Thursday, September 4
Bridget and I roll into Lander and turn onto Route 131. It’s only a few miles to high-walled Sinks Canyon. There are three types of camping from which to choose: the state park campground ($11 non-resident/$6 resident), the Shosone National Forest campground ($15 regular/$7.50 with senior pass), or boondocking (free).
The road takes us first to Sinks Canyon State Park. We pass the state park’s Sawmill Campground upon seeing it has a playground (no explanation needed). Not much further we arrive at Popo Agie Campground, named after the river that flows from the Wind River Mountains through the canyon to Lander Valley. Might as well take a look, as long as we’re here . . .
As you know, I’m a die-hard boondocker.
I love private, I love natural, and I love free. As I drive through Popo Agie Campground I notice the following: No one is here except the camp host, there are water pumps and trash bins, the parking pads are short, and the sites are charming, right next to the river.
“Let’s stay here, Bridge. I think you’ll like on-leash walks around the campground.”
I find a site where the PTV and BLT will fit nicely and it’s one of the prettiest!
I fill out a pay envelope for 3 days — Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights — and insert a check for $33.00. After perusing our site and the river view, I set up the lounger and Bridget’s bed. Pretty nice, eh, Bridge?
Our relaxation room at Popo Agie State Park, Lander, Wyoming
When sitting in the lounger, I can see the river churning over boulders below. The sound is very soothing!
The view from my lounger
Bridget and I take several walks around the campground, on the nature trail, and up and down the bank of the river.
We check the view from every site. Each tent site is at the end of a winding path that leads to an enchanting woodland setting with the river nearby. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such beautiful campsites before. Almost makes me wish I had a tent! (Well, almost.)
If you don’t have a tent or camper, you can rent a furnished yurt with deck.
Okay, enough about our new camp for now!
I want to show you my new tooter!
If you’re a regular reader of my blog, surely you remember the post of June 16, “Who’s That Knockin’ At My Door,” which told the story of the bear trying to break into the Best Little Trailer one moonlit night while we were camped in Ashley National Forest near Flaming Gorge, Utah.
That post stirred the imagination of readers, including one very inventive and skillful engineer friend, Mick. He set to work designing an anti-intruder, dual air-horn device, which I dubbed “the tooter,” because I like technical terms.
Mick sent it to me a few weeks ago, but due to the circumstances during that time, I delayed opening the box until today. I wanted to be in a good frame of mind, one where it would be like Christmas, opening up a present containing a shiny new toy.
And it was!
Following Mick’s hand-printed instructions, I set up the tooter on the PVC pipe that supports the Wilson internet antenna.
The air tubing and antenna cable are secured together with plastic ties.
In the next photo, if you look closely, you can see how the device is tightened onto the pole (the silver knob, barely visible, between the pole and the BLT), and also how the horns can be rotated to other positions than downward (the silver knob at the front.) Pretty cool!
The air tubing goes in the side window and runs across the top of the back window by the curtain rod to reach the compressor. You can see the black tubing in the upper right of the next photo. Then it is concealed behind the curtain as it runs down to the compressor box.
The white power cable has a cigarette-type plug that inserts into one of the BLT’s 12-volt sockets next to the connection for cable tv.
The close-up view above shows the yikes-there’s a bear-at-my-window button, otherwise known as the go-away-clingers button. The black air hose connects at that tab sticking out on the right side, halfway down the compressor box.
Well, we may be in a state park campground and all, but I have to test my new toy, right?
I turn on the compressor and insert the air hose……….WOW! WHAT A BLAST!
Thank you, Mick, for this generous and useful gift! I almost wish a bear would show up so I could try it on him . . .
Speaking of reader and friend, Mick . . .
Today, September 6th, is his birthday, as well as the birthday of my sister Pauline.
To two of my favorite people . . . Happy Birthday!
rvsue
NOTE: For those of you who are not receiving emails notifying you of new posts, I hope to have that rectified soon.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you! The photos in this post were taken with my new Panasonic LUMIX camera!
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Here are a few of the items recently purchased:
Weider Ultimate Body Works
Best Walleye Bait for Your Tackle Box
Char-Broil Infrared Grill2Go X200 Grill
Dometic 1.9 Cubic Feet 3-Way Refrigerator
Cuisinart 17 by 12-Inch Roaster with Removable Rack
Basily 4 heart shaped stainless steel reusable chilling stones
First?
Huh? First?
Oh…Susan beat me. Thank god! If I was first I might think I had died and gone to heaven.
Had to laugh at your reply. Reminded me of my Mom’s long suffering love of the Chicago Cubs! I told her I worried if they ever won she might have thought she had “seen it all” They lost the one year they got so close and she lived to be 96.
I’m ok with never being first if I can live to 96, lol!
Wow, great genes for you!
I can’t throw a conversational ball yet… 🙂
I’d say you are doing pretty good Fuji-Mara!
Hmm, that would be good to scare the neighborhood cats away from my place – or any intruder! Happy Birthday Pauline and Mick.
I might get trigger-happy, wanting to hear it blast away!
Thanks Emily!
Well I may not be first but let me be the first to wish Mick and Pauline a BIG happy birthday. 2 Leo’s looking out for you Sue, you’re a lucky girl. Love the new site, glad you two are settled in for what looks to be a nice relaxing weekend.
Hummmmm. well THAT didn’t work. Soooooo, let me be the 2nd to wish Mick and Pauline a very, very happy birthday.
Speaking of not working, I hate to tell you this but when I went to subscribe again I got an error message of “The feed does not have subscriptions by email enabled”
Always somethin’.
Thanks, Rick.
Back to the drawing board . . . .
Hey BadgerRick, you were still the first to wish a “BIG” Happy Birthday.
Thanks Badger Rick
I thought they were Virgos. Yes, it has been a relaxing weekend.
