Bike Races, 4x4 Trails, and Camper Comfort in Fruita: Why Campervans Are the Best for Off-Grid Adventures

At Blackthorn Campervans, we don’t just build and rent campervans—we live the adventure lifestyle we promote. Recently, Bryce and I took a trip to Fruita, Colorado, for Bryce’s bike race and used the opportunity to film our first YouTube vlog. This trip turned out to be a perfect mix of beauty, challenges, and humor, all highlighting how our campervans enhance any journey.

The adventure started with Bryce packing up “Legend,” the van he and his dad would take. They loaded up bikes and gear, heading out early to make it to their reserved campsite before dark. I had to leave later, departing around 7 p.m., with plans to camp on BLM land near the race location. Along the way, I got to showcase one of our campervans’ standout features: Starlink satellite internet. Even in the remote stretches of I-70 near Crescent Junction, I was able to set up Starlink, knock out some homework, and stay connected. It’s a fantastic tool for anyone balancing work or studies while exploring off-grid locations.

The pinned location is where I stopped to do school work. Starlink worked amazing even out there in the boonies. Fruita is straight east, just past the state line.

Arriving late at the BLM campsite, I found plenty of spots, as the maps had promised. However, my trusty map app soon led me astray. The next morning, it directed me on what was supposedly a 10-minute drive to the race location. In reality, I ended up on trails better suited for four-wheelers. Navigating a 170" wheelbase Sprinter van through narrow, bumpy terrain was nerve-wracking, but it gave me an unplanned opportunity to test out the van’s 4x4 capabilities. Thankfully, it performed like a champ, and I managed to get back to solid ground. The detour, however, cost me the chance to see the start of Bryce’s race.

Meanwhile, Bryce had an adventure of his own. Despite planning to compete in a 50-mile race, he accidentally took a wrong turn and ended up riding an exhausting 75 miles instead. After his unexpected detour, I picked him up and drove him back to his van. He and his dad headed home that evening, while I decided to stick around for more exploring and testing.

I spent the rest of the evening at Colorado National Monument above Fruita, a place my friend TDCameraman had highly recommended. Although a bike race limited my time in the park, its red rock landscapes and serene atmosphere left a lasting impression. This was also a great chance to put the campervan’s features to the test. I evaluated the heating system, which kept me warm during the chilly night, and checked the power capabilities. Whether cooking dinner or charging devices, the van’s systems worked seamlessly.

This trip was more than just a weekend getaway—it was a testament to how Blackthorn campervans can turn any adventure into a comfortable and memorable experience. From rugged trails to quiet campsites, the van adapted to every challenge and proved its worth. The trip also reminded me of the beauty of Fruita and the surrounding areas, which are perfect for biking, hiking, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

If you’re looking for a campervan that can handle off-grid adventures while keeping you connected and comfortable, Blackthorn Campervans are built for the job. Whether it’s a race weekend or a quiet retreat, our vans provide the perfect balance of reliability and luxury. Check out our vlog for all the details, and start planning your next adventure today!