Friday, April 17 (continued)
The Perfect Tow Vehicle glides across the sagebrush plain and carries Bridget, Reggie, and me across the border into Idaho!
At the tiny, unincorporated village of Rogerson, we travel west through more sagebrush.
In a little over seven miles we reach Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir and Dam where there is a BLM campground!
“Oh, this is more like it!”
Campsites with shelters are scattered down a grassy slope. The blue of the reservoir is a refreshing sight after many desert miles. Only one other camper is here.
I stop at the self-pay station and am delighted to discover the fee for camping.
Regular price is $5 which means those with a senior discount pass pay a whopping $2.50 a day! There are trash dumpsters, vault toilets, and drinking water spigots (not turned on yet this season). Also a boat ramp with floating docks.
Primitive campsites are available at the water’s edge.
By primitive I mean level spots next to rock fire rings.
No, not for us. The campsites are undefined which means anyone can slide their RV right next to you and make noise. Boaters and day visitors coming and going. Nope, not the private atmosphere I prefer.
Instead I choose a pull-through site within the campground.
It has an unobstructed view of the reservoir and that indefinable atmosphere — something about the light and shade — that makes a rustic campsite very appealing. I know it when I see it!
I position the Best Little Trailer and then it’s time for walkies!
Bridget and Reggie are as excited as I am to take a closer look at our new neighborhood.
The campsites have a shelter, picnic table, grill, a fire ring made of rocks, and green grass.
I can’t remember the last time I saw green grass!
Each site provides a view of the reservoir and some also include a view of the dam (at right in photo below).
I interrupt the crew from their sniffing.
“C’mon, let’s see what the plaque says.” (Click to enlarge photos.)
Later I read online that Lud Drexler’s family immigrated to the U.S. from Germany when he was five years old. He made his living as an auto mechanic.
The crew and I walk around the loop and return to our campsite.
“How about a picnic?” Much happy hopping by canines.
I retrieve the turkey breast sandwich I bought earlier at the Subway on the north side of Wells. I switch Reggie from leash to tether.
Reggie and Bridget know the drill and stake out their positions under the picnic table.
I like to buy a sub on the way to a new camp. Not only does this make set up time easier since there’s no lunch to prepare, it also adds a celebratory feeling for our arrival at a new camp. (I’m all about enjoying the simple things with my crew.)
As I’m munching on the sandwich and handing turkey morsels to open mouths under the table, I look at the roof of the shelter.
“Oh, we have a robin!”
That evening I lie in my bed and look up through the window. Above me tree branches in bud are outlined in moonlight.
Contented, I pet Bridget and Reggie beside me.
We have enough supplies to stay here several days. One propane tank is empty but if the weather stays beautiful like this, we won’t need it anyway. Groceries are good. Plenty of food for the crew. We can dump tanks here. Hmm . . . It’ll be the drinking water that runs out first. Well, it’s a short drive to Rogerson. We probably can fill the jugs at that RV park . . . .
I drop off to sleep happy to be here.
Saturday, April 18
I like to make our nest on the first full day at camp.
I stake the blue outdoor mat and arrange the lounger, one camp chair, and the doggie bed. I rake the entire campsite. This gives it a fresh look without bottle caps, cigarette butts, wood chips, pieces of charcoal, and bits of plastic lying around.
I shovel out the trash from the fire ring and re-stack the rocks. The picnic table is metal and in excellent shape so only a wipe-down is required.
By mid-morning the air is perfectly warm.
During my busy-ness, Bridget and Reggie enjoy the simple pleasure of a sunshiny day.
Of course, the two of them keep track of me at all times.
If I go into the Best Little Trailer, this is what appears at the doorstep.
Three other campers pulled in last night.
Two RVers and a young couple with a tent. They’re probably here for the weekend. Vehicles towing boats pass the campground, not close enough to be a bother.
At dusk the crew and I walk to look at the boat ramp area.
I can tell Bridget doesn’t have the energy to walk all the way. Even Reggie is sleepy-eyed.
“Time to take you two home and put you to bed.”
Tomorrow we’ll walk over to the dam.
rvsue
THANKS FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
You’re in my back yard (I’m in eastern Idaho). I’ve driven by that place, but have never driven up to the water. Have fun!
Oh, and the bird in your last photo is a meadowlark. Beautiful songs.
The meadowlark is one of my favorite songbirds, along with the red-winged blackbird. Thanks for confirming the identification for me.
There are a few other access roads where one can go to the east side of the reservoir from Route 93 (according to my Benchmark atlas). I didn’t consider taking those roads to search for boondocks for one reason: trees. There aren’t any.
The trees in the campground were planted here. Each site as 3 or 4 of them.
Wish I was there!
It is a great place to be!
Well hey, I am number 3 and I never even bother to try. Now to go read. Give those fur-kids skritches from me.
Okay! 🙂
Great post….love the water. Looks like a place to be lazy for a while…really peaceful.
Bridget is a grand dame and I love her…Reggie is as cute as a button…what ever that means…and every picture of him makes me smile!!
Love and Hugs to you and the crew.
Love and hugs to you, too, Pauline. You can bet I’m being very lazy here!
Are you reading something interesting?
I’m into a book I can’t recommend. It’s one of those where you think as you’re reading… Do I want to keep going with this? I’ll have a book recommendation in the next post, okay? 🙂
Okay. Do you ever listen to audiobooks? This is my dishwashing plan that keeps me on task.
No. My mind wanders. I’m too much a visual person and I tire of the human voice very quickly. Ha!
I have the same problem! I can read for hours and hours, intently. But when I try audiobooks I’ll be listening along and then suddenly I “come to” and realize I’ve missed a chapter (or two?!) while lost in thought/daydreaming/etc. But this doesn’t happen when I’m reading.
The concept of audio books seems so good though.
