Discovering this Lifestyle

Pete and Michelle Newman’s journey into the camping world began with a simple realization during a road trip up the West Coast. As they stayed in hotels and explored scenic destinations, they noticed that nearly every spot had campgrounds filled with happy travelers—many of whom had their pets with them. Meanwhile, their own dogs had to stay behind in hotel rooms. This sparked the idea: why not get an camper? It would give them both a comfortable place to stay and a way to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.

Now, nine years later, Pete and Michelle are seasoned part-timers, traveling in their 2025 Entegra Anthem 44D. What started as a means to explore the country quickly evolved into something more—an opportunity to connect with people and make lifelong friendships on the road.

From a Lake House to the Open Road

Raising six kids meant that Pete and Michelle spent much of their time at a family lake house, enjoying outdoor activities with their children and their friends. However, as their kids grew up and started wanting more independence, they realized it was time for a change. Selling the lake house allowed them to embark on new adventures—this time, in a motorhome.

Their passion for outdoor sports, including mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and motorcycle racing (now just as spectators), helped create a seamless transition into this lifestyle. Their motorhome became the perfect way to keep up with their adventurous lifestyle while also giving them the freedom to travel wherever their hearts desired.

The Unexpected Joys of Being on the Road

While their initial goal was to see more of the country, Pete and Michelle soon discovered that the biggest reward of traveling was the people they met along the way. Fellow travelers became friends, and over time, even their children caught the camping bug. Now, three of their kids own Jayco trailers, and the entire "Newman clan" gathers a few times a year for group trips—a testament to the powerful connections that this lifestyle can foster.

Another unexpected perk? The breathtaking views from the elevated position in their Entegra Anthem. Unlike a car, their motorhome offers a unique perspective on the road, allowing them to truly soak in the beauty of the landscapes they pass through.

Favorite Destinations and Unforgettable Moments

The Newmans have explored a variety of incredible destinations, each offering something special:

• Cody, Wyoming – Visiting during the Fourth of July was an unforgettable experience, with daily parades, rodeos, and easy access to Yellowstone for day trips.
• Columbia River Gorge – A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with whitewater rafting, waterfall hikes, and tours of the dams and fish ladders.
• Middlebury, Indiana – A hidden gem in Amish Country, where they enjoy exploring Shipshewana, Goshen, and Nappanee, as well as visiting the RV Hall of Fame.
• Hot Springs, South Dakota – A peaceful retreat near the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse, where they stay at Hidden Lake Campground and unwind by the water.

Their upcoming plans include a trip through Michigan, a visit to Mackinac Island, and an exploration of Montana and Idaho. It’ll be their first time venturing that far north, and they’re eager to see what new adventures await.

Advice for Aspiring Travelers

Pete and Michelle firmly believe in living for today. Too many of their friends had big travel dreams but waited too long, only to never see them come to life. Their advice? Don’t wait. If traveling is something you’re considering, start now—because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.

For them, a typical travel day starts early, with Pete enjoying a quiet morning coffee while Michelle wakes up around 7:30. They divide responsibilities—Pete handles exterior setup, while Michelle takes care of the inside. Once they hit the road, they enjoy discovering local eateries, navigating scenic routes, and embracing the freedom of life on wheels.

One of their most memorable experiences? Attending the Indy 500, where they accidentally ended up in the wrong camping lot—only to be welcomed in anyway. They camped next to a like-minded invdividuals who had been on Shark Tank and owned an online meat company. Every day, he had food brought in and shared it with everyone nearby, creating an unforgettable community atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

While Pete and Michelle aren’t full-timers, they are passionate about making the most of every trip. Whether it’s a long-haul adventure across the country or a quick weekend getaway in California, their Entegra Coach Anthem has become more than just a vehicle—it’s a gateway to experiences, friendships, and cherished memories.

The road ahead is always calling, and for Pete and Michelle, the adventure is just getting started.

To follow Pete and Michelle on their adventures, find them on social media:

Follow their journey on Instagram @our_entegra_life as they continue exploring, one road trip at a time!