Yes, Virgos, my bad. Guess it shows that I don’t really pay attention to that stuff
Me neither.
Love, love, love “The Tooter.” Beautiful camp site as your photos show so nicely. A very Happy Birthday to Pauline and Mick, two very special folks!
I’m tempted to stay longer at this camp. I’m going to check a boondocking area tomorrow (Sunday) to see if people have cleared out of it.
Hmmm, I have an idea how you might be able to clear them out if they haven’t left! 😉
It must be a THAT trigger! 🙂
Thanks Susan!
If I was listening to that rushing water all day long, I’d be tinkling constantly!
Oh, I don’t know about that… It’s a constant sound. If it were tinkling you might have a problem.
Nothing that a package of Depends can’t take care of. No use getting up from you chair constantly.
😀
I think of it as “good exercise”
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAULINE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICK!
And Merry Christmas in September Sue!Those horns look just like the silver bells dangling on Christmas cards with blue and sparkly glitter.
Bridget looks so pretty in pink on her bed by your lounger,she must feel like a princess walking close to you on leash through that gorgeous camp.So happy you got the tooter on easily and had a “blast” trying it,hopefully that’s all the use it’ll need to get!
The best sound I could wish for you now,you already have-the churning river in your yard.It wouldn’t surprise me if you splurged for extra time there,either way ,I know you’ll be somewhere wonderful this coming week.Stay snuggly warm and smiley you two 🙂
My silver bells are pretty neat. Bridget is enjoying our walks around the campground. She’s always thought of being on-leash as something special. We meet other dogs on leashes as we make the circuit. It’s Saturday night as I type this… During the day the campground filled up. So far everyone is very quiet. I didn’t know I had neighbors until I went outside to walk Bridget and saw them.
Thanks for the good wish for us.
Nice quiet neighbors,quiet sounds of a river-perfect setting for another well deserved good night’s sleep…nitey-nite
Same to you, weather.
Thanks Weather
Oh my goodness-look at that!You two sisters both here greeting me “together” on this page!I’ll treat this as a “real” visit -Sue,I offer you and Bridget a lounger and dog bed in a canopied by plush branches part of the yard most often visited by birds where the waves sounds are background to their songs….and Pauline,you get the place that’s greenest because seven types of trees surround it while leaving a clear view of the sparkling blue lake.If you have a moment of feeling sociable,I’ll be in the tall weeded parts with the new blooms and butterflies-I packed enough lunch for us all 🙂
How inviting! I love it, weather.
🙂
Happy birthday Mick and Pauline, two of my very fave blogorinos! And what a neat new toy Sue! And the campground is beautiful. I am SO happy it is September and things are looking up for us.
Another therapist came today. She inspected my house and bathroom for how it was set up and is going to bring me things to make it safer. I guess I have lots of people taking care of me now. Chloe and I went for a walk last night (with my walker) around half of park. Longest one since knee surgery. Woohoo! And my arm/hand pain seems a bit better (nerve stuff…they say common with stroke). My friend who had driven over from Albuquerque left this morning. It is overcast today so she is having a bit cooler day for driving. It also means Chloe and I will have another good walk in awhile.
Next week the physical therapist is going to help me figure how to get in the pool. Doesn’t that sound great…being in the pool? As long as NO MORE STROKES (say it with me!) and I can make little strides every day, I am a happy girl!
I see Bridget is looking happy in her bed. I can picture you in the recliner with book in hand and camera close by. I am really happy you are feeling and doing better Sue.
Love to everyone!
You go girl!
Glad to hear your good news of progress on the health front, Ginger!! KEEP ON!!
Sounds like a great plan, Ginger! Pool exercise is an excellent way to gain strength and flexibility, besides being relaxing. Okay, I’m saying it, “No More Strokes!”
I’m happy you are feeling and doing better, too.
Woohoo and love back to you Ginger!I half wonder if your hand(and heart) had just been “aching” to pet Chloe and be back home again all this time…In any case, I’m very happy to hear all the good news and optimism you shared. 🙂
Hi Ginger, Sounds like you’re moving ahead leaps and bounds. What a haul you’ve had. Still keeping you in my prayers.
NO MORE STROKES!!! Keep pushing just a little bit every day. You’re in charge of your recovery … your therapists are your assistants.
Yep, “NO MORE STROKES”
It must feel good to get out with Chloe again, a great sign of progress. Thanks for sharing so that we can celebrate the victories along the way with you. So glad to hear that you are making progress. As always you are in my prayers.
You’re the best. Xoxo
I love you blogorinos. Thanks for your prayers or thoughts.
No more strokes!!!!! Glad to hear you have lots of folks helping you!
To me there’s nothing like the sound of a river rushing over the rocks. Wonderful! Not to mention the sparkles and glints you see on the water. Glad you found such a great spot (you do seem to have a knack for that!)
And…. if I may say.. nice tooter! So cool to have an engineer on hand 🙂
Ginger: Glad to hear things are looking up
And happy birthday to Pauline and Mick :cake:
Oh, man, you had to mention cake. I’d love a big piece of birthday cake right now, a corner piece.
A corner piece with a rose on it 🙂
There needs to be more “corner pieces”. That’s my favorite too.
Beautiful scenery indeed.
I have to admit I got sad when I saw the stream. (Sorry) What a lovely site and the sound of the water must be soothing…especially at night.
Bridget….what a love. I hope you both are doing well.
The tooter looks great! Nice job on the paint Mick! Careful …what you wish for! I read a bear (Utah) tried for two hours to get into an occupied RV! Yikes! Scare the living beee geezers out of that family! Love the “yikes there’s a bear at my window button”.
Happy Birthday wishes to Sister Pauline and St Mick! Two special individuals share the same date!