Audio books are great if one can stay focused. I used audio books in my Lang. Arts classroom for the segment where teachers were required to read aloud to students. I had the students follow along with a book in front of them. This way they didn’t have to hear more of my voice and the book was read and dramatized by a professional reader. It was particularly effective when regional dialects and accents were part of the story.
Wow! Love this camp!
🙂
Looks like you have found another great spot, and at a great price. The crew has the perfect pack mentality — we are going where the Alpha goes. And you make a great Alpha for them.
We are battling the winds of the west. Winds up to 40 mph had us finding shelter in an RV park on the edge of Fort Stockton, Texas. We are holing up here until early Saturday AM then making a run for Van Horn before the winds pick up again. Long travels in the wind before we get back to SE Arizona.
Hi, Lisa W.,
That’s the way it is when traveling at this time of year. Either you’re caught in cold and snow or the wind is terrible or something unpredictable happens. You are smart to stay off the road until there’s a break in the wind. Good luck and safety to you!
I’d love to know the temperature when I look at your arrival pix. Can’t remember if you post temps or not.
I used to have a weather widget in the sidebar and my data usage went crazy. I took it off and made some other changes and my usage went down. This happened at the same time Verizon was charging people for overages that they didn’t have, which muddies the water… I like having it there,too. I may put it back up since I’m now paying over $100 a month for extra data to run my blog and other internet reading.
No point in ME taking the temperature. I’d forget …
Oh…and…
If you go into the trailer you might be getting food! Duh.
Yeah, as if they need more food….
Hi Sue! If you haven’t visited City of Rocks or Castle Rocks I would recommend it! You’re in my part of the world. If you are in the Boise area, I’ve got a mini dachshund, Pancho, who would love a hike with your crew! 😉
Totally agree about the City of Rocks. If you head north and a little east, you could also see Craters of the Moon. They have a great RV camp area and it shouldn’t be crowded this time of the year. You’ll never see countryside quite like it.
I spent an afternoon/evening at Craters of the Moon once back in the late 1980’s (on a road trip, we stopped in on the spur of the moment just for a quick look around and a bit of a hike). Between the saturated late afternoon sunlight and the “otherworldly” terrain it made quite an impression. Side bonus: There was no-one else around 🙂
Hi, Kristi & Daisie,
I’m happy to see you here! I don’t know about Craters of the Moon. I’m not inspired by lava and weird landscapes. I’ll think about it. 🙂
BTW, if you’re not inspired by lava or weird landscapes, then I’d say Craters of the Moon has your name “not written all over it.” Luckily there are tons of other interesting places (in both the grand way, and the every-day way).
Another beautiful spot near there, but at 8300′, is Lake Cleveland. Lots of beautiful places to see around here!
Hi, Linda…
Brrrr…. 8,300 feet….. Maybe in July or August . . . . 🙂
Help me out, please. If you could tag something onto your name? There are several Lindas who comment from time to time and I’d like to keep you straight. Thanks.
Thanks for the suggestions, Linda. I see those places on the map. I haven’t decided our next move yet.
There are so many really interesting places in that area. City of Rocks is dog friendly, btw. Definitely worth a visit!
If you go west towards Boise, take the alternate route through Hagerman. Beautiful scenic drive called A Thousand Springs.
Okay… Thanks! No more suggestions or I won’t be able to surprise folks with my posts… 🙂
One more vote for the City of Rocks. There are some interesting campsites among boulders and hiking trails. Many rock climbers. When we were there in July wildflowers were fantastic.
Oh how pretty! I needed a break from the day routine, and here I found it in the latest addition of RVSue and the Crew! Thank you! I needed it!
Oh the robin is so pretty!!! Just a beauty of a camp. I cannot wait!
Routine is the only way to go. I love it!
Hugs from Hoquiam!
Barb
Hi, Barb,
We have several routines that Bridget and Reggie know and anticipate. I think routines give security, something we who change our locations often can provide to keep our pets happy. This morning we went on our usual walk and when we returned I set up the quilt, doggie bed, and water dish for outside time. I sat in the camp chair drinking some water and both Bridget and Reggie kept pestering me.
Finally I got the message. “Oh, I forgot all about treat time!” Boy, they weren’t going to let that go by….
So so true! I guess I am like a pup… if I don’t work my routine, I don’t work!
Have a wonderful day in the sunshine!
Hugs from Hoquiam!
Barb
You, too, Barb!
“At the tiny, unincorporated village of Rogerson, we travel west through more sagebrush.”
Credit where credit is due – you got it right!
LOL 🙂
I’m becoming very insecure about east-west! Whenever it comes up in a blog post, I hesitate, fingers poised above the keys… Oh no, what if I get it wrong agaaaaaiiinnn? Ed will see it!!!!
Nice camp! It’s the first one of yours this spring that gives me the “ooh, now we’re starting to get ‘up north’ feeling” (vs. the more deserty feeling). They are both amazing, but ‘up north’ tugs at my homey heartstrings 🙂
I’m still in AZ (appointments) but am sticking to higher altitudes as much as possible now that it’s hot down lower (and boy, is it – the appointments are down low). Today saw rain and thunder/lightning! Haven’t seen that in ages.
I wonder if I can figure out a way to carry a rake. That’s such a good idea the way you rake your site. I walk around with disposable gloves and a garbage bag and pick stuff up, but a rake would be more efficient and plus make a nice texture.
It’s somewhat disheartening how trashy some sites are, but it does feel good to improve an area. Where I am now I picked up so much trash I could barely lift the contractor bag! Lots of heavy glass, etc.
Yeah…I know you mentioned it, Sue…but what kind/size rake do you have? And you have a shovel as well? Are they like….folding, or telescoping….or?
No, my rake doesn’t telescope or fold. I have plenty of room in the PTV to store it, along with a house broom, a long-handled broom which I use to clean the solar panel and the PTV, a round-nosed shovel, and the awning supports and crank (all long stuff). Because I have the storage space I didn’t pay extra for a folding/telescoping feature on the rake, brooms, or shovel.
