The Accidental Adventurers - Larry and Angela Clayton

Before 2020, Larry and Angela Clayton were not "RV people." In fact, neither of them had ever known a single person in their families to own a motorhome. Angela was completely against the idea, often teasing Larry when he would lose himself in television RV shows. "What are you doing?" she would ask, convinced it was just another short-lived novelty hobby.

But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, everything changed. Overwhelmed by the anxiety of staying in public hotels, Angela realized she needed a safer way to travel. Around the same time, three of Larry’s fraternity brothers began putting on the pressure: "You've gotta get an RV!"

Finally, they broke down. They took a leap of faith, went to a dealership, and drove off with a 27-foot Winnebago Class C gas coach. Angela’s only condition? She didn't want a vehicle that would just sit around for years—they were going to use it.

An Unexpected Reunion

As new RVers, the Claytons began exploring, even traveling as far as Oregon and Albuquerque, New Mexico (where they witnessed a hot air balloon literally land right on top of a neighbor's RV!). But while they loved the travel, they hadn't yet found their "community." They tried out a few different clubs, but found them a bit too exclusive or quiet. Angela craved structure, warmth, and genuine connection.

Then, fate stepped in on a Saturday night.

Out of the blue, Larry’s phone rang. It was James, an old friend from years back. Their kids had gone to school together, but James had since moved away to Pennsylvania, and they had completely lost touch. Through a mutual friend, James heard a rumor: "I heard you have an RV!"

Not only was James back in California, but he was also a part of an RV group called the CA Cruisers. He warmly invited Larry and Angela to an upcoming campout.

Finding Home with the CA Cruisers

The moment Larry and Angela rolled into that first Cruisers campout, they knew they had found exactly what they were looking for. Compared to the quiet, cliquish vibes of other groups they had encountered, the Cruisers welcomed them with open arms. People were instantly moving around, introducing themselves, laughing, and offering drinks.

Today, the Claytons are officially "CA Cruisers," and it has completely transformed their retirement years. For Larry, the absolute best part of every single campout is the socialization. He genuinely looks forward to sitting around, laughing, catching up with everyone, and sharing a good cigar. Angela loves the same thing—walking around the park, chatting with friends, and enjoying the beautiful, carefree environment.

With a membership made up of peers who share the same chapter of life (and a comforting number of active and retired law enforcement and military folks who give Angela a profound sense of safety), the group feels like a massive, protective family.

From reluctant buyers to passionate travelers, Larry and Angela have found their stride. Whether they are relaxing by the water at their favorite luxury resorts or planning their next big caravan, they are doing it surrounded by the warmth, laughter, and unbreakable camaraderie of the CA Cruisers.