Finding the Road Together: Rick and Donna’s RV Journey with the California Cruisers

For Rick and Donna, the open road has always been more than a route from one place to another—it’s been a way to stay connected, build community, and create lasting memories. Members of the California Cruisers for more than three years, the couple’s love for RVing is rooted in family, friendship, and a lifelong dream of exploration. 

Rick’s passion for RV travel began long before he ever owned one. Even as a kid, he talked about getting an RV someday. Rick remembers telling his dad that as soon as he was able, he would buy one. For Rick, RVing represented freedom—the chance to travel comfortably, meet new people, and experience the country in a meaningful way. 

That dream became a reality in 2008, when Rick and Donna purchased their first RV just as their son, Bryce, began playing travel basketball. The RV quickly became a practical and emotional anchor for the family. It allowed them to travel together, stay close during long tournament weekends, and turn hectic schedules into shared adventures. One trip stands out in Rick’s memory: traveling to a Michael Jordan basketball camp, where the boys stayed for an entire week. Experiences like that cemented the RV not just as a vehicle, but as part of the family story. 

Looking ahead, Rick’s dream trip is simple yet powerful—driving cross-country, making friends along the way, and learning more about U.S. history, especially African American history. For him, RVing isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the conversations, connections, and stories discovered along the journey. 

Donna’s path to RVing took a little longer. At first, she wasn’t especially interested in the lifestyle. That changed when they bought their first RV—affectionately nicknamed G1, short for Ginger. Purchased in 2008, G1 became the gateway to a whole new world for Donna. Later, the couple upgraded to their second RV, also named Ginger, this time known as Ginger Blue. 

What truly won Donna over wasn’t the RV itself—it was the people. Her favorite part of camping is the sense of community. She loves meeting new people, spending time together, and feeling the closeness that comes from shared experiences. For Donna, the California Cruisers feel less like a club and more like a family reunion—a chance to come together, reconnect, and enjoy one another’s company. 

One of her most cherished trips was to Coles Point, Virginia. Seeing so many people having a great time—laughing, relaxing, and enjoying themselves without any trouble—brought her genuine joy. It captured everything she loves about RVing: togetherness, happiness, and community. 

Donna’s dream trip is Alaska, a destination she’s heard is truly unforgettable. It represents adventure, beauty, and the kind of experience best shared with others who love the road as much as she does. 

The couple first heard about the California Cruisers years ago, but at the time, it didn’t feel like the right fit while they were still raising kids. Once their children were grown and on their own, Rick and Donna circled back—and this time, it felt just right. 

Today, their story is a testament to how RVing can bring people together, strengthen families, and build lifelong friendships. For Rick and Donna, the road continues to stretch ahead, filled with memories already made—and countless more waiting just beyond the next mile.