Conker Camping

Ryan Hamner joins us on the podcast in this episode. You may remember, we had him on the podcast back in September 2021.  Unfortunately, this past July, Ryan passed away.  His memory can continue through his good works and good words.  Below is the information about what he did. He is an author, song writer/musician, and four time cancer survivor. His cancer inspired him to publish his book "This Is Remission." In his book, and on the this podcast, he talks about camping as a child fighting cancer, and what it meant to him.  Ryan founded a program called Bamba Box. The program gives boxes of toys, candy, and a virtual concert to kids in a fight with cancer. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so we hope you enjoy the podcast and check him out on Instagram @2survive1 

Join us today as we discuss some new  adventures.  Camping and hiking go hand in hand, but not something that everyone does.  We talk about some good hiking places we have been, and what its like to bring the kids.  Don't forget to find us on Instagram @conkercamping and let us know what you think!

So, suprise!  This one is a bit all over the place, but when something ain't broke, don't fix it.  In this episode, Joey and Stephen talk about Boy Scouts and Mountain Climbing (you guessed it!).  Joey, the dad of three boys, is dipping his toes into the idea of joining boy scouts and what that has been and may be like.  Then Stephen discuss the climb that never was, and probably should have never been.   As always, if you have any ideas or want to reach out, you can find conker camping on Instagram @conkercamping or email...conkercamping@gmail.com

On this episode, Joey and Stephen play the classic car game of Would You Rather.  But of course, they made it camping style.  Listen along and see if you agree with their decisions, and more importantly, justifications.  Do you have an idea for a podcast or topic that we can discuss or delve into?  Reach out to us on Instagram @conkercamping or email conkercamping@gmail.com.

You have heard us talk about scalloping before, but now it is 2022 Open Season in Steinhatchee.  In this episode, Stephen talks about how he planned a trip, and then all the plans were changed even before going.  Be sure to listen to this one if you are looking for a good story or if you're interested in planning an adventure.  Remember you can reach us on Instagram @conkercamping or email us at conkercamping@gmail.com.  And please subscribe and leave a review.  We love to hear your stories and share your advice.

You have to listen to this one and check out Stephen, Erica and Joeys favorite camping trip.  Where they went, what they did, and what made it memorable.  Feel free to reach out and share your favorite trip with us as well.  You can reach us at conkercamping@gmail.com or on the insta @conkercamping.  We love hearing from you and new ideas and adventures.

For campgrounds, as with campers and cars, there are different things that different people like.  Some enjoy the more rustic, outdoor space, while others prefer a concrete parking lot with perfectly manicured spaces.  In this episode, Erica, our special guest, shares with us about what she looks for in a campground.  What did they find that is important to them, and how to read between the reviews to find that perfect place for your next camping experience. 

You don't want to miss this one!  Joey and Stephen talk about their boating and kayaking experiences.  One thing that they often enjoy doing while on camping experiences is checking out the local water ways.  Whether it's on the pontoon boat or an old canoe, it is always a good time when you can get out in the water.  Do you have an experience you can share with us?  We would love to hear it.  You can email us at conkercamping@gmail.com or on the gram @conkercamping.

Join Stephen and with Joey with special guest Erica Davis as they talk about why go camping and their favorite things to do camping.  Be sure to check this one out as they share some fun stories about scalloping in Florida, Little Creek Campground in Tennessee and even an app that they use to watch the stars.  If you're looking for just a feel good listen, tune in.  Be sure to share your thoughts and adventures with us, and let us know if there is anything you want to here on the podcast.  You can reach us on Instagram @conkercamping or at conkercamping@gmail.com.

On this Episode, Stephen and Joey talk about motorhomes and skoolies.  We continue our series from the tent and pop-up campers and discuss some pros and cons to each form of camping.  If you missed it, be sure to go back a few episodes and catch up where Stephen discusses his recent skoolie purchase.  And as always,  you can catch us on Instagram @conkercamping or email us at conkercamping@gmail.com if there is something you would like us to discuss.

To continue to our series of different types of campers-this episode talks about bumper pulls and 5th wheel campers.  Steven and Joey discuss the benefits and disadvantages of each type of trailer camper and what they like about them, and some things that are challenging.  So if you are on the fence about what type of camper is best for you and your family, this is a good episode to check out.

