tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41399070544788905722019-10-24T09:33:59.593-04:00A blog about traveling, vandwelling, and life on the road. Check out van life reviews, tips, videos and more!Unknown[email protected]Blogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-26248495972297910532018-06-17T21:59:00.:002018-06-17T22:04:57.334-04:00Well, you hear stories from fulltimers about how you should prepare for family emergencies, but you always figure it won't really happen.&nbsp; Well it did for me, and it changed everything pretty dramatically.&nbsp; My sisters husband (pictured helping fix the rv in the previous post), and my good friend, suffered a massive heart attack.&nbsp; This was just about right before I was supposed to be heading out.<br /><br />He survived but had to have quad-bypass surgery and I pretty much decided i needed to stay and help my sister and their 4 children until he had recovered.&nbsp; Of course my personal plans were pinned on me working as a camp host this year, so i went from plan A straight to plan E in no time flat, as B, C and D both included a job.<br /><br />So now all plans for travel are on semi-permanent hiatus until i figure things out.&nbsp; Plan E involves me living out of the van here while recuperating my finances,&nbsp; by flipping stuff on E-bay as best I can.&nbsp; I should say plan D was the same plan but it involves finding work right away, which is looking less likely until I have some medical problems of my own resolved.<br /><br />So bad news all around (did i mention my new laptop broke and my new to me pickup is running rough?), though there is a glimmer of hope.&nbsp; While I have tried flipping online in the past to nearly no success, I think I might be more successful this time, in fact I have inventory now that I've nearly broke even on just by selling my first 2 items.&nbsp; I'm going to use part of my profit for my looming bills, and the rest for more flipping.<br /><br />Wish me luck.&nbsp; I know I rarely post here as it is but now I don't have much to contribute.&nbsp; I may update as situations change, well see.<br /><br />Thanks for reading!Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-54498995352109561992018-05-02T00:25:00.:002018-05-02T00:27:49.942-04:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clJ8HI5tXUY/Wuk6jiMHs3I/AAAAAAAAFcU/Zs6uwkzMUOsek4b--4sExSbDnqxF15sBQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180501_175440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-clJ8HI5tXUY/Wuk6jiMHs3I/AAAAAAAAFcU/Zs6uwkzMUOsek4b--4sExSbDnqxF15sBQCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20180501_175440.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Progress continues on the RV Repair.</td></tr></tbody></table>Just a quick progress update.&nbsp; &nbsp;Last post I mentioned that I was fixing up an RV in the hopes of taking it with me to my camphosting job.&nbsp; &nbsp;Progress has been slow up to this point, but some was made today.&nbsp; &nbsp;The floor is starting to be framed, and I have a better idea of how to attack the problem.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jYDNWSOt5OQ/Wuk7ObPRGeI/AAAAAAAAFck/9KRT60IvLeg_7XrB-XvYrRQTu6Z2KrjQACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180501_175504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="/-jYDNWSOt5OQ/Wuk7ObPRGeI/AAAAAAAAFck/9KRT60IvLeg_7XrB-XvYrRQTu6Z2KrjQACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20180501_175504.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Working on the floor, we had to&nbsp; pick a spot to begin repairing from.<br />Look under the cabinet at the wheel well box on the left sharply angled,<br />this is how bad the 'extended width' has sagged.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The rv is on a 6 foot wide trailer frame, but they wanted to make it 8 foot across.&nbsp; &nbsp;They put a couple of flimsy metal extensions meant to hold the weight of the walls.&nbsp; They have bent, sagging both side of the camper.&nbsp; We are going to have to try to jack up the sides and brace them (since there isn't time or money to redo the whole RV)/&nbsp; &nbsp;I wish they just made the thing 6 feet wide.&nbsp; &nbsp;We are rebuilding the floor with joists that run on top of the metal frame, with the 2x4 joists across it for stability.&nbsp; &nbsp;They had 2x2s running in parallel with the trailer over these thin rails, it made no sense.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTwE3yodfLM/Wuk6y5VzBGI/AAAAAAAAFcY/B2cKCiM570EuV7iTt2gMKg8d0k_8Wa5KwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180427_210743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-FTwE3yodfLM/Wuk6y5VzBGI/AAAAAAAAFcY/B2cKCiM570EuV7iTt2gMKg8d0k_8Wa5KwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20180427_210743.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhaust being repaired at a friends garage.</td></tr></tbody></table>As for the new to me truck, turns out it was having a misfire.&nbsp; &nbsp;After replacing plugs, wires, distributor cap and button, we concluded it must be the distributor itself.&nbsp; &nbsp;Hopefully sometime this week I can get it replaced with a used one.&nbsp; &nbsp;I also had my exhaust worked on and it is pretty much squared now.&nbsp; I also will replace the brakes, though I may not have time for the rear ones before my trip.&nbsp; The brakes work ok, I just want to be cautious.<br /><br />I've got my medical in good shape, just need to see the dentist.&nbsp; &nbsp;I made the mistake of waiting to have a chipped tooth pulled last time I took off, and it cost me a lot in Reno.&nbsp; I wanted to hit the road by the twelfth to give me a good week and a half to make it to California before I have to be at work, but its starting to look like it will be a tight finish if doable at all.<br /><br />I hate to admit, that I am at the mercy of other people who are volunteering to help me get stuff done for the most part.&nbsp; I'm very grateful for a helping hand, but it is a daunting feeling being subject to the schedule and whims of others.&nbsp; &nbsp;Its a feeling I have striven to avoid by living the van life, and here I am again.&nbsp; <br /><br />Oh well, life is all about ups and downs, hopefully I can re-stabilize and come out in a better situation for it when all is said and done.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br />Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-57922509281437605862018-04-16T03:31:00.:002018-04-16T03:38:29.954-04:00Honestly I'm not sure anymore.&nbsp; &nbsp;I've made so many changes, I'm not even sure how things are going to turn out.&nbsp; With about a month left for me to get to my work camping job over 3000 miles away, a used truck I'm not familiar with, and a rather tenuous living space situation; I am a little nervous to say the least.&nbsp; A lack of a decent safety net or disposable cash too.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GBTakNa4n4I/WtRMsCZMwkI/AAAAAAAAFXc/pmYSaoOqltw5NFgYNmv5yDI1O75j3FwOgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180311_194120_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="757" data-original-width="1600" height="151" src="/-GBTakNa4n4I/WtRMsCZMwkI/AAAAAAAAFXc/pmYSaoOqltw5NFgYNmv5yDI1O75j3FwOgCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180311_194120_01.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will you fail me new friend?&nbsp; &nbsp;Will you make it?</td></tr></tbody></table>My original plan was to get a cargo trailer and build that out, but that kinda went the way of the dodo as my funds dwindled.&nbsp; &nbsp;I still plan to do it, but ill have to re-save up some money.<br /><br />So I moved onto plan B.<br /><br />I had bought a very old and cheap pop up camper.&nbsp; How cheap? $300.&nbsp; &nbsp; But it is banged up and the canvas is rotted and not salvageable.&nbsp; &nbsp;My plan was to somehow fashion hard sides on it that could pop up or failing that, just permanent hard side.&nbsp; &nbsp;Id have to cram a shower in it somehow too. It would need new tires and more worriedly for me, it would probably need new bearings and grease.&nbsp; &nbsp; It had small wheels which I have read are very prone to overheating and failing if they aren't changed often.&nbsp; &nbsp;The popup wasn't my favorite idea but it was better than nothing and I was running out of time and options.<br /><br />But then came Plan C<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-glFK4s4G8JU/WtRDpSj719I/AAAAAAAAFWU/XGz27YTLhncUeJGBy3EXEW6ar9qwcRyxwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180413_092031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-glFK4s4G8JU/WtRDpSj719I/AAAAAAAAFWU/XGz27YTLhncUeJGBy3EXEW6ar9qwcRyxwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20180413_092031.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 x16 ft, single axle k-160 RV by Dutchmen/Thor/Scamper. I don't know lol.&nbsp; <br />About 2600 lbs dry with lpg tanks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>Now, as circumstances would unfold, I got a deal on a small 'hybrid' RV.&nbsp; &nbsp;The size is about what I like in an RV (though actually a little bigger than I'd like).&nbsp; &nbsp;But&nbsp;I didn't need or like the pop out beds, so I will get rid of them (dinette makes a bed, or ill build one).&nbsp; &nbsp;It was much heavier than the pop or dreamed cargo trailer, but the pickup I had, in theory, will pull it fine.&nbsp; &nbsp;I did pull it from the seller to my family's property, but I could feel it back there.&nbsp; &nbsp;Part of that is probably the poor gravel and dirt road they live on though.