Guest Author - Evanne Schmarder

I’ll never forget our stop outside of Spokane, Washington. We decided to unhook the 5’er to get fuel and headed to the office to ask the folks behind the desk where the best diesel prices were. As we were chatting they mentioned it was cherry season and not to miss a local roadside fruit stand. What a fabulous tip! We purchased both sweet and rainier cherries (a new taste sensation for us) and enjoyed half of our bounty right there in the parking area.

Sound wonderful? You, too, can enjoy these special little goodies as you travel along America’s highways and byways in your RV. The hot trend of “eating local” is made simple with the growing emergence of Farmers Markets. Visit a Farmers Market and you’ll be purchasing fruits and vegetables that were probably picked mere hours earlier – and often times from the individual that did the growing and the picking. More often than not, the produce is grown organically less than 50 miles from the market. You’ll also find specialty gourmet items such as unusual honeys, olive oils and artisan breads – to name a few.

Located in cities big and small, towns and rural communities, Farmers Markets are popping up everywhere. Typically local growers meet at a public gathering place once or twice a week – some markets are open in the mornings, some in the afternoons or evenings. Ask the folks at your campground if there’s a local market operating in the area during your stay or click on the links provided with this article.

And food products are not all you’ll find at many Farmers Markets. Artisans also gather to sell their wares – hand crafted soaps, dried herbs and fresh flowers, local plants – we’ve even happened upon a Greek vendor selling delicious Greek foods such as dolmas, hummus and amazing kasseri cheese in plastic tubs to go. We returned to that one just for the Greek delicacies!

Some Farmers Markets such as the one held every Thursday evening in San Luis Obispo, California offer a festival atmosphere with food vendors, music and other live entertainment (think belly dancers, jugglers, gymnasts, etc.).

Look for local and seasonal specialties when shopping the markets – cherries in Washington, chilis in New Mexico, avocados in California, grapefruits in Texas, tender greens in the spring, flavorful tomatoes in the summer, apples in the fall. You may even find a specialty meat or mushroom seller. Larger markets have several stalls selling the same products. It pays to peruse the entire market noting the best looking of the items that you are interested in. Keep in mind, though, quantities are limited so if it’s an unusual product or one that looks too good to pass up, get it right there on the spot. Also remember to bring your own environmentally-friendly canvas bag (or bags) to carry your spoils.

If you’ve been fortunate enough to have enjoyed these farm fresh produce markets you can attest to the many joys of eating local. If not, you have a big treat in store. Give it a go - I’ll see you at the market!