Revisiting Ivie Creek at Maple Grove

Friday, September 29 (continued)

In previous visits to Ivie Creek near Salina, Utah, the crew and I boondocked at sites between the creek and the road that goes to Maple Grove Campground.

This visit I find those free sites are occupied or unappealing.

Instead I set up camp in Maple Grove Campground.

Maple Grove is a Fishlake National Forest campground.

At the time of this writing, the camping fee is $15 regular or $7.50 with the 50% discount for Senior Pass cardholders.  The campground is first come-first serve (no reservations) and there are no electric hook-ups.

Amenities are vault toilets, shared water spigots, picnic tables, fire rings, and grills.  OHVs are not allowed in the campground.

From our campsite we have a lovely view of Round Valley and the Valley Mountains.

(Round Valley isn’t round and the mountains aren’t a valley, but who am I to quibble?)

With cold weather spreading across Utah, it was against my better judgment to move camp  to the elevation of Salina (5,160 ft) and especially to the even higher Maple Grove.

The air temperature is pleasantly cool.  

When we first arrive, Reggie and Roger wear their harnesses for a quick walk-around before I set up the outdoor room.

 Soon I put them in their fleece vests.

I switch to long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

I expect the morning lows to be “challenging” without a working heater in the Best Little Trailer.  I’m not concerned because we have the wonderfully efficient heater in the Perfect Tow Vehicle if we need to warm ourselves.

And we have each other.

A big attraction for camping here is the bubbly, cascading, clear, and cold Ivie Creek.

This is such a special place that I take several photos.  Urging Reg and Rog to get together for a picture by the waterfall doesn’t work; they are totally uncooperative, too excited!

I give up and take individual shots instead.

Reggie has been here before, in September 2015, with Bridget.

All this is new to Roger.

If it were summer now, I’d be in this pool!

Wouldn’t that be fine?

On another note . . .

Before leaving our camp at Green River, I ordered an Olympian Wave 3 propane heater to replace the one I broke while slamming the BLT over rough roads for six years on our way to boondocks.

Oops.

I should’ve thought to have it shipped here sooner.

Online tracking tells me it won’t arrive until Monday.  The UPS Customer Center opens for pick-ups from 4:00-6:00 p.m.

That means we won’t leave Salina until Tuesday morning.  We need to make it through the weekend and Monday.  Cold is coming fast.

We walk to a place where part of the cordwood cabin is revealed.

This cabin generated quite a bit of interest from readers when I showed it in a post in May, 2014.

Follow this link to see better photos of the cabin:  “A cordwood cabin built by father and son.”

Walking along Ivie Creek, we find an American Dipper!

It fascinates me how these little birds can stand confidently next to the comparatively powerful force of rushing water.

Learn more about “America’s only truly aquatic songbird” at Cornell’s website, All About Birds.

Saturday, September 30

This morning Reggie and Roger are in no hurry to emerge from the cocoon of warmth we’ve created by wrapping ourselves with the comforter and quilt.  It’s really cold inside the Best Little Trailer.

Having dressed warmly for bed, I’m ready to slip outside upon waking.

I start up the PTV, turn the heater on full blast, and rush back to the BLT, stopping at the door.

Oh my, what a lovely sunrise.  I need to get the camera!

rvsue

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66 Responses to Revisiting Ivie Creek at Maple Grove

  1. cc and canine ( now in Oregon) says:

    #1? I always loved this camp!

  2. Stephanie Albany OR says:

    Great photos and description – I can feel the chill in the air! Hope your heater arrived as scheduled and that you are toasty now.

  3. cc and canine ( now in Oregon) says:

    Does Maple Grove campground have a gate to close it for the winter?? It looks like such a nice place to stay….maybe we will get there someday,

    By the way, on Wednesday I ordered a RV trailer cover for our Bigfoot through your website…I hope that it shows up on your reports…

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I don’t know if Maple Grove closes for the winter. A sign at the entrance said the water would be turned off on Sept. 22 (It wasn’t). If the campground was going to be closed I think there would be a notice on the board about that.