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_FnG-NGLneI/WtREo11waXI/AAAAAAAAFWg/cbbI5qb_6kwMSzmlpDlTJ8dIb7IDu7BgQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180414_101930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-_FnG-NGLneI/WtREo11waXI/AAAAAAAAFWg/cbbI5qb_6kwMSzmlpDlTJ8dIb7IDu7BgQCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180414_101930.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Since the front part needed to be rebuilt/reframed anyway, <br />I decided to just remove the front bunk that folded down.</td></tr></tbody></table>The catch of course, is that the trailer is in need of a lot of repair.&nbsp; &nbsp;It has water damage.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yes I know, you should never buy something with water damage, unless you are getting it for free and are a masochist.&nbsp; Well I got it for nearly free, about $600 bucks, plus trade for the little popup I mentioned earlier.&nbsp; I estimate about 150 in lumber etc, and maybe another 100 on miscellaneous.&nbsp; &nbsp; I'm hoping i can just transfer the tags from the popup trailer and save that way.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RwI9mJxojTk/WtRFOAhVF8I/AAAAAAAAFWo/WsbIQQ0uhiUX21e1RpjfsQNTqMlj_-BEQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180414_112412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-RwI9mJxojTk/WtRFOAhVF8I/AAAAAAAAFWo/WsbIQQ0uhiUX21e1RpjfsQNTqMlj_-BEQCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180414_112412.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This front side from ceiling to floor is trashed from a leak.&nbsp; The dinette has been removed...<br />the floor was disintegrated to this state under the linoleum.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>Even though I have to basically rebuild the front part of the trailer from ceiling to floor, value wise I still made out way ahead.&nbsp; &nbsp;If I deconstructed the rv down to the trailer and sold the frame plus&nbsp; appliances and parts, I'd probably double my money.<br /><br />But that is all irrelevant, because I'm not looking to flip it.&nbsp; &nbsp;I need a place to stay for the next year (or however long it takes for me to get another solution).&nbsp; What it does cost me is precious time.&nbsp; &nbsp;I need this to be both road safe, and sleep safe (no mold) in a very narrow period of time and for practically no additional money beyond some lumber costs.<br /><br />Possible?&nbsp; &nbsp;Yes but it is gonna be tight and a lot of work.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bad weather here isn't making it easier, sunny days are still interspersed with snow for Pete's sake!&nbsp; On sunny days I'm working non-stop from morning to sunset, deconstructing it.&nbsp; &nbsp;Luckily I have a carpenter in the family who is gonna be giving me advice and help supervise me with the building aspect.&nbsp; &nbsp;I will, of course, supply most of the grunt work.<br /><br />One the bright side, one of my main wishes for my rig is there, a shower.&nbsp; &nbsp; And it is back behind the majority of the water damage, as is the kitchen. Whether it works or not is the question.&nbsp; &nbsp;Despite being only 16 feet long, it has a shower, toilet, 3 way fridge of decent size, ducted heat , stove, microwave and an AC.&nbsp; I have no idea if any of it works yet.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBLN7xdzD9E/WtRGcSeH-TI/AAAAAAAAFW0/9gj3iF20DZsbBdU8He7O2_ySA48ThzajwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180412_175528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-dBLN7xdzD9E/WtRGcSeH-TI/AAAAAAAAFW0/9gj3iF20DZsbBdU8He7O2_ySA48ThzajwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20180412_175528.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original source of the problems?&nbsp; &nbsp;My favorite is how they went OVER not only the molding with this crappy sealer, <br />but over the awning molding and brackets as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The electric I'm dubious about because it has a plug on the outside like most campers, but there is a converter box just sitting on the floor hard wired into the breaker/fuse box thing in the wall.&nbsp; The battery hookups on the outside are three unlabeled wires, 2 of them are white with red ends and one is all red....so not sure wtf that means.&nbsp; &nbsp;Red usually is positive, sometimes white does too, so where is the negative?<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-klv3VEOGuqM/WtRHRopzyXI/AAAAAAAAFXA/sGd_6YDkkoEdKVLLy6WXNaDm4MdGamLrACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180414_112423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-klv3VEOGuqM/WtRHRopzyXI/AAAAAAAAFXA/sGd_6YDkkoEdKVLLy6WXNaDm4MdGamLrACKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180414_112423.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really don't want to remove this water heater, piping and furnace,<br />but I need to rebuild the floor underneath them :(&nbsp; &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>The plumbing has been redone I think, as it looks fairly new and done with plex.&nbsp; &nbsp;There is a fresh water tank and 12volt pump, and there is a city connection too.&nbsp; &nbsp;A hot water tank.&nbsp; Im reaaaaaly hoping that the water heater, at least, works, as does the sewer system.&nbsp; &nbsp;Well see I guess but right now I am focused on the framing and sealing it all up, I can probe the other stuff at my host site.<br /><br />To seal it, I am going to use <a href="https://amzn.to/2H3cAgr" target="_blank">Eternabond Tape</a> on the roof seams and down the seam on the sides.&nbsp; This stuff is supposed to be a miracle worker for RV leak repair.&nbsp; I used it on my old popup and it held up well.<br /><br />I removed the molding already on one side.&nbsp; &nbsp;I am going to tape it, then butyl caulk over it and then replace the molding.&nbsp; &nbsp;I also got some self leveling lap sealant, and will go back over the roof features like the vents, AC, some old antenna, etc.&nbsp; I will coat the roof and new exterior wall with elastomeric paint too like what I used on the van roof, which held up for 3 years so far.<br /><br />Removing the old molding and caulking is extremely hard, but I discovered that a <a href="https://amzn.to/2JNx8qR" target="_blank">cheap oscillating tool with the smooth blade is amazing</a> at getting the stuff off initially.&nbsp; &nbsp;One of the few things I've bought lately i had no regrets about.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ill use a wire wheel to clean up the metal before applying the Eternabond though, as it will not stick to silicone.&nbsp; And the last idio..err...owners of the RV loved that silicone crap.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ill post another blog post about the actual progress of repairing this thing.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2JNEafh" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="200" src="/-8D0cg6KqcNM/WtRINY33FjI/AAAAAAAAFXM/bNP_6q0us_QPYKGxgSruF3ro74nNKNbuACLcBGAs/s200/61BVydURPZL._SL1500_.webp" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2JNEafh" target="_blank">So worth it, buy brand name blades though.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Road worthiness aspect, I had to buy some new tires, as expected of a new to you RV.&nbsp; At least they were <a href="https://amzn.to/2H1W2kL" target="_blank">ridiculously cheap</a> through amazon.&nbsp; It is a lot newer than the popup and has larger 14 inch wheels, so I am hoping I can get away without having to get the bearings done. I just don't have the money or time for it now.&nbsp; If i cant get to the host site, this too can be something i work on there.&nbsp; &nbsp;I have 5 months to work on it then.<br /><br />I bought a cheap taillight for it and a <a href="https://amzn.to/2IV0H8Q" target="_blank">trailer plug adapter</a> for my truck from amazon.&nbsp; I also bought mirror extensions, because unfortunately my little trucks mirrors cant see around it.&nbsp; <a href="https://amzn.to/2IZbAq2" target="_blank">The clip on extensions are cool</a>, as replacing the mirrors will cost me way more time and money.&nbsp; &nbsp;If they work as intended, I'll report back after I took them a few hundred miles.<br /><br />I might have had more money if i did sell the van.&nbsp; &nbsp;I am still kind of tempted.&nbsp; &nbsp;But I am nervous about my rig having so many unknown factors going into this long trip, I wanted to keep the van as an absolute fail safe, fall back measure.&nbsp; If this all goes to crap, I will make my way back home somehow and move back in the van to start over.<br /><br />Lets hope that this doesn't happen though, and everything goes smoothly from here on out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrNvlV1L1Nk/WtRMivaaw0I/AAAAAAAAFXY/NvuMVhPHXy0LmiQpThSHHuwW7HRFw7LaACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180414_101900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-MrNvlV1L1Nk/WtRMivaaw0I/AAAAAAAAFXY/NvuMVhPHXy0LmiQpThSHHuwW7HRFw7LaACKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20180414_101900.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><i>Thanks for reading.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you to help support my content, consider using any of the amazon links in this post, because amazon shoots me a couple bucks at no cost to you when you buy something after clicking one.