My shrub rake cost about $5 at Lowe’s, if I remember correctly. I know it wasn’t much. The tines are plastic yet amazingly strong and with the right amount of flex.
(See my reply to Pen below.)
Hi Sidewinder Pen..I carry a small rake about 9″ wide. I think it is a kids rake so the handle is not real long…I am 5’7″ tall and it is long enough for me. It fits in the basement nicely.
Smart!
Hi, Pen,
I used to let myself become irritated by all the trash that I find at campsites. After a while I began accepting it as the norm (which it is), and cleaning it up as part of the setting-up-camp process. It’s to the point now that I enjoy tackling a messed-up camp. I think, “Oh, I’m going to make this site look so good!” It satisfies the urge to do yard work. 🙂
I have a shrub rake which has a small fan of tines (whatever) and a short handle, designed to get in and around shrubs. It’s not hard to store and it suits the kind of clean up a trashed site requires.
Of course if you rake, you’ll want a shovel, too, in order to move the piles of junk away.
Thank God for the cooling that higher elevation brings!
I have this rake in my camper and haul it out frequently for work in my yard. So handy, light weight adjustable and takes up no room in basement.
Bond 2060 7-Inch to 22-Inch Adjustable Steel Rake
The above link is embedded with my Amazon code. –Sue
Chuck and I use this same rake also! Does a great job and its very compact! We give it a thumbs up!
Good morning, Chuck and Geri! 🙂
Thanks everyone for the rake ideas!
I know Sue’s secret: Carry a PTV 😀 Oh but I envy that cargo space!
Pen
Your latest spot looks heavenly. I hope you can enjoy it in relative peace this weekend and as long as you want!
Hi, Marcia,
Last weekend was quiet and I expect this one will be, too. Most folks come here to fish and they’re gone from the campground. A few use it for an inexpensive overnight camp. There haven’t been any late-night party-ers. People who come to fish usually want to get up in the morning.
I just love this new camp! That’s on my list to go too. The kids look so happy! Pics are wonderful as usual. You seem to find the most amazing camps! Good times!
Hi, Karen,
There are a lot of “amazing camps” to be found! For me the best ones are like this … Not well-known, a little out-of-the-way, rustic and near water.
Nice campground, and a nice location, so long as it does not get too windy. That location reminds me of the plains lakes in northern CO and southern WY. Sagebrush landscape around lakes with big trout.
It is typical most everywhere I camp that I have to do a bit of cleanup when I arrive. I think there has always been some folks that just dont appreciate the resource, it happens. However, nowadays the BLM and USFS lack the funding to hire cleanup crews. I always stop and clean up primitive camp sites along the forest roads in this area, when I am out driving my jeep and enjoying being in the forest. A clean road, stays clean, a messy road, gets messier (is that a word? 🙂
Thanks for sharing. Enjoy.
Hi, K & B in CO,
You perform a great service when you take the time to clean up camp sites as you come across them on forest roads. I always leave a camp site better than I found it — You take it a lot further! Thank you!
You’re right about what’s messy becomes messier. I used to keep a very clean classroom for that reason. Kids were less likely to trash it and more likely to pick up after themselves when I asked them to.
On the drive here (see that first photo of flat land) I wondered if the campground would be windy. I was pleased when all of a sudden the road dipped into a depression that includes the reservoir. There also are long ridges that border two sides of the campground. We’ve had breezy days but no strong winds.
Why, Bridget is developing a waist. The girl is becoming positively svelte!
You think so? I’ve been concerned lately that she might be gaining back what she had lost. I have to watch her. If Reggie doesn’t finish his food, she finishes it for him!
What a lovely day………nice site!
Looks like Reg man is getting more acquainted to his new lifestyle. I see no evidence of the jail err I mean dog pen.
Enjoy your stay! Keep warm and enjoy your evening!
Hi, Cinandjules,
We’re relying on the tether these days. It’s working very well. Reggie impresses me. He’s so smart. He knows to backtrack when the tether becomes snagged. Not always, but most of the time.
The pen is good for when I have to keep Bridget restrained, like at a campground where the leash rule is strictly enforced. Here I can leave her loose at camp because she stays at our site. Such a good girl.
Well, I hope you’re done shoveling for a few months! Have a warm evening!
Reggie seems to have settled right in with the vagabond lifestyle. 🙂
Is the meadowlark at this site or from a past one?
Hi, mockturtle,
Yeah, Reggie is a great vagabond. He doesn’t complain when he’s in the PTV a long time and he seems to love new places.
The meadowlark is here, along with a few others. If I ever use a photo from another time and/or place, I’ll identify it as such. 🙂
Another beautiful camp. I see the crew is enjoying the daily adventures. And you have sunshine too! Not too much of that here..and it snowed the last two days. Didn’t stick, but still….we need some sun, so send it back east when you’re done with it, OK?
Hi, Dawn,
Winters seem so long for you northerners. I’d be happy to send you some sunshine if I could!
Gorgeous pics, Sue!
Love to see the grass, as well…and the itsy, bitsy flowers. Something about itsy, bitsy flowers that I love 🙂
Hi, Cindy,
Itsy bitsy flowers and a pup… a sweet combination!
Sweet pic. Looks like Reggie Man was busy checking out the “messages” 🙂
I hoped to catch Reggie giving his sweet look to the camera with the tiny purple flowers all around. He wouldn’t do it. Too many interesting “messages.” Oh well, it’s a shot of Reggie being Reggie on a sunny spring day.
Looks like you found another beautiful camp. I’m looking forward to chasing the cool weather instead of this humid sticky Florida summers… yuck.
It looks absolutely lovely and peaceful. Hopefully it stays that way.
Hi, Deb,
This dry air is fantastic! Sure it makes your skin dry, too, but I’d rather have that than be dripping with sweat. You’ll enjoy it when you come out here. I promise!
What a beautiful spot. It looks so peaceful and relaxing. I love seeing what Bridget and Reggie are up to. It must be so exciting for them to have a new place to sniff every week or so. They are such cutie pies. 🙂
Thank you, Ann. I think they’re cute, too.