      Yes, I just checked again and I see the RV trailer cover! Thanks so much, cc! 🙂

  4. Pat from Mich. says:

    Top five! Boy, you guys are quick!

  5. Pamela Avery says:

    Such lovely pictures! Stay warm!

  6. Calvin Rittenhouse says:

    That’s a gorgeous sunrise.

  7. Pat from Mich. says:

    What a lovely little creek! I always wanted to live by a river or creek or lake or pond…or ocean. Never happened.

  8. Pat from Mich. says:

    Can’t you use your stove to heat up the trailer? I’ve had to do that on a few occasions. Not a long term solution, but good for the short term.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’ve used the stove, too. It was too cold for the stove to make much of a difference. I needed to get the crew to warmth right away, especially Reggie who doesn’t do well in cold. He gets the shivers.

  9. weather says:

    You and the boys have such sweet ways of staying warm, cuddling together in bed, and they’re so cute wearing their cozy clothes. That’s such a lovely campground, I’m glad you stayed there. What a beautiful bird song, thanks for the link.

  10. Nancy in California says:

    Hi rv sue and crew! I was just in eastern sierras, and it was fall weather, 20s and 30s in am and 60s and 70s in aft. Back home in so california, cool today but daytime temps projected to reach high of 104 on tues…really? In oct? Glad you are in a warmer place today. If not warm enough, come on to san fernando valley and bask in the heat!
    On another note, since another blogorino asked, i will too. I have ordered multiple items thru amazon thru your link, and never have seen any of them listed as credited to your site. Latest was a garmin inreach device. Want to make sure i am doing it right so you get credit#!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Nancy… Please tell me the date of the order so I can check for “a garmin inreach device.” Come back here tomorrow and I’ll let you know. I’m running out of charge and have to go offline now. Thanks!

  11. Joe Bruner says:

    Never heard of an American Dipper. Would love to hear one singing. That sunrise was spectacular and it would be nice to spend a few more days beside that creek, but ya’ gotta do what ya’ gotta do. Stay warm.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Joe,

      Did you follow the link in the post? The All About Birds site includes a tab where you can listen to the song of the American Dipper.

  12. You are making me shiver! I hate waking up cold. Hope you make it out of the cold next week. Lovely pictures, I envy you seeing the dipper. I’ve always wanted to see one. Good luck with the new wave heater.

  13. Barbara(Nashville) says:

    I loved this campground from the past as well. I am like weather though, when you asked us to guess I thought is was something that sounded like or rhymed with water or falls.
    Sure hope it doesn’t get too cold for you or R & R

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Barbara,

      We did have to deal with some cold before making it to a warmer camp. I love Salina, the mountains and valleys around it, the creeks and trees…. Going there I knew we’d probably be cold. I wanted to see fall color, for one thing. Hope you have a great weekend!

  14. ValGal (westernWA) says:

    Such a lovely waterfall and creek. Beautiful spot. And photos.

    You have more endurance for cold than I do. I hope you are enjoying your new Wave.

    What are the fleece dog coats called on Amazon?

  15. Pat in Rochester says:

    I’m so glad you came to this camp. This is my all-time favorite Sue place. I don’t know what it is about this creek but I have always loved the pictures and often think about them. You’ve made my day!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      What a cheerful note! Thanks for the smile, Pat. Yes, this camp is very photogenic. Ivie Creek charmed me at first sight.

      I have photos of fall colors, cattle and horses for the next posts.

      Happy Saturday!

  16. Cinandjules🌵 says:

    Love the waterfall and pool! Especially the tree in the water!

    Cozy up and stay warm! ….”and we have each other” was sweet!

    By now you probably have the heater installed and on blast…don’t forget to fill the propane tanks!

