follow the signs to the Best Ice Cream in Harrison Hot Springs

As we bid farewell, Carroll was happy to inform us that his lot in life had improved from those early days on the Bayou and he now could afford as much ice cream as he wanted - CHOCOLATE - of course!

When visiting the Springs RV Resort in Harrison Hot Springs, be sure to visit the local ice cream stores.  We guarantee they will not disappoint!

Thanks to our friends at Tourism Harrison for this list of Ice Cream Stores just a short walk from us!







#icecream #explorebc #harrisonhotsprings #rvlifestyle #springsrv  #familyvacation

What's Your ING?

Years ago my husband and I were hiking the iconic West Coast Trail located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island, British Columbia.  (A magnificent hike should you ever get the opportunity)  The hike is challenging!  Over 75 km long, it can take five to seven days to complete.  About four days into our trip we came across two hikers from Saskatchewan.  We stopped to chat and shared a wonderful pot of coffee together as we sat and enjoyed a break.  Our conversation quickly turned to British Columbia and I will never forget their comments.  They asked if there were “activity police” on patrol in our province.  We didn’t understand their question and asked them to clarify.  Before beginning their hike they spent a few days exploring the Lower Mainland and were amazed at the many recreational opportunities available at our doorstep.  They were also impressed how British Columbians took full advantage of these opportunities.

Series of ladders assist hikers along the West Coast Trail

Over the years, I have often reflected on their comments and since meeting them I have tried to find an ING to enjoy each day.  What’s an ING you ask?  Well ING adds action and according to our Saskatchewan friends British Columbians like to ING!  


You really can not find a better location to explore your ING than The Springs RV Resort.  Located in Harrison Hot Springs the area offers endless ING opportunities – the biggest decision while enjoying your vacation time at the Springs RV Resort is to choose your ING:

Several exceptional golf courses are within a short drive of The Springs RV Resort

• Golfing
• Biking
• Reading
• Swimming

Enjoy the new heated pool and over-sized hot tub at the Springs RV Resort

• Hiking
• Soaking
• Dining
• Grilling

Grilling - a summer time favourite!

• Relaxing
• Rejuvenating
• Resting
• Dancing
• Socialising
• Birding
• .......and more!

The Games Room at the Springs RV Resort features Pool, Darts, Ping Pong and Foosball.

Tourism Harrison has a terrific website, providing detailed information on the area INGS!  Take a moment to explore the site and create your action list.

...and if that is not enough, check out this great list of activities in the area from our friends at Fun Lists

Of course, after all those INGS, you may need to explore one of my personal favourites – NAPPING!

Links:

The Springs RV Resort Attractions 2015

The Springs RV Resort Area Attractions and Outdoor Adventures

RV Resorts - the new Cottage Country? Affordable Family Vacations

Growing up in Ontario, I fondly remember the Friday exodus to Cottage Country.  The entire family would wait with bated breath for the work week to finish knowing that their little piece of paradise awaited.  With station wagons (now I have really dated myself) packed to the brim, families left the hustle and bustle of the City behind and drove to Lake Country. 

Summers were even more idyllic.  Mom and the kids spent the entire vacation at the cottage, while Dad would often commute to work.  Long hours spent swimming, exploring, and sharing time together.

Today with escalating property prices and the demands of work life balance, it feels like owning recreational property and affordable family vacations are simply out of reach.   Add to that the thought of maintaining a cottage.  Will the weekend getaway quickly turn in to a weekend of hard labour?

There must be an affordable alternative!  Thankfully, a trend is emerging that appears to be keeping the dream alive.  

Baby – boomers still want a place to recreate and to gather family and friends.  They are demanding quality, comfort and service.  At the same time, the younger generation are looking for close to home weekend get-a-ways and mini-vacations.  These emerging trends have led to the growth of RV Resorts, allowing guests to purchase the RV lot and enjoy a permanent site set up. With decks, outdoor kitchens and gazebos, the RV experience feels more and more like a summer cottage. 

Private deck space - a perfect place to gather family and friends

Maybe it’s time for you and your family to rethink the cottage.  Maybe RV Resort ownership is for you.

#cottage #explorebc #rvlifestyle #camping