Take care of each other. Get some rest and hugs to you both!
Thanks for the hugs, Cinandjules. Yes, Bridget and I are okay. I think she’s lost a little weight with all the exercise I’m giving her.
Well paint collaborator CinandJules, that was the craziest spray paint I have ever used. It came out of the can like bird shot from a short barreled shotgun and noisy with over spray everywhere. I guess we should have expected less than a perfect match from trying to use a BLT and Amazon ad photos. That is actually undercoat showing through the paint blobs. Interesting finish??
Great job, Mick!
Wait….you showed me a grayish tint….this looks a tad bit yellow…. Reminds me of spray foam insulation. The texture goes well with the BLT’s walls.
Wonder why it came out of the can like that? Pretty funny!
Good job! Tag team!
Happy Birthday to the birthday folks!!
What a neat place to stay awhile, Sue….how beautiful!! LOVE the clarity of your new photos too…we need another camera….have to look into one of those too!!
LOVED the air horn set up…quite genius!! Seems Mick could have a business doing things like this!!
I don’t know much about my new camera yet. I took all the photos on the same setting, which shows how clueless I am.
You can’t be all that clueless…you keep a blog going…I have not the faintest idea on how one could do that!!
A blog is easier than one would think. You don’t need to know much about technology.
Hi
There are a lot of good youtube videos on taking pictures. Could also be some specific to your new camera. I took an online course that was both fun and informative.
ja
Okay, good to know. Thanks, ja!
Thanks Sue and Ja…hubby talks of getting one going…but need to get over his surgery more first I think…but maybe then….
FIRST!!!!! (From Alabama).
I was checking out that new picture shooter. Be sure to try out that zoom, I’d like to see how well that works.
Did you get the drops and spills warranty?
No, I didn’t because I will drop or spill something on it one day after the expiration date.
I will, John. I wanted a good zoom for wildlife photos. I need some of the bighorn sheep to climb across the rock cliffs in view of our camp.
Beautiful pictures! I thought you did an excellent job taking pictures with your broken camera. I have put Sinks Canyon on my to travel list. The area looks beautiful and peaceful. So, hopefully no bears- even though you do wish to test that cool gadget out.
I’m surprised by how much I like this area. It’s a pleasure to have a camp that’s not far from conveniences. Only a few miles from Lander and you’re in a different world. There are pedestrian bridges across the river and several trails, plus a visitor center, and, of course, the “sink” and the “rise” of the river. The river disappears into a limestone cavern and reappears a quarter mile further downstream.
Love the river view from your serenity room, Sue. Happy birthday to Pauline and Mick!
Hi, DeAnne. . . Hope you have a perfectly well-behaved group of students this year! 😉
I have three different classes–a 6th grade group, a 7th grade group and an 8th grade group each for 1.5 hours. I love them all, but the 7th grade is the absolute worse–I have them at the end of the day which doesn’t help much. Seven more years…seven more years…Thanks to your pictures I can go zen-mode! LOL
Sometimes they grow up a little by January. I hope so! I’ve had those “challenging” classes at the end of the day. You have my sympathies.
Long time lurker just dropping in to ask Sue a question, and to wish a happy birthday to Pauline and Mike.
Sue, I think you may have just solved an old mystery for my wife and I. Several years ago, we rented a log cabin on Union Pass Road in Dubois as part of an extended summer vacation. To get to and from Dubois from North Dallas, Texas, we drove the family car and brought a tent with us, staying at several “park” locations on the way. Well, we have some photos that we took (you know, the old fashioned things on shiney white paper) but never identified some of them, and subsequently forgot where they were taken. When you named your location, it rang a bell. Question: Is there a “pedestrian” bridge over the river close to your location? If so, I can now “name that photo”. Take care, and hugs to you and Bridge. Julian (aka Needle…..long storey)
and just saw your comment above about bridges……yes same place….absolutely beautiful area.
One of the bridges goes out of Popo Agie Campground. I haven’t crossed it yet because it’s the kind that hangs from cables… What is that? A swinging bridge? It’s scary enough, but I think I could cross it if I don’t look down. However, Bridget won’t do it and I don’t want to carry a kicking canine across it.
The other bridge is more conventional construction and goes from the National Forest campground called Sinks Canyon Campground. That bridge has wooden boards spaced far enough apart that Bridget’s paws and legs could go through. She took one look at the roaring river below and wouldn’t budge.
Stay tuned. I’ll probably post photos of the bridges that match the ones you took. 🙂
Smart girl that Bridget!
Sue, how do I purchase with amazon and purchase through you? And your campsite is awesome…. Gorgeous!!! Enjoy and safe travels. Hugs to bridge!!
Mert
Meet, at the top of every page on the right hand sign is an Amazon logo you can click on and get right into Amazon. Do your purchase and Sue gets credit. Pretty cool, huh?
Mert ~ If you have an Amazon account, clicking through Sue’s blog should take you right into the page where your info is stored. It’s simple! (Which means even I can do it.) We all get to beef up Sue’s “Amazon Fund”. A small token of our appreciation for her sharing her life with us.
Thanks, Mert, for wanting to give me a commission for your Amazon purchases..
And thank you to DesertGinger and Paula for explaining how easy it is!
First, Happy birthday to Pauline and Mick. I hope you have many more.
Just in the few images you showed I can tell the lens and sensor are excellent. The boulders in the stream have great detail and the colors are very close, unless you altered them. But I do notice the shadows have decent details instead of mostly black, a good sign of a good sensor. A camera is just a tool, they are all the same just different. Once you get adjusted to it I think you will like it very much.
Well, take off time is close, 5 days, this Friday I leave Va.
Enjoy.
Hi, Alan,
I appreciate your knowledgeable evaluation of the results I’m getting with the Panasonic. I struggled with the decision between Fuji, Canon, and Panasonic. I suspect each one has something great about it.