    Annie Oakley’s favorite Uncle Frannie has arrived from NY. He winters in Pahrump NV. Last time he was here AO only went to the top step of the pool. She was so proud to show him…her refined swimming stroke!

    ✈️ to LV 🎰 Jules bday so I’ll be away for a minute. I will be back!

    Have a great evening…..

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Cinandjules…. and HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JULES!!!

      Also want to congratulation Annie Oakley on swimming. Good girl! You having found your inner water dog!

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Have fun in Vegas! Happy Birthday, Jules!! Love that you all are living your dash!! 🙂

      Good girl, AO!

  17. Dawn in Asheville...err, somewhere in Illinois says:

    Morning Sue –

    Wish I could lend you my heater – I’ve used it a couple mornings now to take the chill off although not cold where I am really. Giving myself a little slack in the comfort department…Linda in NC and I hooked up via email finally but didn’t get a chance to connect. I think I slipped out before she got back in my area.

    Because, yes, I finally got on the road! Well, okay, a somewhat inauspicious start as I spent yesterday in a truck stop waiting for a fuel filter to come in (but the mechanic replaced it on his time off after his shift – really nice guy). Don’t know if that will fix my stuttering issue (wasn’t a loose wire this time) so we’ll see. Going to try getting back on road today. Also some guys in my forum said to make sure I wasn’t tightening my gas cap too tight (vapor lock on these older vehicles).

    But not complaining – had a space way at the end (first night I couldn’t find any parking in the car area) so could put out my solar panel, nice breeze, and view of the corn field. First time I’ve relaxed in months. Pretty sunset too, but wasn’t as quick with my camera.

    Learned that truck stops are quite survivable with earplugs. Also got my truck weighed – overall underweight (just a little heavy on front axle but not much I can do about that – take parts out of the engine isn’t going to do anyone any good!). Only 80 pounds and maybe 150 more with a passenger. All my storage and weight is on the rear and 2000 pound light there. Which had me relieved. Wasn’t sure when I was stuffing those cans of soup in there – LOL.

    Otherwise still have things shaking loose. Wire veggie baskets came down for second time now, leak under the bathroom sink (just needed tightening), some trim on the dinette and a screw out of a cabinet. But the bikes haven’t fallen off the rack and I only forgot and left a vent up once for a couple hours. It is a little loose now – have to check that out.

    Managing my battery power well (wasn’t sure how that was going to go) and dog seems to be settling in but cat…that’s going to take more time. Tires staying spot on, so pleased with that.

    First wally world and first travel center accomplished! Tomorrow it looks like I have my first thunderstorm coming through if I make it to my destination (or not). Will try to park with my nose to the wind 🙂

    I will say it was emotionally difficult the first couple of nights. I suppose if I didn’t have a home, it would have been a little easier, but there have been times I’ve wondered if I was mad. Getting easier though. Starting to feel less strange.

    Stay warm!!!!

    • Dawn in MI says:

      Congratulations! I haven’t paid enough attention and didn’t know you were going on the road! Very very interesting to hear about your first few days, and especially your feelings the first nights. I’ve been anxious to be on the road, though it may never happen, as husband is very opposed to the concept, but it was interesting to hear your doubts..to know that it’s not all sunshine and roses and sometimes a person might get homesick (or something similar). Thanks for being real! Are you going to do a blog?

    • Stephanie Turner OR says:

      Great post Dawn. I enjoyed (in the most supportive way) reading about your first few days experience. Sure much more to tell. All the best on ironing out the kinks and getting your RV mojo revved up. Have a safe journey and be sure to let us know how you are doing. A fellow blogorino.

    • Marilyn Dennison says:

      Dawn in Asheville, Are you writing a journal of your trip? I hope so and would love to read it.

      Safe travels and smooth engine.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Dawn,

      Thank you for the detailed update on your travels so far! It sounds like you are taking the adjustment in stride. I’m very happy for you.

      I, too, appreciate your frankness and honesty regarding the first nights in your new lifestyle. Your comment raises an issue that I wonder about frequently.

