Last Updated on March 20, 2025
When it comes to camping, most of us imagine serene landscapes, the crackling of a campfire, and the peaceful sounds of nature. However, what if your idyllic getaway turned into a nightmare of rodent proportions?
Recently, a popular RV campground faced an unexpected closure due to a shocking discovery that left campers and authorities scrambling. In a video from "Endless RVing" they go over the news and give some insights.
1. The Infestation Unveiled
The video kicks off with the hosts expressing their disbelief and disgust over the severe rodent infestation that led to the campground's closure. "This is disgusting, we have a story for you guys," they exclaim, setting the tone for the shocking revelations to follow.
The campground in question, Rock Island State Park in Wisconsin, was overrun by rodents to the extent that authorities had no choice but to shut it down.
"Every campground has mice, but you shouldn't be seeing them doing a parade," the hosts humorously note. It's hard to imagine a worse camping experience!
2. Campers' Horrifying Experiences
Campers at Rock Island State Park shared some truly horrifying experiences with local news media. One camper mentioned resorting to drastic measures to protect their belongings:
"They put all their stuff in plastic bags and hung the bags by rope, but the rodents simply clambered down the ropes and tried gnawing through the plastic bags."
Another camper reported that mice even consumed a pair of his Crocs! "That's like an Alfred Hitchcock movie," the hosts joke, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. It's safe to say, these campers won't forget this trip anytime soon.
3. The Authorities' Response
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources took swift action by closing the campground, hoping that the winter would help reduce the rodent population. "They're praying for a cold winter," the hosts mention, emphasizing the severity of the infestation.
The authorities also noted that natural predators like snakes, foxes, and birds of prey could help control the rodent population.
"I'm not a fan of mice; if I see a mouse, I have to murder them and their whole family," one of the hosts humorously admits, showcasing the lengths some people will go to avoid these pesky critters.
4. Preventive Measures for RV Owners
In the latter part of the video, the hosts share valuable tips for RV owners to prevent similar infestations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their recommendations:
Find what works best for you and your RV to ensure it stays rodent-free.
Seal Exterior Holes:
Use steel wool or spray foam to seal any holes coming from the exterior.
"We have spray foam in our cabinets to seal any potential entry points," the hosts explain.
Ensuring there are no gaps can effectively prevent rodents from entering your RV.
Cover Entry Points for Hoses and Power Cords:
Cover any holes where your freshwater hose, sewer hose, or power cord comes in.
"We just take heavy towels and stuff them in there," the hosts suggest.
You can also use steel wool or other materials that rodents cannot chew through.
Keep Doors Closed:
Always keep bay doors and entry doors closed at all times.
"We'll see people leave their stuff open, which is just inviting these critters in," they warn.
This simple habit can significantly reduce the chances of rodents entering your RV.
Avoid Areas with Lots of Trash:
Avoid parking next to dumpsters or areas with high grass and brush.
"Rodents like to hang out where they can't be seen, so avoid these areas," the hosts advise.
Choosing a clean, well-maintained campsite can make a big difference.
Don’t Leave Food Outside:
Never leave food or drinks outside your RV.
"Leaving food outside is like a buffet for any creature, not just mice," they caution.
Store all food securely inside your RV to avoid attracting rodents and other wildlife.
Maintain Cleanliness Inside the RV:
Be especially vigilant about cleanliness when your RV is in storage.
"Leaving dog food or any food on the floor can attract mice," the hosts note.
Regularly clean and inspect your RV to ensure it remains rodent-free.
Monitor and Look for Evidence:
Regularly check for signs of rodents, such as droppings or nests.
"Mouse droppings are easy to point out; they look like little pellets," the hosts explain.
Early detection can help you address the problem before it gets worse.
Use Anti-Rodent Sprays:
Spray mint anti-rodent spray on wires and in the engine bay.
"Turn on your motorhome once in a while and spray that mint anti-rodent spray," the hosts recommend.
This can deter rodents from making a home in your RV.
Consider Additional Measures:
Use bait stations, traps, or other rodent deterrents.
"People have all kinds of things they do to keep rodents away," the hosts mention.
5. Final Thoughts and Viewer Tips
The video wraps up with the hosts encouraging viewers to share their own tips and experiences in the comments. They also provide additional advice on monitoring for signs of rodents and using anti-rodent sprays.
"Turn on your motorhome once in a while and spray that mint anti-rodent spray on the wires," they suggest. The hosts' humorous and practical approach makes the advice easy to digest and implement.
"Mothballs remind me of my childhood, but they're disgusting," one host quips, adding a light-hearted touch to the otherwise serious topic.
In conclusion, this shocking rodent infestation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preventive measures and vigilance when it comes to camping and RVing.
For the full story and more tips, make sure to watch the entire video:
