Friday, October 9 – Tuesday, October 13
Baker Dam Reservoir, between Enterprise and St. George, southwestern Utah
I like a camp that offers several different choices for walking the crew.
Doin’ the backhoe!
At Baker Dam Reservoir Campground one choice is to follow the trail that winds away from the day use area. That trail is a maze and one “arm” reaches our campsite.
It’s like our own, personal trail!
Bridget likes to walk behind me (above), while Reggie is eager to see what lies ahead.
The trail meanders through volcanic rocks painted with lichen and moss.
The junipers are heavily laden with berries, lots of berries!
There are so many berries they look like garlands draped on the boughs.
Picnic tables under shelters and alongside fire rings are placed along the trail.
I never see anyone here. It seems people don’t go for picnics much any more. They either go camping or do other things, I guess.
We stop at lookouts.
I photograph the morning light on the tree tops. The Santa Clara River is somewhere among those trees.
We take the trail walk at least once a day.
Bridget knows the trail so well that sometimes she turns around and goes back to camp to wait for us from underneath the Best Little Trailer. It depends upon how she feels on any given day.
“You still with us, Bridgie?”
Notice how the trail is red? We’re close to red rock country. Hence the crusher run is red.
Another choice for walks is to cross the dam.
A few people fish the reservoir, either from shore, from the rocky side of the dam, or from a boat.
Of course, the third choice is to walk the campground loop and check out the neighbors!
Few campers are here during the week.
On weekends this time of year the campground is a little over half-full.
These folks come well prepared.
I haven’t encountered any flying insects at Baker Dam Reservoir. Maybe they show up if you eat outside after dark. I don’t know about that.
At any rate, these campers are protected!
All sorts of RVs come to Baker Dam Reservoir Campground.
Even the really big rigs slide in among the junipers.
Three choices: the trail, the dam, or the campground loop.
These are for the short walks of the day, originating from our campsite. We also board the Perfect Tow Vehicle to go places where we can take longer walks, such as in the Pine Valley Mountains which I’ll show you in another post.
Update on core battery fee:
I have a bad habit of not checking cash register receipts at the time of purchase. When I bought a battery at Wal-Mart’s automotive department in Richfield, Utah, I didn’t look at the receipt until later, when we’re at our next camp several miles away.
You may remember me mentioning the $12 I was charged for “core battery fee.” Huh?
Readers explained that this is a fee refunded upon turning in an old battery.
Why a rabbit? Because a rabbit makes a better photo than a battery
Well, I didn’t have to turn in an old battery because the old battery was kept at the shop at the time the new battery was put in.
I call Wal-Mart automotive in Richfield and explain the situation.
Since I paid with a credit card, I figure the $12 can be credited to my card. Not so. Not over the phone. Against Wal-Mart policy. I have to come into the Wal-Mart with the receipt and my credit card in order to receive a refund. I’m nowhere near Richfield in order to do that.
I ask to speak with the supervisor.
Lindsey, the supervisor, readily suggests a solution. Take the receipt to any Wal-Mart, produce my credit card, have that Wal-Mart call the Richfield Wal-Mart to confirm, and I’ll receive a refund.
Before ending the call I make a suggestion to Lindsey and she seems agreeable to it.
“I never heard of a core battery fee. I’m sure there are others who haven’t either. All of this could’ve been avoided if someone had mentioned the core battery fee at the time of purchase. Maybe make it standard procedure to inform the customer?”
In the next post I’ll show you another great camping option when traveling in southwestern Utah!
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
First?
HOORAY FOR RENEE! CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’RE FIRST!
The stars, or shall I say my cell phone, we’re aligned just right! I was holding it when I heard that email tone and ” rv sue and her canine crew” flashed in the header. Yippee.
Thank you so much!
Ok. Now I have time to read the post. As always, an enjoyable read.
Thanks, Renee.
Hello Sue, thank you again for sharing with us. This looks like a very nice place to camp. Wish we were out of the city like. Unfortunately it is time to spend visiting relatives in the oh so crowded Bay Area near San Francisco. The relatives are great people, hate the crowds.
You’re welcome, Lisa. It is nice camping here.
You’re fortunate to have relatives you consider to be “great people.” I can understand you hating the crowds though.
Yeah the core battery thing isn’t just Walmart… had about the same thing happen when I bought the 2nd battery for the Gamer Babe at Napa… I didn’t have an old battery since it was an additional battery to give them so therefore I had to pay the core charge.
Good info about batteries and love the walking trails… I found one this afternoon along the Rio Grande, will finish the walk another day…
Happy Trails and Safe Travels…
Carlene and Corky
Thanks, Carlene.
I remember the first time I walked along the Rio Grande. As a lifelong Easterner, it seemed unreal that I was finally next to this river featured in so many books and television shows. Makes you wonder who walked or rode that trail before you…
Never heard of Bernalillo. Looked it up. . . on the outskirts of Albuquerque. It’s “the City of Coronado.” 🙂
Yes, they will pay you for your old Batteries, but then you pay them to keep old tires. Also goes for “electronics”, pay them again to get rid of stuff.
Hi, Rocky Mt. Bob,
These are the things I’m learning as I go along.
Basically it’s that certain automotive parts have a “core”; i.e. something that is valuable. Alternators and batteries are two examples. Other things are just “garbage” (at least to stores), and so you may be charged to dispose of them (tires, etc.).
It’s kind of like a bottle deposit for pop (soda) in the old days (because they were valuable/reusable). (Ooh, remember those things cutting into your hands walking home from the store, and the trucks with open roofs full of them?)
Miss Bridget walks back alone? Brave little lady. Something to be said for maturity, though pups are adorable too. Your pair is the best of both!
Hi, Pam… Thank you.
Remember I wrote that the trail is like a maze? The first time we walked it, Bridget showed off her good instincts/memory. On the return Reggie and I started walking the wrong way when we came to a fork. Bridget would not follow us. Instead she went the other way.
“Oh yeah… You’re right, Bridge. That IS the way back to our campsite!” 🙂
Ya know, if you took the time to sniff around and maybe dribble a little pee at every corner you could find your way back the same way Bridget does? 🙂
Golly, Rick, I should’ve thought of that!
Oh Rick, Oh Rick, too funny! Oh my! Oh Rick. Best laugh of the day!
LOL, is that why so many guys miss the toilet… they want to make sure they find their way home.
Just makes me laugh, since I’m the only female in my house, including the dogs!
Hilarious!
This looks like a lovely campground. The scenery is great and the trails are easy. My kind of place <3 And I do agree, a rabbit photo is better than a battery any day. I hope that you got your refund without further ado.
Hi, Marcia,
It may be a while before I receive that refund. There are two Wal-Marts in St. George. We will probably by-pass them when we move camp. I’m not driving into St. George traffic for 12 bucks.
Totally understand. I wouldn’t either.
Great camp Sue, L.P. says hi too!,have a great week,,,,,,,,,,me
You, too, Rusty and Piper!
Always happy to see him posting!
I can’t believe the size and amount of those juniper berries! It must have been a good year. I also love the Jack rabbit with those long ears. Maya goes crazy for rabbits, do Reggie and Bridget try and chase them?
Hi, Pam and Maya,
Not only are the junipers loaded with berries. There are junipers all over. I assume birds and other creatures eat them during the winter. If so, they are well provided for!
Bridget doesn’t chase anything. It is beneath her dignity. Reggie tries to chase rabbits which is one reason I keep him on a tether. He would chase until he became lost.
Lots of Juniper Berries! That canyon could be renamed Gin Gulch. Happy birds, indeed!
It looks like a good spot to be in, a choice of walks is always nice.
One of the good points of Walmart for a traveler is there is always another one not too far from where you are. good luck with your core fee!
Thanks, Rob. You’re right. That’s what I said to the supervisor. I’ll be near a Wal-Mart eventually!
Have fun, grandpa!
The 2nd to last picture of the mountains is wonderful!! Awesome picture. The rabbit posing as a battery is cute!!! LOL…I love all your pictures. Again you seem to have found another great camp site.
“Hidden fees” really irritate me. Fight for your rights! Don’t let them get away with it. I hope they take your suggestion to warn people. I ask Jerold and he said that is a fee charged by all battery people but you usually have a battery to hand it. Now the rest of us know…Hang on to your old battery.
Sending lots of love and big hugs to you and the crew.
Hi, Pauline,
I know you appreciate my photos. Thanks. I wish you were here to see all this in person.
I don’t think I’ll have to fight at all for this refund. The supervisor gave me the suggestion automatically, without hesitation. It didn’t sound like a way to get rid of me, although it did. Haha!
Love to you and all the Mississippi family!
Hi Sue,
This is a beautiful campground and your pictures are wonderful. I have had to play catch up because we just returned yesterday from probably our last camping trip until next spring. While we were gone I missed your birthday. So late, Happy Birthday!!
We spent 10 days in our favorite campground and went to work a couple days from there. It was wonderful! I was fishing everyday and Harley and I took long walks, just enjoyed these fall days.
I have a whole new respect for you and camping alone like you do in those boondock areas where there would be no lights what so ever. The campground this time of the year toward the end of our stay when it was colder was pretty empty some nights. Without those camper lights dotting the park, it was pretty dark while I was walking Harley in the evenings. I thought of you and I really don’t think I could do it alone. Not everyone is cut out for that. It was just creepy to me. So good on all of you that can do it but not for me, alone anyway!
Thanks, Jolene, for the birthday greeting. Great reason for being late! 🙂
Your 10 days do sound great. I’m glad you had the opportunity for a last camping trip before winter.
I read your last paragraph with a sense of wonder. Wondering why it is that some people feel safer with lights and I feel safer without them. I like that you acknowledge what is right for you, without apology.
You’re you and I’m me and oh how happy we shall be. Haha!
I’m glad you and the crew are enjoying our neck of the woods and the long over due cooler weather. The junipers are loaded this year and I seem to recall they are an ingredient in gin . . . Too bad I’m a beer girl!
Sorry you got dinged at Wal Mart. Grrhhhh, I hate that stuff but I have a feeling you’re going to get that money back from them.
Hi, Utah Bonnie,
There are so many berries that the junipers have a light blue look to them, as if frosted.
Yeah, I trust that Wal-Mart will make good. I really am partly to blame for not being more careful, instead of jamming the receipt in my purse without giving it a glance. I was so happy to have the job done allowing us to hit the road for our next camp!
Gosh, what a nice campsite & campground! Beautiful country too! Love seeing Bridge walk home by herself–Miss Independent, eh? Reg does an awesome backhoe–dirt must fly everywhere! It’s so nice to have plenty of nice trails too.
I can’t remember who recommended them but our thanks to whoever mentioned the Caravan Sports Infinity Zero Gravity Chair! They arrived today & are perfect! Jim deems them perfect for “stretching out” (his Texas term for taking a nap) & we ordered a little side table for each chair that fits perfectly. I see many happy hours spent in these little wonders!
Ear skritches to the crew–enjoy your days.
Hi, Dawn,
You’re the one who bought the chairs and side tables! Thank you very much! I’m very happy to learn that you and Jim like them. You were smart to order the little “tables” that attach to the chairs. They are necessary for the optimum lounging.experience. Yes, enjoy!
I “stretch out” sometimes with my feet higher than my head. Haven’t fallen on my noggin yet!
Such a nice camp you have found. Very pretty area. I do like the rabbit instead of the battery picture. Made me chuckle when I read that. Always love the pups. I seem to be seeing more dogs that look like your pair. They must be a friendly breed and just the right size. Happy Travels to you three.
Hi, Pamelab in Houston,
You’re probably seeing more dogs like the crew because of all the photos I post of Bridget and Reggie. It’s like when you buy a vehicle. I never noticed Chevy Express vans until I bought the Perfect Tow Vehicle. From then on I see them everywhere… white ones!
I do agree, the crew is the right size. .. no smaller than Reggie Man, no bigger than the Bridge… perfect for a little home and for walking together!
We’re in my part of the world now! I have no explanation why a person from Ohio would have a lifelong fascination with deserts and arid climates, but I do. This is very nice. I also agree that a rabbit makes a better photo than a battery.
I understand, Calvin, and I can’t explain it either, why a person from northern New York State would fall in love with the desert. Actually, I love all the places we go. In the spring I’m ready to leave the desert and live in green spaces again. In the fall I’m looking forward to returning to the desert.
It’s funny how I never know what photo will bring up the most remarks. The rabbit was an afterthought when I saw all those words with no visual relief.
That looks like a nice campground (and only half full on weekends – now at least – not too bad!). It’s getting cold where I am, but the leaves are so beautiful, and I’m in a peaceful boondock, so I’m hanging in there for awhile (nights just below freezing; days 50-ish – fine when it’s sunny). Then I have been thinking of an intermediate place (around 2000′ or so) before heading to the winter/warm climes. No place picked out yet though. Looks like you have found a great one.
Your camps always look so homey – I like that you show that 🙂
Glad to hear you can get your core charge back – although too bad that you have to go to extra trouble. I like that you suggested a better way to handle it for the next customer(s). I always like it when folks don’t just fix one instance, but make some effort to improve the “system” too. Thumbs up 🙂
PS: I always like camps with junipers around the site. I guess they remind me of the smaller trees we used to play around/in when I was a kid – make rooms/forts/etc. They weren’t junipers but were northern evergreens of about the same size.
Hi, Pen,
“Nights just below freezing”… Egads, girl! It’s too early for that. You must have some very beautiful leaves to keep you there… and then there’s the peacefulness you mention…
This time of year is tricky, isn’t it. Baker Dam Reservoir Campground is at the southern edge of elevation around 5,000 feet. In only a few miles it drops until at St. George it is 2,860 feet. There is another campground near here but it’s at 6,900 feet. Less than 20 miles from one to the other (as the crow flies) and the air temperature varies dramatically, too. Have to be careful with camp moves!
It’s fun though, figuring out camps according to weather.
Yes that’s just it: It’s beautiful and peaceful here but, at around 7,000′, it got a bit nippy when this last weather system came through. But how often do you get to see golden/orange leaves with snow-capped peaks in the background? So I want to stay a few more days at least. It’s just so pretty and — after like FOUR horrible campground experiences in a row; I won’t even go into the excruciating details — I am just relishing the private, quiet boondocks complete with nearby creeks. Ahhhhh. I’m giving the Wave (and all my blankets) a workout though.
Just this afternoon I took the kayak out for a spin. The snow-capped mountainsides, brilliant blue sky and puffy white clouds were doubled in the glass-smooth water, and the low afternoon light brought out a glow in the yellow/orange trees along the banks. I was almost in tears it was so beautiful and I was so grateful to be there experiencing it.
Now, as you say, where to next? It’s still a bit hot for me in the true desert (plus I get my fill of that after six months anyway, as wonderful as it is) I need to dig up a few 2500′ – 3000′ boondocks I guess.
Like you, I do enjoy planning and scheming about routes and stops. I like to lay out the maps, sip my coffee, and examine them to see what I can find.
Four horrible camps in a row…. which means people behaving badly. I have ONE experience and I’m desperate for solitude. It sounds like you earned the beautiful spot you’re in now. You describe it so well. I’m reminded of Glass Creek in the Mammoth Lakes region of CA… the snowy mountains, colored leaves, cold mornings, clear stream… and I found it without research! Jest pulled off the road, made a random turn, and there it was! Oh, the memories, right? You’re making more now…
You make me jealous telling me about your kayaking… *sigh*
Sounds like paradise Pen. Thanks for the inspiration, I needed that today.
I’m wishing you many moments in the coming years, Rick, when the beauty of the world around you moves you to tears.
Pen, you always have such a wonderful way of describing the beauty around you. You and Sue give us many wonderful descriptions. Glad you are enjoying your camping ventures.
What a beautiful place! It looks so wild and free, not like the crowded campground here at Indian Springs in Georgia the kids and I drove through the other day. What is the point in camping if there are people right next to you?! We have 46 acres we rent on at home and love the isolation. I wonder if all the campgrounds in the East are like that as we went to High Falls one time and it was the same. I think we need to head out west!
Oh boy, do I identify. I used to live in a private place, and I kept trying to go to campgrounds to…. well… go camping. Basically 100% of the time they were noisier and less private than staying at home (plus more expensive). Ugh!
While there are more campgrounds out west (and you can luck out and have a great experience), where the real peace/quiet/privacy comes is in the boondocking one can do.
Anyway, just wanted to groan in empathy.
Hi, Jan,
All the time I lived in the east, I never looked at the campgrounds. You’re right… Why go camping in a crowd? That’s why I like boondocking, of course, and also the out-of-the-way campgrounds (national forest and BLM) like this one (although there may be times during the year when it is crowded). I like the rustic campgrounds with few amenities. Not only because they are less expensive. Because there’s room to breathe!
Hey Miss Sue, I really love the new site, the campground looks so good. I think Ms. B is awesome…..she is calm, cool and very collected! She also seems to have a built in GPS!
The campground looks pretty private with all the Jupiter trees, I definitely love that, I am not anti-social but I like not being around many people most of the time. Taking walks like you and the crew do is a perfect thing to do, enjoying the plants, flowers, rocks, etc. in an area is interesting to me. Thanks for all the great pics and for sharing with us, have a great week.
You’re welcome, Linda. You have a great week, too.
Sometimes I look at a draft of a post I’m about to publish and think, “This is going to bore the socks off of people.”
There are many blogs of people doing all sorts of things, climbing rocks, standing on top of huge hills they’ve climbed, exploring slot canyons, riding bikes on mountain trails, and so on. Then I think, “Oh well, this is our life, I love it, and there you have it.”
I mention this because comments like yours validate the small way in which I live.. . “enjoying the plants, flowers, rocks, etc. in an area is interesting to me.” Thank you!
You are so welcome …….and I enjoy every post you place because it is real, real life and it makes me want to live that life also.
I hope you do, Linda.
That’s one thing I really like about your blog (and life). You love your “daily life” and you share it with us, apparently without the compunction to make it sound like more than it is. I do enjoy reading about those adventures you mention (on other blogs), but sometimes it’s almost a bit too much. Either I want to just hear about their daily minutiae for a change, or it gives me feelings of not being cool enough, or etc. A blog and life like yours are a pleasure, because it’s like what you said to Jolene above, “You’re you and I’m me and oh how happy we shall be!”
Also I think many people can’t really “see” themselves climbing mountains, swimming oceans, etc. But they can imagine waking up to a beautiful morning in camp, taking their pups for a walk, noticing beautiful flowers, hopping in the tow rig for a drive, appreciating the stars at night, etc. The fact that you love it comes through and is the icing on top.
Sure glad you take us along for the ride 🙂
Pen, you are a remarkable person. I see it in your descriptions of beautiful places, your understanding of technical and mechanical situations, your willingness and eagerness to help others on my blog, and your insights, like the ones in this comment.
I am overwhelmed by the activities of some of my fellow bloggers. They do more, see more, think more, everything more!
Reading their blogs, many of which are very well written with great photos and all, makes me feel inadequate! I’m not criticizing their blogs or their way of living. Not at all. I’m amazed at what I see and read on these other blogs!
Thank you, Pen, for pointing out that my simple blog with its daily routines and accounts of my “small” approach to life has value, too.
I love your simple blog Sue. I read others also but not on a regular basis. I won’t miss one of your posts.
The way you keep it real is what I like.
🙂
Do more?Than
– respond to hundreds of readers with a personal reply,make a community where folks stationary or traveling come to enjoy you and each other,-keep dreams alive and help people reach them,-be solely responsible for the crew and every task RVing and life involves daily…
See more?Of what really lives wherever you are,-of the magnificent beauty in all of nature and in the simple things few notice,-of the myriad wonders in what doesn’t surface in the broad view commonly seen
Think more?Of the feelings,needs,wants and happiness of people and animals blessed to have contact with or be near you,-of how to achieve your own dreams each day and in the future while actually enjoying life despite the burdens you have and carry
Everything more? I suppose having overcome as much as you have in life while becoming a person with astonishing talents,abilities,popularity,heart for others and what’s good in this world might have included more and in time will.
To master areas you see others as more adequate in,you would need to eliminate the time spent on something mentioned in this reply.What a loss of real value that would be!!!
Good morning, dear weather. You remind me that big things can be accomplished in small ways. Thank you. Your caring comes forth from every line.
