Travel Blogging in Flip Flops – Page 6 – The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures!

Sponsored| In May 2021 I started a remodel on an almost 30-year-old Sunline Saturn. With lots of paint and patience the “Lilly Pad”, was finished and took its first journey to the OBX for Memorial Day weekend. In the first year, we went on a few trips and went on our first multi-state trip leaving Virginia and going to Gettysburg, Pa. There is so much to learn about camping and to figure out along the way. I am not an expert by any means, but have found things that help make camping easier I will share.

Camping Fort Story, Virginia Beach — Grilling and enjoying a cold beverage in Virginia Beach’s Fort Story Campground

Types of Campgrounds: National Parks, HipCamp and Resorts

I think the most important thing to remember when looking at sites is finding a camping location that works for you and your family. Make sure to figure out first what you’re looking for in a site and then match your needs/wants to the amenities offered. In our first year of camping, we camped at a National Park in the OBX, a military MWR campground in Virginia Beach, a camping resort in Williamsburg, and a Hipcamp site outside Gettysburg, Pa. All of these sites were very different and each offered some unique pros and cons to them.

Oregon Inlet Campground, Nc National Park

Camping at a National Park offers the perks of direct access to nature, clean basic bath houses, park rangers if needed, typically a dumping station, and potable water. The cons to some might be limited amenities as National Parks are basic and don’t always offer resort-type amenities.

From beach locations to mountains you can always find somewhere to park your RV, travel trailer or pitch a tent. Shown above (left) camping outside Gettysburg, Pa and (right) Fort Story Beach in Virginia Beach, Va

Camping at a resort offers all the bells and whistles with beautifully manicured grounds, fire pits, BBQ areas, gravel sites, access to pools, recreational areas, games, cable TV, wifi, laundry, full hookups (water, sewage, and electricity) and much more. The con to this type of camping for some might be the higher prices or crowded areas during peak season.

Camping on a military base is similar to a resort in my opinion. Base camping is terrific if you have access to it and is VERY discounted/cost-effective compared to other resorts. The amenities at many bases are very nice. As a con, these campgrounds aren’t available to everyone.

Hipcamp Review — Camping off the beaten path using Hipcamp

Camping using HipCamp is not your typical site and allows access to private land and individuals who choose to host outside their homes, or on their farmland or woods. Some HipCamp sites might solely give you access to a place to park or pitch a tent. The cons are there might not be any electricity, sewage, cable, or potable water on these sites.

Some HipCamp sites also, don’t allow fires or the use of generators so you’ll need propane or battery power. All details should be read thoroughly for HipCamp sites as each site and the host is different. If you’re confused about a listing contact the host. The perks of HipCamp include being cost-effective, camping in secluded areas, meeting new hosts, and going off the beaten path.

Some of the Hipcamp sites require dry camping. I think the key to camping in an RV or travel trailer without typical hookups is to first make sure you have enough potable water or water in your freshwater holding tank for showers etc. to last the amount of time you’re camping. When I was looking for a site on HipCamp it was important to me to locate a site this time with electric hook-up and potable water. This might not be a necessity for others, but we were looking at multiple days and I knew we wouldn’t have enough battery power for the whole trip.

Tips for a Great Camping Trip

1992 Sunline Saturn — Camping is an amazing way to relax, unwind and connect to nature!

We always make sure to have our fresh water holding tank full when we leave home. Our refrigerator and oven both run off propane so we also, make sure to have enough of it as well. If you use propane I suggest making sure to know where you can refill it if necessary when camping.

Laundromats like this can help you pack less and to quickly get everything washed so you can get back to your vacation or business.

Mapping out things like grocery stores and even hardware stores is also, something I find that helps our camping trips go smoothly. Depending on how many days we are going to be away I also, like to locate laundry services like using Madison Heights laundromat when camping. Planning to use a laundromat can ease the load of packing. The Clothes Spin is a great option for a way to clean your clothes while camping.

Get Outside and Go RVing

1992 Sunline Saturn Remodel — Inside my little beach house on wheels the Lilly Pad an almost 30 year old renovated Sunline Saturn.

Camping is an amazing way to relax, unwind, and connect to nature! Getting outside and away from the hustle and bustle of the world can be very liberating and relaxing. Each type of camping site mentioned offers its own set of pros and cons, so be sure to do your research before you decide on booking. Whatever you choose just get outside and go RVing!

Know someone planning a camping trip please share my article with them ☺️ Check out my other fun Take A Walk in My Flip Flops travel articles too.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina: Oregon Inlet Campground

June 4, 2021January 13, 2025 Krystle Kitchen

Beach on the Atlantic Ocean at Oregon Inlet Campground

The Outer Banks of North Carolina has been a piece of my heart since I was a girl. As soon as I had my driver’s permit I couldn’t wait to take my SUV to the beach and drive on the sand. Many weekends growing up I spent fishing and laying in the sun on Oregon Inlet. As an adult, I’ve stayed in too many Outer Banks hotels and rentals to count. I feel like the OBX is a part of me.