      My transition from a traditional home to full-time RVing was very smooth. Some may attribute this to skill or knowledge on my part. Not so. I had to learn as I went along.

      I think my smooth transition was due to the fact that I held no attachment to my home in Georgia and was weary of my life there. I did not have to cope with homesickness. Nor did I have to deal with second thoughts aka “buyer’s remorse.” There was no question in my mind that my life on the road would be better than what I was leaving behind. This gave me an advantage.

      I’ve often wondered if my experience makes new-to-the-road fulltimers feel in some way less than qualified or inadequate for the challenges. I hope not, but I can see where it would. It was far easier for me to ditch my former, unhappy life and the home and possessions for which I cared little.

      Having said all that, I see where you are doing extremely well! Truck stops, travel centers, and Wally World can be a challenge and you sailed through that. 🙂

      Thunderstorms of all kinds will come your way, Dawn. You’ll handle them and, in doing so, life will become more vivid than ever.

      Best wishes for safe travels, happy camps, and bright sunrises….

      • Renee still in Idaho says:

        Hi Dawn, it was nice to read of your first few days on the road including the difficulties. Thanks for sharing. Change often is accompanied by fear and apprehension no matter what it is, but the key is to keep moving forward and to not let that fear hold you back. My husband is an accomplished driver of our fifth wheel, no matter what the situation. Today he said, while we were on our way to drop off our fifth wheel to get some updates and maintenance performed, that he gets an upset stomach when he drives to a new location or area with it. See? Your apprehension is normal and you’ll be alright. We are here for you.

      • Calvin R says:

        I first “took to the road” with my older, more experience brothers and little attachment to what I left behind. That was pretty easy.

        I remember that my first nights on the road alone were a little anxious, just because not being alone with “the world” was so unfamiliar. I overlooked that mostly by driving until I was too tired to care. I don’t recommend that, but when nothing scary happened after a few days, I settled in.

        For me, the attachment to people is the real issue. I have noticed that this week as I spent time replacing and repairing bicycles for two of my grandkids. In moments like right now, I don’t want to go anywhere. I know very well, though, that my health issues that respond to the climate here in the Great Lakes States will return and “encourage” me to get going.

    • Barbara from Camano Is. says:

      Dawn, I so appreciate reading all the little details you are experiencing. Thanks so much for sharing your journey with all of us.

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Hi, Dawn,

      Thank you for sharing your trip experience with us. Sending wishes and prayers your way for safe, troublefree travels.

    • ApplegirlNY says:

      Dawn, the stress of change is very real, and this is a big change. You’re doing so well. Hang in there (we know you will). Keep sharing your experiences with all of us, and maybe that will help you to work things out. We love hearing from you.

    • Pam and Maya, still in NY says:

      Thank you for sharing Dawn; the first few days I was out, a tropical storm hit and completely ruined my brand new awning. I had many “What in the heck am I doing moments?” those first few weeks. Hang in there, it’s an exhilarating lifestyle, I can’t wait to get back to it! It begins to give you a lot of confidence in yourself and your ability to manage whatever comes down the road, both good and bad. Glad to hear you brought your pets, they make it so much better.

  18. Dawn in MI says:

    Ahhhh…I remember this place, and the cord cabin, and Del and his son Reg. So nice that you’re there again. It was always one of my favorite places. Good to read the older post and ‘visit’ Spike and Bridgett again too!

  19. ApplegirlNY says:

    Lovely campsite, indeed. I remember the cabin. The pretty sunrise was a special treat. Take care. Hugs to the critters.

    Another beautiful fall day in Upstate NY. Went on a hike yesterday in the small mountains near our home. We need to take advantage of every beautiful day before the dreaded winter arrives. I love the fragrance of the leaves.