</i><br /><br /><br />Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-28546315616640277172018-03-15T16:36:00.:002018-03-15T17:23:51.316-04:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gqeSaoyH7A/WqrTzDIr79I/AAAAAAAAFC0/Z9WYkFRLlzEnqhPsANdsOj9MqnWnpVQNwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180311_194120_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="757" data-original-width="1600" height="302" src="/-2gqeSaoyH7A/WqrTzDIr79I/AAAAAAAAFC0/Z9WYkFRLlzEnqhPsANdsOj9MqnWnpVQNwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20180311_194120_01.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half of the New Rig</td></tr></tbody></table><br />After 4 years of faithful service, I have decided to retire the old van!&nbsp; I will probably end up selling or trading it.&nbsp; After making the long trip back to West Virginia from California in a week, I came to the decision to let the old blue van go.&nbsp; Although it ran good enough for it's age, it was apparent that the van was just not comfortable to drive long distance.&nbsp; &nbsp;Although I did my best to make the van into a converted home, it was always intended to be a work van, and the cab portion reflects that.&nbsp; &nbsp;The steering wheel is the old hard, thin kind (no airbags btw) and it actually messed up the nerves in my hand from holding it for long periods.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TNxYaZqqrhM/WqriynK40sI/AAAAAAAAFDg/6P-xI4DUjGs9gMnGE7Zkv0uSwhvVUy-HwCKgBGAs/s1600/received_204077487009886.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="/-TNxYaZqqrhM/WqriynK40sI/AAAAAAAAFDg/6P-xI4DUjGs9gMnGE7Zkv0uSwhvVUy-HwCKgBGAs/s640/received_204077487009886.webp" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super nice interior.&nbsp; Jump seats in back.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I also wanted to find a solution that would let me stand and take an indoor shower.&nbsp; &nbsp;Although I got by on the road with truck stops or a solar shower when hot, sometimes I had to go uncomfortably long without one.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also when working (and sweating) it becomes less feasible to do it that way.&nbsp; I needed a trailer or something to pull, and I kind of wanting something i can separate for fuel savings when set up for long stays.<br /><br />With the help of a friend, who is the king of hustling for used vehicles, I was able to get the above chevy S-10.&nbsp; &nbsp;My criteria for a vehicle was super demanding considering my lack of funds.<br /><ol><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">I wanted a v6 (for better gas mileage)</span></li><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">automatic</span></li><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">reasonably comfortable</span></li><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">front wheel drive or four wheel drive</span></li><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">able to pull at least 3500lbs</span></li><li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">less than 150,000 miles</span></li><li><span style="color: red;">for $2000 or under.</span>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol>Yeah, so I was delighted that this wizard managed to find all of those criteria except one in about a week, when I had been looking for months.&nbsp; &nbsp;I had to add about $1500 more dollars to that pot.&nbsp; &nbsp;It's unfortunate, because the plan was to get a cargo or other small trailer to pull behind it with the money I had left over.&nbsp; So now I am scrambling to find the cheapest solution for the other half of the rig.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wish me luck. (I have some tentative plans to buy a gutted popup trailer for 200 bucks and convert it to a hard side...)<br /><br />That said the truck is in really great shape, with 140,000 miles.&nbsp; It is a 1995, so older than I was expecting, but it only had one owner since new.&nbsp; They kept up on most of the maintenance.&nbsp; &nbsp; And it is CLEAN, the body, engine, underneath.&nbsp; &nbsp;Everything.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-r7lElVcyT5M/Wqri8NVWJLI/AAAAAAAAFDk/0ZE26kCjWO4xnZ-oNnJBGsuRvvMnKgUFgCKgBGAs/s1600/received_204077467009888.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="/-r7lElVcyT5M/Wqri8NVWJLI/AAAAAAAAFDk/0ZE26kCjWO4xnZ-oNnJBGsuRvvMnKgUFgCKgBGAs/s640/received_204077467009888.webp" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The engine looks detailed!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Not surprisingly it needed some small things, like a tune up, the steering tightened up, and a new catalytic converter (i could get by on the old one but I wanted to maximize power).&nbsp; &nbsp; I plan to add this&nbsp;<a href="http://amzn.to/2FLBRai" target="_blank">cheap back up camera</a>, just to make my life easier, especially when trailoring.&nbsp; The 4x4 is amazing, I already had to use it several times in the sudden blizzard that hit here.&nbsp; &nbsp;Its a little picky about locking in, but most of them are at this age.&nbsp; Oh and it has cruise control!&nbsp; &nbsp;I've wanted that for forever.<br /><br />Soon I will be taking it across country again to return to my work camping job, and then head down for the RTR for some RnR and then maybe looking for more work.&nbsp; &nbsp; Pray I find a cheap camper soon, as my time to skidaddle is fast approaching.&nbsp; If i have to, I guess I can always throw a bed in the back right?<br /><br />So I guess I will have to use a much more loose interpretation of "van life" from now on?&nbsp; &nbsp;Caravan life?&nbsp; &nbsp;So European!&nbsp; &nbsp;:)Unknown[email protected]2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-59741367447509753602018-01-30T06:28:00.:002018-01-30T11:40:25.177-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/vanlifecrisis" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="256" data-original-width="256" src="/-pNoZYZTKtAM/WnBOO7WFGrI/AAAAAAAAE1g/SB6AfIkJJCglhsNy2od6Mahj0xNWdoy2wCLcBGAs/s1600/icontexto-inside-youtube-1.webp" /></a></div><br /><br />Did you know I have a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/vanlifecrisis" target="_blank">youtube</a>?&nbsp; If you missed the link above or my occasional posts being augmented with youtube videos, this may be news to you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="/vi/mpkge1Zz3DA/0.webp" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mpkge1Zz3DA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br />Up until my youtube has been pretty sparse.&nbsp; I know that vandwellers have swarmed to the platform in the last year, it was kid of funny to see a group of 5 or 6 people at the rtr, all pointing cameras at each other while talking.&nbsp; I'm not disparaging them though, the more people that can do this life style and support themselves, the better.&nbsp; I found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDM9GN-23ww-JxkFW-Dg8QA" target="_blank">someone i talked to on the road</a> about youtubing on there and it made me really happy.<br /><br />I think the drama whoring for views is irritating though, but I try to just stay away from that, especially the guys who create drama by complaining about the drama lol.<br /><br />However, they do make me realize just how <i>bad</i> my videos have been in the past, <b>at least production quality wise</b>.&nbsp; A big part of that is that i don't have any special equipment nor could i afford any.&nbsp; So i just used what i had, the cheapest go pro and whatever cell phone i had available.<br /><br />But i still feel the information i provide is good, genuine, and useful to people.&nbsp; I also use it myself to go back and remember where i have been with a fond smile.<br /><br />So even tho i haven't made a penny off youtube yet (they only pay when you reach $100 in ad revenue), and despite youtube cancelling my partnership, because they now require 1000 subscribers, i decided to improve it a bit.&nbsp; The money would'a been nice to upgrade my equipment but its not why i was making them in the first place.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2DHJWeT" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="480" height="180" src="/-So7EpyttR2g/WnBQXE9pSLI/AAAAAAAAE1s/gYwvAnD-Fmox-ldPCHUndjZorng0ZpLswCLcBGAs/s320/Zhiyun-Smooth-Q-stab_large.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Price dropped, 1/3 off!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I caught a sale on a piece of equipment that allows me to at least stabilize my camera, called a <a href="http://amzn.to/2DO1eqT" target="_blank">gimbal</a>.&nbsp; Sometimes you gotta pull the trigger even if you hadn't planned to yet.&nbsp; If you watched my videos you will have definitely noticed painful amounts of shaking.&nbsp; Part of that is a severe limp I have from gout.&nbsp; This device will hopefully erase that problem.&nbsp; You can also do some pretty cool, professional looking effects with it.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MRMU2HU/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=b64cddb3c34f994ff1bca49c1b0629f6" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B00MRMU2HU&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;A cheap Lav Mic, has good reviews on youtube</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00MRMU2HU" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div><br />I also bought an <a href="http://amzn.to/2EmyVAX" target="_blank">external mic</a>.&nbsp; Audio is always terrible with the built in microphones of the go pro and my phone.&nbsp; As i went back to edit clips of my gopro, i had to abandon whole places i went to because the audio just made it un-watchable.