On our next few episodes, we go through the advantages and disadvantages of different types of camping.  For this episode, we discuss tent and pop-up campers and when they are fun and cute and when they may be a challenge.  Have a story to share with us?  Find us on Instagram @conkercamping and let us know what kind of camping you prefer.  Be sure also to like and subscribe and share!

Stephen has been through many projects.  He is always working on something.  Between pop up campers, an air stream and now a skoolie (a gutted school bus), there is always something to do.  On this episode, Stephen and Joey talk through the design and layout of his skoolie, some of the challenges he has already faced, and his desires for what he wants it to be. It is quite a project, so stay tuned throughout the season to learn more about how its going.

Ever wonder where those weird, round, seafoody things come from when you're watching Food Network?  Well, Stephen talks us through some of his adventures while scalloping.  Although he is no expert, you will learn some good tips and tricks about where to find Florida scallops (spoiler alert-in Florida), how to catch them, and even how to cook them.  Have any other feedback or want to share your scallop story?  Make sure you find us on Instagram @conkercamping

On episode 2, Stephen and Joey share what they thing are must haves. We all have our opinions on what we thing should take camping. What are your must haves?

Welcome back to Conker Camping for Season 2. This episode you get to meet Stephen Davis. Stephen is the our new co-host. Truth be told, he isn't as pretty as Beth. We hope you enjoy this episode  

Is the masculine version of hostess with the mostess, hoster with the moster?  Today, Joey-the hoster with the moster, talks about his most recent experience with campground hosts.  He talks about what is important to consider when choosing a camp host, what the campground owner should do in preparation for the hosts, and some other tips and lessons learned.  So if you are a campground owner or host, or considering either one of those things, this is a great one to check out.

It was such a pleasure speaking with Austin and Courtney (who you can find on Instagram @parttimerving).  They are the nicest couple who recently purchased their first RV.  Of course it took them 10 years of research to pick out the perfect one.  If you're looking for some good tips and information about what they found, check out this informative (and dare we say entertaining) episode.   Don't forget to like, subscribe and rate our podcast.  You can find us on Instagram @conkercamping and follow more of our daily adventures. 

Even though most days I deal with literal sh*t, luckily I spared you any story regarding that.  However, you do get a one man show today about more campground updates.  Listen as I share how we are moving forward with some of our projects.  Don't forget to follow us @conkercamping.  And feel free to subscribe and review us.  Thanks!

Ever wonder about Eufaula?  Probably not, but it is a delightful little town with all that you need (maybe not all that you want, but makes for a great getaway).  Pronounced You-Fall-a, we have called this home for almost 7 years.  Today, Joey talks about what is going on around the campground, and all that Eufaula has to offer.  If you come stay with us for a day or a week, or a few months to escape the cold winters, there is plenty to do in this charming town.  If you have any questions, please reach out to us on instagram @conkercamping or @lakeeufaulacampground.  We would love to show you around, so be sure to follow us to Eufaula! 

Join as Frank talks about his trip from Dallas to New England. He will give you some great places to visit and tips for traveling. Following him on Instagram @spreakingquitefrankly

Join us as we talk to each other about the best trip ever.   We recently went to Tulum, Mexico, stayed at Amansala Resort, and joined 22 others on a yoga retreat.  But it was so much more than that, and so much better.  Listen as we talk about our experience and adventures.  If you want to know more, or even go on the next one, reach out to us on Instagram @conkercamping

Eric Fadie talks to us about his annual family walk across the Mackinac Bridge. This year marks their family's 26th straight year. The bridge is the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world. Hope you enjoy the podcast

Ryan Hamner joins us on the podcast in this episode. He is an author, song writer/musician, and four time cancer survivor. His cancer inspired him to publish his book "This Is Remission." In his book, and on the this podcast, he talks about camping as a child fighting cancer, and what it meant to him.  Ryan founded a program called Bamba Box. The program gives boxes of toys, candy, and a virtual concert to kids in a fight with cancer. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so we hope you enjoy the podcast and check him out on Instagram @2survive1 

Now that we know everyone is healthy, we have finally been able to record a podcast after two weeks.  With Joey and the middle son quarantine camping for a few days, to water pipes breaking and sewer lines getting clogged, it has been a challenge to make it happen.   We have been busy working hard to maintain the campground, and even the professionals had a hard time with some the Lake Eufaula Campground plumbing issues.  Join us as we give a few life updates and notes about what has been happening in the life of the Conklins.

