Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto

The Grotto is a spacious and beautiful garden spot, but there is no camping or RV overnight parking option during the festival. Look to places surrounding the city such as county-managed, state-owned, or privately run resorts and campgrounds. There are several excellent spots accessible to those with a large RV.

Are you looking for the best hiking in Portland? Or perhaps a place renowned for fishing? Look no further than Champoeg State Heritage Area. It is open for camping year-round. Not only that, but it also is home to Newell’s House and Pioneer Mothers Log Cabin, two historical buildings that teach visitors about the pioneer life that once took place here. You can also shop at the Historic Butteville Store, founded in 1863 and Oregon’s oldest operating store. L.L. Stub Stewart is another year-round spot, ideal for a November vacation.

Wear warm footwear for an evening indoors and outdoors at the Christmas Festival of Lights at the Grotto. Rubber-soled shoes are recommended because they provide a sturdy base for walking throughout the gardens, which can have inclines and turns. The Grotto welcomes all visitors and is accessible, but cold temperatures may prove challenging for some guests.

Jackets, mittens or gloves, hats, and warm socks are the recommended apparel for an evening at the festival. With entertainment both inside and out, adaptability to the temperatures will be necessary. Take off your coat and accessories for the chapel performances and then dress in full outdoor gear to take in a puppet show or grab a holiday-themed snack.

Even though you are traveling over the holidays, you may want to bring the Christmas spirit along with you. Decorate with small indoor lights to make your Class A a merry place to wind down each evening. A tabletop tree that can be stowed as you move from place to place is the best bet. Put the kids in charge of stowing it away and adjusting wayward decorations when you set it up at the next campground. Practical items are a must, too. Remember to pack utensils, pots and pans, and dishes that add a festive flair to the meal.

RVers who travel to cold destinations for Christmas getaways often do so to experience the activities that can be enjoyed outside in the sun and snow. Apply cold protective creams, lip balm, and sunscreen liberally throughout the day as you hike or ski. Hydration is still an important part of the holiday fun package, so tote a water bottle no matter where your travels take you.

Think warm and hearty meals when camping in the winter. Stock the Airstream refrigerator with prepared chili, lasagna, and soups made just for sating the appetite and warming up chilled holiday revelers. Check the propane and water levels in the RV before leaving home. Bring along plenty of cleaning supplies and have the kids do the dishes while mom and dad secure the awning and stow the outdoor gear after dinner.

There are several restaurants with tasty offerings near the Grotto if you choose to have dinner before heading back to your motorhome at night. Pizza is always a welcome choice for kids and adults alike. A cozy pub or grill restaurant are nice places to put your feet up at the end of a busy evening. Or, choose a fast-food meal and take it back to the campsite to enjoy.

The Grotto Gift Shop is where you will find the perfect holiday ornament for your motorhome Christmas tree, and maybe a gift or two to put under it. Food and drink are for sale, so be sure to sample amidst the jovial atmosphere of the festival. All major credit cards are accepted at the event.