&nbsp; This will hopefully help at least the cellphone footage.&nbsp; Of course part of it is my dull voice, but I'm working on it.&nbsp; I'm not a public speaker or a hyper-energetic, coked up werewolf type person to start with. lol<br /><br />I wish i could afford <a href="http://amzn.to/2DNeE6m" target="_blank">a decent camera</a> for video (and earth porn photos) but that just isn't possible (maybe if i get a few <a href="https://www.patreon.com/vanlifecrisis" target="_blank">patrons on patreon</a> eh?).&nbsp; But in a way i am excited to see what i'm capable of now given the limitations i have.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Rebel-DSLR-Camera-18-55mm/dp/B071K62DPN/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1517310737&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=Canon+SL2&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=316666e51832b7549737c8778c534985" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B071K62DPN&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahh, one day.&nbsp; One day.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B071K62DPN" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>I also plan to make my videos a bit shorter in the future.&nbsp; I often try to give every bit of info i have on a subject and want people to see all aspects, but i now realize that it just bores viewers and loses focus on the important points.<br /><br />I plan to convey more of the essentials and gloss over the other stuff.&nbsp; So more skips.&nbsp; I think ill trust in my blog to go into more depth and send viewers here if they are interested to learn or see more.&nbsp; I may do multi-parters as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;I hate em personally but i can see how a 2 parter might be easier to digest.<br /><br />So anyway, just a little bit of a technical update.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you want to see how i improve, head over to youtube and hit the subscribe button to get my videos when they drop.&nbsp; There will still be some older footage for a while as I don't want to completely abandon all I have from the past few months (mostly campsite reviews), but soon I will be adding in these changes moving forward.<br /><br />Here is a video I made early on, which i felt had ok production given what I had to work with, lets see if i can top it.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="/vi/olZLYS9sNFs/0.webp" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/olZLYS9sNFs?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Unknown[email protected]2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-79489303916370904322018-01-20T21:52:00.:002018-01-20T23:28:57.533-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-1_q6uaB9ATU/WmP-MXgMbOI/AAAAAAAAEyM/qYQWQQBQgVwASLcofwN9bIwpofVAjXVhwCLcBGAs/s1600/question-mark-dollar-sign-white-background-69444809.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="240" src="/-1_q6uaB9ATU/WmP-MXgMbOI/AAAAAAAAEyM/qYQWQQBQgVwASLcofwN9bIwpofVAjXVhwCLcBGAs/s1600/question-mark-dollar-sign-white-background-69444809.webp" /></a></div><br />So I have pretty much outlined my plans and goals for the year and so far things were on track.&nbsp; &nbsp;With the money I had saved from camphosting, combined with my unemployment, I was going to look to change my rig before heading back to my next hosting job in the spring.&nbsp; Just had to come home and get mom in her new senior living setup, get my license renewed and buy my rig.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-1vZKf1Fe9P0/WmQAtBbMgzI/AAAAAAAAEzA/mId-oJCU4G0XCs61tYH9k6XdGKbA72MWQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180103_172506.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-1vZKf1Fe9P0/WmQAtBbMgzI/AAAAAAAAEzA/mId-oJCU4G0XCs61tYH9k6XdGKbA72MWQCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180103_172506.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You served me well my blue friend, but<br />its time to retire.</td></tr></tbody></table>Everything was going swell, but of course the government decided life can't be that easy and interjected itself in my plans.<br /><br />A seemingly innocuous demand, do your civic duty, and serve on a jury.&nbsp; &nbsp;Be on call for 5 months, ok getting a little ridiculous now....but I don't know anyone who had to serve for more than a few days or at most weeks.&nbsp; &nbsp;After confirming my job start time to be later in the year, I calmed down.&nbsp; I don't mind serving, I just don't want to risk everything to do it.<br /><br />But as I got my unemployment packet and looked over the bi-weekly 'certification' form (they use to make sure you are looking for work, <b>always available to work</b>, and <b>not making money any other way</b>), I came to a pretty scary realization.&nbsp; Because my forced <i>duty, </i>I may lose my unemployment benefits.<br /><br />I started doing research online, wondering why they would even count jury duty at all, as it is mandated.&nbsp; &nbsp;Well apparently they do and you must report it.&nbsp; &nbsp;From multiple sources I found online you are required to report it, and how much you make (40/day for me).&nbsp; Putting any other income is going to get your certification rejected, especially if you also answer the 'were you available to work' question with a NO.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nHu1M1UNxVY/WmP_ieZQzDI/AAAAAAAAEyo/VvJPf1oFbE4rNLhme-sbLtdRh-M5VbAKwCLcBGAs/s1600/jury-duty.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="256" data-original-width="448" height="182" src="/-nHu1M1UNxVY/WmP_ieZQzDI/AAAAAAAAEyo/VvJPf1oFbE4rNLhme-sbLtdRh-M5VbAKwCLcBGAs/s320/jury-duty.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oddly accurate...</td></tr></tbody></table>I dug some more, and found that the law actually says that jury duty, or any summons to court still counts as 'being available to work'.&nbsp; &nbsp;The problem is that a yes response to this combined with entering anything in the 'money you made from work or other sources' will still also trigger a rejection.<br /><br />So, I am faced with 2 things happening.&nbsp; &nbsp;The application is rejected (i have to do a paper one as well, instead of online, whenever you don't give standard 'acceptable' answers), and they will delay my payment and call me for a phone interview.&nbsp; Hopefully I can explain the situation, at which point they will deduct the $40 from my unemployment, and issue my payment eventually.<br /><br />Or as what happened to some others, they will just cancel my claim altogether, and I will have to fight to get it reinstated by contacting them, and wont even get the pay for those weeks.<br /><br />Anyway, it leaves me wishing that I had went to my doctor right away and gotten an excuse to get out of jury (I do actually have a spinal defect that makes sitting or standing for any prolong period of time progressively more painful, that's why I can only drive 1 hour or 2 max at a time).&nbsp; But I was snowed in the last 3 weeks, and out of time to see the doctor.<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp;As it is, the best case scenario is I go to court all day for free, and worst case is I lose nearly $4,000 in benefits (assuming I stay unemployed till spring) over 40 bucks.<br /><br />I wish they just made an across the board exception, with a little checkbox, for 'did you serve jury duty' and leave it at that for 'doing my civic duty' like im supposed to do.&nbsp; Since you have to go and employers aren't even suppose to prevent or penalize you for going.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsN2Dn_qUiA/WmP_hSryvkI/AAAAAAAAEyY/3p12ComuPe0Ia8Q4KLcERAL4vswL5YU2ACEwYBhgL/s1600/19DMPmn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="625" height="296" src="/-ZsN2Dn_qUiA/WmP_hSryvkI/AAAAAAAAEyY/3p12ComuPe0Ia8Q4KLcERAL4vswL5YU2ACEwYBhgL/s320/19DMPmn.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actually, I think I know...</td></tr></tbody></table><br />It all seems odd and confusing to me.&nbsp; The timing is terrible, if I coulda just got a couple checks in the bank I wouldn't mind but they almost perfectly conspired to conflict with each other (i found it more than a coincidence that just days after paying my states 'personal property tax' on my van, I got a notice to serve, I should have waited till my registration was expired in February).<br /><br />Oh well, maybe I can find a shitty retail job if all of this falls through that I can just quit later.&nbsp; &nbsp;Just felt like bringing up a strange situation that you may find yourself in if you do the camphosting/unemployment route.Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-11474477972590118492018-01-11T01:35:00.:002018-01-25T15:18:16.484-05:00<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GJy1g4K7uwI/Wlbv-afdmNI/AAAAAAAAEu0/1f4jXuG_H1kPJEdu3hLJPYWiEDJsSlbmwCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GJy1g4K7uwI/Wlbv-afdmNI/AAAAAAAAEu0/1f4jXuG_H1kPJEdu3hLJPYWiEDJsSlbmwCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Job Sweet Home</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I've wanted to do this blog post since I finished camp hosting back in October, after I completed my first season.&nbsp; &nbsp;I decided to upload this blog post now because the time to get a camp hosting job, is quickly approaching.&nbsp; &nbsp;Camp Hosting companies usually do the bulk of their recruiting at the end of January for the following spring (May and June typically).&nbsp; Since I want to be thorough, it will be a lengthy post, so sorry about that in advance, I will try to break it up as best as I can.