A precious moment occurred this evening as we were coming back to our campsite from a walk. Bridget and Reggie were trotting along, both on leash, side by side in front of me when Bridget turned her head and gave Reggie a little kiss on the side of his mouth, just like she used to do with Spike.
Reggie jumped twice when she did that! Ha!
That is very sweet. I read about Spike in some of your past posts. He was very cute. I am sorry that he passed away. I know how difficult it is too lose our furry family members. I am happy that Bridget and you have found Reggie to love and join you on your travels. Spike would be very happy to know that you adopted another in need of love and care.
🙂
Um…I just went through your blog to buy something that was already in my AM cart…do you get “credit” for that….I hope 🙂
I sure do and I appreciate it, too! Thanks, Cindy.
Hi, Sue,
We are in Idaho – yippee! Lovely spot with a water view and that price cannot be beat! Enjoy the peaceful setting. Maybe Ms Robin’s eggs will hatch while you all are there!
Hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Hi, Denise and Gracie pup,
I was afraid we might scare off the robin. Quite the opposite. She sits on her nest watching the activity below her. In the morning she suns herself on a branch next to our shelter while we sun ourselves, too. She flies to the ground looking for her meals right while we are outside nearby. Apparently she’s accustomed to campers.
Have a good night!
I know it’s spring but judging by the waterline it appears as if that reservoir is at near normal levels. I’m not sure I can remember that last time we saw that in your travels. 🙁
Hi, Rick,
It’s hard for me to determine what the situation is. The docks float so they don’t give a clue. The rocks are volcanic black and don’t show a former water line.
I think I read somewhere that this reservoir was created to provide water for the agricultural interests in the area, rather than to supply water for cities elsewhere. Maybe that makes the difference?
great post but not long enough….HA!
I know the feeling of when you walk into the casita and the two
pups follow you….my chihuahuas do the same when I go from office
to kitchen to get coffee and back to office again….they follow me to
the door of the kitchen, watch me pour coffee and then folllow me
back to the office….done it a thousand times and they still do it.
dont know if they trust me or not to come back to the office…
chuck
That’s funny, Chuck. Our pets will follow us anywhere, no matter how many times we go there!
Apparently Queen Elizabeth experienced the same thing going from her office and back to the palace surrounded by her beloved Corgis, those little ankle-nipper herders. So she gave up the corgis. Bet you never thought Queen Elizabeth would be mentioned in your blog!
Only as a cohort of HRH Bridget… 🙂
Bloggerinos (and RVSue)…thank you soooo much for all the information about driving in CA!!! The $45 beach was VERY nice. The dunes were covered in blue flowers and there were many birds…all taking a bath. I only stayed 1 night. I am now in Lompoc. The drive here was fantastic. I was on 101 & 1 and after I got out of Santa Barbara the traffic went away, the wall to wall asphalt went away and then it turned into ranches….zero anything but Mountains, beautiful scenery and cattle. LOVED it! I feel better now! Thanks again.
Krystina
Hi, Krystina,
I’m relieved to learn you got your money’s worth. I was starting to wonder….
It sounds heavenly! And your scenic ride does also. Good for you . . . I feel better for having read your comment!
I think central and northern California will be easier, at least that’s what I’ve heard. Have a good night!
Dear Sue & Crew,
So wonderful to have that Robin as company!
Maybe you’ll get to see her babies?
We had a Robin build a nest and lay 3 perfect eggs in an artificial Ficus tree on our back deck.
My late husband was so entranced with the entire process, he called me at work one day to tell me the babies had finally left the nest! You must understand, he was a BIG MAN!!! 6’5″ & 275+ lbs!!!
He was crying!!! He was so sad to see those baby Robins go.
We had hoped she would come back the next Spring, but we never saw her again. It’s a sweet memory for me.
I don’t recognize that beautiful bird with the yellow feathers, but he/she is lovely!
Your campground looks wonderful, too!
Enjoy your stay & thanks for letting us be a part of it!
Lynn
You’re welcome, Lynn,
It sounds like your late husband was a sensitive person. I’m happy my robin photo brought that special memory of him to your mind. Thank you for sharing it with us.
The yellow bird is a western meadowlark. They have the most beautiful song, described as “flutelike” on the All About Birds website. You can hear it by clicking on the link below the photo and scrolling down to a mini-audio.
Well, Sue…if you stay long in Idaho…it may become very hard to leave!! Heh…I met my hubby there and we married there…and northern Idaho was a beyond special place the year I was 14 (prior to living in the Boise Valley). The “old timers” are a unique breed of people…we fell in love with the people of Idaho more than anything else…and for me…I ADORE having 4 very distinct seasons of the year and Boise Valley surely has that.
PS…not to say there is not something good about other places too…such as Washington state, N.Carolina, Virginia, and even California cause I have some of my best kin there.
Hi, Elizabeth,
You’ve lived in a lot of different places… I can tell you’re a romantic lady and a devoted wife. 🙂
I’m glad our travels through Idaho bring back happy memories for you. I do want to see northern Idaho. I didn’t see much the year we went through the C’oeur d’alene area.
What a nice welcome feeling I get from this camp! Momma Robin is sweet to share it with you! Do you still carry birdseed with you? I bet she would love a seed or two! The reservoir seems to have a lot of activity you can watch from afar. Looking forward to you having a wonderful, generator free weekend! Belly rubs to the crew! Radar and DoogieBowser are doing well, stitches come out this Wednesday! YAY!
Glad to hear the pups are doing well…we do love them so, don’t we??
They are our family! Thanks Elizabeth!
Hi, Geri,
I get a nice feeling from this camp, too!
No, I don’t have bird seed right now. I think the robins have plenty of earthworms, larvae, and insects. They aren’t big on seeds. This robin looks robust. But then again, I’ve never seen a skinny robin!
