Pete’s RV Center is planning to open in Saco, Maine this spring. The Maine dealership will be the dealership group’s ninth location, and is going to offer sales, a parts and accessories store, and service center with multiple bays.
Pete’s RV Center – Maine is set to carry a wide variety of travel trailer, fifth wheel, and motorhome brands, including Jayco’s full lineup, Brinkley, nuCamp, and Modern Buggy.
Surrounded by hundreds of iconic destinations for Maine RVers, Saco is just four miles from Old Orchard Beach, minutes from the popular Bayley’s Camping Resort, and only twenty minutes from historic downtown Portland.
“Maine is called ‘Vacationland’ for a reason. We’re thrilled to get the opportunity to become a community fixture in the Saco and greater Portland area, plus be surrounded by amazing campgrounds, beaches, and national parks,” remarked Pete’s RV co-owner Chad Shepard.
Along with the flagship store in Vermont, Pete’s RV Center has dealerships in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia.
Pete’s RV Center Achieves Record Sales at the 2025 America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA
Hershey, PA – November 1, 2025 – Despite slightly lower attendance at this year’s America’s Largest RV Show, Pete’s RV Center emerged triumphant with record sales of No Boundaries, nuCamp, Seismic, and Jay Flight SLX recreational vehicles.
As one of the leading dealerships in the region, Pete’s RV Center (Keystone RV Center is part of the dealer group and also represented at Hershey) reported a remarkable increase in sales figures compared to previous years. The dealership showcased its extensive inventory and innovative models, attracting discerning customers eager to explore new horizons in RV travel.
“Our success underscores our commitment to providing high-quality recreational vehicles and exceptional customer service,” said Chad Shepard, co-owner of Pete’s RV Center. “While attendance may have been lower than previous years, our dedicated team engaged effectively with potential buyers, fostering meaningful connections and understanding their needs.”
The 2025 RV Show served as a significant opportunity for Pete’s RV Center to reinforce its position as a preferred destination for RV enthusiasts. The dealership looks forward to continuing this momentum as it embarks on 2026.
Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.
Announced during the awards dinner at Jayco, Inc’s annual Dealer Homecoming (this year in Grapevine, TX), Pete’s RV Center retained their top ten retailer status for the model year 2025.
Pete’s RV Center was recognized as the number two and number seven volume retailer in the category of Top Ten Towables (Single Locations: South Windsor, CT and Mountville, PA). They also placed number two and number nine in the category of Top Ten Motorized (Single Locations: Also Mountville and South Windsor).
“I am so proud of these accomplishments, and the hard work put forth by every employee under the Pete’s RV dealer group…We’re up on that stage because of them”, reflected co-owner Chad Shepard. “We are also grateful for our partnership with Jayco, and embrace their ‘better, not different’ philosophy for achieving excellence. See you at Hershey!”
Established in 1968, Jayco, Inc., manufactures and markets towable and motorized RVs. Jayco, Entegra Coach, Open Range RV, Starcraft RV and Heartland RV make up a historically influential and iconic group of companies.
Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.
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1. Travel Trailers vs. Fifth Wheels: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to RVing, two of the most popular options are travel trailers and fifth wheels. While they both offer a mobile home on wheels, there are some key differences to consider.
Towing: Travel trailers are towed behind a vehicle using a hitch, while fifth wheels connect directly to the bed of a pickup truck. This means fifth wheels offer better maneuverability and stability, especially in windy conditions.
Size: Fifth wheels tend to be larger than travel trailers, making them a good choice for families or those who prefer more space.
Weight: Fifth wheels are generally heavier than travel trailers, so you’ll need a larger tow vehicle.
2. Connecting and Disconnecting Power
Both travel trailers and fifth wheels require electricity to power their appliances and lights. The connection process is similar, involving plugging the RV’s power cord into a campsite’s electrical outlet. However, there are different types of electrical outlets at campgrounds, so it’s important to ensure your RV is compatible.
3. Airstreams: Timeless Classics
Airstreams are iconic travel trailers known for their sleek, aerodynamic design and durability. These RVs are often passed down through generations, as they are built to last.
4. Airstream Dealerships: A Limited Supply
Unlike other RV brands, Airstream dealerships are not as widespread. In fact, there may only be one Airstream dealer in a particular state. This limited availability can make it challenging to find a new or used Airstream, but it also adds to their exclusivity.
5. Winterizing Your RV: The Pink Fluid Mystery
Preparing your RV for winter is essential to prevent freezing and damage. This process, known as winterizing, involves draining the water system and adding a pink antifreeze solution. This fluid is safe for your RV’s pipes and plumbing but should not be consumed.