<br /><br />If you are more of the "Show don't tell" type, I also made a video covering these points and giving a demonstration of typical camp hosting day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="/vi/uIpK0kP2s8s/0.webp" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uIpK0kP2s8s?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><br /></div><h3><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">What is Camp Hosting?</span></h3><br />You may not even know what Camp Hosting is, so let me explain.&nbsp; &nbsp;Camp hosting is a job where you manage a campground for a concessionaire (company) to take care of the area, collect fees, and make campers happy.&nbsp; &nbsp;It is nearly always a seasonal job (but not always) and most jobs take place in the spring-autumn months (but not always).&nbsp; &nbsp;The specifics of these jobs vary widely by not only the particular company you work for, but by the location even in that same company, and even by the particular land owner/planner (typically government or utility) that contracts that company.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mi4V9eyV00k/WlbwsT5FK0I/AAAAAAAAEvA/ZGvRy9hOhjoXJm9-yIOnRt1Cc9hhxtJGACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170920_110304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-mi4V9eyV00k/WlbwsT5FK0I/AAAAAAAAEvA/ZGvRy9hOhjoXJm9-yIOnRt1Cc9hhxtJGACKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20170920_110304.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the overall area I managed, 6 recreation areas daily.&nbsp; <br />Some others occassionally.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />So I will mostly be speaking about my experiences, with my company.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you read my blog before you know i don't like vague, wishy washy posts.&nbsp; &nbsp;I will always give you the details.&nbsp; &nbsp;My company that I worked for and will next season is <a href="http://www.americanll.com/current-job-openings/" target="_blank">American Land and Leisure</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;They are one of the largest in the country, so allow you to move around each year if you want.&nbsp; If you already know what camp hosting is and just want to know how to score a job already, you can stop reading, click that link, and apply to them right now.&nbsp; &nbsp;Give the HR guy a call, he is really nice.&nbsp; <br /><br />Chances are extremely high you will be hired, probably right on the phone (assume you are being interviewed if you talk to him, even if it seems casual).<br /><br />If you want to learn more about what camp hosting is like and other options before applying, then read on.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fQRov-duC4/Wlb0_58GcII/AAAAAAAAEv0/znskBNT_gB8BmbaPLP3PFrH7xI2mCG6EACKgBGAs/s1600/0603171017a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-7fQRov-duC4/Wlb0_58GcII/AAAAAAAAEv0/znskBNT_gB8BmbaPLP3PFrH7xI2mCG6EACKgBGAs/s400/0603171017a.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lindsey Lake, late May. One of my campgrounds.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />For people like me, who are not disabled or are too young to collect social security or retirement, one of the biggest concerns about living the nomadic lifestyle is how you will pay for it.&nbsp; &nbsp;As cheap as this lifestyle can be, you will eventually need some sort of money to live on, its just a fact of the world we live in.&nbsp; &nbsp;While there are some opportunities available to work online at your leisure, these are not as easy or as lucrative as a lot of the internet and others will have you believe.&nbsp; &nbsp;Camp hosting is a sure fire way to put money in your hands, while providing you a (usually lovely) place to live in the mean time.&nbsp; <br /><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">What Will They Require of Me as a Camp Host?</span></h3><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--0LnkF6tIHg/WlbwRP4V-rI/AAAAAAAAEu4/acKg6TLyipoYUypQTGj6pmIjO_LL_4V8gCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170922_080443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/--0LnkF6tIHg/WlbwRP4V-rI/AAAAAAAAEu4/acKg6TLyipoYUypQTGj6pmIjO_LL_4V8gCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20170922_080443.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Fuller Lake, My Host Site</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Usually you are a temporary employee and are expected to work and live on a campsite they provide for 5-6 months, after which you are cut loose.&nbsp; &nbsp;Though you are often invited back to the same position, or get first crack at another open position that is available next season, you are technically laid off at the end.&nbsp; &nbsp;This is a good thing, because you can, and are often encouraged to, apply for unemployment afterwards if you meet the particular states eligibility.<br /><br />As part of your agreement to work with them, you will be provided a campsite.&nbsp; Not all campsites are the same obviously, and what amenities are included are different for each site.&nbsp; &nbsp;It probably goes without saying, but full hook up sites go first, and are often taken by people with larger rigs.&nbsp; Sometimes you will be right next to customers, sometimes you will be all by yourself and drive to the campground or campgrounds.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeWl9hymy-U/WlbxwE8CwuI/AAAAAAAAEvM/9y9OJT7_gcYDlGyzfYpO7DirfVxwab9NwCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeWl9hymy-U/WlbxwE8CwuI/AAAAAAAAEvM/9y9OJT7_gcYDlGyzfYpO7DirfVxwab9NwCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeley Lake, one of my campgrounds</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The more remote you get, the less hookups will be available.&nbsp; &nbsp; These companies DO ask you what kind of rig you have and SOME are particular about your rig size, type and even age.&nbsp; &nbsp;Typically they want you to have a toilet and indoor shower.&nbsp; Some want you to have a hard side camper (cold and bears).<br /><br />The more remote you get, and the less amenities you require, the less they give a damn.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you are in a cargo van, then no, you are in a self-contained&nbsp;<i>campervan </i>and willing to work remote and without hookups when asked.&nbsp; <i>Capiche?&nbsp;</i>As the season draws near, some spots i think they'd take a guy with a bike and a tent they are so desperate to fill spots (I'm exaggerating, but i did hear about a biker who worked a site once).<br /><br />Even if you say you don't need hookups, they will provide you water via tank and most likely sewer, and you'll have all the toilets you need cause you'll be cleaning them :)<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G7jCNWJA_9k/WlbzGwTn8SI/AAAAAAAAEvY/D_YORNqZMP8oj7BkQPHmTJmVAaLwKA8UgCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G7jCNWJA_9k/WlbzGwTn8SI/AAAAAAAAEvY/D_YORNqZMP8oj7BkQPHmTJmVAaLwKA8UgCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carr Lake, one of my campgrounds</td></tr></tbody></table><br />You will be required to have a cell phone, you won't be reimbursed for it.&nbsp; &nbsp;I have heard that some companies will provide you with a phone, walkie talkie or radio.&nbsp; But mine did not.&nbsp; <br /><br />Even though I barely got a signal where I was, I still had to have a way to contact the Area Manager or emergency services.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sometimes I had to drive to a spot where i could get a signal, check messages, etc.&nbsp; I once stood on a rock, held my phone up in the air on speaker to call the fire department.&nbsp; &nbsp;You might be able to use email as well (i found that data or text worked more consistently than voice calls).&nbsp; This might not be a factor for you if you aren't in a remote area like I am.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z9NdbHRzbbM/WlbypJ16YhI/AAAAAAAAEvU/JQwgxc8ClL86S4CZurpgKrOXBVswGKl2QCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-z9NdbHRzbbM/WlbypJ16YhI/AAAAAAAAEvU/JQwgxc8ClL86S4CZurpgKrOXBVswGKl2QCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Road to one of my campgrounds.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Depending on the position, you may be required to drive your own vehicle (with gas reimbursement, but not wear and tear.).&nbsp; &nbsp;Unless it was a paved campground, and not too big at that, I wouldn't take such a position.&nbsp; &nbsp;My company provided me with a four wheel drive truck, and a gas card because the insane roads I had to travel.&nbsp; &nbsp; A lot of places provide a golf cart if you in just one spot (my job next season is like this).<br /><br />You will not be required to have any tools, supplies and things of that nature as they will be provided.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, both I and a lot of the hosts i worked with would bring more tools or things to make the job easier even if it meant the company wasn't providing them.&nbsp; &nbsp;For example, I bought a smaller/lighter electric weed eater, because the larger gas ones can strain your back.&nbsp; And since I planned to continue this job in the future, it was a good investment to me.<br /><br /><b>You will be required to work physically</b>.&nbsp; &nbsp;Some of you out there are seniors or older, please do not go into this thinking it isn't manual labor.&nbsp; &nbsp;Just remember, they are huge safety buffs, so ask for help.