“Love is not getting divorced after backing up the camper.”
That’s what the sign hanging inside Katrina and Joe Domkowski’s camper says, and after years of camping together, the couple can confidently say there’s some truth to it.
These days, Katrina can back their TAB 320 into a campsite with ease, and the pair have their camping routine down to a science. But like any long-term partnership, it took patience, communication, and plenty of practice to get there.
The Pennsylvania natives celebrated their 20th anniversary last week on May 27, and camping has been woven into their relationship since the very beginning. Over the years, it has taught them teamwork, strengthened their bond, and given them countless opportunities to simply enjoy each other’s company.
Where It All Began
Katrina remembers those early dating years when they simply wanted to spend time together but, like many 20-somethings, didn’t have much money to spare. That’s when they discovered camping.
“As young 20-year-olds, we always dreamed of owning a camper, but were way too poor to even consider it,” Katrina shared.
It all started with tent camping trips to Knoebels Amusement Resort, where free park admission, affordable campsites, and the ability to bring your own food made for the perfect budget-friendly getaway. Before long, the couple found themselves camping at state parks, music festivals, and just about anywhere they could pitch a tent and spend time together outdoors.
What began as an inexpensive way to travel quickly became a shared passion.
From Tents to Comfort
About 10 years ago, Katrina and Joe were lucky enough to find a conversion van to camp in. They spent four or five seasons traveling and camping in the van before it finally gave out. It was already old when they bought it, and eventually, replacement parts became nearly impossible to find.
For a short time, the couple returned to tent camping before deciding it was finally time to purchase an RV. Katrina laughed while recalling the adjustment of going from the comfort of a van with a convertible bed and temperature control back to sleeping in a tent.
By then, they knew exactly what they wanted. With only a small SUV and no towing experience, they needed something lightweight and easy to manage. Years of tent camping had taught them how to live simply, but they were ready for a few extra comforts, especially a bathroom.
No longer struggling 20-somethings, the couple decided it was time to enjoy camping with a little more comfort in their 40s.
Falling in Love with the TAB 320
The TAB 320 checked every box.
In November 2022, Katrina and Joe purchased a 2023 Boondock TAB 320 from Juniata Valley RV.
Katrina summed up their decision to buy the TAB simply: “We fell in love.”
Like many new RV owners, they couldn’t wait to hit the road. Their first big trip would be one to remember.
The couple celebrated their TAB 320 with a Christmas trip to the Florida Keys. A month after bringing it come, they set off on their adventure.
For Katrina, it was a nerve-wracking experience. Not only was it her first time towing, but half a foot of snow fell overnight before they departed. After shoveling out the camper, they hit the road.
Katrina admits she was fearful of “damaging not only this huge investment I just bought, but also my vacation home,” she shared.
Despite the challenges and nerves, they made it safely to the Florida Keys and considered the trip a tremendous success. Along the way, they discovered something many TAB owners know well: people can’t help but stop and admire the little camper.
Twenty Years Later, Still Exploring Together
Today, Katrina and Joe continue to make the most of every opportunity to travel.
“It’s so small and cute, and it fits every need we have,” Katrina shared. “Now, Joe, myself, and our two dogs usually get the camper out at least twice a month, if not more. It’s perfect for us, we’ve found how to use it the most functionally for what we need.”
Twenty years into their marriage, the couple has learned that the best memories often come from simple moments: a campsite, a campfire, a new destination, and time spent together.
And while their adventures may look a little different than they did during those tent-camping days at Knoebels, one thing remains the same — their love of exploring the world side by side.
2 responses to “Twenty Years, Countless Adventures, and One Little Camper”
Leave a Reply
Recent Articles
Thank you so much. This is awesome.
Awesome story… Congratulations on 20 years!