Russ,
We previously had a Winegard dome for our DirecTV on the other coach and had a Winegard Trav'ler installed on the new coach with the HD DVR receiver. It has performed flawlessly, easy to setup, but you still have to duck the trees.
We also learned from another Forum-ite to order the RF remote instead of using the IR remote and can operate the outside TV and manipulate the inside HD receiver just fine. Handiest gizmo ever! Another feature we have enjoyed is using the web site to schedule our recordings, especially if we forgot something and are away from the coach. 8)
We use the East Coast feed and have had no issues with that service either.
Also thought about having a portable dish, just in case, but so far, we have not had a problem, but then we are typically in commercial campgrounds and don't get into heavily forested state and national parks.
Could not be happier with our service and equipment!