&nbsp; &nbsp;Go at your own pace.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbdMOBqyK80/WlbznVhB4wI/AAAAAAAAEvg/mM3b7y21544gb_o9x8ewogWiJ7LU41B_QCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbdMOBqyK80/WlbznVhB4wI/AAAAAAAAEvg/mM3b7y21544gb_o9x8ewogWiJ7LU41B_QCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twice a season, had to hike 2 miles to this one.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />You will be required to walk, and maybe sometimes hike miles (i was a little surprised at this one), and lift heavy things.&nbsp; &nbsp;My job says 'lift up to 50 lbs" but I will tell you now, picnic tables will be moved and they weigh like 500 lbs.&nbsp; DO NOT let anyone convince you that you should relocate a table alone.&nbsp; &nbsp;You will be required to scrape old paint off tables and repaint them.<br /><br />You may be required to shovel firepits out and level them, lift logs, rake, trim brush, use a weed eater and a leaf blower.&nbsp; You may be required to hang up signs and notices, repair signs, and even replace broken toilet seats.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdV3ZEkocEM/Wlb0A2Xf-iI/AAAAAAAAEvo/MbM-2xks2jUaMKCWWkkPjjqFz6hOwuRpQCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-ZdV3ZEkocEM/Wlb0A2Xf-iI/AAAAAAAAEvo/MbM-2xks2jUaMKCWWkkPjjqFz6hOwuRpQCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to replace this seat, no biggie, look up at those pics above for solace.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />They will require you to clean bathrooms.&nbsp; &nbsp;Inside the toilet riser, and the outside, the floors, everything.&nbsp; You will be provided with gloves and supplies, its not the most fun job but its not brain science either.&nbsp; &nbsp;People can be gross, and you will be shocked by how messy they can be, but get it over with.&nbsp; Eventually you won't even be bothered.&nbsp; &nbsp; Some places will give you water hoses and pressure washers so you wont have to even touch anything.&nbsp; If you don't have water available on demand (they usually provide you water somehow for cleaning, like a tank on your vehicle), i recommend talking your AM into getting you a pressurized garden sprayer or just ponying up for one, makes your life so much easier.<br /><br />You will be required to pick up trash and haul trash away.&nbsp; You should be provided with a nice grabber tool which I actually enjoyed playin...err...working with.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KXIFxShT_0s/Wlb1xaUKOCI/AAAAAAAAEwA/t8Y99UEvQKM79Ffgjvoz9Kymo2IV5f8egCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KXIFxShT_0s/Wlb1xaUKOCI/AAAAAAAAEwA/t8Y99UEvQKM79Ffgjvoz9Kymo2IV5f8egCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to replace this sign.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Some positions require paperwork, computer work, reservation handling, money collection and counting.&nbsp; &nbsp;You may be required to ask customers to pay up directly, and/or collect from 'iron rangers' (metal safes near sign boards).<br /><br />They require you to deal with people in a friendly but firm way.&nbsp; From my experience, you should ALWAYS go with the honey, not the vinegar approach.&nbsp; Mostly because you have no real authority, as you are not a ranger.&nbsp; People may think you are one, and may call you one, and may comply because of that (when i knew i had some fishy characters to deal with, i would dress up in my 'ranger' uniform).&nbsp; But they may not comply or respect you at all.&nbsp; Don't get yourself in a position where a customer can call your bluff.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tTmrtJOjYpw/Wlb2JMSPIhI/AAAAAAAAEwE/vj2_DW5A2aA0IWe7L7NFIOu_n3DgrH8xgCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tTmrtJOjYpw/Wlb2JMSPIhI/AAAAAAAAEwE/vj2_DW5A2aA0IWe7L7NFIOu_n3DgrH8xgCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most customers, like these, are cool. I liked their trailer.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />People will try to lie, and cheat you and not pay.&nbsp; &nbsp;But my company, for instance, is more worried about them being happy customers than they are about making a few extra bucks.&nbsp; &nbsp;Stay within the rules, but be flexible if you can be.&nbsp; Offer alternatives to something they don't like (like if they couldn't pay, tell them about a free spot elsewhere).&nbsp; &nbsp; If they give me a line of BS I would just tell them to drop it in the iron ranger later.&nbsp; &nbsp;Some campgrounds that isn't an option if you have reservations to deal with, so escalate to the AM if you have to.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DlxiwP2x_EY/Wlb3MHNx8ZI/AAAAAAAAEwU/JKwgDh6Jy_wW8csJlpkVEdV6qe9KaWphACKgBGAs/s1600/0828171515b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="/-DlxiwP2x_EY/Wlb3MHNx8ZI/AAAAAAAAEwU/JKwgDh6Jy_wW8csJlpkVEdV6qe9KaWphACKgBGAs/s640/0828171515b.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No matter what I said, these deadbeats wouldn't pay.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The worst thing for you is getting a complaint, because it will always be your fault in the end even if it wasn't.&nbsp; &nbsp;Your Area Manager may back you, but anything above the AM level will most likely side with the customer, because they aren't there and can't judge (and a lot of people will go to the land planner/forest service/utility directly aka 'worst case scenario').<br /><h3><b><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"><br /></span></b></h3><h3><b><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">So How Much Can I Make?</span></b></h3><br />Almost all of them start you off at minimum wage or slightly above it.&nbsp;<i> &nbsp;So if possible, take advantage of your mobile lifestyle and go where the minimum wage is higher.</i>&nbsp; &nbsp;I went to California, which was at $10/hour i believe, and is slated to go up to $15 in the future.<br /><br />You do get raises at my company the more seasons you do, and I imagine the other companies have a similar policy.&nbsp; &nbsp;<b>Remember, you may only start with minimum wage but you are getting a place to stay and some or all utilities covered.&nbsp;</b> &nbsp;So be sure to factor that into your decision.<br /><br />How much you can make in a season varies of course on the hours you work.<br /><br />You will be required to work a preset amount of hours each week, but you are not guaranteed to work these hours.&nbsp; &nbsp;You do sign an agreement for these hours but there will be something in there that lets them cut your hours due to weather conditions, low revenue, things of that nature.&nbsp; <br /><br />Sometimes you will get less hours on your agreement for the first month and last month, as they are slower.&nbsp; They want you to be happy and keep working, so if at all possible they try to keep your agreement hours though.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sometimes, it works the other way too, in your favor.&nbsp; &nbsp;My job required a certain amount of picnic tables to be repaired, replaced, and painted.&nbsp; &nbsp;I received extra hours during the slow months to do this task, since they didn't have time the previous year to do them.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1S3ZaKcMaow/Wlb2ySKwBqI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/BRWA2BlZNgsWVZwPiAqSgHWHNqrHfRcLgCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1S3ZaKcMaow/Wlb2ySKwBqI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/BRWA2BlZNgsWVZwPiAqSgHWHNqrHfRcLgCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This needed hauled off and replaced!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Your area will have an Area Manager (AM) or other supervisor, that will determine this week by week.&nbsp; They usually handle several hosts in the area, and also the ones who provide you supplies and support.&nbsp; &nbsp;They occasionally inspect your areas to see how you are meeting goals but they won't be hovering over your shoulder (least not the good ones).&nbsp; Three times, campgrounds were inspected by the land planner (the guy in charge of making sure the concessionaire is fulfilling the contract they made for the area.)<br /><br />The hours given are tied to the site you will be working at, and from what I can tell are already set so no real negotiating for more hours (though you might be able to ask for a position that has more hours available).<br /><br />Most sites are 20 hours per week, with sites requiring a couple each getting 20 (for 40 total).&nbsp; &nbsp;Though way more common, not all sites require you to be a pair.&nbsp; I worked a '40 hour' single host job, because my position was more demanding than usual (it was 30-40 actually, with less at the beginning and end).&nbsp; <br /><br />I was required to drive several hours a day and care for 6 different areas spread out over the mountains, which would be impossible in just 20 hours a week.&nbsp; &nbsp;I was also required to visit more sites a different number of times per week and even a couple just 2 times a season.&nbsp; &nbsp;<b>This isn't typical</b>, usually you are in a single campground you (and perhaps your partner) manage with maybe a day use area nearby.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBWt76eVv2I/Wlb42kbJTzI/AAAAAAAAEwg/vyTnVidoYcYaOAIMjRjcOcDRBUB3UpaNQCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBWt76eVv2I/Wlb42kbJTzI/AAAAAAAAEwg/vyTnVidoYcYaOAIMjRjcOcDRBUB3UpaNQCKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rucker Lake, you guessed it, one of mine.<br />That is a fake duck on that kayak that some geese were fascinated by.