Wow, I see your pictures and want to hit the road now….Love the bunny. I live semi rural and have lots of bunnies. My girls chase them but those bunnies survive by being smart and very quick. So thank God I haven’t had to deal with taking one away.
Core fees are pretty much where ever you go. It used to be $5, so like all things they go up I guess.
Take care and enjoy your beautiful camp.
Hi, Alice,
Some areas seem to be full of rabbits and others, hardly any. I like rabbits. It’s the rodents that I can do without. That’s one of the first things I look for when choosing a campsite… Are there rodent holes? I haven’t seen any here…
Hello there Sue and crew, what a beautiful place to camp! It really looks like this area where I am now residing, one side of the lake, south and east looks like your camp, north and west is the beginning of the Cascades, so lake and pine trees! If you don’t like what you are looking at, turn around!
I am here to get settled in to be grandma while my granddaughter and daughter in law are in Portland getting Julianne’s back fixed. May be two months, may be three….at any rate, it will be an adventure! Any tips about caring for two grammar school boys is welcome!
It is cold here! Supposed to be 33 tonight…brrrr…
Hi, Lee J.,
“If you don’t like what you are looking at, turn around!” Ha! That’s neat.
Bless you for taking on this “adventure.” Bundle up for bed tonight!
Maybe there are readers who will give you tips on caring for two grammar school boys….
With boys of any age, Grandma…FOOD!! Usually…our grandson here, just 6 is rather picky…but if I make muffins, he will eat every kind so far (I pack them with nutrition, unknown to him…heehee…made gluten free with garbanzo bean flour, amaranth flour and potato starch flour usually…but other good nutrition too…eggs, ground flax seeds, chopped finely nuts or almond flour, bananas sometimes, pumpkin sometimes…etc etc!! And sweetened as naturally as possible…some coconut sugar or honey usually). Some days my daughter says about all he will eat is muffins. So we keep on the prowl for more recipes and the internet is plumb full of that!! And all of our grandsons have loved to play table games too.
I have to agree with Pauline about that 2nd to last photo. Took my breath away.
The whole scene seems pretty idyllic. Or, I guess if the campground is half full than it’s half way ideal. But that probably says more about me than the campground. And OF COURSE we would rather see a picture of a cute fuzzy bunny than battery core. I have serious questions about anyone who feels otherwise.
Do you think that maybe Bridget turns back because the gravel hurts her paws? You know her better than anyone but I’m just curious.
I don’t think of a half full campground as being half way ideal. Sure, an empty campground is the best of all. Not often one finds that though. A half full campground where there are no generators and the campsites are spaced well with plenty of separation…. That’s pretty good! Our first weekend here was nearly ideal. This past weekend there were fewer campers but one of them, just one, made it miserable, running a cheap, industrial sized generator for several hours each day. We had to stay inside anyway because of rain. I would’ve been Really Annoyed if we had to stay cooped up to muffle the noise. They made it bearable for themselves by playing music as loud as the generator. God help us.
I must be a poor judge of my photos. I almost didn’t include that mountain pic.
I’m pretty sure Bridget turns back because she lacks stamina. She begins to pant a lot sooner than Reggie and she is carrying extra weight. I don’t think it’s her pads because she’s happily trotted the full length of that trail and back without giving any indication of discomfort. She’s never had a cracked pad in her entire life.
She has good days and not so good days…. I appreciate your concern for her.
Nothin’ but love for our Queen. You know that.
Yes, I do. If she only knew….
She knows….
Such gorgeous scenery for your walks! Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome, Sharon. I appreciate the note.
Whoo-Hoo! #55!! LOL!
Hi, Sue,
Hope you enjoyed your break! This campground offers lots of variety, and being Utah, I love seeing the red in the landscape. The last picture (sunset?) is stunning.
Have a good evening! Sending you and the Crew hugs from me and Gracie pup! N’nite!
🙂
CONGRATULATIONS!!! YOU DID IT! NUMBER 55!!!
The crew and I recently toured red rock country and I have the photos to show here. Incredible sights!
You have a great morning, Denise and Gracie pup!
I will send my vote out for the very first photo. When I opened up your post the colors nearly knocked my socks off – even Reggie’s cowboy suit is adding to the vivid scenery. What a gorgeous part of Utah. I stayed at a wonderful spa/hiking resort just outside of St. George a few years ago – breathtaking.
Good morning, Molly,
For anyone who likes to hike, run, or go cycling, southwestern Utah around and in St. George is a paradise. There are trail heads all over the place for trails that explore red rock and go to points of stunning scenic views. A bike/hike trail traces the curves of Route 18 as it makes its way into town — not just a widened road, a separate, smooth, concrete trail that undulates with the hills. I see bike tours and bike rental vans all over. You’ve probably seen much of what I describe.
Thanks re the first photo. The desert can put together some lovely colors!
If I ever have to live in desert again, I surely hope it will be as beautiful as this!! Thanks for sharing, Sue!!
Keep on the Walmart…heh, squeeky wheels do generally get oiled…hope it works out and you can fix it at any Walmart…ought to work that way!!
Good morning, Elizabeth!
Apparently a lot of people have found the St. George area to be beautiful. The rancher I met has lived here over 40 years. He remembers when St. George had a population around 11,000 and most of the people were descendants of the Mormon settlers. Now it is closer to 79,000 and the surrounding area gives evidence of even more population growth. He mentioned natural calamities in California in recent decades that brought waves of people here.
He’s very thankful that across the road from his ranch are several acres of public land — BLM — which checks suburbia from surrounding his ranch completely.
Have a great day, Elizabeth!
I forgot to say how much I like that first photo. The colors give it a “Candyland” type feel – as if it were a southwestern/Utah gingerbread mountain scene. Very cool!
Thanks, Pen. I like the Candyland comparison… 🙂
The path is crushed peppermint!
Mmm 😀
great post as always, Sue…..
that Bridget is a lot like my Lulu….old, set in their ways
not afraid much of anything and keeps the younger dogs
in line…..
Chuck
Good morning, Chuck….
Our old girls just keep rolling along…
Welcome to my neck of the woods. You might enjoy a little trip down to Santa Clara. It’s a fun little town just west of St. George and has a fruit stand that I visit every couple of weeks. They have had the best tomatoes the last few weeks. They are open until the first weekend in November. Enjoy your stay.
Thanks for the welcome and the tip, NV Teacher. We’ve taken a few drives around here, but we haven’t go to Santa Clara.
Great shot of the morning light on the treetops,I like the white outline it formed around the top of that cactus growing between the rocks.I grinned reading your thought about people not going on picnics, picturing you in the woods with a sandwich as a kid. One more time I consider those with different tastes loss as our gain.Terrific to have a trail that pleasant for your own private use- and for Reggie to expend his endless energy on!What a gift having different places to walk in has been in Bridget’s life, so when she feels like it there’s always something new and interesting for her.
Nice to report that you have a refund coming instead of finding that the problem really hadn’t only been the battery.I’m sure it wasn’t a conscious decision yet it’s funny that you inserted that lovely photo of a rabbit there.Energizer bunny on commercials – batteries ,get it?I hope your day is off to a nice start.Clouds and light rain here are making autumn’s colors appear richer and deeper.I especially like days like this because no one is out raking, so the leaves cover most of the ground I see while out driving .
Good morning, weather,
You are so good at making connections! A bunny and batteries — It must have been subliminal because I didn’t think of the Energizer bunny at all. Funny!
The sunshine this morning is especially welcome and appreciated after a few days of cold rain, grey skies, and a thunderstorm. You’re right about rain making the colors richer. It’s most evident in the depth of red of the trail itself, as well as the red of the campground loop. Compare the color of the trail photos and you can tell which ones were taken shortly after a rain.
Your last line brought a vivid memory to mind, a sight from many years ago in New York …. wet, colored leaves on black pavement, light streaming through maple trees bordering the road, a white fence..
Enjoy your drive!
What a beautiful campground! The red crusher run makes the trail look even lovelier. I still think Utah has to be the most beautiful state in the US. Hope you are planning to stay a few days. I get so tickled when Reggie does “The Backhoe” as Angel does that also.
The first chilly morning, she didn’t want to go in the cold wet grass, so she did he business in the mulch around the trees. When I went to pick it up, she did “The Backhoe” throwing mulch all over my nice clean slacks, and of course, they were light blue. Like I said, she is my “Funny Girl” She has to go to the vet today, to update her vaccines, but she will enjoy her ride. She has also made a new friend in the neighborhood. The lady “Donna” had a female JR about her size and she always stops to pet her, lets her jump in her car, gives her ear scratches, etc. Angel just eats it up. Donna got another JR mix but this one is a male and weighs 26 lbs. Sometimes I think Angel would like to go home with her, but I would not let that happen, I love her.
What a great life you are giving Angel! Lots of walks, making new pals, being loved no matter what she kicks up… Haha! Reggie has kicked dirt on me plenty of times. He also kicks dirt, leaves, sticks, grass, etc. into the water dish.
I’m glad to hear that Angel enjoys going for a ride. I hope she has a good experience at the vet today.
Lovely photos! The red path is neat…kind of like a carpet!
BRidgee babee ALWAYS knows here way home! Follow me!
I love the red rocks!
Hmm. Haven’t seen any posts from Wildflower in Prescott lately…yo wildflower Ollie Ollie oxen free!
Hi, Cinandjuules,
Thank you re the photos.
Oh, the angst when I think of blogorinos I haven’t heard from in a long time. I realize people’s interests change, their lives become too busy to take the time to comment, or they’re traveling or they feel like they have nothing to say or they found other blogs they like better or maybe they’re sick or . . . . on and on my mind goes wondering about them.
Where is wildflower in Prescott, Connie and Mugsy, all the Bobs and Steves, Gloria, Rachel, Teresa, Libby, Marg in Ouachitas, Mert in KY, MT Gary, Cat Lady, Willow, Crystal, Donna in CT, Randall, Barry, Dominick in NY, cozygirl, Brian, Carolyn, Darrell, Sherry, RoseM, Mindy, stan watkins, Hotel California…. ?
The list goes on and on…. Too many for me to mention here so if I didn’t mention your name and you’re still lurking… Believe me, you’re missed!
I absolutely agree with you…I also wonder about the folks who you’ve crossed paths with like Dale….Rachel and Macha etc.
Hope all are well and following their dreams.
Here I am. Never miss a post. And I read about all the Blogorinos.
Hey there! Good to hear from you. Like was said above, I think about blogorinos who haven’t been around in a while 🙂
Hi, wildflower in prescott!
And I use your Amazon link!
Good Morning Sue, sorry I have been absent but I have my excuse I forged for the teacher…Love the campgound, love the post, love that you have weather..take that anyway you want..lol. Storms seem to be passing over us, I hope you are out of harms way and up high enough to stay out of any mud slides. Delayed picking up my motorhome this weekend, I wanted my RV tech to go over it with a fine tooth comb before I took delivery….He did and it passed…yippeee. Only 18,000 miles on the little gem..so next weekend I have an appointment to go over all the workings and driving the rig…wish me luck…Heading to Salton Sea as soon as my partner is capable after undergoing shoulder replacement yesterday…Need a good shoulder to wheel that rig around. I plan on driving it also, but I need a back up. OMG it makes me swallow hard to think that my dream if finally coming true…you must have felt that also…Hurray for determined women in the world. Safe travels to you and the crew Sue when you make your next move…Hope it is a lovely as where you have been.
Shirlene,
I have confidence that you are going to handle driving your new rig. I think it’s a Class A, right? If so, just wait till you are sitting up there, master of your domain. It’s quite a view from the front window! I think you are going to do great. And, anything you are not so sure on, you can go to an empty parking lot or roads and practice. Get some plastic cones if you want to – no harm in touching them, and then you can find the limits so you know where they are.
Go you!
Hi Sidewinder Pen, empty parking lots or empty roads? You do know I live in Southern California right?…ha! Thanks for the advice..I was just a little worried how to get the rig to the empty parking lots or empty roads…lol. Anyway, I am supposed to have a 2 hour lesson this Sunday…I know that will help, at least getting to empty parking lot somewhere, probably in the middle of the night…just kidding, I know there must be some around on the weekends. At least I know I always have you here on standy by with all your previous knowledge and experience….thanks for that.
Funny because as I was typing I was thinking “but she lives in SoCal, where is she going to find an empty parking lot?” I once (ridiculously) drove to Hollywood to test drive a used car I was interested in. You can imagine how that went (what was I thinking?).
So yeah… big box store at night? But then who wants to do driving practice at night.
Maybe I should come over and we drive to the desert together and toodle around. Lots of open space!
Great idea on getting a lesson.
“Old salt” drivers (even if they be young) have a lot to offer and it can make a big difference even in a short time.
Queen of the road! 😀 😀
Thanks for all that, even the offer of driving to the desert together….that would be too much fun, I would probably just never come back..lol. I hope we meet up in the desert some day..I hope to meet a lot of the blogorinos along the way…
Shirlene, I ‘m so happy for you and your soon to be rig. You and your partner will be just fine… and once out of SoCal look for the county and state highways, staying off the interstates. Slow and go… it will work out just fine.
I remember driving east on I-80 into Sacramento after picking up the Gamer Babe and verbalizing, I was alone, “what in the world have I done?” less than 5 min later on EB hwy-50, a road I’d driven for 25 years to and from work, I knew it was alright and I’ve never looked back.
I check in at Bosque del Apache this Friday and another adventure begins, I wish you so many adventures, too.
Sue you give us all so much. And to that I say a big thank you.
And the desert rains and hail and wind… so very glad I moved south from the mountains which some are getting snow.
Wishing everyone and the Crew a wonderful rest of the week.
Carlene and Corky, the dog who barks at thunder, LOL!
Thank you so much Carlene..I am envious of you right now..I am so looking forward to going there when the Sandhills are there…good luck I hope you enjoy so much..
I do wish you luck, Shirlene, although I’m confident you are smart enough to cover all your bases. Good idea to have your rig checked very carefully by a competent RV tech. Wow, only 18,000 miles on it! I bet it’s a beauty. The PTV is on her way to 170,000 miles… 🙁
I hope the Salton Sea is a pleasure for you as it was for me and for you the last time you were there. It can be smelly at times, although not when we were there, and the last I read, it is shrinking fast. The day will come when it is no more…
Yes, I remember the feeling when my dream came true. I can’t describe it. You know now! 🙂
Best wishes to you and your partner, Shirlene!
Sue,
Math problem of the day pertaining to average miles driven in the PTV.
Since you know your present mileage on the PTV and, hopefully, know what it read when you purchased, you can at least figure what your average monthly mileage is.
From there, the yearly average can be figured.
Enough of that. Off the math subject now.
The Navajo Sandstone is so beautiful.
While on a UT tour it was pointed out to us the large percentage of public lands in UT. Here is a quote from BLM.gov: “The BLM manages nearly 22.9 million acres of public lands in Utah, representing about 42 percent of the state.”
We are so fortunate the government has protected these lands for us to enjoy.
Happy quiet camping.
Marilyn, about to leave OH for South FL
Hi, Marilyn,
Thanks for the math lesson. I don’t know that the monthly average or yearly average is pertinent because of the monthly and yearly variations in our travels, as well as the fact that I bought the PTV several months before retiring and beginning the full-time life. After using it as a commute vehicle, I drove it to Texas, around NM, and was stationary for a while having solar and Wave 3 installed. I may have the PTVs mileage somewhere, taken at the time of purchase of the BLT, which was several months after obtaining the PTV. That would help make the figures more relevant.
Have a safe trip to South Florida! I hope you will keep in touch, Marilyn.
Hey look what I found from this cool old website called rvsueandcrew.COM
http://rvsueandcrew.com/2011/04/25/power-inverter-thingy/
Looks like she had around 108,000 when you brought her home. So very rough numbers 60,000 miles in 4 years.
(also take note of HRH looking straight into the camera and Mick lending electrical advice.)
Thanks for the link to Sue’s old blog….I remember reading it….only 15 comments, and Mick is still along for the ride, and ever helpful with his technical advice!
Shirlene, So happy and excited for you. You’ll be awesome, and just remember that there is nothing that you can’t learn. Everyone started at the beginning. When I back up the trailer, I just say to everyone, “don’t talk to me, let me go slow and think.” Slowly but surely, it gets done.
You have many great adventures ahead, and we’re looking forward to hearing about it.
Thank you..slow it goes.. 🙂
Oh Shirlene, I’m so happy for you. So many happy times just around the corner.
Sending good energy for your partners quick healing. I’m sure you will do great behind the wheel. BTW try industrial parks on a Saturday. Lots of open parking lots and loading docks made for truck size backing.
Thanks Rick, I will be scouting around for those. I need to get some cones from Lowe’s I think…set them up maybe at a school or something close to where the rig is being store so I don’t have to drive far until I can get to the beach. There is lots of parking at the beach, large parking lots, people bring their rigs just for the day, and I plan to do that, just sit there and get used to the rig and moving around in it. Thanks for the vote of confidence! 🙂
Even though camping in your area is a toughie ($$), I just love the day parking! It’s fun to park along the beach and enjoy the beach, or even (gasp) people watch. I guess I can handle people watching when my ears are filled with the sounds of the waves and shore 🙂
I forgot to mention, that you getting closer and closer to AZ. Be sure to check the weather conditions as some areas, especially Phoenix are getting flash floods. Some with only two inches of rain are getting floods and losing their cars and homes. Be safe.
I do keep a watch on weather conditions. I appreciate your concern, Barbara. One thing I’m mindful of when choosing campsites is what they would become if heavy rains occurred at higher elevations or right in the campsite. I never camp in a wash and I always try to camp on higher ground than the immediate area. You’re sweet to comment on our safety.
This is one of the best tips I have picked up reading your blog Sue – I know you have mentioned it from time to time and it’s always a good reminder. I sometimes picture my future Casita painted half red and half white like a fishing bobber which I think would be cute! But then I think of those flash floods and say, ummm, no thanks. : )
I love the ted rock country. Reminds me of Sedona Az. We are only a couple hours away from there. I love the rabbit. Years ago my CB handle was Rabbit Ranger,or Double R, because my husband gave me the job of flushing rabbits out from under the brushes during hunting season! Your photo brought out that forgotten memory.
Hi, Karen,
Interesting comment… So you were The Rabbit Flusher… 🙂
More red rock photos on the way!
I have to say that your photographs of your camp are gorgeous!!….I really love the pics.of the crew the best…they are just adorable sweeties!!!
You make my day dear lady?.
What a nice note, Betty-Shea. Thank you. May the rest of your day be wonderful.
Nice campground. We are at Zion national park. We made the 4 hour drive in 8 hours, but we made it. We are camped at Zion river resort. Very wheelchair friendly, we will stay here for a few days then head back. This drive lets me know how many days it will take us to go to Mount Rushmore and the redwoods. So far hubby has been a real trooper.
I really like the rabbit photo.
Hi, Michelle!
I love that you aren’t letting the dust settle on the roof of your rig! I hope you and your husband enjoy Zion… Have fun!
Hi Sue I had the same thing happen, my battery sounded a bit sluggish on a couple starts so I purchased another one to bring along in case I needed it while I was traveling in Washington/Oregon this month and last. I did not want to turn in my old battery, they told me to take any battery core to any Walmart keep my receipt and I would get my $12 back. I plan to do that when I return home the 1st of Nov. I haven’t been around cause I didnt have reliable internet while traveling…Now at my sisters in CO and have internet trying to catch up my blog and blog reading. I had frost on my windshield last Monday in Lava Beds N.Mon. campground, but its been nice since then here in western CO. still plenty of good weather left in this year.
“Because a photo of a bunny is more interesting than a photo of a battery????!!!!
Well, how ’bout a photo of a bunny WITH a battery? Now THAT’S interesting!”
Very truly yours, the Energizer Bunny.
Hi Sue,
I know you watch the weather, but those flash floods around Phoenix, seemed to have taken many folks by surprise.
Angel’s vet check went well, she was a very good girl, but I wanted a second opinion on her heart issue. The new vet did X-rays which confirmed not only a heart murmur, but she also has a slightly enlarged heart, so she will be on medication as a preventative to keep her from getting worse. On the good note, her lungs are crystal clear. I was also told previously the she has an inverted eyelid causing her eye to water, for which they gave her a steroid. As it turns out, that is not what she has, but instead an eye ulcer and the medicine the other vet sold me was making her condition worse. Thank goodness she wouldn’t let me put that in her eye as prescribed. I now have the correct med. I she lets me put that in there. She also got a blood work-up and all those tests were negative and she got her shots updated. At least I know now what to watch for and she is good for another year and she doesn’t need any surgeries. They said she was real good through everything & never made a peep, unlike the Shiz Tsu that was back there. I am so glad I rescued her and that hopefully I can take care of her needs. She just makes my heart happy.
Flash flood always take people by surprise, that is why they are called ‘flash’ floods.
As Sue said above in response to your previous warning about flash flooding in Phoenix:
rvsueandcrew says:
October 20, 2015 at 11:12 am
I do keep a watch on weather conditions. I appreciate your concern, Barbara. One thing I’m mindful of when choosing campsites is what they would become if heavy rains occurred at higher elevations or right in the campsite. I never camp in a wash and I always try to camp on higher ground than the immediate area. You’re sweet to comment on our safety.
I have no idea where she might be now but her camp was over 400 miles from Phoenix . She had that going for her plus her usual caution and NO desire to go to Phoenix will most likely keep her safe. I think she going to be OK!
I did read Sue’s reply and know she is cautious, but it wasn’t just in Phoenix. It was most of Arizona, and you never know where she is headed. Oh, and no S**t on the reason for “Flash Floods” Glad you cleared that up.
On the previous post, Sue’s weather thingy had a flash flood warning….I commented on this, and she said the campground was on high ground, almost a bluff, with no chance of flooding…So I’m thinking she is just fine…
But she still hasn’t said that she fixed the thermocouple on the Wave 3….but maybe she has a plan to have that done at a shop further south….
Thanks for replying to Barbara in my absence, cc and canine. You’re right. We are up high on a bluff…
You’re also right about the thermocouple. I haven’t had it replaced yet.
Oh, BTW…. For everyone who looks at the weather widget… Remember that it is in “real time” and my blog posts these days are about days in the past. Sometimes that means we aren’t at the place described in the widget.
That Angel she’s a smart one! So interesting that she rejected the wrong medicine but takes the correct one. Glad to her that she is well and healthy. Just hearing the love in your words as you write about her I think her heart is perfect in the most important of ways.
Thanks Badger Rick.
Evening everyone.
I am just now catching up on the latest news. So much news to catch up with and it is so late already.
Glenda losing Jeff, so sad to hear that! When life’s dark nights befall us we can only hold to the faith that Life’s daybreaks will slowly shine again. And with those daybreaks comes the sunshine that smiles are again made of. Knowing that Lord-god made light out of the void is a strong and comforting knowledge for tomorrow’s days. Be strong, dear one, and hold fast to those around you. Know that we, all of us, are with you here too.
Then there is Barbara’s little Angle…she now has the correct meds and with the new Vet she is improving everyday 🙂
And then there’s all the birthdays! Oh my! Good thing all those Birthdays are at a distance or else my already expanded waistline would be overran with cake and ice cream! Oh heck, that’s OK! Pass it this way 🙂 CELRBRATE!!!
Well, I’m sure to have missed something or someone, forgive me please, it’s late and I’m heading to bed. Early call in the AM. I’m not a morning person. For me, if life lets me, life doesn’t begin before 10:00AM and several cups of coffee! For tomorrow, I will have to buck up and go against my *norm*.
Nite everyone, wish on a star and sleep well 🙂
Oh, and Shirlene…the new rig!
And wishing her partner a speedy recovery too.
Shirlene, if anyone could take that Class A and drive it like it was a tiny Kia, you can!!! I have no doubts about that, you will be *one* with it in no time! 🙂 You have that *Flashdance* kind of attitude where you *make it happen*!
Awwww Pamela, thanks for that. I bought new linens, comforter and pillows for it from Amazon Sue’s link yesterday. I guess Sue will be seeing a lot of orders from me in the next few months. I have been making lists of must haves…I hope the bank account holds out for all this ha! I can see it now, the best looking interior on the West Coast, but it sits in the lot because I spent all my money and now have no money for gas…. Part of the deal in buying this rig was a full take of gas starting out. At least I can get to the beach!
Shirlene,
Good heavens girl, you sound like me! When I bought my Van I bought three different Thommy Bahama quit sets. Two for Spring/Summer and one for Fall/Winter. Then followed the patio rug, the back packer style touring stuff and the smaller cooking stuff…just a few of the *needed* things. The sunroom and of course the handy porta-potti. Even in a Van a girl has to be, well, comfy and well appointed, yes?
Shirlene, you are gonna LOVE your new road adventures! Even if it IS only a block from home and a day at the beach.
*Madam Pamela* foresees all and reads palms… “Safe, Fun, Long Distance Travels are in your future!” 🙂 🙂 🙂
Thank you, Shirlene! I saw your orders. That’s a beautiful comforter set!
Good morning, Pamela! Come on, you night owl! Rise and shine! 🙂
At 7:54 a.m.?!
Well, I was up too because it was …… 32.7 degrees (!) in my living room (which is also my bedroom). That’s just wrong. Of course I can’t really complain as it is “wrong” by choice, since I wanted to stay in my nice boondock.
I think I might be wavering now though, as even though the days are steadily getting warmer, the nights refuse to budge, and it’s going to be cloudy. The latter is the cruncher. No sun to stream in the window in the morning and warm things up.
Nice to see you Pamela, and I hope you get through the morning and back to a humane (LOL) schedule. This from another night owl (Sue sounded way too perky – almost gleeful – didn’t you think?) 😉
Pen,
She did! I think she secretely does jumping jacks before sunrise 🙂 Wakes the crew with one of those Coach’s whistles… Of course, Bridget ignores it all and hides under the covers until breakfast is served!
Sue, did you hear that?! Your night-owls are teasin’ on ya 🙂
Hee-hee-hee… No jumping jacks before sunrise necessary. Bridget and Reggie are morning-dogs. All three of us are up and ready for the day while you’re beginning your REM sleep. 🙂
LOL Sue,
I knew there was a reason I bought those blacknd-out drapes 🙂
That thing, up in the sky, it’s shiny and bright…not soft-light like the moon.
Oh! I remember now…It’s The SUN!
~closes the drapes, rolls over and goes back to sleep~
…and what’s up with that 32.7 anyway?! Some hawk must have taken the sunshine… Do you still camp in your B+ or class C? Sorry, I forgot what rig you have now. I know you used to be a van dweller, yes? Now your camping is more RV style, right?
32 dergrees is mighty cold in my book! They say that Georgia is going to be really cold this winter. Last winter we had two weeks of temps in the low single digits. Klemper and I have talked recently and I might forego my Florida coastline trip. Instead head out for *Q* and surrounding areas for the winter. I don’t want a rematch of the kind of illnesses I suffered with last winter. Klemper can join me in the SW come April 🙂 Plans are still in the making but looks like that is the most current plan. Who knows, I have wheels, it could change 🙂 We’ll see. As for you, do you have a crockpot for cooking? I found that the heat from a crockpot is just enough during the night to take that bit out of the cold mornings! I know, who knew?! But it is true enough. Try cooking during the night, it really helps! Stews and anything with alot of liquids works great to heat up a small space 🙂
Hi Pamela,
Yes, I used to have a Class B van. Now I have a small Class C, but it really hasn’t changed my style much. It’s still narrow and only a couple feet longer than a van. Still sleep on the couch 🙂 It’s a bit nicer to hang out in on a rainy day though, as I can stand up inside (yes!).
I also have an awning now, but I’ve never actually unrolled it, because it seems most places I camp the wind “could” come up at any time. I’ll have to try it out though – I keep forgetting it’s there.
The “Q” plan sounds fun. To me anyway. I mean, the Florida coastline sounded good too, but I love a road trip, and plus the climate now at Q would just be getting better and better, vs. slowly getting more wintery. And all that wide open space for boondocking 🙂
Well, technically I’m not a “Q” type person, but I mean SW Arizona in general.
Either way…. ROAD TRIP!
PS: Forgot to reply on the crock pot. No, I don’t have one, I suppose for a couple of reasons. One is that I guess I don’t tend to eat crock pot type food, as I never had one in “fixed house” life. Two is that I don’t really use 110 (AC) electrical for much. If I were the crock pot type I’d likely get a thermal cooker (non-electric).
Sue,
HA! I am sooo bad!
I almost made it but fell shy of my appointment’s deadline. Now I have put my appoint off until tomorrow mid-afternoon. I know my limits, LOL! For that little added time, I get to pay an extra late fee of $8.00 to have my Airstream trailer tags renewed. Money well spent considering how often I cannot sleep through the night. At least I rested really well 🙂
Sue,
Read this (below).
Pen and I are ganging up on ya!
*Night Owls United* 🙂 🙂 🙂
Nice to see you Pamela, and I hope you get through the morning and back to a humane (LOL) schedule. This from another night owl (Sue sounded way too perky – almost gleeful – didn’t you think?)
Reply
Pamela K. says:
October 21, 2015 at 12:14 pm
Pen,
She did! I think she secretely does jumping jacks before sunrise Wakes the crew with one of those Coach’s whistles… Of course, Bridget ignores it all and hides under the covers until breakfast is served!
Sue, did you hear that?! Your night-owls are teasin’ on ya 🙂
Back in Pa again. Winter here with family and grandchildren. Very pretty
Campground and unique paths. So enjoy reading your blog . You make
Us feel like family. Enjoy your pups !?
Thanks, Deb D. You enjoy your family and whatever is around you in Pennsylvania!
Sue,
kidding aside, I am retinking the Fla coastline trip. Klemper and I have been talking about me leaving out for *Q* and the surrounding areas for the long colder than normal winter that is expected this year. Last Oct I started to go to Panama City for the Bike week…it rained so I didn’t head out. Then the flu struck me for several weeks over the holidays…bummer again. I managed, just barely, to suffer through winter and low single digit temps here in Georgia. Then the BIG ONE, pneumonia, hit me with force in late spring. Needless to say, I, we both, want to take a pro-active measure to try and head off illnesses for me this year. The southwest and *Q* seems to make some sense. I would head out solo, Klemper would join me in March or April. I have everything I would need in my van except for wired-in solar. I hate to do that because we want to convert the Airstream to solar soon. Klemper would stay and finish his work contract and the dog and cats would stay here with him while I take care of my health in the southwest during winter. With a *senior pass* and boondocking I believe I can pull it off! I like *Q*, Yuma area, about all those areas. So what is your wisdom about all of this? Do you think it may make some sense? If I leave out with round-trip money…I could always come back if it is not working for me. It’s a huge step for me…would really value your wisdom. Just to refresh your thinking, I have a full size Chevy Express Conversion Van with the Explorer Van Company package. An onboard power source of 2800 watts fully separate from the starter battery. 6 120 outlets and 9 12 volt conections for cooking, fan and lights. All are separate from the engine start battery. They run off the power house pack and a YETI solar generator. That and propane cooking for outdoors, I think I can make it work. No fridge at this time, maybe later, but the YETI Cooler works great for that for now. Not sure about an ice chest in the desert though…I’ll have to see how it does. I’m also looking at a thermal cooker, the original Panama Jack one. So, what’s your thoughts on it? Would I need any other passes other than the Senior Pass to pull this off through the winter?
I have often wondered, too, if you need to apply for staying at *Q* or do you just show up with Senior Pass in hand kinda thing? Of course, I do not mind people or noise so that is a good thing for me. I deal with crowds well too so staying put for days, weeks and months at a time are not an issue for me. Moving and driving every 7 or 14 days is fine too. It’s all good.
If you are staying in the LTVA at *Q* then you have to contact the blm in Yuma, You have to get a permit which cost $188 for 7 months, not sure about shorter lengths of time. There are water trucks and Honey wagons that tour the area for those needs, I don’t know the cost of each. Here is a link that should tell all:
http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/elcentro/recreation/ltvas.html
Sorry, it is actually $180 dollars. The link tells all.
At the link I posted below I read that a 14-day stay is $40. I mention it in case Pamela (or others) want to move around more. It also says permits/passes to camp at La Posa may be purchased on site.
Sue,
I’m really going to check out all those links and the areas you mentioned too. I think moving around would be a lot of fun! More to see and do, something different every so many days and all. Also more chances to find stores and to recharge the battery packs up.
Alan,
Thanks!!! Those tips are good to know about. I have a porta-potti and a *blue boy* septic tote-a-long but a real service truck would be nice. The long-term BLM pass, yes, I thought I might have to apply for one of those. The cost is fine even if I don’t use it that many months. I’ll check in to that 🙂
Later, once Klemper joins me, we would be traveling in our Airstream. But that’s for later and that is a whole different kind of traveling…complete comfort and over distance around the country. That’s the long term dream 🙂 Me, Klemper, our critters, and onboard solar for those travels are what we both want…in spring when he fully retires from this last work contract.
Question: What if the long-term sites are filled up from those who have already appied? Do you simply camp for the short-term of 7-14 days and move your 25-50 miles to camp? Then return again sometime later?
One note is that some (all?) of the LTVA’s have restrictions if you have a Porta Potti (vs. IIRC at least a 10-gallon black tank type system). I think you can still camp at them but you have to be within X feet of the dump station, which means you can’t really get out to the more private areas. My camper van “only” had a porta potti is why I took note of this. I’ve never stayed at an LTVA anyway, but earlier on I had considered it.
Pen,
So you stay at boondocks around those areas and not at the LTVAs ? Any restrictions on the boondocks other than the day limits and general stuff?
Yes, I prefer to boondock as I’m not the “hive of social activity” type. However, I think one could potentially get away from that at an LTVA if one wanted to, but perhaps not with the Porta Potti restrictions.
I have stayed at a number of 14-days-allowed areas that are very close to the LTVAs. One example is “Road Runner BLM.” There are also numerous boondocking places further afield, including some where you can pretty much stay as long as you want.
There is also some variation in the 14-day BLM places. A number of them in the SW Arizona area have a host. They basically are at the entrance and provide a bit more assurance that someone won’t “homestead” past 14 days. There are still no services at all (but places like RV Pit Stop in Q for those things).
Then there are other BLM areas, further afield that are also 14-day but no host.
PS: I don’t know of any place but the LTVA’s that limit Porta Pottis. My camper van only had a Porta Potti and I stayed all kinds of places in SW Arizona – just not at LTVA’s.
Pen,
I have the largest Blue Boy* portable septic system I could find. I forget how many gallons it is but we bought it at RV World for use at the marina years ago now. Some of their sites are full hook-ups and others are lacking sewers. We rotated between sewer and non-sewer every 60 days. It was COE property so you moved to a different site every 60 days. It worked out fine. Lasted both Klemper and me with all our cooking and showers for a whole week, that’s pretty good. Of course with just me and not cooking as much it should go for longer.
Hi Pamela,
I understand on the Blue Boy. And of course just because I used to have “only” a Porta Potti, that doesn’t mean I couldn’t have camped responsibly in an LTVA (even far away from the dump station), but…. that’s just their rules (or were, when I checked last). One thing I meant to mention is that if you camp someplace like Road Runner BLM (which is literally adjacent to some of the LTVA), and you like people, never fear. You’d have to try hard to get off by yourself – especially if it is around the time of the big Q gatherings. So I mean it won’t be like you are banished to loneliness if that’s not what you like.
Hi, Pamela,
Before I try to answer your questions, I think you will find the dry air of the Southwest as well as its warmth to be beneficial for your health. Damp, cold air is tough on those of us susceptible to respiratory illness. I think you have a great plan!
Since I’ve never full-timed or even camped in a van, I won’t attempt to answer those kinds of questions. Several readers have more experience with that than I do. I also don’t have experience with much of the equipment you have, so that, too, is better addressed by readers who do.
About passes… You will not need to purchase any more passes in advance of your time camping in the SW. If you decide to set up camp in any of the Long Term Visitor Areas, you can purchase the pass upon arrival. You wouldn’t want to buy those passes in advance because it’s always good to look at a place before committing to it, if possible. I really think you would like being close to all the action at Quartzsite and La Posa LTVA is like a small community of RVers spread out across the desert south of Big Q.
If you have an interest in Quartzsite, the La Posa LTVA may suit you very well. Click this link to read more.
There are other LTVAs that may interest you. Just do a search of AZ LTVA and you’ll learn more.
One last thing… Like you are now, I had a prepare-for-a-trip mentality the months, weeks, and days before I left Georgia to live full-time in the West. Some time after I was actually in the West, living in the BLT, I became completely aware that I wasn’t on a trip. I simply was living in a different place. What am I getting at here? You don’t need to have everything with you before you launch, such as passes. You’ll have access to plenty of stores and can pick up what you find you need as you go along.
This is an excellent topic for readers to share experiences and suggestions. I don’t know how much it will be seen at the end of all these comments, but I’ll ask anyway…
READERS: Suggestions and/or experiences to share re camping at Quartzsite or in southern AZ in general? Or any other helpful comments related to Pamela’s plan for this winter?
Sue,
Your advice is SUPER! I will wait until I get there for any passes and look the places over once I’m there. I do hope to boondock some in the outlining areas too…free is good and I have learned so much from you on here. It’s hard to measure all the tips, tricks and lessons you have shared with us all, it’s a huge value of info!!! For the past two nights and day
… days I have been re-reading all your 2014 blog posts. It really helped me to know that this was the right thing for me to try for my health issues this winter. I read about all the places you went to during what times of the year. That was SOOOO helpful! You ARE AMAZING indeed!!!
Everyone,
Everyone is welcome to give advice too.
I respect all the commentsfrom those who have commented on Sue’s blog. Especially those who comment about their *southwest desert* boondocking adventures! Only winter tips please, I don’t want to become overwhelmed and it’s easy to do sometimes with too much info. I want to try and keep this adventure simple and basic. Since I read a lot, watch some movies from time to time, have my cameras, and WiFi, a few trail hikes, it doesn’t take much to entertain me. I won’t get bored or feel lonely…I’ll miss my Klemper and critters but it is for a good cause, my health until March or April when he can join me 🙂
Thanks everyone!
The tip about the crockpot is neat, but mine runs on 110v. We normally camp in cold weather with a hookup, but like most people don’t run the furnace at night as it is tooooo loud, and wakes me up when it cycles off. Sue has the Wave 3, but I have found that if you have 110v (and possibly solar and an inverter), we run our 110v electric mattress pad—we don’t have to heat all the air, just our butts at night! ….just a thought, that you might want to give it a try. It doesn’t use too much power, I think around 100 watts, as opposed to a 1500 watt space heater. The number of watts are on the label, smaller sizes probably draw the least… We then fire up the furnace in the morning for about a half hour before I get dressed and walk Guinness..
“We don’t have to heat all the air, just our butts at night!”
I rely on the BTUs that Bridget and Reggie put out. 🙂
I don’t know about Bridget and Reggie, but my daughter’s dog was HOT when she was in bed with us. That would keep you warm from my perspective.
Enjoying all the comments this time.
Back in warm, humid FL. No more sweats for a while.
Marilyn
LOL, I am NOT rethinking about taking Her Bearness (our Golden) along this trip. She is such a Daddy’s Girl, she would really miss Klemper something aweful… But Doggie-BTUs are *the best* 🙂
for Sue
That’s a great idea! I already have two of them for our Airstream and love them! Thanks for reminding me about them, I had completely forgot about them. Should work great with the 2800 watt inverter power station in my van too 🙂 Once I’m tucked in I tend to stay under the covers until morning. Just being warm enough at bedtime is mostly enough til then. Yep, that’s a great plan, thanks!!!
Just some thoughts – I don’t totally know what systems you have in your van. And none of this applies if you are plugged in to shore power. But Q is mostly boondocking, so…
I don’t understand how you are going t power your 2800 watt inverter to run things like a crockpot or electric blanket. I mean, I get that the batteries power the inverter, but how are you going to charge the batteries? Maybe you have it all planned but just wanted to mention it. My camper van didn’t have solar or a generator (not that I run one anyway, ugh), and I had to watch things very carefully, plus not camp for long periods without driving to charge up (and that’s not ideal charging anyway).
Not to overwhelm you, but if you don’t have solar you might consider a portable setup. Although I plan fixed roof panels for future, I’m running on a portable setup right now and it’s working very well. I’m even running a small compressor refrigerator 24/7. The only time my batteries don’t get up to 100% fairly early in the day is if I don’t have the panels out (say an overnight stop) or if it’s very cloudy for many days in a row. But I still stay pretty “up” and a day of sunshine fixes it.
This isn’t to say it’s super simple and cheap, because there is still a system and things to consider, components to buy and install, etc., but it would work well in a place like Q and avoids having to mount roof panels.
OTOH, with a cooler and some LED lamps or a headlamp, and a Wave 3 or Little Buddy heater, you could basically use no power, except for “devices” such as phone/camera/computer.
Pardon me if I’ve not understood your system completely.
I think you are super wise in your choices of set ups. I have admired you for your knowledge for quite sometime now. So you have my ears 🙂
My van, I have LED lights and dimmer LED lights. 110 and 12 volt outlets on my Duracel Power Station 1800 watt inverter that has its own enclosed batteries (three). I hope to limit my power uses to mainly a few low watt lights and a sometimes my 12 volt fan, it’s the one like the truckers use. I would, for now, need to recharge the power station off of shorepower, 110 outlets somewhere or use the YETI solar generator and a 30 panel charger I would guess. I hope I said that right. I have a table lamp that runs on 12 volt or batteries and a charger for that and smaller items. To be honest, I could almost do without electric completely. I love the night and the night sky so lights are not that important to me. My phone, cameras and such charge on USB, again on the power station pack. So I guess as long as I can recharge the power station at a 110 outlet every three days or so, then I’d be fine. Does that sound like something that’s doable? Not the best of plans but it could work until I see what all I need once i’m there… Cooking on propane on a Coleman camp stove or my Trangia Stormcooker set (outside of course). If it’s raining, then pantry stuff, a sammie, soup, etc., on the mini-mo with windows, small fan and vent opened. I guess I’m thinking of the van as a huge tent and taking all the camping stuff as backups. I don’t want to use the van’s starter battery for anything unless I’m traveling from place to place. Then all the 12 volt stuff can charge and the RoadPro Oven can cook stuff while on the move rolling. That reminds me, an eReader, I need to get one 🙂 That I will use a lot!
I forgot, yes, I have the Buddy. Would only run it in on cold evenings just enough to warm things up and then turn it off before bed. At night everything gets turned off except my (future) eReader.
On our Winnebago Rialta (Class B+ van) we don’t have an inverter, but only run on battery power when dry camping, so we can’t run the elec mattress pad. Sue is very right about the altitude affecting temperatures….When it will get very cold at night, we try to camp at lower altitudes, and to find a site in full sun. We leave the windows shut during the heat of the day, so that at night it is comfortable from the residual daytime heat. We have lots of blankets (wool and sleeping bags) which keep us comfy until morning, when we run the furnace. If its really cold (30’s at night), Guinness gets to hop up on the bed….. Then in morning the sun warms us up again. We have 2 coach batteries that run the furnace fan, and have had no problem dry camping in Arches NP for 4 nights in the April. We have a built in generator for backup, but have never had to use it, as long as we don’t stay in one place more than about 5 days. When we drive to the next site, the alternator on the van’s engine charge all the batteries.
I hope this helps…I would be more concerned about getting sick, and not feeling up to getting yourself to the doctor….One of our major reasons for ditching our travel trailer and getting the class B+ was so that I could do everything in case Chris gets sick….which he did on the way back from Oregon this spring. I know Sue does just fine on her own, but I think she tries to be careful around other people in the winter so she doesn’t pick up any germs.
cc,
Yes that really does help. Gives me an idea of how long I could go without hookups if I manage it wisely. Like you, when I’m driving everything recharges except the freestanding power station. That recharges on landpower or the YETI 400 solar generator. I guess I have pretty much put my fears of running too low on electric at bay for now. Cooking is propane and the porta-potti is fine for the most part. The rest of it, sleeping bags (2), comforters and quilts are a go too. A screenroom for the outside and the rest I will just wing-it until I see if I need anything more. I have so much stuff already, thank goodness, but I don’t want to over pack stuff and be on top of everything piled all over in there. Simple is best for me, well organized and neat…otherwise my Zen is off the charts, lol.
Hi again, Pamela.
A few thoughts/comments:
If you are good with very minimal power usage and “hard tent” type life, you can do very well without much charging capacity. This is basically how I lived on boats and in the camper van. But to me, if i were settled in Q, it would be a drag to have to find shorepower every couple of days, and even to have to go out and drive might be a pain (plus that’s just inefficient bulk charging, basically).
If a “true” portable solar setup (and all it entails) seems like too much right now, here are some alternatives to consider. I’d prefer the “true” setup, but it is somewhat more involved (but not impossible, and we could possibly work through it).
But here is a “step down” solution that is a bit less complicated.
1) Buy something like the “Renogy Portable Folding Solar Power Panel PV 60w Watts for 12v Battery Charging” on Amazon. Use the included alligator clips to attach it to your existing house bank. Now, you still want to know how “full the tank is” in your batteries, but a “real” battery meter is again more expensive and needs installing. But another way to measure them is just use a cheap voltmeter. The key is that they need to have been in “the resting stage” for some hours. So you can’t have been using or supplying power to them. An early bird like Sue could just read the voltage right before the sun comes up; but for you and I maybe that’s quickly reading them at 3 a.m. during a nighttime potty call or etc. This would allow you to simply use your existing 12 volt outlets for things. You wouldn’t have tons of power to burn, but it would be a step up from nothing, and if you “camp” a bit, might allow you to not have to go find shorepower.
Or (or a combination of the two):
2) Amass a few of the little power packs, such as this one which you can find by searching this term on Amazon:
“Jackery Giant+ Dual USB Portable Battery Charger & External Battery Pack for iPhone, iPad, Galaxy, and Android Smart Devices – 12,000 mAh (Orange)”
Possibly combine with something like this:
“RAVPower 15W Solar Charger with Dual USB Port (Foldable, Portable, iSmart Technology)”
You can also charge the Jackerys whenever you are driving (or if you meet someone with power to spare, bring them over and charge them up).
The second option would be tough if you have a laptop, but doable for the typical USB things, including an iPad.
Other notes:
I use this type of battery charger (again, search term on amazon as written)
“Maha MH-C401FS-DCW INTERNATIONAL Version Smart Charger with Car Adapter”
to charge these batteries:
“Panasonic BK-3MCCA8BA eneloop AA New 2100 Cycle Ni-MH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries, 8 Pack”
“Panasonic BK-4MCCA8BA Eneloop AAA New 2100 Cycle Ni-MH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries, 8-Pack”
And voila, I can run headlamps, my camera (it uses AA), flashlights, clocks, etc. Basically anything that uses AA or AAA batteries. And again, you can charge it while driving.
If you do have a laptop, I would absolutely get a native DC charger adapter for it. Running through a 110 inverter uses a fair bit more power.
I’m most familar with the “true” portable solar panel setup (like you’d hard wire into your battery bank with a separate controller etc.), but I have used the Jackery packs, the Maha charger, and the Eneloops even so. They were even more priceless when I had a more primitive system (I went over a year with basically no charging, just when I drove – hard tent time!).
Again though, I don’t know exactly what sort of system you already have, although it sounds like it may be set up the more typical way, which is for either driving or shore-power (most RV’s seem to come this way, my two included).
Re-reading that, I hope it doesn’t come across as gobbledygook! But I’d be happy to talk about more if you’d like 🙂
We’ve put the renology suitcase solar pack on our wish list for our upcoming winter trip to Big Bend NP in January. We will be in the “no-generator” area and don’t want to offend anyone….
cc,
I have read some really nice reviews about those suitcase solar systems. From what I have read, they are pretty self contained are they not? I would consider one of those were it not for the YETI 400 already.
Pen,
Good heavens!
You are my ROCK!!!
I have long been a tent camper from the late 1960s on. Give me a good tent that’s dry and I’m good about anywhere except the cold temps. That said, my Conversion Van is a huge step up from that, lol. Even still, this past summer Klemper and I tent camped with out motor scooters and loved it, sleeping on the ground with sleeping bags even and no air mats! Just a coleman stove, a lantern, and the cell phone which I never used. Having the Van is a real luxury in that regard. It has a comfy queen size bed in the back 🙂 I guess my point is this. My days would be filled with things to do outside of the Van. Seeing sights, doing some hiking/walks, reading hard copy books and an eReader for night. I have a screen room for shade and a roof rack that an extra awning could be added to when it really gets hot. Like Sue, I’m used to taking my own water along so that’s good. The porta-potti for any night calls and a solar shower is fine in a privacy tent. I guess the best way to sum it all up is this way…think a teardrop trailer only my Van is bigger and the bed is awesome! 🙂 Yep, that pretty much would take care of the basics for me. If I could run everything off double A, triple A, C and D batteries I’d do it! Then charge them most anywhere 🙂 For other stuff, the USB ports are good on the power station and last a long time, days.
Does that help? I’m very low-key in the Van. The Airstream is a whole different kind of travel and camping and that’s what we full-time in. If that makes sense…
Sounds like you will do fine “hard shell tent camping.” The weather in the SW in winter makes it easy too, by nearly always being nice enough to go outside, and even when it’s chilly, it’s usually sunny and dry. Good points above about orienting vehicle so windows catch the morning sun – that helps a LOT.
I wanted to add one thing after reading about your previous camping, etc.
It sounds like you are a great “hard core” tent camper (sleeping on the ground – whoa, respect — I have to have my Thermarest). And it sounds like your Airstream is basically an “all the comforts of home” (plus style) type of place.
So now you are heading into a new, middle ground (which happens to be the place I inhabit and Sue is somewhat similar I think), which is a sort of a combination of “hard shell tent camping” simplicity, and yet with some luxuries, which are now afforded by solar/small electronic devices/etc.
So, a new middle ground for you to explore that is not quite the same as either of the other categories. (But I love it :))
cc,
…about the 110 crock pot. I bought a 110 to 9volt adaptor at Love’s Truck Stop. It has its own breaker fuse on the adaptor so it will not over heat during use. Works great with an inverter or power station. Doesn’t use much energy, I think it uses about 100 watts give or take.