6. RV Rentals: A Convenient Option
If you’re not ready to commit to buying an RV, renting is a great way to try it out. Bayley’s Campground in Maine offers RV rentals, making it easy to explore without the hassle of owning your own camper.
7. Cortes Campers: A Unique Design
Cortes Campers are known for their innovative design, which is inspired by boats. This unique construction makes them easy to clean and maintain, as they can be simply sprayed out with a hose.
8. Popular RV Floor Plans
When choosing an RV, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. Some of the most popular floor plan options include:
Bunkhouse: Ideal for families with children, bunkhouse floor plans offer separate sleeping areas.
Rear Kitchen: This layout places the kitchen at the back of the RV, providing a spacious living area.
Rear Living Room: Similar to the rear kitchen, this floor plan features a large living area at the rear of the RV.
Front Living Room: This layout places the living area at the front of the RV, offering panoramic views.
9. Camper Liquidators: A Secondhand Option
If you’re looking for a more affordable RV, Camper Liquidators is a great place to start. Pete’s RV Center specializes in selling used RVs that are over a certain age.
10. Class A, B, and C Motorhomes: Understanding the Differences
In addition to travel trailers and fifth wheels, there are also motorhomes. These RVs are self-contained vehicles that combine a living space with a driving compartment. There are three main types of motorhomes:
Class A: The largest and most luxurious type of motorhome, offering all the comforts of a home on wheels.
Class B: Smaller and more maneuverable than Class A motorhomes, often referred to as “van campers.”
Class C: A mid-sized option that combines features of Class A and Class B motorhomes.
By understanding the different types of RVs and their unique features, you can choose the perfect one to suit your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time RVer, there’s an RV out there waiting for you!
Prior to kick starting my career as Marketing Coordinator at Pete’s RV Center two-weeks ago, my only experience with campers was staying with my aunt and uncle in their motorhome here and there as a kid. While I still have LOTS left to learn about the recreational vehicle space, here are some quick facts I have picked up so far.
There are multiple different types of RVs – motorhomes, teardrop trailers, fifth wheels, etc.
Pic: Hilton Head National RV Resort
2. Airstream campers are known for being passed down through generations.
Pic: Airstream
3. Hershey PA has the biggest RV show in the country.
Pic: PRVCA
4. Many of the units are more decked out than my apartment! With lofts, fireplaces, full kitchens, dining tables, etc. Really taking home on the road.
Pic: Brinkley RV
5. In theory, my Toyota Corolla could haul a teardrop trailer, so camping can be for everyone!
Pic: nuCamp
6. Cortes makes a teardrop trailer with a boat-like interior to make for easy clean up and no damage if it gets wet.
7. There are three classes of motorhomes – A, B, and C.
Pic: RVIA
8. The two main categories for people looking to invest in an RV are retired communities and families.
Pic: Go RVing
9. Here at the VT location, Pete’s carries over 100 used RVs.
10. Many of the units have creative storage spaces, so always be looking under cabinets, seats, beds, and more because you never know where you will find some cubby space!
After immersing myself in the RV space over the past two weeks, it is clear that camping can be for everyone and Pete’s RV Center is a great place to start the adventure!
I’ve spent many weekends of my life camping throughout New England, but as someone who belongs to more of a backpacking and car-camping family, the world of RVs was completely foreign to me before I began my position as a marketing admin at Pete’s RV Center about a month ago. In the weeks that I have worked here I have learned more than I could have imagined about campers.
1. What does RV stand for?
This is probably obvious to some, but I really didn’t know! RV stands for Recreational Vehicle. But what can be classified as an RV?
2. Motorhomes, teardrops, pop-up campers… all of the above!
Before I started here, I thought “RV” was synonymous with “motorhome”, and that trailers and pop-ups were “campers”. However, all campers are RV’s, and all RV’s are campers! They are interchangeable terms that apply to any trailer or vehicle that has living accommodations.
3. RV Dealerships can be “exclusive” with one manufacturer
An RV Dealership may be partnered with one specific manufacturer, so all or most of their new inventory must be of the same brand. In South Windsor CT, Pete’s RV Center is Jayco exclusive. This is great for Jayco fans because our lot has the largest inventory of Jayco RVs in the area and we can show potential customers many different types of units and floorplans of their favorite and most trusted manufacturer.
4. Hidden features everywhere!
The first time I opened the door to a seemingly tiny teardrop camper, I was amazed! What looks like it would barely fit a small mattress makes the most of very little space by having incredible design features such as hidden storage, multi-functional furniture, outdoor kitchens, and more. Some even have bathrooms and refrigerators!