Thank heavens that Radar and Doogie are through the surgery and on the mend. What an ordeal for all of you…
Pix on last 2 blogs are great. I Love the high desert you are in and you have a great spot.
Thanks, Chuck. Good to know you’re with us!
Oh! Forgot to tell you, we got the first hummingbirds to our feeders this week, passing through on their northern trek to cooler climates, just like someone else I know! Remember all the hummers that visited us in Zion ??? That was amazing!
OK, good night! Sweet dreams!
You’re a hummer magnet!
Sweet dreams to you, too…
Hi Sue, lovely post/pics as usual. Don’t know if you plan to go east or west. If west out of Twin Falls what I call the ‘old hwy’ thru Haggerman along the snake river and area of “a thousand falls.” One of my favorite drives, good road. The Snake River gorge at Twin Falls is amazing. The spot where Evel Kinevil (sp) tried his jump. A few days of cooling weather thru weekend then warm again.
The Snake River area has many interesting spots and I highly second the Thousand Springs recommendation! Malad Gorge, Bruneau Sand Dunes, Owyhee Canyonlands… all amazing! Seriously so much space to explore. Silver City is an old mining town that’s only accessible during the summer. Wouldn’t take the BLT up there, but the PTV could make it. Lots of free camping out in those areas, and few people.
Hi, CheryLyn and Linda from Boise,
Yes, there’s lots to explore on our way across Idaho. I see those places on my atlas. I haven’t decided exactly where we will go. It depends on my mood. Sometimes I like going to the gorgeous, popular places and other times I seek out the plainer, less visited spots. I appreciate the hints…
…that indefinable atmosphere…I know it when I see it…Princess and Punkin head at the door seconds from being touched ,the softness in all your photos and your saying in a comment that this was among your favorite camps…All this is so like “home”-where all’s well with the world and in your heart at that exact moment.Light and shadow paint all story and times.In your other journal,the one inside you,I’m guessing a significant or settling event was noted.In my own when that happens I rarely talk about it,and won’t ask you to.Beautiful post Sue,with a transporting quality throughout.Sleep with the feel of angel wings this good evening,n’nite
Such a sweet closing wish… Along with the angel wings I expect the warmth of puppy breath and soft fur, too!
This is a time when everything comes together — the place has everything I seek and the weather couldn’t be nicer, even with a touch of springtime in the air, trees beginning to bloom, dandelions and songbirds, light and shadow, gentle breezes. All this calms and refreshes my spirit.
The good camps linger in memory…. like the piney mountain snow camp of Ward Mountain or the desert hot springs camp or the coyote and thirsty bees camp and so on… I roll the different camps through my mind and each one appears with its unique personality.
It’s a good life! You have a way, weather, of bringing forth reflections. Seeing Reggie meld with Bridget and me is a relief and a joy. … that balance you mentioned you have with your troupe.
It’s late where you are. If you see this before bed, n’nite. Otherwise, good morning!
🙂 saw,and really enjoyed it now,slipping in between the pups now
I’m laughing! “slipping in between the pups now”…. Oh my….
Hi Sue,
Love your new camp and the price. With the bonus of mama robin there to watch, it is perfect. Great pic of her in the nest. Sure like that little Reggie, he looks like he has always been a crew member, it is ok Bridget, I like you too & have your picture saved. 🙂 Our ice went out last Friday, saw a boat same day. I once again look out at a lake and heard my first loon call the other morning.
Look forward to the next post as always.
Hi, Val,
Time is marked by ice where you are! I hadn’t heard it said that way before, “Our ice went out last Friday…” There’s something poetic about that, like the beginning of a really good story.
Love the loons! How wonderful that you have them at your lake. I could never tire of hearing them. Well, I’m not complaining. I have robins, meadowlarks, Canada geese, and I saw a killdeer down by the water today . . . .
Thanks for writing, Val. I appreciate your loyalty to my blog.
Catching up about 6 posts this morning………..wonderful…….Nevada and now Idaho. Loved the scenery in your photos as usual. Now I am off and away for 2 weeks when I won’t be checking in once again. Stay safe Sue and your crew and I’ll catch up again once I am back.
Hi, Glenda,
You read my blog in big chunks. I’m glad you don’t get tired of it that way! Wherever you go and whatever you do for two weeks, be safe and well and know you are welcome upon your return . . . .
Thank you so Much Sue!
We stayed there for a night in October. They were having a blue algae problem. It was pretty and quiet though. Love watching your travels.
Hi, Angie,
Hmm… Blue algae. That’s interesting. I don’t see it. I wonder if that happens often in the fall and if it resolved on its own or if there was action taken.
I did a search and found this article dated September of last year… “Algae prompt health advisories…”
I glad you love the blog. It’s nice to know you are with us!
It’s looking more and more like spring! Wait until you hit the Pacific North West again 🙂 Have you ever heard of Hill’s Science Diet R/D it’s a doggy diet food that you have to get from a vet or possibly through Amazon. I used to work at a vet clinic (long and sordid story) but it did work and the dogs were happy with it! Nice campsite. Are there washrooms at the campsite you are at? How do BLM campsites differ from State ones?
It ain’t cheap though!
The first ingredient is corn and not even organic so it is GMO. I would not feed Science Diet of any type to any animal. Before I knew better I raised and maintained 5 cats on Science Diet on the advice of several vets. Every one of the cats died of cancer or other nutrition related disorders. Cats and dogs are meant to eat meat, not corn! Our diabetic cat ate Science Diet expensive RX food for several years and could not lose weight or keep blood sugar under control. I finally tossed the S/D RX food and got him to switch to a meat based food and he got down to normal weight for the first time in years and was actually on barely any insulin for the remainder of his life. He died at 17 but would have lived longer if I had gotten smarter sooner. I still feel bad I believed the vets and their stupid Science Diet junk.
Hi, Velda,
I’m sorry for the guilt you feel over the diet you provided for your loved ones. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Some individual animals, like humans, are more susceptible genetically to certain conditions like cancer. Plus there are other environmental conditions over which we have no control.