Being able to camp at Oregon Inlet was a dream come true. For those of you interested in camping on the OBX there are many camping choices, but this blog will focus primarily on Oregon Inlet Campground. My first trip to Oregon Inlet Campground was also the Madden trip for my almost 30-year-old Sunline Saturn I’ve named the Lilly Pad and it made this vacation extra memorable.

Oregon Inlet Campground 101

Provided campground layout at Oregon Inlet Campground

Oregon Inlet Campground is located just a stone’s throw from the inlet and this campground offers convenient access to fishing and water activities. It boasts well-maintained facilities and stunning sunset views over the sound. Oregon Inlet Campground is comprised of three sections. Section A is solely for tent camping and B/C allows for tents and RVs (some offering electric and water hookups). Generators are also, allowed to be used from 7am-10pm in B/C. The campground is across the street from the Oregon Inlet fishing area which has a dump station, fresh water hookup for getting your potable water, and a small store for necessities.

go 4x4 in the obx — Get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Amidst the rugged beauty of the Outer Banks, Oregon Inlet presents a captivating blend of coastal charm and natural splendor. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an action-packed outdoor adventure, this area offers a variety of camping options to suit every traveler’s preference. The Oregon Inlet Campground stands out for its proximity to both the inlet itself and the expansive Atlantic Ocean beaches. Campers can wake up to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sound.

The campground is well maintained, and has a ranger station and onsite host volunteers. The best part is the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean is right over the dunes of the camping area. A quick walk from the campground and you can swim in the cool green water of the island or catch your dinner. Cooking up fresh, local seafood makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience.

Freshly caught Wanchese, Nc shrimp from the market.

Tips for Camping at Oregon Inlet

When preparing for a camping trip at Oregon Inlet, it’s essential to pack wisely. Bring along camping essentials such as cooking utensils, and sufficient food and water supplies, as nearby stores can be limited. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes are also crucial, especially for those planning to explore the rugged terrain and sandy trails.

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check the weather forecast and consider seasonal conditions, particularly during hurricane season. Making campground reservations in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel times, to secure your spot amidst the Outer Banks’ natural wonders. The campground can be booked on recreation.gov and the online booking process was very easy as was the check-in and out at the location.

Things to do in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

If you’re looking for some of the freshest seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do around Oregon Inlet. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore or venture out on chartered fishing expeditions in the rich waters of the inlet. Nature lovers can explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this coastal environment, from marshlands teeming with wildlife to sandy dunes dotted with sea oats.

The towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills are a quick drive North and have many grocery stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. The Bodie Lighthouse is also, a few miles up the street from the OI campground as well as one of my favorite NC beaches Coquina Beach. A further drive North for a day trip and one can visit the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an ATV and ride the dunes.

Bodie Lighthouse, a short drive from the Oregon Inlet Campground

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Airplanes. You’ll get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks are laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself!

Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brothers Memorial and walk the grounds on foot or consider a visit to the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life by foot too, and a shipwreck. An immersed model of the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. Roanoke Island is also, home to many restaurants and shops.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo — I recommend a stop at Vineyards on the Scuppernong in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to NC and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine 🍷 💕

If you’re a nature lover visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island. There is plenty for the history buffs too like seeing the wonderful outdoor drama of the Lost Colony, visiting Festival Park to see a replica of Elizabeth II ship, and historical artifacts from the area.

H2OBX has so much to offer no matter your preference for water fun. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX.

If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter right out of Oregon Inlet across from the campground! Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food, and fun apparel shopping. Spending a day at H2OBX is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

The OBX will always have a piece of my heart and I love sharing all my fun experiences and finds so you too will fall in love with the OBX!

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood, and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Oregon Inlet Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping among the dunes and opening the windows to hear the ocean were a big perk of this campground and a highlight of this adventure for me. Camping near the Outer Banks promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From lounging on pristine beaches, hiking through maritime forests, or simply soaking in the tranquility of this coastal paradise, each moment spent in this captivating environment is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your adventure today and discover the untamed beauty of camping on the Outer Banks’ shores.

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to the OBX please share my article with them too☺️

Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

Camping at Beechland Campground in Manteo

Camping at Refuge Campground Roanoke Island

Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲…𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐢𝐳𝐳𝐚!

June 1, 2021October 23, 2025 Krystle Kitchen

The saying, “You can’t make everyone happy; you’re not pizza,” resonates deeply, especially when planning a trip. Just like pizza, with its vast array of toppings, our travel preferences can vary significantly. Trying to create an itinerary that caters to everyone’s tastes and desires can quickly become overwhelming and often leads to frustration. It’s essential to recognize that while striving for universal satisfaction is admirable, it can sometimes feel impossible.