Join us as we talk to Rick and Karen (Beth's parents) about their recent 6 week trip out west to Colorado and New Mexico.  We discuss the website that they used to plan the trip, www.rvtripwizard.com and how they used the 2, 2, and 2 rule.  Take a listen to find out more!

Chris and Megan join us to talk about their experiences and lifestyle on the road.  At the time of the recording, they were in Idaho for a few months.  Chris works on a tugboat in New York, and when he is off his schedule he joins the family where ever they are in the country.  Be sure to check them out on Instagram @_whywait_ or their awesome YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/whywait     

Join us as we speak with Megan Hubbard, who you can find on Instagram or Facebook @hubbardsonthehitch.  Megan shared of her stories on the road and camping with her teenagers.  She had some wonderful tips to share and advise to give.  

In this episode we talk to John and Bonnie Patton who are experienced camp hosts.  For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the term, a camp host is someone who will stay at an RV park and look over it by helping guests check in and general maintenance and customer service.  The Pattons have traveled from Oregon to Florida, and we talk to them about their adventures and experience.  If you want to learn more, you can follow them on instagram @pattonsonthego

In this episode, we speak with Julie and Kit.  We found them on Instagram making their camping dreams come true with the  handle field.and.dreams. They fixed up a vintage 1968 Field and Stream camper and share their experiences with that process.  It was also nice to hear what they do with their two girls in northern California-the places they have been and some of the challenges they have overcome.  Their camper has been a refuge when the fires came last year and created a sense of security for the family in a time of uncertainty. If you are looking for a nice break from your day and need an ear break, check this one out.

We had the best time talking to Katie, who you can find on Instagram @familyinwanderland.  When we talked to her, it was her and her family's two year "nomadversary" where they said they would only be on the road full time for a  year, but have made it two years!  Join us as we hear about the camper set up they have with her, her husband and two boys as well as the adventures they have discovered.

In this episode, Joey talks to Mark and Jenn from Cruising with the Clemons.  They are a family of five that decided to go full time in their RV.  However, not before the considered purchasing and living in a Catamaran.  Can you imagine?  It was a delight to learn about their adventures as they have traveled from Florida to Colorado-included a stop in Texas during one of the worst winter storms in history.  The Clemons have a great website and YouTube channel to check out and learn about their adventures. You can find them on all media outlets: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrusingClemons   Website: https://www.cruisingwiththeclemons.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruisingclemons   YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC-1yeLJH6yLBsxGp2s3FPRA

This week we talk to Sara who is nature loving, hiking, kayaking, and fishing angler single mom. Listen as she shares her stories with Conker Camping. You can following her on Instagram @single.mom.adventurer 

Bear with us on this one-On this episode, we talk about our big family summer trip with our son Jonah.  He shares with us about what we did and where we stayed. Our vacation this year was a trip to New Braunfels, Texas.  Beth's dad had some nostalgia of floating in a tube down the Guadalupe River and has been wanting to go back for years.   So Beth and the family made the RV trip out, Joey joined them in Texas with some extended family, and we had a great time.   Here is a list of the campgrounds we visited: Meaher State Park: https://www.alapark.com/parks/meaher-state-park A-OK RV Park: http://www.a-okrv.com/ Rio Guadalupe Resort: https://rioguadaluperesort.com/ A-Plus Motel and RV Park: https://a-plusmotel.com/ Buccaneer State Park: https://www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/state-parks/buccaneer/  All of the parks above were pleasant and had their own unique charm.  If you want to know more about our stays at this parks-please let us know.  And be sure to check us out at Instagram @conkercamping or email us at conkercamping@gmail.com for any questions or opportunities!

Honey bees aren't out to get us. The have a very "sweet" disposition and can be quite gentle! Steven Bell, former Marine veteran talks about him and his business partners bee removal. What should we do when we see bees at our campsite or on our hike? How do you respond when you see bees? Tune in and see what Steven from Honey I'm Home has to say. 