I wanted a camera that would be “forgiving.” In other words, when I’m out and about enjoying myself, I don’t always want to think about shutter speed and aperture and all that photography stuff. It’s nice to be able to keep the camera on one general setting and still get pics that I consider good enough for the blog. From what you’ve written here, I think this camera allows for my laziness!
FABULOUS FRIDAY COMING UP! That’s wonderful, Alan. I know there are readers who would love to have a closing date and time on their calendar.
With the air line running through your window, does that leave an easy unlocked access for a human intruder or a bear?
Excellent question, Ed. I had to punch a hole in my living room window screen for my HD antenna cable. Had to put window rail locks on it. Reading our local “Police Blotter,” frankly I’d PREFER a visiting bear.
Hi, Ed,
I suppose the window cracked a bit is a security issue. It’s been that way ever since I put up the Wilson antenna.
So far human intruders haven’t appeared. I believe that’s due to where we camp and the fact that we move a lot. If I had the BLT parked at a sticks-and-bricks residence, there would be a higher likelihood of a break-in.
As for a bear opening it, I plan to sound that horn long before a bear finds that window!
Love your tooter!! What a clever device!
The new camera takes great photos:)
Yes, we try to avoid things like playgrounds, pools, etc. The less amenities the better for us:)
Hi, John and Pam,
Thanks re: the photos.
“Less is more” takes on added meaning when looking for a peaceful campsite!
“The Tooter” might come in handy while near the Border, in the winter months!!! Haaa Haaaa Now that would be a funny. Or while camping in the Kofa’s, to let your bloggers who are in the area know you are ready for company!!
Or to let bloggers who are in the area know that I don’t want company… 🙂
Hi, Joan… Nice hearing from you!
Sue,
New camera results are looking good…. The water is life-like ….. Seems like a wonderful spot ….. Love the new TOOT !!!!! You are all set, the whole family of bears can come calling !!! That is cute that Bridget feels special on a leash walk …… Most dogs don’t like a leash especially if they have had the freedom of running free…. My Duke does not mind a leash either and never pulls but I am very lucky to be his proud owner…. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES TO PAULINE AND MICK !!!! I think it is very sweet the way your sister drops in with her messages and updates ….she must be special…… Let’s hear a couple BIRTHDAY BLASTS on that TOOT, Sue !!!!!
Hi, Sally,
I don’t know if it’s the act of putting the black suit on Bridget or if the leash makes her feel like she “belongs” to me, but Bridget becomes excited whenever she sees me pick up the harness-leash combo, and she trots along proudly.
In many ways Bridget is the perfect campground dog. The trails, as well as the campground, have signs “Leash Law Enforced.” Of course, when we walk, Bridget is on-leash. Within the boundaries of our campsite though, I can take her off the leash and be confident that she won’t go outside our campsite, even if someone walks past with a dog.
“Basic black” formal and yet not stuffy, a bit slimming, always in fashion.
I think the Bridge is just a fashionista.
I’m glad she doesn’t know they come in many different colors. 🙂
Happy Birthday Pauline and Mick! Happy Saturday Sue! Talk about tooting your own horn. I bet Bridget was excited.
Cheers,
Ilse
Hi, Ilse,
The horns were so loud that I turned them off immediately… too fast for the Bridge to react. Hope all is well with you, Max (?), and your rig.
Great camp! Happy birthday to Mick and Pauline:)
DesertGinger: NO more strokes. My best friend suffered a massive stoke 15 years ago, no more since. She was able to ride her motorcycle again and rv as well.
Re: Bears–Friends tent camping in a state park last weekend felt something brush their tent, when they looked later found bite marks in the tent side, garbage cans tipped over. The ranger came and set-up a bait box to catch the bear (with bacon and donuts) just a short distance from their camp. Needless to say, they slept in the blazer that night.
Help! I’m stuck in a bait box! I love donuts and bacon, and since Pauline and Mick refused to share their birthday cake…
Anyway, Happy Birthday, Perfect Sister and Uber-Tech! TOOT! TOOT!
So. Cal’s first Dunkin’ Donut opened last week down the street from me. But maybe it’s really a bait box! It’s always filled with creatures nonetheless!
Hi, CheryLyn,
No tent camping for this woman! I wouldn’t dare, especially in bear country.
Wow! Good info. Thanks!
Your new site looks beautiful and peaceful. Love the rocks and river so close. Bridget looks like the princess she is in her bed next to you. Love the horn Mick made for you! That bear will never know what hit him..as he takes off for another county! Wish I was there. I do a lot of armchair traveling here. Can so see myself right there. Can I take Spike’s place. I’ll be quiet and good. I love to soak in water too! Hugs and have a nice weekend!
Hi, Kathleen,
I wish you were able to be in a place such as this. I didn’t even check out the boondocking opportunities and forest service campground before settling into this site. It spoke to me…. “Here is a peaceful home.” I have since looked at the other places and the good sites there are occupied.
I’m on your email list. Most of the time I wait until I get a notification of your new blog post before going to read it. Sometimes, like today, I “sneak” over to see if you’ve posted and read it early. But here’s the thing – when I get the notification like I just did a minute ago and I’ve already read your blog I’m always disappointed that my special little end of day treat is already over! I’m going to have to figure out how to rectify this! To read early or not to read, that is the question!
Love the photos! Hope the camera is what you wanted it to be!
Hi, Deborah… Gee, what a dilemma!
Yes, I’m happy with the camera. Glad you like the photos.
Lumix has been my favorite digital camera for the last few years.
They take great pictures and have outlasted the previous brands by a lot.
And this one you bought is 60X zoom! WooHoo!
Might need a tripod to take advantage of that much zoom.