5. All the floorplans
RV shoppers truly have the luxury of choice when picking out the best camper for their family. Once they land on a manufacturer and the specific model they are looking for, they can then browse through many different floor-plans to pick and choose the features they love. For example, many families with young kids prefer a floorplan featuring a bunkhouse for some extra sleeping space!
6. Everything is a bed!
Even if you don’t find a camper with a bunkhouse, chances are there will be more sleeping room in your camper than meets the eye. In addition to a bedroom, many campers have features such as convertible sofas and dinettes. This is a great way to save space in your camper while still providing the option for your friends and family to come along with you on your camping trips!
7. VIN Numbers
A quick fun fact that I found interesting when I started here is that motorhomes commonly have two VIN numbers – one for the chassis manufacturer and the other for the motorhome manufacturer, as these parties are frequently different.
8. Generators
How you will power your RV is definitely something important to consider when purchasing your new camper. Some units have built-in generators, while many others do not. If your RV does not have a generator included, check out this video for some tips on how to choose which generator is best for you.
9. Batteries
Speaking of generators, I was very nervous the first time I had to hook up a battery to a camper. It’s not rocket science! As long as you are careful not to touch oppositely charged cables together, it is very easy and safe. Batteries also have built in safety features to prevent extreme damage to the unit (or harm to you) if you make a mistake. You’ll most likely be down a battery though, so be careful!
10. The size!
When I first stepped into a Class A motorhome, I was shocked at how spacious the living accommodations were. Some of the largest motorhomes can be between 300 – 400 square feet with the slide-outs extended – that’s bigger than some studio apartments!
While I do still love car camping and backpacking, being immersed in the RV industry for a month has shown me a whole new side of camping that I knew very little about before. Pete’s RV Center can help campers find their perfect new travel-sized home so they can live comfortably in the beauty and excitement of the outdoors.
Hey, guys, Randy with Pete’s RV TV today. Today, I want to talk a little bit about surge protection. So, something that you guys may not know about me is I’m actually an electrician by trade. So, every RV dealer has a guy like me who has been around for a million years and he is kind of the fix it guy or the go-to guy, where the hard questions usually gravitate towards that gentleman. I’m that guy at Pete’s RV. So, they’d be coming to me. But the thing that I bring to the table as I just mentioned is I used to build custom homes and I am an electrician by trade. So, when it comes to the electrical side of things, I really know what I’m talking about from my former life. So, I’m the guy that they bring in when they talk about surge protection and what kind of surge protection that we’re going to carry as a dealer group.
I’ve played with them all. I’ve played with all the big names out there, and we have ended up with the Hughes Watchdog. Hughes makes an incredible product. I’ve actually met with the owner of Hughes, gentleman named Pat. He’s actually a friend of mine now. And the product that he brought to the table I felt was so far superior to the other stuff out there, we took it on. And as I learned more and more about it, I just kept knowing that I made the right choice because it is a great product. One of the things that the Hughes Watchdog does is it protects us from surge. So, if there is a lightning strike down the road or nearby, this is going to protect anything that’s coming in on those negative lines, on the ground wires, or the high voltage is coming over on the positive side of things. Nothing will protect you from a direct lightning strike, but if there’s something nearby and you can be protected from it, the Hughes Watchdog is definitely going to do that.
One of the really cool things about the Hughes Watchdog is protecting you on those surges, is it actually the Joules, the absorption material that takes those hits is replaceable, where with the competitors, it is not. Once those Joules of that absorption portion of the surge protector is worn out, you need to replace the whole detector. Where this guy here, we can just replace the absorption of the Joules portion of it. The Power Watchdog is going to run at equal or better than its competition out there. When it comes to absorption, they’ve actually just changed. So, depending on when you purchased, they’re offering a little bit more than they once did, which again is in line or better than the competitors out there.
The other thing that the Hughes Watchdog does for us with the EPO, emergency power off, and this is probably going to come into play more often than we would with the typical surge on it, is low voltage, high voltage, reverse polarity or no ground. It is going to protect us from all that. All very important things. This guy will shut power off if it doesn’t like something. So, at 103 volts, so say on a busy weekend at a campground, we can see very low voltage. Everybody gets to the campground, everybody throws on all their air conditioners or electric hot water heater. The griddles go on, the coffee makers, everything that you need to go camping that we brought from home, we bring to the campground and we turn it on when we get there, which can actually put campgrounds into a low voltage situation or a brownout.