Your experience is valid. I’m only urging you to be kind to yourself, which you may not need to hear from me since all I have to go by is your comment. 🙂
Hi, Jill…
I put the crew on Hill’s Science Diet, the one made for easy digestibility, and that’s when Bridget first started losing weight after years of trying to get some of the fat off of her.
I have since moved Bridget and Reggie to Blue Buffalo which is okay, not necessarily my first choice nor the best choice. However, I have to feed them a product that I can find wherever I travel which limits the choices. The crew also receives cooked, lean meat, mostly chicken, and liver periodically.
How do BLM campsites differ from state ones?
Foremost, the price. BLM campgrounds are usually very inexpensive. You’d be hard-pressed to find a state campground for $5 a night/$2.50 for seniors! Also BLM campgrounds are left in a more natural condition (rustic), as are some state parks. Again it would be a challenge and maybe impossible to find a BLM campground with perfect landscaping that you see in some state campgrounds (think sprinklers and fertilizer, edging, lots of pavement with curbs, pruned shrubs, etc.).
BLM campgrounds can be found in less popular areas and are a blessing to someone who travels to remote areas.
State campgrounds often require a reservation well in advance of arrival because they are heavily used… That’s where the big rigs go that can’t fit in the older BLM and National Forest campgrounds. And when a place is packed with big rigs one can expect generators (although generators are everywhere).
Some state campgrounds only provide a very small percentage of their sites for those who don’t want hook-ups and who don’t make reservations.
Plus state campgrounds are more likely to be on prime real estate — near the beach, for instance.
For all the above reasons and more, I’m much happier in a BLM campground and only go to state campgrounds for the shower house or when there isn’t another convenient choice.
Wow! Thanks for the detailed post. We haven’t tried any BLM campsites but will do so next year when we head south. They sound like a great place just to relax and listen to the world (and generators, haha). The Science Diet comment was just because I had read that you’ve been trying to get Bridget’s weight down, little did I know it would bring up such strong emotions. The vet I worked for did recommend it to bring the weight down then switch to a more “balanced” food after the “goal” was met. We have a hard time with our dogs too. I have a 12 year old Chow Husky cross that is a food mooch and will even go after compost that we throw to the chickens…. Not the best scenario for weight loss….. He may be a few pounds overweight lol. Looks like a lovely spot! Have a great day(s)!
Jill
the senior pass or the regular pass is a great tool…buy it and it is good for
the rest of your life…..I have 2 lakes nearby
that I fish and camp often. One is a national forest campground that I camp
for $14 with all utilities….the other is a Corps of Engineers park that has no
sewer but water and electric for $12 a nite…
we visited my son and his family in Virginia one year and they took us to
Yorktown Battle field and I used my card to get all 6 of us in for one
reduced price…
Chuck
Sue, on the subject of dog food, I have been trying to find a dry dog food that would eliminate my gals chewing on her paws. Following up with sites suggested by Cindy the Pet Sitter in Mesa, Thanks Cindy, I’m learning that I know not nearly as much as I thought I did about dog food. Was giving her Flint River, forget why I changed to Blue Buffalo, less grain perhaps. You said that Blue Buffalo was not your first, nor the best choice, why do you say that and what would be your first choice if you had access to it all over? Love the robin! Thanks,
JazzLover
I have been working with dogs (and other animals) for many years, specifically rescues that have different health care conditions. Kibble is never a good option. Please read this article; http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/kibble-never-a-good-option/ and do some online research.
I feed my 3 dogs Primal raw which is frozen and/or Honest Kitchen freeze dried raw which would be a great option for Sue or anyone on the road. After decades of research and trial and error I find these 2 brands to be the best. Just read the ingredients list on each product and you will see. No grains, no fillers, no by products. Nothing harmful.
Please note that I have no affiliation with either company, I just go by the health and happiness of my dogs and they are thriving on these foods. One of my dogs had a terrible skin condition when I adopted her 3 years ago. After a couple of months on these foods and it completely cleared up. The icing on the cake is that because they are human grade foods and not that disgusting processed unappealing kibble my dogs enjoy eating their meals which makes me very happy.
Here is a link to the Honest Kitchen http://www.thehonestkitchen.com/ which is actually dehydrated vs. freeze dried.
Here is a link to Primal http://www.primalpetfoods.com/
I can’t recommend these two dog foods highly enough.
Nice spot to rest! I love the picture of the crew looking for you in the BLT. In the one photo, Ms. Bridget looks like a dignified elderly woman watching over a teenager that is ready to scream “sit down and relax kid”.
Hi, Monica,
Bridget often does have that “look.” She gives it to me all the time in the form of “put down that camera and relax, woman!”
Her look into the BLT was one of “what you doing now?” I love Ms. Bridget, and Reggie is a cutie. Safe travels!
Thanks, Monica.
Sue,
Today I discovered that I failed to purchase a Benchmark map for Idaho so I went to Amazon to order through your site. Guess what?? Out of stock! Did all the blogorinos empty the shelves? I then went to B & N and they’re sold out, too! Finally went to the Benchmark on line store and they don’t have any either! Wa-a-a-a-a! It seems that the Idaho Benchmark is between printings and new updated ones won’t become available until sometime around May 1. This has become your problem, too, Sue. Now you have to stay put until I can get my hands on a new Idaho map. How long can you hold out? I have to have a benchmark so I can follow along with you and the crew. Being a “mapster”, I do have a fairly detailed map from the Dept of Commerce/Tourism but there really is nothing as good as a Benchmark, IMO. Might as well take the backpack from a thru hiker on the AT, an orienteering scout’s compass from him, or Bear Grylls’ fixed blade knife from a survivalist , or….. You see where I’m going here? 🙂
Audrey
Wow, I like the idea of following along with the Benchmark maps. Amazon, here I come (via RVSue, of course). So it looks like the last publication date for Idaho was in 2010, I think. Wonder how often they update them, anyone know? I’d hate to buy one that was going to be updated in a couple months.