Good Luck with it, take more great pics….
Love your comment, AJ. It’s always good to have someone chime in that a purchase was well chosen.
Mick gave me a walking stick a couple years ago. It’s called the Mick Stick on this blog. It’s actually a mono-pod because there’s a place to screw in a camera at the top. I may use that. First I want to see how steadily I can zoom 60X while hand held.
Hi, Sue,
What a lovely site! So private and peaceful….with conveniences and quiet, out of sight neighbors. The resting room looks tranquil…a nice place for a nap! Love the picture of Bridget in her bed! Awesome pictures – looks like you made a good camera choice.
Does the airhorn have an on/off switch? Or do you need to plug in the 12v plug when you need to use it? I think that is an awesome idea….Mick might have a side business with this invention. Looks cool, too!
Happy Birthday to Pauline and Mick!
DesertGinger – Glad to hear that you and Chloe are taking walks! No more strokes! 🙂
Enjoy the rest of the weekend, Sue. Looking forward to seeing more of the area! Wishing you sweet dreams and peaceful slumber. Love to you and Bridget.
Thanks for your help!
Hi, Denise,
Yes, the air horns have an on-off switch. You can see it in the photos… It’s that black rectangle with “horn” and a horn symbol on it (on the compressor box). The 12v plug can be kept plugged-in at all times. There’s a very slight power draw…. forget the term for that…
I will show more photos of this area. Yesterday we went to an event in Lander which is the subject of my next post.
I’ve had a small 5 MP Lumix for the past few years that I bought at Costco. It shoots stills and video. I’ve never had a bad picture, except for pilot error. I love it. Yours is even nicer. I’m sure you’ll love it as well. Good choice.
Thanks for letting me know, Ed H. So far I’m very happy with this Lumix.
I had a Lumix too, loved it. It ended up in the River Walk in San Antonio several years ago. Don’t ask. ;-(
What a peaceful & tranquul spot, Sue! Your PhD in Boondockery shines! Your new camera looks amazing–looking forward to seeing those mountain goats! Happy Birthday Pauline & Mick! Ear skritches to Princess Bridget! Sinks Canyon is on my list of places to boondock–thank you for the recommendation, Sue!
Hi, Dawn,
One of the reasons I’m happy with Sinks Canyon is it provides a beautiful place to camp near Lander which is a stopping point for visits to the Dubois/Grand Tetons area.
We aren’t boondocking right now, of course. The boondocking area is not far up the road from here. There’s room for 3 or 4 campers without crowding.
Beyond that area the road takes a very steep climb up to 8,400 feet and higher and goes to Louis Lake. I didn’t drive up there looking for boondocks because it’s too cold at that elevation at this time of year. The campground up there — Worthen Meadow — closes at the end of August.
What I’m saying is … There aren’t many boondocks available between Lander and that steep ascent at this time of year. There probably are several more at the higher elevation for the hotter months.
This state park campground and the national forest campground are good alternatives!
Oops–almost forgot! The Hooter is a real Hoot! No more bears–gotta love it!
🙂
Beautiful spot ! I added it to my Wyoming list for when I get an RV. I have an older Panasonic Lumix. Nice little camera for sure !!!!
Hi, Sue…. Great to hear the Lumix is a good one!
Missy …Will you quit blowing that damn air horn? I was just nodding off in a nice nap mode when it went off. I have to change now. Grrrrrrrrrrrr…..
A great looking install and I am sure it will work. After all, if I can hear it loud down here in Arizona, a bear sure as heck will. I see “bashful” Bridget allowed a nice picture without looking like you caught her doing something she shouldn’t. Enjoy the stay.
Thanks, Jim. We are enjoying it here. I’m amazed how quiet it was last night… a Saturday night in a full campground… All I heard was the river. Just goes to show, people can behave!
I guess now if you say “I’ve got the toots”… Watch out!!! You really do! ; >
Hi, Idaho Gurl . . . I suspect the tooter will attract curious people. The antenna on a pole already does.
Nice camera, Sue. The pictures are crisp and your subject matter is breathtaking.
Thank you, Virginia. Great seeing you here!
Hi Sue,
I love the pictures of the river flowing over the rocks. Rivers like that have a certain fragrance, at least here in upstate New York. The scent always brings me back to my childhood when the only places our parents took us to cool off on a hot summer day was a nearby stream or small river. We would wade in and sit among the rocks and let the water flow over us. I wonder if that river has the same fragrance. Do you know what I mean?
Your air horns are so shiny and bright, they look downright festive!
Happy birthday Pauline and Mick!
I think I do know that fragrance, Applegirl. The best I can describe it is a mixture of organic and slightly metallic (in a good way).
I grew up in upstate NY with two sisters and our parents took us to the river to cool off. The Battenkill River has places where it widens and is shallow enough to lie down to let the water flow over your body. That exquisite childhood experience has tugged at me all my life — I longed for river water like that again. This full-time vagabonding has brought it back several times over the past 3+ years.
Dear RVSue,
I’m glad I could add one nice campground on my list.
Tooter is used by some trackers in japan to chase slow cars off the road at full blast. They seem to be not scared of bears but cops. You may push the yikes-there’s a bear-at-my-window button, but can’t push the go-away-clingers button! 🙂
Happy birthday Pauline and Mick!, and Merry Early Christmas RVSue and sweet Bridget!
Fuji-maru
Hi, Fuji-maru! Gosh, your English is perfect. Thanks for the early Christmas wish. Bridget and I are going to go on a merry walk as soon as I finish replying to comments. 🙂
Glad to see that you have met our new Japanese RVer Sue. He (are you a “he” or a “she” fuji-maru?) came out of lurkdom back when all of us posters were keeping each other company. Check out the photos on his blog from his visit to the North Dakota oil fields last year. It’s a little difficult to read – 🙂 – but the pictures tell the story. I was hoping that he had one of those tiny little miniature Japanese RVs, but he has an American C.