In my experience, the challenge of accommodating different tastes and perspectives can lead to stress and conflict among friends or family. When you’re tasked with planning a group trip, each person may have their unique must-see destinations, desired activities, and expectations. The reality is that you cannot please everyone all the time, and attempting to do so can often leave you feeling exhausted and unfulfilled.

To create a trip that feels rewarding for all, here are some tips to help you balance everyone’s desires and make the planning process smoother:

Involve Everyone in the Planning

Start by gathering input from all participants right at the beginning. A simple survey or a group discussion can help capture everyone’s interests and priorities. This ensures that everyone has a voice in the planning process, making it easier to find common ground.

Prioritize Key Activities

Identify a few non-negotiable activities or destinations that excite everyone in the group. These shared goals can serve as the foundation of your itinerary, helping to create a sense of shared purpose. By focusing on these highlights, you can build a framework that satisfies the group’s core interests.

Build a Flexible Itinerary

Structure your trip with a mix of group activities and individual free time. Include scheduled events but also allow for opportunities to explore independently. This way, everyone can enjoy what they love most without feeling constrained by the group.

Consider Everyone’s Preferences

Balance the itinerary by including a variety of activities. Some individuals may crave adventure while others prefer relaxation or cultural experiences. By incorporating different types of activities, you can cater to diverse interests within the group.

Communicate Clearly

Keep communication open throughout both the planning phase and the trip. Encourage group discussions where everyone can express their thoughts or suggest changes. Address any concerns promptly to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

Be Ready to Compromise

Remember that not everyone will be able to get their way all the time. Be prepared to make compromises and adjust plans as needed. Sometimes the best moments come from unexpected detours or changes in plans that allow the group to discover new experiences together.

Celebrate Togetherness

Remind everyone that the primary goal of the trip is to enjoy each other’s company. Focusing on shared experiences, such as group meals or evenings around a campfire, can help strengthen bonds and create lasting memories, even if everyone doesn’t get their first choice of activities.

While planning a successful group trip requires patience and flexibility, the connections and experiences shared along the way are what truly matter. While you may never fully satisfy everyone, keeping lines of communication open, embracing compromises, and maintaining a focus on shared goals can create a win-win situation. By understanding that the journey is more about the relationships built and moments shared rather than the specific itinerary, you can foster deeper connections and unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Ultimately, the joy of travel lies in the blend of diverse perspectives coming together, creating a richer tapestry of memories that everyone can cherish.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Clarksville-Virginia’s Hidden Gem

April 11, 2021January 12, 2025 Krystle Kitchen

Known as Virginia’s only lakefront town the charming town of Clarksville, Virginia is located along the beautiful Kerr Lake in southern Virginia. With its quaint small businesses, cozy restaurants, and welcoming hospitality, Clarksville exudes Southern charm. Traveling to Clarksville Virginia is a joy for any nature lover or history buff.

In the rolling hills of southern Virginia, Clarksville is a charming small town that offers a glimpse into America’s past. Founded in the 1820s, Clarksville still has many preserved historic homes and buildings that reflect its heritage as a tobacco trading hub and Civil War site. Strolling the quaint downtown area, you’ll find antique shops, cafes, and art galleries housed in structures over a century old.

The town is also, surrounded by lush forests and farmland. Hikers can explore trails along the John H. Kerr Reservoir or through Occoneechee State Park. The lake, known to many as Buggs Island also, offers some of the best bass fishing in Virginia, making it a paradise for anglers.

With its blend of natural beauty and historic charm, Clarksville is the perfect destination for learning about Virginia’s culture and landscape while enjoying a relaxing rural retreat. The town’s slower pace of life, friendly community, and a plethora of outdoor activities beckon you to sit back, unwind, and appreciate the gifts of nature.

Six seconds in Clarksville, Virginia a lakeside travel destination.

Why visit Clarksville,Va?

Clarksville, Virginia makes for an excellent destination for a vacation. Clarksville offers scenic views and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The town itself has a charming, small-town vibe with historic buildings, antique shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants serving up classic Southern fare.

Each season offers something different in Clarksville. In spring, the countryside bursts into color with flowering dogwoods and redbuds. Come summer, visitors can pick their fruit at local orchards and farms. In the fall, the surrounding forests burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating picture-perfect views of the lake.

For water lovers and fishing enthusiasts, Clarksville offers abundant recreational opportunities. Boating is a popular local pastime, with public launch areas to use your boat and rentals available for boats, kayaks, and canoes. For fishing enthusiasts, guided trips on Kerr Lake are available to book. I have fished Kerr Lake many times, catching keepers from docks and the banks at Occoneechee State Park.