Hi, Patti,
Great to see you here, BTW!
I don’t know how often they are updated. Your comment has me wanting to look at the dates on all my Benchmarks. I know they are at least four years old.
Atlases as extensive and thorough as the Benchmarks are good for many, many years. As time goes by a few things change but not much that impacts my usage of them anyway.
For instance, the one thing that no mapmaker/publisher can keep up with is the deterioration of dirt roads that can occur in a short time if taken over by OHVers. Benchmark maps show the little roads of which there are thousands and they note which roads are “impassable when wet” or “4WD.” Imagine field testing all those roads every few months to keep up with possible damage from abuse and erosion!
As always, the map is a guide. (Writing to everyone here, not lecturing you, Patti 🙂 ) Then one needs to confirm either online, through advice of a local, or by personal inspection. If a road looks like it may be impassable further along, I walk it first.
This is great news for you, Audrey. In about a week or so you’ll be able to order the newest Idaho Benchmark hot off the press!
I love your devotion to Benchmarks as I feel the same way. I’m not surprised that the company ran out of issues. Maybe they plan that in order to prevent people from ordering the older issue right before the new one becomes available, and to avoid having inventory of the older issues.
Thanks for letting us know what you found out about the Idaho atlas. Don’t worry…. For the next week, if we move anywhere, I’ll make sure none of the blogorinos are lost along the way. 😉
well now you’ve done it….all this reading im doing about the benchmark
maps being out of stock caused me to go pick up Arizona and Nevada maps.
Ive been keeping up with you with my old 2003 Rand McNally maps
but it doesnt give all the great things to see in it like benchmark does.
altho I will probably never get back to Arizona or Nevada before I die
it is fun just follwing your travels….
chuck
Not to say you should not wait for the new Benchmark, but in the spirit of “can one have too many maps? I think not!” you might try a DeLorme Gazetteer. I’m sure they are also available on Amazon. I think I prefer a Benchmark when they are available, but I also have quite a few Gazetteers because they are published for many states that don’t (ever) have Benchmarks. They are similar in that they are very detailed and down to the small roads, etc.
A possible option anyway.
Good morning, Sue!
Happy Friday (whoo-hoo!) to you and all the blogorinos!! 🙂
Enjoy the day!! 🙂
Good morning, Denise… The same to you!
If your plans are to go up, up Hwy 93, Checkout the BLM campground north of Challis about 14 miles. (Cottonwood Rec. Site). Another area worth exploring is along the Salmon River road FS 30, west of North Fork (north of Salmon Id). Fred
Thank you, Fred. Good to have you stop by…
Wow Sue and Crew, your in Idaho already and I wonder if there are fuel stops within every 150 miles along Hwy 93, We only get ’bout 11 mpg with the new camper,,,, where we’re at, it’s been cool 40’s/70’s with rain and sun. Your photos are great and it looks like your in a great spot. please give HRH and the Reggie man a bunch of hugs from us and you have great time.,,,,,,,,,,,, Rusty
Hi, Rusty,
I don’t know the exact distance between gas stations on Hwy 93. I do know it’s about 135 miles between Ely, NV and Wells, NV, and I don’t remember any gas stations in between. That’s highway driving, no stop-and-go. Of course I took a huge detour by going around the Ruby Mountains.
You have a great time, too, Rusty, and hugs to Timber…
Cool weather here also… The 70s are gone, darn! They’ll be back in a few days. Lows in the high 30s predicted for the next few nights. Also expecting rain soon.
Rusty
See my reply a couple of post down. VVVV
Hi Rusty,
You can Google TruckMaster Fuel Finder and that will help you find fuel stops along your route all over the country. It will list all the major truck stops like Pilot, Flying J, etc along with the services they offer at such stops. But, it will also include many independent stations along the way. Current gas prices are also frequently posted. I thought it was very interesting that close to where Sue is right now, is a little blip on the map called Rogerson, NV and they listed the only service station in town–Cactus Pete’s. I’m not certain how reliable the info is for the smaller independent stations, but for the larger truck stops it’s very reliable.
The other option is to just ask Google to list any fuel stops on US Route 93 between two points on the map–like between Wells, NV and Jackpot, NV. You won’t know the current gas prices using that method but you’ll know is gas is available along your route. There is an app for the TruckMaster Fuel Finder in beta testing mode that may be helpful to mobile device users, but Google is my friend!
Audrey
Hi, Audrey,
One has to be careful not to rely too much on internet info. For instance, Cactus Pete’s is in the town of Jackpot, about 12 miles south of Rogerson which is in Idaho.
Good suggestions overall for figuring out where gas can be found.. just want to remind everyone to confirm. (See reply to Cinandjules re: gas station in McGill.)
Y’all are so helpful! Rusty mentions gas stations and here you are! Love that about you…. 🙂
Another sweet spot to lay out the rug. Nothing like a mama robin in her nest to say “home”. Love the pic of the crew at the door – you certainly don’t have to worry about them sneaking off 🙂 Reggie is doing so great on the tether, smart guy!
Hi, Jodee,
Every one of your statements is very true… short and spot on!
I presume you’ll head west when you get through Idaho Falls. If you want to do some bird watching you might consider the Birds of Prey Conservation Area south of Mountain Home, ID. There is a developed campground (http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en/visit_and_play/places_to_see/morley_nelson_snake/cove_rec_site.html) but since it’s BLM land you’ll probably be able to scout out something better that the rest of us wouldn’t even know to look for. 🙂
I’ve never visited this spot but I’ve always wanted to. This, the Owhyhee Canyons area and the Magruder Trail are the three places in ID that are on my bucket list. 🙂
Have fun!
WDR
Thanks, wa desert rat…..Yes, I see all these places people are recommending…
Rusty and Timber,
Per AAA trip tix…the last gas station from Wells to Ely is in McGill. A place called Pony Express gas station.