Join us as we talk to Jose and Destiny who are working on converting their 02 ford e350 school bus with a 7.3 turbo diesel into a home.  A school bus conversion has always been one of Joey's dreams, so it was fun to be able to hear from someone who is doing the work.  And it does seem like a bunch of work, but a good time for sure.  We talk to Jose about some of their challenges but also what has worked within the process.  If you want to follow and learn more, you can find them on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @skoolienamedotis

Join us as we speak with Kevin Kemp, from Kemp Outside. As a biologist for a state wildlife agency, he was able to address many conservation issues.  He worked on projects that conserved and restored wildlife habitat.  Now Kevin is working on sharing the love to outdoors to others.  We had a great time talking to Kevin about his adventures, including an RV trip coming up to tour Indiana campgrounds, as well as he experiences camping in tents.  One thing we loved also about this episode is that Kevin had a couple good camping tips and tricks we hadn't heard before.   You can follow Kemp Outside on Instagram @kempoutside, his website www.kempoutside.com or on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/kempoutside 

Joey and Eric (aka Big E, aka E) talk about the trip they took visiting the Redwood Forest in California.  They talk about the sights they saw, places they stayed and other things they did while on their five day trip.  Joey and Eric reference an AirBNB where they stayed in Eureka, CA.  If you have any questions about the trip or want to learn more, you can find Joey at Conker Camping on Instagram, or Eric on Facebook where he has a podcast, 2 Drunks 1 Hippie. Make sure you check out our past podcast, "Planning a Dude Trip to California" where you can hear about some of the prep work and things they wanted to do while on the trip.

Joey and I discuss how things are going since their last update from episode 29 around the campground.  The painting of the building is done, they are working on the entry sign, and other projects are in the works.  We also discuss our summer plans including Joey's trip to California and what else is happening in the coming months.  Be sure to check us out on Instagram @conkercamping to follow our daily journey. 

OK, so maybe you won't learn about how to conker camping in Africa on this episode, but you will hear a good story or two.  Britt is a good family friend and we just love to hear his stories and adventures.  Join us as we hear about Britt's adventures camping while on a mission trip in Africa, as well as just a few state side excursions that he has been on.  If you are looking for a good twenty minute break for some low key laughs and casual talk, be sure to check this episode out.

Join us as we talk to Alvin, who is a weekend warrior camper.  We discuss how he camps with his Fiancé Dee and 4 kids Audrey 8, Ace 6, Asher 4, Arlo 2.  He tells us about some of the tips, tricks, and hacks of camping.  We talk about what he likes about his camper, where he likes to travel, and how he does campground reviews on this YouTube page, Max Your Journey.  You can also find them on Instagram, Max_Your_Journey.      

We had the pleasure to speak with Kate who has had quite the adventure camping with her kids and husband.  Being from Alaska, they are always down for an adventure.  Kate tells us about how they flew down from Alaska, bought a camper and truck, fixed it up and made it all the way back.  She also talks about some of the plans for the future.  You have to check this one out and hear these stories.  You can find her on Instagram @amercianglamping

We have been working together at Lake Eufaula Campground for almost 5 months.  Now that the Spring and Summer seasons are upon us, we are ready to tackle some of the big projects that are on the list, including renovations of the office and clubhouse space and the entrance sign to the campground.  Join us as we discuss our victories and our challenges of working together, our thought process for the campground improvements and changes, as well as where we are in the progress.  You can always follow us on Instagram @conkercamping for our daily recaps.

We had such a pleasure speaking with Red and TJ, a married couple who traveling across the United States in their Nu Camp Tab 400 travel trailer. We talked to them about why they chose the trailer they did, what they like about it and what they would change.  It is a bit different than the traditional class A class C RV's that some are more familiar with, but so fun!  In addition to their Nu Camp Trailer, we discuss some of their travels to Florida, and what they have planned in the future out of their home base in New Jersey.  You can find them on their YouTube Channel, where Red and TJ not only talk camper life, but travel advise and reviews about where they stay.  You can also check them out on Instagram @lovinglifehitchedup.