When I say brownout, I mean below 103 volts. So, electricity is an amazing thing. Electricity will still function at low voltage. It will still pass at low voltage, but at low voltage it creates high amperage. High amperage creates high heat. High heat will prematurely wear out your electrical components, especially your inductive loads like your air conditioner motors and things like that, things that are very expensive to replace. So, with the EPO here, it will protect you from that. It will actually shut power off, not allow power to pass if it doesn’t like something, or it’s in a spot where we feel that it’s damaging your coach. When we can throw this thing into alarm here, also has Bluetooth, so it’ll go to your phone. So, if you’re within Bluetooth range of the Watchdog, it will come right to your phone.
I’m going to hook this device up to my phone right here. And if you can zoom in on this, Cam, we are going to see the incoming voltage on both legs of that 50 amp Watchdog. I’m not pulling any amps right now, because I’ve got nothing plugged into it. And the frequency in North America is 60 hertz, so we’re running right there where we’re supposed to be on that. Let’s throw this thing into an alarm so we can see it come up. So, I have just removed the ground from the Watchdog. We can see the Watchdog is turned red, but immediately it has hit my phone as missing ground. And has actually shut power off going through the Watchdog, so no power is passing to the camper right now. And I have an alert on my phone within Bluetooth range saying what’s going on.
And it will work for you whether you’re in Bluetooth range or not, but it will tell you what’s going on if you’ve got it tied to your personal device. Once power has been restored or it likes what’s going back on, in about 90 seconds it will just make sure that everything is safe and then it’ll allow power to pass again. So, that’s how the EPO works. No ground can put you into a hot skin situation. So, very dangerous situation. And again, why it doesn’t want to pass, high voltage above 132 volts, doesn’t want to see that. It will shut power off. Low voltage below that 103 that I referred to earlier, it’s going to shut it off.
So, this thing is going to work continuously for you to protect your investment and make sure that you don’t end up in those service bays, which we all know are a little bit cumbersome to get into and sometimes take longer than what we’d like to get back out of them. So, I recommend the Hughes Watchdog for any camper out there. I personally like the hardwire version, because it is working for you all the time. It is wired permanently into your camper. It can’t be stolen. It is not in the elements. It can’t be damaged for transport. So, the hardwire version would be my recommendation and definitely the Hughes Watchdog. Thanks for watching Pete’s RV TV with Randy today. I look forward to seeing you on the road.
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Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to our community of RVers all across North America.
Jayco’s Dealer Homecoming returned for the first time in three years, to Nashville, Tennessee. The event was held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, where dealers like Pete’s RV Center were invited to get an exclusive first look at the 2023 Jayco product line.
Each item in the Jayco lineup had exciting new features and updates, including three completely new brands, the Jay Feather Volaré, the Seneca XT and the Solstice Li.
“Jay Feather Volaré – This non-traditional travel trailer was designed based off of dealer requests to target younger buyers.
Seneca XT – This rugged Super C is built on a Freightliner® chassis that’s designed and engineered specifically to handle well both on and off the pavement.
Solstice Li – This luxury Class B Motorhome, offers consumers the flexibility of lithium and a greener alternative to a generator,” Jayco told RVNews.com
Pete’s RV Center was awarded the #2 Overall Dealer for Jayco Towables, and #5 Overall Dealer for Jayco Motorized.
Check out our photos of some of the all new 2023 Jayco RV’s below!
On July 22nd, Vermont-based Pete’s RV Center officially assumed ownership of American Family RV with dealership locations in Chesapeake and Salem, Virginia.
Opened in 2012 by Layne and Carol Rowland, American Family RV grew into a reputable dealership for sales and service in the Hampton Roads area and into the Outer Banks of North Carolina. In 2018, American Family RV continued to grow with the opening of a dealership in the Roanoke Valley. The Salem dealership is centrally located on eight-plus acres with twelve service bays, and carrying premier lines including Jayco and Grand Design.
With multiple dealer groups showing interest in acquiring American Family RV over the past year, Layne welcomed this changing of hands, “Pete’s RV embraces the family concept, and is the dealer group we felt would continue to build the existing team–maintaining the values that were intrinsically American Family RV.”
In gaining the Virginia locations, Pete’s RV takes their first step into the lower Mid-Atlantic States. “My business partners Todd McGinnis, Scott Borden, and I relish the opportunity to build upon businesses already well-established in their local and surrounding communities,” added Pete’s RV co-owner Chad Shepard.
American Family RV is Pete’s RV Center’s eighth and ninth dealership locations in seven states. The original location in South Burlington, Vermont has been operating since 1952.
Pete’s RV co-owner Chad Shepard shown in the attached photo (left to right) with Layne Rowland.