Last year the host at Dome Rock told us about a really neat plan for Quartzite. He said one could do the free camp for 14 days, move to La Poza for $40 for 14 days, use those amenities, then go back out to a 14 day free camp. You could keep rotating that way, getting your tanks dumped and water filled. Of course you can also have those services come to your site as well for a fee. If you are there be sure to visit the Main Street Bakery— yum!!!!
kgdan,
Oh my! I have heard about that bakery, it’s legendary!!! I’ll have to try it *once* for sure.
kgdan,
Yes, I would only use a for-fee campground with electric for maybe 3 days…to recharge my batteries and maybe do some lite chores, showers and clothes washing, then go back to boondocking 🙂 I love that as a good plan!
No electric at La Poza. Water & dump station only.
I see now. I spent some time looking at the LTVA site Sue sent the link to. I now think I might need some kind of extra solar set up to hook to the Yeti Solar 400. Maybe 4 Bolar 15 panels, 8 would diff do it. Could do 4 30 panels but the 15s are smaller and easier to transport. With that added set up, I could do without electric hook ups for awhile 🙂
Beautiful pix as usual, cooling off here in NW Florida. Still love the desert. Treats to the crew.
Hi, Chuck,
A treat for me is to open my laptop first thing this morning and see your message here. The other day I was looking at maps (whoa, what a surprise!) and I thought of you and that day you drove us all the way from Bluff to Mesa Verde and to Four Corners and back while Geri babysat Bridget and Spike, and Spike hogged the water dish and wouldn’t let anyone near it. Good friends! Miss you.
Everyone…
WOW! Thanks so much! Sue, Pen, cc, Alan, everybody…you all had so much info and helpful tips for me! I am humbled. Klemper has been reading along side of me and finds this all so interesting too. I am even more convinced that AZ is the place I should be for the winter. Thanks so much!!! I only wish I had something in return to give you wonderful folks. I COOK so if you are ever in Georgia or while I’m in AZ there is ALWAYS a meal ready for ya…like we say in the south, “Come On Down, I’ll feed ya! 🙂
I can hear your excitement for heading to the SW! Whether or not you end up doing it, it’s always fun to hear enthusiasm 🙂
I’ll have to look up the Yeti 400, as I’m not familiar with it. They sure make nice coolers though.
I have to laugh as I couldn’t cook up a meal and entertain guests if I had a castle, and here you can do it in a camper van. 😀
Pen,
I love to cook for people. It is truely one of my most favorite pleasures in life. Good friends, Good Foods, Good Wines is a motto Klemper and I live by. One year when we lived in our *house* house we hosted and cooked for 22 Bell Ringers from the local Salvation Army. It was great fun and I loved every minute of it. One fella wanted to stay longer than the Christmas Eve dinner. Christmas Day was on a Sunday that year and he left Monday morning! A very nice homeless Vet. I have often thought of him and have hoped his life’s journey kept him safe and warm. It was -30 degrees in Minnesota that year during Christmas. I still remember the look on his little face, he cried when he had to leave. We sent him with packed meals and presents of a new winter coat, warm gloves and warm full-cover hat. I think it put him in shock a little bit! In those days when I was the Ways and Means co-chair for the junior Women’s Club, I was always cooking and entertaining one group or another. Nothing to it really. Good kitchen tools, timing and a well planned menu gets it done everytime 🙂 In the Airstream I do a lot of WOK cooking for company…one-pot wonders I call them, lol! Plate it up and serve the wine. Life is good.
the YETI coolers, have the YETI 65 and LOVE IT. The YETI Solar Generator 400 is a new thing. I don’t have it fully set up yet. Will be doing that this Sunday. Saturday is Klemper’s Octoberfest, we are heading to Helen Georgia for the day and evening fests. My German-American guy has to have his dose of all things German during this time of year so I spoil him 🙂
Pamela,
I looked up the Yeti 400, so I understand it now. I was slightly confused by the “generator” name. Basically, it looks like a larger, more-features version of one of the Jackery battery packs I mentioned, with some upgrades. It has a bit more battery power, albeit gel cell (lead acid) vs. lithium, and it has more/different ports (for attaching things). Looks like it has a small built in inverter too (so you can plug in 110 things). Looks like it is a 33 amp hour gel battery. I see it has a readout so you can see how the level is doing (lead acid batteries get longest life if you keep them above 50% discharged most of the time) (if longest life is important to you; deeper discharges may be a higher priority).
Also it has the added feature over something like the Jackery that you can charge it with a solar panel. Do you have that part? It does look like it would take a fairly long time to fully re-charge that way (minimum around 10 hours with the largest panel they sell – 90w), but you’ll have plenty of time.
This is an expensive system, per watt; but it’s convenient and compact, which does count. Aaaand, you have it in your van.
Did I mention: ROAD TRIP! 😀 😀
Pen,
I am so greatful to you for all your knowledge and your willingness to share it with me, just awesome!!!
Glad you found the YETI 400. Yes, it can be charged from a 110 (about 5 hours) or can be charged via solar panels. It will take up to 8 15 panels with an adaptor connection or 4 30 panels. I tend toward the 8 15s as they are easy to transport and store with ease. It can also be chained to my 2800 Duracel Power Station so at least one system or the other is charged at all times. I really liked that option! For now, I have not bought the solar panels yet. Still looking and seeing the reviews and prices for them. I’m still in the basics of the learning curve. This is my first venture into any form of solar. When we do do the Airstream we will have a full tech-house instull so it is done right and wired in. For now, this should be fine for my van. I think so anyway, it can get pretty pricey to go all out so I think I’m done adding stuff once I get the panels…I hope so!
Yeah, the Yeti system is very expensive per watt hour. I think part of their niche is people who aren’t sure what to get and they have “easy” packages. And/or potentially people who are car camping, maybe riding in other people’s cars, and want something they can bring along easily. I can’t say that the system really appeals to me, but then no-one has appointed me the queen of all judgements yet 😉 (Let me know when they do!)
Pamela,
That’s so “not me” but it sounds so wonderful! Good friends, Good food, Good wine sounds so generous, full-of-life, and festive. Reminds me of when I was in France and people just made daily life so good. I mean, not that they never did anything out of the ordinary, but what impressed me was that they made “ordinary” special, just in the way they savored everyday things (hmm, that part sounds like RVSue, but in her own way :))
You’re welcome, Pamela. I enjoyed reading your conversation with Sidewinder Pen. Hi, Klemper!
AWWWW, Sue, You are The Best! Because of you I have so many doorways opened up to me. Thresholds that I would not have crossed before in my Solo adventures without Klemper. It makes Klemper feel good about me knowing all this *stuff* because of you and all the other wonderful folks here. Klemper sends you and your Crew *Big Hugs*!
A gray fox stayed here for a while yesterday.Up close her face was wonderful,prettier than a bobcat yet as wild looking.As nice as that gift was,this morning I was glad I saw no sign of her.The mama cat is great about being protective of her kittens so I felt they would be safe.The neighbors wouldn’t have let the fox be safe,though,when I’m not around.Next door two roofers have been repairing a bit of damage on the side closest to my yard and I’m guessing their noise is what made her leave.
Good morning,Sue,I hope you what’s near you now is making you smile,too. I get to drive a couple of hours to get something today.It will be in the sixties out,likely the warmest day for quite a while as they’re predicting highs in the fifties at most until the end of the month.I’ll roll the windows down .Our autumn colors haven’t peaked yet so the greens surrounding golden orange leaves makes it like traveling through a giant florist’s bouquet. Wishing you an even more delightful day to enjoy 🙂
Good morning, weather,
I’m still contemplating your previous message to me. Speaking of gifts, your mini-essays are treasured. 🙂
A visit by a gray fox… lucky you! I notice that whenever I’m in the presence of a wild creature, one that I don’t see often up close, like a fox or a coyote or a bird that crosses the invisible boundary of safety to venture near, that the world sharpens, becomes clearer, vivid, more distinct… It’s hard to explain. It’s similar to the perception one has during a momentous event, as if time slows and everything is more real than ever. I wonder if that’s how wild creatures perceive their surroundings all the time. Maybe you understand what I’m trying to say . . . . The opposite is the deadening of senses one experiences in places crowded and noisy, the loss of detail, of really hearing and seeing….
Enjoy your drive through Nature’s bouquet today!
Your first paragraph delights me,Sue,in this case for both of our sakes,thank you 🙂 Yes, I understand what you describe as time slowing and the heightened clarity in our perceptions. As if entering a different dimension or level,we shut out everything else right then to focus all of our senses and thoughts on what’s happening between ourselves and them.I don’t believe that wild creatures perceive their surroundings that way as they go about their normal days and nights in life because I can feel those encounters having a profound impact on them.
My drive was awesome,literally!See you on the new post.
Wow, very interesting and helpful comments! I was wondering what the YETI Solar Generator was…I will research it. Pamela, what kind of Airstream do ya’ll have? We travel with a 2009 22ft single axle Sport. I love it, but we did have to modifiy the bed area a bit as it was a PIA to set up and down for the table. We basically cut the table top in two and leave half of it down with our sleeping bag and air mattress still on it and we can set up a pedestal table next to it that seats the two of us. Much easier to set up and down! We originally thought Airstream was superior in construction but we have come to believe that it is definitely not up to the standards of yesteryear! Good luck on your trip, and I will have to check out alot of the stuff you and Sidewinder Pen talked about!
P.S. Hi Sue-waitin for the next installment with excitement…
The “next installment” is ready to appear. I hate to interrupt the conversations here with a new post!
Terri from Texas,
Hi Terri! Sadly I have to agree with you about the newer Airstreams. A friend of ours bought a customized one a few years back and waited two full years for the factory to customize it for them only to find the construction less than the older models. We have a Vintage 1977 model, an oldie but a real honey! Sometimes finding original parts for it can be harder but the Vintage Airstream Club and Web Ring always comes through with the latest info on where to find stuff for it. Ours is like the Bambi with the front dinette, middle kitchen, side goucho sofa/bed and full shower/bath/vanity sink to the rear. A neighbor of ours had one and we fell in love with it some 25 years ago. Six months later one was sitting proudly in our driveway 🙂 We have never looked back or regretted our choice to by the vintage one. We full-time in her, all 19ft, yet I have never wanted for additional room. It fits us just right 🙂
BTW, our son is in TX. Plano.
Enjoy your Airstreamin’. Safe travels to you always!