Being that’s the “last available service” ya might want to fill up in Wells and top it off in McGill.
I love those trip tx..used them to cross the US….
We did too!
I-da-ho !! Anyone ever gone to Couer d Alene ? If so is it a touristy place?
I don’t know about touristy… What I saw when I drove past the north end of the lake two years ago was a lot of private, lakeside residences.
Anybody else have something to add?
Yes, Coeur d’Alene is touristy. But wonderful. Last time I was there was probably about 2002…and if you go messing about downtown, going into the antique shops, little cafes that look to have been there forever, etc ….you experience some of the old timers…GREAT people!! I have no idea about camping spots, etc. We just made a day trip during the time hubby was employed at Lower Granite Dam and we lived nearby the dam. (I do not recommend dragging a trailer down to the dam via the scary switchback roads, though there is a campground on the Pullman side of things, so folks with RVs, boats, etc do manage it…Pullman being 45 minute drive from there). It is an interesting area however. I also loved going through Troy and driving towards Montana from that direction, from Moscow, ID which is a few miles East of Pullman, WA. Gorgeous country. Changing from wheat fields to forest in short order there.
There’s a chance that McGill station is closed. McGill is a small, not very prosperous-looking place.
Let me dig further….standby
Okay…I just called the business..no answer!
Found another post that someone stopped 3 weeks ago and they had a going out of business sign hanging!
RUSTY. Disregard my info ……ya Better get gas in Wells!
Thanks Cindy n’ Jules. I don’t do google, because they ripped me of photos and music and I didn’t know how to get it all back. back then 2012 I just started with my 1st computer ever, a 10.1 Acer laptop. On the gas, I’ll try Bing, which is my search engine . get it, engine needs gas.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, rusty ,,,,,,,,,,Oh, how is miss AO?
Wells NV is your last fill up opportunity!
AO is doing great! We’ll sort of….hugs to you and Timber!
Good Morning Sue, wow, Idaho, you got you little self moving fast….While flying over Idaho, I kept my nose to the window and was amazed by all the uncivilized area around….Speaking of Birds of Prey area….My daughter took me to their facility in Boise..they have California Condors there, and many other birds of prey to see. I think they said they had 50 California Condors on their property, raising them to be released in the canyons of Arizona. So possibly you did see them in Arizona…They release them 2 at a time I believe.
Well today if finally Friday, although everyday is Saturday for you…Enjoy your weekend, so many places in Idaho to go and see that you will probably not be croweded in by people….I hope to have extended stays in Idaho when I retire, my daughter seems to think it is the greatest place…
Scratches and hugs to the babies.
Good morning, Shirlene… I have to keep this brief. Computer is slowing down and I have a post almost ready to publish…
Okay…. I closed the browser and started over. It’s a little bit better. I hope you are ready for a great weekend, Shirlene… The weather has taken a dive here!
At the end of the rainbow you found your pot of gold! Another great place to explore and enjoy. The crew seems to have accustomed themselves to each other as we figured they would. You are a good steward of the land and I know those who come behind you appreciate it though they probably think the land management people did the cleanup. No matter, you know who did it and I know you are satisfied with having done it. I loved living up in the mountains of Idaho be 30 miles one way to get groceries or a drug store or anything of any significance was tough and in Winter the snow made it impossible for an emergency vehicle to make it up where we were. Too old for that. Anyhow, it’s pretty country when the weather is good. Enjoy Missy and Crew….Hugs..
I like your comment about being a steward of the land… Those of us who clean up the forests and campsites and public areas do it for the satisfaction of taking care of the resource, rather than for any credit. It is a good feeling and I should do more of it!
Interesting about living in the mountains of Idaho…
READERS…
You may have noticed that a part of my nature can be very contrary. The more descriptions you post here of places we should visit, the less likely I am to go there! Really… I know, I’m strange.
I like to discover and present something “fresh” in my blog. If we’ve discussed it already, me responding to your description and so forth, it loses its appeal to me.
I thank y’all though. I love your enthusiasm and wish for us to go to neat places!
Looks like you are under a significant weather pattern today, or soon will be. Also, I heard on the radio that “northern Idaho” experienced several earthquakes this morning. Did you feel anything where you are at?
Boy, do I ever get that liking to present something fresh thing-who likes to tell or hear old news?As the author of an ongoing story of adventurous living,of course, it’s especially important to you!Because I only have writing or speaking without photography as tools,if I even just catch myself repeating a word or phrase while describing something I wince a little.Might sound weird but,honestly,it embarrasses me.I associate it with “minds slips”,ya know?How folks,usually much older than all of us on here are, naturally have settled down or are limited to what’s routine,so they reminisce or contribute to conversation by telling an oft heard tale yet again…or teenagers use one adjective all the time until their vocabulary expands.
Sue, just wanted to throw this link your way since you are
enjoying the mountains so much
my oldest brother and me have loved the old west all
our lives and both of us wish we had been born in the
1860’s and later to experience that life…..
my brother sent me this link which has great pictures
of the old west…hope you like them….
http://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2012/05/the-american-west-150-years-ago/100304/
Chuck
Wow, Chuck! What a fabulous collection of photos! Thank you. You provided me with lots of entertainment. Every one of the pictures is a treasure.
Hi Sue,
Just typed a long reply and it vanished .. taking deep breath as I begin again.
Today your post was extra good and enjoyed your walk to the dam and back. Love seeing your two little peanut side kicks. Interesting how you were affected so many years back and now you have those puppies.
When I saw your two mismatched shoes it cracked me up! lol reminded me of when I had a very short lived job this past summer I wore two different slip on shoes. One black and one dark purple. Hoping nobody saw but me. I also wore my blouse inside out one time at bingo and a lady came by and whispered in my ear “it’s inside out”.
My last year was such a mixed up time for me.
Anyway loving your view on a lot of things. Gonna get the book you enjoyed too.
Keep on enjoying!