Look to RVs for Affordable Vacations, Despite High Fuel Costs

NORTH CANTON, OH--(Marketwire - May 28, 2008) - With fuel costs hovering around $4 a gallon, many Ohio families are looking for more affordable ways to vacation this summer. The new General RV Center in North Canton reminds you that RV vacations remain economical, even when you factor in higher fuel prices. In fact, a recent study by PKF Consulting found that fuel prices would have to triple for RVing to be more expensive than other forms of travel.

RV family vacations are, on average, 26 to 74 percent less expensive than travel by personal car, airline or cruise ship. Many RV parks are vacation destinations in their own right, offering something for everyone -- swimming pools, playgrounds, game rooms, boating, fishing, nature trails, planned activities and more.

According to online bookings at GoCampingAmerica.com and reservation statistics from Friend Communications, total campground bookings are up nationally about 23 percent from January to March 2008 versus the same period last year. RV shipments in Ohio have risen in the last year, totaling 9,930 in 2007.

"These numbers show that camping continues to be a strong and viable vacation option even in this uncertain economy," said Linda Profaizer, National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds president. "People still have a great desire to get outdoors and travel. The statistics show they are turning to camping and RVing as a getaway."

One of the nation's largest RV dealers, General RV Center, will celebrate the grand opening of its newest store in North Canton, Ohio June 4 through June 8.

"Customer response at our new Ohio location has been overwhelming," said Rob Baidas, General RV president. "They welcome the warmth of a family-owned dealership."

The General RV Center grand opening celebration and sale will run from Wednesday to Sunday. Open weekdays 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. During the event, customers will receive huge savings on over 2,000 RVs from the best RV brand names. General RV is located at 3063 Greensburg Rd. in North Canton, and is visible from both directions of I-77.

The Ohio location is General RV's seventh superstore. General RV's legacy began over 50 years ago when founder Abe Baidas began renting out camping trailers from his gas station. Five decades and three generations later, the family-owned and operated business has grown to serve 250,000 customers, employ over 400 employees, and has remained one of the top five dealers in the country since the mid 1990s. The new store is anticipated to bring over 50 new jobs to the North Canton area.

General RV represents the industry's top manufacturers, and is home of the largest selection of motor homes and towables in the country. General RV also provides RV parts, same day service, a large rental fleet, RV insurance and financing, and more. Call 330.896.8977 or visit www.generalrv.com for more information.

Contact Information: Contact: Dennis Anderson General RV Center (248) 349-0900, ext. 7017