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />You are sorta 'on the clock' all the time for customers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Typically you set your own daily schedule, and my company is very focused on letting you decide how best to manage your time and campground, within the hour and rule constraints they outline.&nbsp; You DO get a day off, or even two, to go to town and resupply, whatever.&nbsp; &nbsp;A good area manager will be very flexible and fill in for you when things come up as well.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kV6KP8Q85jM/Wlb_mTstF9I/AAAAAAAAExw/SWeK2oTgR14OXqFW4_7w_ceOj-SweYaxACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171010_120146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-kV6KP8Q85jM/Wlb_mTstF9I/AAAAAAAAExw/SWeK2oTgR14OXqFW4_7w_ceOj-SweYaxACKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20171010_120146.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On a slow day, I decided to knock off early and visit Donner Lake and <br />Donner Party Museum Nearby.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />As an example, on days I knew I had to go to more remote campgrounds, or do paperwork, I took an hour from one day and moved it to those days.&nbsp; &nbsp;I maintained the same weekly total, but allowed myself more or less time as needed.&nbsp; You won't be getting overtime except in the most extreme of cases though, so plan around that...<br /><br />You will typically have a physical address to get mail and packages.&nbsp; &nbsp;This was a big boon for me.<br /><br />Uniforms are provided by my company.<br /><br />Since it is a seasonal job, they won't be providing medical or similar benefits.&nbsp; If this is the only job you work, however, you may qualify for free medicaid in your state though.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-wcjcOYVPAEo/Wlb5fbGhFQI/AAAAAAAAEwo/vBYj1qJudtIOADh7donI84Xxi7a9w6EbwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170920_123414.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-wcjcOYVPAEo/Wlb5fbGhFQI/AAAAAAAAEwo/vBYj1qJudtIOADh7donI84Xxi7a9w6EbwCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20170920_123414.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My coworkers, most of which were awesome!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are some fringe benefits not easily quantified as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;Typically, you have regular safety meetings that are usually more like bbq parties (if your AM is good).&nbsp; You meet other hosts of various origins, experience and form some cool friendships.&nbsp; Two of the people I camped with near the end and became friends with are going to be my new AM next season.&nbsp; &nbsp;How cool is that?<br /><br />You can access all the recreation areas at your leisure.&nbsp; My company gives you a free stay even when you aren't working in any of their campgrounds across the US (with prior approval).&nbsp; They also pay for a big party at the end, ours was at a nice restaurant...I got a New York strip and clam chowder, with a cheesecake dessert, if you are wondering :)<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qeNunSYLk4Q/Wlb511aIQxI/AAAAAAAAEws/jQVzdiqO0r09-uS2ea2DiS2tLYkq-PFcgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171014_115458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-qeNunSYLk4Q/Wlb511aIQxI/AAAAAAAAEws/jQVzdiqO0r09-uS2ea2DiS2tLYkq-PFcgCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20171014_115458.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took a day off and checked out this lookout tower.<br />That lake lower left with the tiny island is Island Lake, and yeah, you guessed it...</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Your host site is basically yours to do with as you please as long as you keep it clean and accessible to customers and don't encroach on anyone else.&nbsp; One of my coworkers built an entire deck around his camper, had a fenced in area for his pets, put up a doorbell and gate, had a trailer with his own washer, dryer and multiple refrigerators.<br /><br />I redid my rear drum brakes at mine, though I was careful to keep it clean.&nbsp; It was nice having an unhindered place to work on them and take my time.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lo85YpSoYVI/Wlb7mRYhwiI/AAAAAAAAEw8/dUg0Nzj3M_Q7NG_KtuQnxXSZutNSEy3XACKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lo85YpSoYVI/Wlb7mRYhwiI/AAAAAAAAEw8/dUg0Nzj3M_Q7NG_KtuQnxXSZutNSEy3XACKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This took a while...</td></tr></tbody></table><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">A Typical Day As A Camp Host</span></h3><br />Although my position was a little unique in how my day went (3 hours of driving...) I still basically performed the same tasks as other hosts, so I will describe a typical day without the extracurricular activities.<br /><br />You wake up in the morning, when you feel is the right time.&nbsp; &nbsp;There is no clock to punch.&nbsp; You don't want to sleep in too late, because customers will be expecting clean bathrooms in the morning.&nbsp; Remember its all about them.&nbsp; <br /><br />I typically got up at 8am and packed up the supplies i will need for that day.&nbsp; If you have reservations, you will most likely have a printout of the days reservations, or an email to print out, so prepare that.&nbsp; &nbsp;Reservations usually require you to put up a sign of some sort (im vague here because all my sites were first come, first served).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IswxjGMVbD8/Wlb7LRpbV_I/AAAAAAAAEw4/CHEKVq-rXuove_6AdO4pliuTyLTzCSYFgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171014_123406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-IswxjGMVbD8/Wlb7LRpbV_I/AAAAAAAAEw4/CHEKVq-rXuove_6AdO4pliuTyLTzCSYFgCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20171014_123406.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grouse Ridge Campground and my truck.<br />Not one of my campgrounds for a change (its free btw!)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I head to the campground, and empty the iron ranger of fee envelopes.&nbsp; On a sheet of paper that I numbered with all the sites, I mark down&nbsp;the checkout dates of the people who paid.&nbsp; &nbsp;This is so when I go through the campground, I can note who is there that didn't pay yet, and ask them to do so.&nbsp; You kind of want to time this with the check-out and check-in times of your campground, so you aren't bothering people who might not have checked in yet but don't let people sneak in extra days either.&nbsp; You get a feel for the campground and when is a good time to go.<br /><br />You want to interact with customers, make nice talk, before you hit them with payment requests or ask about rule stuff.<br /><br />If they seem receptive, just shoot the shit with them for no reason.&nbsp; &nbsp;Informing yourself about the area, fishing spots or habits etc will make your job a lot easier.&nbsp; I'm not required to, but sometimes if I see people hauling in a cooler or kayak when I am driving through, I will let them toss it in the back and carry it for them.&nbsp; People really appreciate that.<br /><br />I make my way toward the bathrooms, being sure to inspect the area for trash, hazards, or sites that need cleaned up for the next customer.&nbsp; &nbsp;I clean the toilet, inside and out, stock the toilet paper, sweep then mop myself out (if needed...).&nbsp; Clean up spider webs inside and outside of the bathrooms.&nbsp; If you have more than one, clean one bathroom at a time, because customers will constantly ask to use a restroom as you clean it.<br /><br />I empty trash cans if there are any.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntm6dxgd-gA/Wlb76Cl0wpI/AAAAAAAAExI/cyrKA8cNyUAx25hauOqjllcmDFk0I8MsgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171015_104302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-ntm6dxgd-gA/Wlb76Cl0wpI/AAAAAAAAExI/cyrKA8cNyUAx25hauOqjllcmDFk0I8MsgCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20171015_104302.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raked and Cleaned</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I then go through and clean out the empty campsites.&nbsp; &nbsp;I check for trash, check the bear box (if applicable), rake around and under the picnic table, and around the fire ring (clear anything from around it out to 5-10 feet).&nbsp; &nbsp;Clean out any wood or ashes in the firepit (my company specified a certain clearance inside the firepit from the top of the ring).<br /><br />I will also drown any fires or firepits that were hot or recently used (never bury fires btw, they just smolder for days).&nbsp; Although they provide metal buckets for hot ashes and logs, it is often better/safer to leave them to drown in the pit and then clean it the next day if possible.&nbsp; Remember, you decide the best way to deal with your campground, it can wait a till tomorrow if you say so, unless someone else directly says otherwise.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gbSoXRUcoTc/Wlb8YvjCy-I/AAAAAAAAExM/VD10Neg1nTIBuTIj5UZdYdYEa3ePN6zkwCKgBGAs/s1600/0615171052a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="/-gbSoXRUcoTc/Wlb8YvjCy-I/AAAAAAAAExM/VD10Neg1nTIBuTIj5UZdYdYEa3ePN6zkwCKgBGAs/s400/0615171052a.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You have to spot and fix hazards like this.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />If needed, I did some bush trimming or weed eating on the parking areas or trails.