  20. Jean in Southaven, MS says:

    I love this camp. I remember the cabin and especially the camp beside the creek. So pretty. I am glad you have gotten a new heater. You are going to have some cool weather this winter wherever you are. I have never heard of a bird that swims. American Dipper is going to be on my bucket list I think. So glad you are in warmer clims now. Winter is coming even here. It is perfect fall weather here in Memphis area. cool nights and warm not hot days and leaves are turning. Our Ash tree has lost almost half its leaves. It turns a yellow gold in the fall and is really pretty for a short time. Stay safe.

  21. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    We are back at the sweet, magical cord cabin in Ivie Creek! During previous visits, so many of us pictured how we would make it our own! Did you run into the owners or see any of their chickens? I know you enjoyed this camp, even if it was cold. I am glad you have the boys to snuggle with…every ounce of body heat helps. Methinks since you lost your butt recently, you might have lost some of its ‘insulation.’ 🙂

    My favorite pictures in this post are the BLT framed by trees and tall grasses (Reggie is nowhere to be found!), and the gorgeous sunrise. Beautiful! Thank you for sharing! 🙂

    I hope your new heater is installed, and that you are as warm as you want to be! Sending you, Reggie, and Roger love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Thank you for the link for more info about the American Dipper. He has a sweet song!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Denise,

      You write such delightful comments. 🙂 No, I didn’t see the owners and it looks like they’ve added a few sheep.

      Yes, I do rely on the crew for heat. Roger is like Bridget was… He puts out the BTUs! If he’s been asleep under the covers for a while, his belly gets really hot!

      No, the heater isn’t installed yet. We’re in such a warm place now that I’m in no hurry. This has been a crazy year! Love and hugs to you and Gracie pup!

  22. Christine Humphrey says:

    Hi Sue and Crew! I really love following your posts, and this is a very nice location that I remember your staying at before. I looked up the bird sound and how sweet that was! Almost like several different birds all in one! Thank you for helping me through some very hard times by your blogging.

  23. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    Did you get a chance to see Del or Reg this visit? Thanks for the chance to revisit the cordwood cabin! I noticed that Del mentioned you should get the BLT axles greased every 2 years! If you haven’t done it already, its a good reminder!
    Ivey Creek is such a sweet spot to visit. The little waterfall makes it really special! I hope you didn’t get too cold while you were there. I never had a heater in my truck camper either. Usually by the time I made a pot of coffee on my propane stove, my little camper was nice and warm. Hopefully you now have your Wave3 installed and no more goosebumps in the mornings! You got your first one installed in Elephant Butte, right?
    Radar has been asleep in my lap, well mostly on my left leg for over an hour! My leg is going numb with the weight of him on it for over an hour! Hahaha! But I don’t want to disturb him!
    Looking forward to seeing you at your next camp! Hug the boys from us!
    (((((SUE))))) hugs to you too!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Geri,

      No, we didn’t see Del or Reg this visit. I can see little Radar snoozing on mommy’s lap. 🙂 Hugs to all!

  24. Ruthie in Fontana says:

    Hi Sue, Hope your starting to stay warm at night. I remember as a child my parents would take us to the mountains in CO where my Grandparents had a one room cabin. In the mornings my mom would stay in bed until my dad got up and started the wood burning stove. She said “no fire, no breakfast”. That statement always got a quick fire going! Only then was when we all got out of bed. Safe travels to you and the crew.

  25. Larry R says:

    Sue,
    I remember an old friend who had a pop-up in the 60’s that had no furnace. He used to put a clay (only clay) flower pot over one of the stove burners making sure it didn’t block the air input and light the burner. It sounds odd today but in about 10 or 15 minutes he claimed it would burn off all the “dew” and heat the camper… We have come a long, long way.
    Larry

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Larry…. Something about that clay pot trick is familiar. I can’t place it… Thanks for a glimpse back to the sixties!

  26. Jo in OR new furbaby mom! says:

    Gorgeous sunrise! Love this post. My husband remembered to use your sight to order something from Amazon, I’ve been a nag but in a nice way.

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