RVing While Black: Our Family's Journey of Adventure and Advocacy

Hey y'all! It's the Ebony RV Gypsy Clan crew here, and we're absolutely thrilled to share our incredible RV adventures with you! As a Black family embarking on this exciting journey across the open roads of America, we've experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, encountered both breathtaking moments and challenging situations, and learned so much about ourselves and our country. We're here to keep it real and raw, sharing our unfiltered journey of #RVingWhileBlack with all of you wonderful folks out there.

Let's rewind to the beginning, shall we? Picture this: our family, standing in our driveway, staring at our newly acquired travel trailer with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The anticipation of the adventures ahead was palpable, but so was the nervousness that came with being Black RVers in a predominantly white space. We knew we might face some situations that our white friends probably never even consider, and boy, has it been an eye-opener!

Now, we've got to address the elephant in the room – the tough stuff. It's not easy to talk about, but it's a crucial part of our story. There was this time at a Thousand Trails park that still makes our hearts heavy. We had just arrived, all smiles and excitement, ready to embark on a new adventure. The check-in process was smooth, and we were feeling good about our choice of campground. But then, as we were setting up our site, a truck drove by, and the occupants yelled that awful, hurtful N-word at us. In 2022, can you believe it? The shock and pain of that moment hit us like a ton of bricks. It was a stark reminder that, even in the most beautiful outdoor spaces, ugliness can rear its head.

But that's not the only incident that's left a mark on our journey. There was another heart-wrenching moment at a KOA campground that still brings tears to our eyes. My little grandson, full of innocence and joy, was playing with some other kids at the playground. You know how kids are – color doesn't matter to them, they just want to have fun. But then, out of nowhere, one of the children called our precious boy that same horrible word. It's devastating to think that our babies still have to deal with this kind of hate in today's world. These moments make us question everything, wonder if we're doing the right thing by exposing our family to potential harm.

Just by being out here, living our truth and embracing the RV lifestyle, we're making a difference. You should see the looks on some folks' faces when they realize we're their new camp neighbors! It's a mix of surprise, curiosity, and often, genuine warmth. Some have even told us we're the first Black RV family they've ever met. How cool is that? We're breaking stereotypes and challenging preconceptions with every mile we travel.

We absolutely love those moments when people approach us, genuinely curious about our experiences. These interactions open up real, honest conversations about race, travel, and the importance of diversity in outdoor spaces. We've had deep, meaningful discussions around campfires, shared meals with strangers who've become friends, and exchanged stories that bridge cultural divides. These moments of connection remind us of the inherent goodness in people and the power of shared experiences to bring us together.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the impact we're having on other Black families. Through our social media presence, blog posts, and just chatting with people we meet along the way, we've connected with so many families who've decided to take the leap into RVing after seeing our adventures. It's incredibly humbling and exciting to know that we're inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones and explore this beautiful country. Knowing that our journey is paving the way for more diverse representation in the RV community makes all the challenges we face worth it.

Now, we've got to keep it 100 with you – it's not always easy. Sometimes we deal with subtle prejudices, those little behaviors that aren't outright racist but show that some people still have work to do. It might be a lingering stare, a campground employee double-checking our reservation, or fellow RVers seeming hesitant to engage with us. But you know what? We choose to see these as opportunities to educate and build understanding. It's amazing how sharing stories, finding common ground, and simply being present can change perceptions and open hearts.

So, what are we doing about all this? We're speaking up and speaking out! We're sharing our story everywhere we can – through blog posts like this, on our social media channels, at RV expos, and even at speaking engagements. We're connecting with other Black RVers online and at rallies, building a supportive community that uplifts and empowers each other. We're engaging in dialogue with campground owners and RV manufacturers about making this lifestyle more welcoming and accessible for everyone. And we're always ready to chat with our fellow RVers about our experiences, fostering understanding and breaking down barriers one conversation at a time.

If you're a Black family thinking about hitting the road, we say go for it! But we also want to give you some real talk and practical advice. Do your homework – research campgrounds known for their inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere. Connect with other Black RVers through online communities like Black RV Club – they're an incredible resource for tips, support, and camaraderie. Be prepared for anything – have a plan for how you'll handle potential discrimination or uncomfortable situations. But most importantly, don't let fear hold you back. The joys and freedoms of this lifestyle far outweigh the challenges.

This RV life has changed us in ways we never expected, y'all. We're not just exploring this beautiful country; we're helping to make the great outdoors a little more colorful, a little more diverse, and a lot more inclusive. Every time we pull into a new campground, we're not just setting up our RV – we're setting up a visible representation of Black joy, Black adventure, and Black presence in outdoor spaces.

We've learned so much about ourselves, our family dynamics, and our resilience. Living in close quarters has brought us closer together, teaching us patience, understanding, and the importance of communication. We've discovered hidden strengths within ourselves as we navigate new territories, both geographical and emotional. Our children have gained a unique education, learning about different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life firsthand.

But our journey isn't just about us – it's about all of you too. Whether you're an RV pro, just starting out, or you simply want to support more diversity in outdoor spaces, we need your voice. We need allies who will stand with us, speak up against discrimination, and celebrate the richness that diversity brings to the RV community.

So, how can you get involved? Drop a comment, share your experiences, or ask us questions. Hit us up on social media with #ebonyrvgypsyclan #BlackRVers and #RVingWhileBlack. Let's start conversations, challenge stereotypes, and make this RV community something truly special for everyone. If you're a campground owner or work in the RV industry, think about how you can make your spaces more welcoming to diverse groups. And if you're a fellow RVer, simply being open, friendly, and respectful goes a long way in creating an inclusive environment.

Ready to start your own RV adventure? We've got you covered! Check out our website for our favorite resources for new RVers. We've compiled lists of inclusive campgrounds, tips for first-time RV buyers, and guides on navigating the unique challenges that Black RVers might face. And remember, your journey is your own – embrace it, learn from it, and don't be afraid to blaze your own trail.

As we continue our travels, we carry with us the hope for a future where the color of our skin doesn't determine the warmth of our welcome at a campground. We dream of a day when #RVingWhileBlack is just #RVing – where diversity in outdoor spaces is the norm, not the exception. Until then, we'll keep rolling, keep sharing, and keep spreading love and understanding wherever we go.

So, are you ready to join us on this incredible journey? Let's hit the road, break down barriers, and create unforgettable memories together. The open road is calling, and it's got room for all of us. Let's roll, family!