Hi, Connie,
I read Fuji-maru’s first comments. I wasn’t replying under that post, but I read every comment!
I’ll take a look at his blog.
I wasn’t sure if you were ready to read them yet or were waiting. 😎 There were lots of comments in that post.
Hi, Connie & Mugsy,
I hate to comment that no relation to this great blog, but I can not stop asking you a question. Please forgives me, RVSue.
Could you please teach me whose face is on the welcome signboard of North Dakota?
Pic in my blog is following UTL.
http://blogs.yahoo.co.jp/fuji8888/33689903.html
Thank you.
I believe that is Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States. He loved North Dakota and went to that part of the country after his wife’s death. There is also a national park in western North Dakota named after him.
Walt is correct… it is Roosevelt. A very interesting man if you have a chance to read about his life.
Wow! Getting answers! My gloomy-head gone away now!
I really appreciate your kind replies from my heart.
Thank you so much, Walt, and Connie & Mugsy.
Hi Sue and Bridget! I LOVE this camp! It is so beautiful!! Your lounging/reading room is almost beyond words.
Mick did a great job on the tooter! I am sure that will do the trick when needed.
Belated birthday wishes to Mick and Pauline!
I have a busy day ahead getting ready for a weekend camping trip next weekend with my mom. Have a great Sunday!!
Mick always does a great job on any project, I’m sure. I am very fortunate to know him!
You have a great Sunday, too, Jolene, and enjoy camping with your mother.
Oh my, my…..I am overwhelmed by the Birthday Wishes. I started to thank everyone at the end of their post but I soon realized how many there were. Please know that I do thank each and everyone of you. What a wonderful family we have here. I have wished Mick a Happy Birthday…he always sends me a beautiful internet card. For those who mentioned cake….come on over, I still have some wonderful ice cream cake. But hurry, it won’t be here long. Thanks again to everyone!!!!
See, blogorinos… This is the difference between my sister Pauline and me. Pauline invites you over to her place to eat her ice cream cake.
Me? I’d blow the tooter and run and hide to keep the ice cream cake all for myself!
🙂
Wow that campground looks wonderful! Nothing better than having a river flowing close enough to hear. So happy you have somewhere beautiful for now. I have had a very tough few days here. After a windows update my computer locked me out and I didn’t have the right password so that was it. bummer! So after hours on the phone to the cable company, Norton, and Microsoft and Office Depot and going crazy without being able to get online and crying like a fool (grieving fool) I got a terrible bloody nose! Freaks me totally out and well stick a fork in me I’m done!!
A very kind sweet guy at Office Depot where I bought the laptop he said bring it over and he would re format it and he actually saved some of my pictures and favorites. Otherwise I feel like I have a new pc. He fixed it overnight and didn’t charge me.
Seems windows 8 had a big update which had major glitches so don’t update to 8.1
Anyway I’m so happy to be able to get online and also to be with you again on your journey with Bridget.
I hope you are loving this campsite as it looks perfect.
Happy Birthday Mick! You sure are a angel for Sue! Happy Birthday Pauline!
Love that airhorn which makes you safer.
Debbie
That’s terrible, Debbie! Having been locked out of my blog recently, I can’t imagine the terror and agony at being locked out of one’s computer. Gee, a big THANK YOU for the warning about updating to Windows 8.1.
I’m glad you are back online and with us again!
Actually, it was Win 8 that had the big bugs but that was what Win 8.1 was for, to fix them. Now, I have both win 7 and win 8.1 and I find them equal in stability but I prefer the win 7 start page so I intend to download the “Classic Shell” which PC magazine rates as first rate. I guess it depends on who is using the computer and their preferences.
To clarify, if I could get the same deal price wise either way I would prefer Win 7. However support for win 7 will cease long before win 8.1.
I’m going to download Classic Shell, too!
Nice tooters, Sue! I hope you never have to use them, except for a playful toot now and then. Your pictures along the creek and just gorgeous – and oh so relaxing. I’ve researched The Sinks area in Wyoming, but have yet to meander up that way. We’ll have to put it on our list of camping areas for next summer.
Hi, Paula,
This area has overlapping riparian zones which means lots of different plants and wildflowers. Even at this time of year, I see several varieties of flowers blooming along the trails and campground loop.
Sinks Canyon an enjoyable place to camp and Lander is a big enough town for supplies. It’s a clean, well-kept town — town pride is evident, and in the countryside, horses everywhere, truly Wyoming atmosphere!
Hey Sue, we have the Panasonic FZ60…..absolutely LOVE IT! Told Marcia that before we go to Alaska next year that we should get the FZ70 so that we have a back-up camera just in case. Don’t tell people how easy it is to use….it kinda spoils the “oh, you take such good pictures…” comments. Our best to you and Bridget….. Dave (GoingRvWay.com)
Oh my, the Panasonic FZ70 as a back-up camera.. . You guys live well! 🙂
Nice hearing from you, Dave…. The best to you, too.
Oh no, the FZ70 will be “the camera”, the FZ60 will be the backup. Also known as, “new toy”…..you know how that is.
I’m daydreaming I’m in that yurt….it looks to be a great campground…life of luxury….Wonderful installation on the tooter…I hope you never have to use it.
and you got the Panasonic Lumix like the one I have its a good camera…I dropped mine on the ground a couple times already its sturdy, the battery holds a good charge, and it does really good video too. I[‘m still figuring out some of the functions…but so far for the $$ its a good buy! I took an amazing shot of the recent crescent moon with mine. I am currently concentrating on learning the macro settings…and need more practice more with that, (for bugs and flowers etc) but I can give you this tip..on the back the button AF/AF/MF click that and then it gives 4 choices…I found for best results if I use the AF/AF MACRO choice…(2nd one down) when shooting in A, (aperture) settings..then stand back a few feet and zoom in I get nice Macro shots..