When planning a week long cross country trip, you can go with your closest friends, your family, or some random guy you met on the internet.  Joey chose the latter.  But we think it will work out.  Join us as we talk to Eric Fadie, formally of The Detroit Cast, now cohost of the podcast 2Hippies1Drunk, who has agreed to go with Joey to California this May to the Redwood Forest.  This podcast is the first time they have talked, but Joey has been a fan for years.  They discuss their travel plans, what they hope to get out of the trip, and get to know a bit more about each other.

This week we had the pleasure to interview Marianne Edwards.  She is the author of The Frugal Shunpiker’s Guides, a popular e-book series that guides you to the best free camping sites throughout the Southwestern United States.  You can find them on her site, here. She has been RVing for over 20 years and has become an industry expert in how to enjoy big travel on a small budget. Marianne has been profiled in the New York Times and has contributed to many RV industry magazines and newsletters where she has shared her vast knowledge about finding free scenic RV camping on public lands.  We spoke with Marianne about her experiences, but also about the program and website she started, Boondockers Welcome.  She explains the program, how it works and the many benefits and success stories that have come from the service.  If you are looking for an affordable way to RV, Boondockers Welcome is the way to go.

It is so nice to find others that are in a similar situation.  Brent and Stacie Anderson are new owners of Hoffman Lake Campground in Warsaw, Indiana.  It was a pleasure speaking to Stacie as she shared her story of how they became owners of the campground, some of the challenges they face, and some of the exciting things that they have in store for the summer.  Their campground is a bit different than what we are used to in Alabama (at Lake Eufaula Campground), as they are only open from April to October, but that can come with it's own set of benefits and challenges.  One thing that is nice is being able to manage the staffing and take a break during the down time, since campground management is a 24/7 job.  It is also a good opportunity for them to do some improvements and maintenance.  Stacie has some awesome ideas about using her talents in crafts to put in the campground store, and has some great plans for the holiday weekends.  We are looking forward to seeing what they do-including tacos for Cinco de Mayo and banana splits for the 4th of July.  You can find them online at hoffmanlakecamp1964.com .

The pandemic changed the way we did a lot of things.  For Scott and Melissa have traveled the world, but never considered RV ownership.  In June of 2020, being unable to fly to get their son across the country, they took the 36 hour road trip and saw nothing but RVs.  That's when it hit them that maybe this is what they should be doing.  They can travel, and still enjoy the outdoors, but still be safe and adventurous.  After getting back from the trip and watching YouTube videos, Scott and Melissa went out to a RV dealership and bought the first class C on the lot.  As a couple that have never really been camping or known to make impulsive purchases, they talk about their thought process and decision making.  We talk to them about why they chose the RV they did, what they like and what they may be looking for different.  If you are considering the RV lifestyle, this is the perfect introduction to some of the basics of ownership. You can follow their adventures on Instagram @rvrolling_withmj and check out their YouTube channel.

One of the big things when you go camping with kids it what to do when you get there.  You want to explore, but also take the opportunity to learn and discover more about the environment and the space that you have traveled to.  We had the best time talking to Erika McLemore.  Erika works for Tinkergarten but also has a strong focus in learning about and teaching your kids more regarding indigenous lands and history.  We discussed ways that you can research more about the history of the places you visit and the land that you are on.  Erika wrote a great post about this  here on the Tinkergarten website, and it references another page we discuss that were you can see the native land that you are on, which is native-land.ca.  If you are looking for a great reference and resource on what to do with kids while you are camping or how to make the adventure more enjoyable, this is a good episode to check out!  You can follow Erika on Instagram @sitbymyfire to learn more!

Listen as we speak with Kaylee, who with her husband Steve, have been on the road for over a year with their two kids and a dog in their fifth wheel camper.  Although the lifestyle may come with some challenges, overall it has not been that big of a transition.  They were both able to keep their remote positions, an actual benefit once COVID hit, and then after getting the hang of home school, it seemed like this full time life was just fine for them.  You can follow Kaylee on Instagram at @exploringoutsidethe303 to see where they go next!

How does one acquire a campground, and why would you want to?  Join us, Beth and Joey, as we speak with Beth's parents, Karen and Rick who are the owners of Lake Eufaula Campground in Eufaula, Alabama.  They purchased the campground in 2014, and discuss why they choose campground life, what they learned along the way, and what they hope to continue to do in the future.  You can find out more about the campground at lakeeufaulacampground.com.