Beyond the lake, Clarksville is an ideal home base for exploring the broader Southside Virginia region. Several wineries in the area are fun to visit for tastings and vineyard tours. The serene setting and slower pace of life make Clarksville an idyllic spot to unwind and recharge.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike and bike along the scenic country roads. Nearby Occoneechee State Park also, offers several hiking options, biking trails, equestrian riding areas, picnic spots, and playgrounds. In addition, the park provides educational programs and has a small museum with information on Native American history in the area.

Camping in Clarksville, Va

If you’re looking for a relaxing rustic weekend getaway Occoneechee State Park offers idyllic accommodations for visitors to Clarksville. Nestled on the lake, the park’s charming cabins and scenic campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs provide guests with a serene natural retreat. With its pristine grounds, professional staff, and congenial patrons, Occoneechee State Park makes an excellent home base for exploring the region.

Occoneechee State Park Clarksville Virginia — Cabin at Occoneechee State Park

Occoneechee State Park is a wonderful place for those seeking a nature getaway or some time spent outdoors. The park offers ample opportunities to immerse oneself in natural beauty. Miles of hiking trails wind through the woods, past trickling streams and mossy outcroppings perfect for a picnic. Early risers can catch glimpses of deer grazing in the misty meadows at dawn. At night, the lack of light pollution provides stunning views of the starry skies.

The serene lake at the heart of the park beckons visitors to spend lazy afternoons fishing from the dock or paddling in a canoe. For wildlife enthusiasts, the diverse habitats mean excellent birdwatching and chances to spot everything from turtles to foxes. With cozy cabins and campsites available, Occoneechee State Park is ideal for those who want to fall asleep to the chorus of crickets and wake to the sunrise filtering through the trees.

Disconnecting from the stress of everyday life and tuning in to the rhythms of nature is restorative. With so much natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation, it’s easy to see why someone would want to stay at Occoneechee State Park.
Occoneechee State Park is a wonderful place for those seeking a nature getaway or some time spent outdoors.

In addition to the lodging at the state park, the Clarksville area has other hotels/motels and RV/camping sites. There are also, many AirBnB lodging options in Clarksville that include unique accommodations on Kerr Lake featuring private docks and other amenities.

Where to Eat in Clarksville, Virginia

Clarksville offers abundant dining options whether you’re staying in a cabin, hotel, motel, or Airbnb. In addition to bringing your food or catching your dinner, you can visit the market to buy groceries or dine at one of downtown’s many eateries. Downtown Clarksville caters to all tastes with fine dining, casual fare, pizza, ice cream, and more.

Cooper’s Landing Inn is a must-visit while you’re in Clarksville. This restaurant and Inn might be in a small town, but it is a true hidden culinary gem. Surrounded by hanging ferns and rocking chairs on the front porch Cooper’s Landing is the picture of Southern charm and hospitality.

For those who enjoy a cocktail, the Sunday brunch menu includes a wide variety of mimosa drinks and the dinner menu features an extensive list of martinis and other cocktails. These included the First Kiss: a sweet nectar flavor where the alcohol aftertaste was hidden, the Fresh Mint Lemon Drop which had the most amazing mint finish to it and the Bellini Martini. For brunch, the Hawaiian and Island Oasis were my choices both of which tasted like tropical vacations in a glass.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor patio seating. The decor is bright and welcoming with a touch of elegance. You’ll find something to suit every palate and the menu has a variety of choices including steaks, seafood, chicken, pasta, and seasonal favorites.

For dinner, I tried the wedge salad, lobster mac and cheese, and the shrimp and grits, all of which were amazing! The dessert selection changes daily and they had a beautiful dessert cart for making a selection. I decided on a piece of cookie dough cheesecake to top off the meal. I was impressed by all the amazing food choices and the impeccable service.

Brunch Coopers’s Landing Clarksville Virginia — Michellina’s salad with filet (top right), Brie cheese plate (middle) and (bottom right) Sausage Croute

Brunch here was equally delicious with a Brie cheese plate, ham croute, and the Michellina’s salad with the filet. Their brunch is the perfect way to start the day or in my case to end the weekend getaway. I highly recommend visiting Cooper’s Landing when in Clarksville.

If you’re into water sports, fishing, camping, or looking for something a little different for a getaway I recommend checking out this small-town gem and visiting Clarksville, Va. You’re sure to relax and feel well rested when you return home. Time seemed to slow down in this small town and that’s incentive enough for me to want to visit Clarksville again.

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❤️ Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .

Tag: Travel Blogging in Flip Flops

Let’s Go Camping

Types of Campgrounds: National Parks, HipCamp and Resorts

Tips for a Great Camping Trip

Get Outside and Go RVing

Camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina: Oregon Inlet Campground

Oregon Inlet Campground 101

Tips for Camping at Oregon Inlet

Things to do in the Outer Banks, North Carolina