And it took me a while to figure out that you press the ISO on the top of the round touch pad to play back your videos in the review mode.
ENJOY– and i hope you will share the tips you learn…I’m still in training and I’m horrible about reading the manual.
Hi, Sondra,
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you explaining that macro function. I’ve been trying to figure out how to take shots of the little things. Thanks a lot.
I’ll be happy to share any tips, although I think this is a situation where I’m more student than teacher!
Heads up……polar chill expected Dakotas Wyoming etc. Check the radar and weather report!
Oh, nooooooo!!! The weather has been perfect here!
The tooter is brilliant! I was thinking of you getting locked in the BLT while at Rusty’s……. and a few other uses! You and the new camera seem to have bonded quickly – the water pics are especially wonderful. What a treat to have quiet neighbors in a lovely campground. Sort of restores one’s faith in humanity 🙂
Hi, Jodee…. I don’t know if it was noisy down by the tent sites, but up here the peace and quiet is wonderful. Some campers left this morning, only stayed one night.
I may find more situations for using the tooter than bears and clingers… who knows?
Welcome to Lander Sue and Bridget! I have been following your blog for about a year; you are my inspiration for my upcoming retirement. I am planning to purchase a Casita and travel to my heart’s content! You have given me the confidence that it is possible to do solo. If you need anything while you are in Lander please let me know.
Hi, Denise,
You’re in Lander? You probably told me that previously, but I lose a lot of the details people share. I like Lander! Thanks for the offer . . .
I’m happy to inspire you to buy a Casita and to be confident to travel with it by yourself. Oh, the experiences you will have!!
Yes, I live in Lander. It’s been fun “watching” you travel this direction and then actually stop in Lander 😉
Happy birthday Mick and Pauline!
This has been a busy week, my apartment is getting new flooring and carpeting. So as I pack things up to get them out of the way I am also taking the opportunity to donate a lot if items. Some of these items held sentimental value. I’m really trying to see it as it will be that much less to let go of when I am someday able to travel full-time and see our beautiful country. So far I’ve made 3 trips to the thrift store. And hopefully someone that needs these things will appreciate them. That’s my hope.
You’re doing a good thing, Teri. I did a similar thing. By that I mean I anticipated the day arriving when I wouldn’t be able to keep so much stuff. As it deteriorated or for whatever reason, I gave it away and didn’t replace it. Then when I retired I didn’t have that much stuff left!
New flooring and carpeting… How nice… That always gives a place a fresh look!
Beautiful campsite as usual and love the photo with the chair and Bridget…looks soothing and congrats on your new camera will love to hear how you’re liking it. A big congrats on the air-horn…no bears for you!
Hi, MK,
I do like this camera. I should’ve ordered the case to go with it. Wasn’t thinking. Oh well, if I had ordered it, it may have been sent back. 😉
Sue, I just noticed you changed your heading picture and there is a tiny picture of Spike standing behind BLT. Brought tears for a minute. It’s nice.
A little tribute to a big guy!
I was hoping for a picture of Spike in your header picture but didn’t want to suggest it and maybe upset you. When I saw your new campsite, I thought of our sweet boy. I sure do miss the little feller.
Thanks, Sue.
Cat Lady
You’re welcome, Cat Lady. I miss him, too. I see him everywhere.
May the way that affects you find you soon comforted thereafter each time,dear one…
You’re so kind. Thank you.
Happy, happy Birthday Pauline & Mick!
Our day seems brighter when there’s a post from RV Sue! You are sounding good. Prep stage going strong here. Casita back from tire Dr. with new seals & assurance she’s ready to roll. TV has new back brakes & newly installed air bags to help with weight in back. She’s polished on the outside, blinds, carpet, cupboards thoroughly cleaned & shampooed. Loading clothes & food & negotiating space & organization w the man. Weather is gorgeous here; hope it holds as we get set to roll.
You make my day brighter, too, Kathy and Gil. Your Casita is as fresh as brand new from the factory! Wish I could say the same. . .
Those air bags in the back are a great addition. You’re all set to go! Any idea yet which direction you’ll head toward?
If weather holds we will angle southeast hoping to get to Ocate, NM in good time to see favorite aunt & uncle. If that doesn’t work any direction heading southish will work.
Watch out for wind and you should have a good trip!
I am getting a kick out of all the issues with windows 8. Every even numbered OS written by MS has been crap. This has been true all the way back to DOS. The evens are the betas for new ideas and then they are fulfilled in the next odd numbered OS.
Windows 7 will be around for a long time just like XP was. Everyone hated Vista and they had to continue XP. If the objection to 8 continues then 7 will live a while yet. plus developers like myself will prefer 7 because of its stability.
I suppose I made a mistake ordering a laptop with Windows 8. 🙁
Missy, sent you some info on subject. You will be fine with win 8 and the classic shell. I have it and it works great. Big improvement.
Ok, thanks, Jim. I’ll check my inbox.
Beautiful site Sue! Your new camera takes great pictures. Kudos to Mick for the awesome tooter. Happy belated birthday Mick and Pauline!
Hi, Glenda… Thank you re: pics.
You found another beautiful camp and Bridget looks very comfy.
Belated Happy Birthday to Mike & Pauline !!
Hi, Patti… I understand Wyoming is going to have a spate of cold weather. I checked areas 100-200 miles away and the forecasts are for the same or worse.
When one lives on wheels there is always the choice: Hunker down or make a run for it? I’m going to hunker this one.
Thanks for all the birthday greetings, it was a good day topped off with a Digiorno pizza.
Prayers for you DeGin, I hope your low spot is history.
Good to see the Tooter up and running!
That means I set the tooter up correctly? It looks good to me.
I’m glad you had a good birthday, Mick. You deserve it.
Glad to hear it was a good day for such a good guy,and Digiorno makes a great celebration meal in my book,too!Hot,greasy,tasty food instead healthier staples is a special treat 🙂
Mick, do you live miles out in the woods? I’m wondering how you tested the tooter without getting neighbors up in arms.
Thanks for prayers Mick, I can use them. Be sure to include my mantra, no more strokes!
Hope you are well. Virtual hug for you.
I live within the “city” limits of Spencer (pop. 1000) but my neighbors are noisy and burn anything in sight so a little “tit for tat” shouldn’t bother anyone. Just a few short blasts anyway.
Hug received and returned.
Question to Sue or Blogorinos: Awhile back someone asked what you generally stored in the van. I thought I had saved it for review but….Anyone know what post that was?
Trying to figure out how to organize the back of the pickup and with what. Thanks!
Gosh, CheryLyn, I can’t remember where I wrote that. I didn’t think people would care about it. I think a couple of readers have asked for it. I should redo it and put it on a page from the header.
July 10th post,titled “Oh,deer”-reply to rhodium’s question in the comments section
Wow! Good job, weather!
🙂 I remembered it ‘cuz it was one of our happy days
Thank You Weather! I knew someone would remember. So many irons in the fire I’m having a tough time picturing how to put things together.
hope you feel more excited than “up against it” 🙂
A good Tooter test would be the UPS woman arriving in a brown class A, parking 3 feet to your left and starting up a noisy generator at 2 am.
Bring it on!!!!
That would be hysterical. Think I might even pay to see that display!
Good day to you. both!
Our friend that is from Lander visited last night and wrote your blog name down so he can visit you here!
He told us about a big horned sheep called Bam Bam that made a habit of butting cars in the area you are visiting now, he had quite a following, even youtube videos of him doing his self appointed job, crazy beast.
DesertGinger…No More Strokes! I am loving your improvement, you go girl!
Simply beautiful area, I had no idea, looking forward to your next post, anticipating your wonderful photos!
No sign of Bam Bam. Good name for it. 🙂 Thanks for telling your friend about my blog. I have more of Lander to post!
Bam Bam died a couple of years ago. Money is being raised to have him “stuffed” and then returned to Sinks Canyon Vistors Center. 🙂
What a lovely campsite Sue, great photos too. Belated happy birthday wishes to Pauline and Mick. No more strokes and wishes for continued great progress to Desert Ginger. I love yurts, that one looks like it is situated in an awesome locale.
Hi, katydid,
The yurts are really nice. They are completely wood inside with chunky, log-type bunk beds and couch. Also chunky deck furniture. Actually the yurt in the photo probably has the worst location of the bunch (It’s the ADA yurt and near the restroom with a ramp). One of the yurts is right next to the river making for a great place to sit on the deck. Thanks for the compliment on the photos.
Looks like another winning camp! Wishing I was sitting in that chair. Sure could use a nice quiet vacation about now. Great photos with that new camera!
Happy belated birthday to Pauline and Mick!
Have a great evening!
You have a great evening, too, Deb. I hope you can take a vacation soon… a quiet one. Thanks re: the pics.
Sue–due to some really sad circumstances and wanting to save a life, I have brought a new kitten into my home. I love dogs and cats equally, and he is a little bundle of love. He is black and white with the most expressive eyes. I have decided to name him Spike. It was the first name I thought of and felt incredibly right. I hope that choosing that name doesn’t upset you. I think we all need a little Spike in our lives. Hugs to you.
I think Spike is a great name. I’m pleased you chose it for your new kitten. I hope the sad circumstances don’t have to do with your pup.
Oh no–both the pups are fine, fat and happy. This kitty belonged to one of my students and they couldn’t afford to keep their pets any longer. They had a litter of four. I guess I helped in the only way I could. Hopefully he’ll learn to live in an rv one day.
I’ve always loved the name POPO AGIE. I think the first time I heard it was in the movie Mountain Man. Anyway thanks for showing me what it looks like…be safe..
You’re welcome, Ron. Photographs of the Popo Agie Wilderness show it is quite beautiful.
This is what I read at the Sinks Canyon State Park website:
“Popo Agie is a Crow Indian word that most people believe means “gurgling river.” When the first white trappers arrived in the area the Crow people were here, and that is what they called the river.
“It is pronouced: “Puh – Po Shuh” (two words).
“The Shoshone Indians also were in the Popo Agie River Valley and they called the river Wuhnzee Ohgway which translates to: Wuhn-zee (pronghorn buck) Oh-gway (flowing river).
“The Shoshone called the Lander Valley Wuhnzee Gahdtuhd which translates as:Wuhn-zee (pronghorn buck) Gah-dtuh-d (sitting).
“Today the Shoshone and Crow people still come to the canyon to collect sage and pick berries.”
What a lovely campsite! Your new camera takes amazing pictures.
Thanks, Barbara!
Hi Sue! Love your campsite! It looks like you are in an enchanted forest!
I was thinking about you last week. We went on a 10 day camping trip and ended up having a clinger next to us. 60 campsites with 5 being used and #6 parks right next to us with a giant Rottweiler that barks constantly. Camp Host was set up, but absent for the three days that we were there. I actually thought that the dog bear before I saw his head. He was huge! He was secured to the picnic table with a thin metal cable. When Clete asked the owner if he bites, the owner replied, “He only bites when he’s tied up.”
That did it for me. We ended up leaving a day early and just considered the price of the campsite that we had paid for as a donation. Darn clingers!
I’ve been through Wyoming a few times but never saw the beautiful places that you have been staying at. Love your Tooter!
Chris B