&nbsp; Once a week and after storms, I would blow leaves and pine needles.<br /><br />The bulk of the work is done if you just have one campsite.&nbsp; Head back to your rig for lunch or whatever.&nbsp; &nbsp;You should make a return round to the bathrooms in the afternoon, and maybe one before evening.&nbsp; &nbsp; Adjust based on how busy it is.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9vyyfU-wWD4/Wlb8tVCkBbI/AAAAAAAAExU/R0QjjbthBBkJWzEdqQz0FeBdOf9UcL9lACKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9vyyfU-wWD4/Wlb8tVCkBbI/AAAAAAAAExU/R0QjjbthBBkJWzEdqQz0FeBdOf9UcL9lACKgBGAs/s400/.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What does your breakroom look like? :)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At the end of the day, enter the fees in the computer, and then eat dinner or whatever and chill.&nbsp; I might go for a hike or something.<br /><br />Customers will occasionally come by and ask you questions.&nbsp; It can be annoying, but remember it is your job, just politely help them and send them on their way.&nbsp; &nbsp; I'm usually in my rig at dark unless I want a campfire with friends/other hosts, and I'm ready for bed by 10 or 11.<br /><br />Once a week at an agreed upon time in the morning, ill see the AM who will bring me asked for supplies, collect my money, timesheet and paperwork, and ask if there is anything else i need.<br /><br />Sounds pretty simple right?<br /><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">OK, How Do I Sign Up To This Awesome Job</span></h3><br />The jobs are surprisingly easy to get.&nbsp; &nbsp;You don't have to pay to sign up to some newsletter, don't go for that scam.&nbsp; Most concessionaires have a website, and you can apply through them.&nbsp; They will likely call you and interview you right over the phone.&nbsp; &nbsp;Paperwork is then mailed to you, and you mail it back, or you fill it out with the AM when you get there, or a combination of both.&nbsp; Remember that although these jobs are more casual affairs, they are employers and you are a prospective applicant, so be professional and eager to be hired.<br /><br />Most positions are filled by the end of january, but not all.&nbsp; &nbsp;<b>Not all positions are updated on the websites.&nbsp; &nbsp;</b>Don't be afraid to call and ask if they have something in the area you want to be in at that time.&nbsp; If you don't find a position at first, try calling again in late April, early May if you still need a job as a lot of people drop out at this time and they become desperate to fill the positions again.<br /><br /><br /><br /><h3><span style="color: white;"><b>You can apply in person</b>&nbsp;</span></h3><div><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9uGWX2AaCrw/Wlbu-wL0sgI/AAAAAAAAEuo/YpcPG4djmc43pjBD5wYVFpvWqI6gzDFzACLcBGAs/s1600/qz_aerial_980_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="980" height="97" src="/-9uGWX2AaCrw/Wlbu-wL0sgI/AAAAAAAAEuo/YpcPG4djmc43pjBD5wYVFpvWqI6gzDFzACLcBGAs/s320/qz_aerial_980_300.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big RV Tent Show, I found 2 concessionaires outside of the tent itself!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Every year, almost all of the camphosting concessionaires out west will be recruiting at booths at the <a href="http://www.quartzsitervshow.com/" target="_blank">Big RV Tent</a> show in Quartsite, Arizona at the end of January (I went on Jan.21, but check dates).&nbsp; &nbsp;This coincides with the conclusion of the&nbsp; <a href="http://www.cheaprvliving.com/gatherings/" target="_blank">Rubber Tramp Rendevous</a>, which was perfect for me.<br /><br />I'll tell you exactly how it went:<br /><br />I just walked in there day one, found a promising looking booth at the event (i was looking for California Land Management, but never found their booth, it was a madhouse in there), and told them I wanted a job.&nbsp; It was American Land and Leisure.&nbsp; There were several people standing around, looking at a board of available jobs.&nbsp; &nbsp;The company HR guy, the president and vice president were the ones hiring.&nbsp; &nbsp;They approached me with a smile.<br /><br />They asked me what area i wanted to work in and tried to accommodate me.&nbsp; &nbsp;They asked what kind of rig I had.&nbsp; <br /><br />I told them i had a <i>campervan</i>, which they seemed less enthused about until I told them I was willing to work remote with little to no hook ups.&nbsp; &nbsp;They became all smiles again then, and gave me multiple suggestions/positions.&nbsp; Sites without hookups are really hard for them to fill.<br /><br />They asked if I had experience, which i didn't.&nbsp; &nbsp;I did mention that I had worked in a similar industry though.&nbsp; They gave me a general rundown of what the job entailed.<br /><br />After narrowing down a site in Northern California, they called the regional manager (a great guy, we ended up camping together for a while) to let me ask him specific questions.&nbsp; &nbsp;I asked him what the road was like snow wise to the host site, starting date and ending date, amenities, did i get a 4x4 vehicle etc.&nbsp; The new details actually made me change my mind, and go with a different one that started and ended earlier that he suggested.<br /><br />After the HR guy briefly talked to the regional manager on the phone, I was hired on the spot.&nbsp; &nbsp;I filled out some paper work and was eating a pulled pork sandwich 20 minutes later.&nbsp; <br /><br />In February I received a packet in the mail with company forms, uniform order form etc, I mailed off.&nbsp; The Area Manager was supposed to call me closer to the start date, but she was pretty bad at her job (another story), so I had to call them to confirm when to come out (cause whether can change things) etc.&nbsp; And that was it.<br /><h3><b><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><br /></span></b></h3><h3><b><span style="color: white;">You can also do it online or on the phone too</span></b></h3><br />Here is a list of places to try online:<br /><a href="http://www.americanll.com/current-job-openings/" target="_blank">American Land and Leisure</a>&nbsp;- Concessionaire (Nationwide, Utah based, mostly west)<br /><a href="http://www.clm-services.com/employment" target="_blank">California Land Management</a>&nbsp;- Concessionaire (California, duh)<br /><a href="https://equitylifestyleproperties.com/career-opportunities/current-jobs" target="_blank">Thousand Trails</a>&nbsp;- Resort Company<br /><a href="https://www.coolworks.com/jobs-by/state" target="_blank">Cool Works</a> - Camp Hosting Job Directory<br /><a href="https://www.work-for-rvers-and-campers.com/help-wanted.html" target="_blank">Workers on Wheels </a>- Camp Hosting Job Directory<br /><h3><br />Final Warning</h3>There are a lot of devious players in the recreation business.&nbsp; &nbsp;Make sure before you commit to traveling somewhere that you are actually getting PAID to work there.&nbsp; &nbsp;Many of the sites will offer work for pay...ment for your campsite.&nbsp; &nbsp;With a vague promises about additional hours (you'll never see) over the site cost being paid to you.&nbsp; Screw that.&nbsp; &nbsp;Plenty of jobs with a free site and hourly wage out there, don't be fooled.&nbsp; &nbsp;Some will even offer to pay you, but want to take out for utilities or the site from your pay.&nbsp; Don't sell your soul to the company store.&nbsp; Observe due diligence.<br /><br />Thanks for reading this, i know it was crazy long.&nbsp; &nbsp;I hope it provides a unique insight into Camp Hosting, or maybe not.&nbsp; &nbsp;Do you have experience as a camp host or campground manager?&nbsp; &nbsp;Share your experiences below, knowledge is power :)Unknown[email protected]2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-4503430939367732082018-01-03T18:58:00.:002018-01-04T20:14:31.765-05:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YA5LnLv4tc/Wk1Yl668ItI/AAAAAAAAEtI/Q0eYXq-NGzEMmcqMsHHxSD8lfCO1CSRmACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180103_172506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-4YA5LnLv4tc/Wk1Yl668ItI/AAAAAAAAEtI/Q0eYXq-NGzEMmcqMsHHxSD8lfCO1CSRmACKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20180103_172506.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">West Virginia, cold as ever.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />As I sit here, the temperature is a balmy -2 degrees in Wild and ahem Wonderful West Virginia.&nbsp; &nbsp;So, I decided to talk a little bit about how I keep warm while living in my van for years without becoming a popsicle.<br /><br />More often than not, people always worry about me in the winter freezing in a van.&nbsp; &nbsp;It's kind of amusing to me, as the hot weather is much more dangerous for me than cold.&nbsp; &nbsp;You can always warm up, but you can only cool down so much.&nbsp; It got to the point that one cold day around 0 degrees, I had to send out a picture next to my thermometer reading around 80 degrees, I was in my shorts :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Obviously the best way to stay warm on the inside of your dwelling, is to simply make sure it is warm on the outside of it.&nbsp; You probably heard the term snow birds, usually associated with seniors and retirees in RVs moving from a summer home in the north down to a summer home or rv park in the south (usually florida, at least in the East).&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FEZRF3WI1cg/Wk1ZJFTyXcI/AAAAAAAAEtU/N9zqHRdWMh8YrsKfnzcthDHkOCq1z2GHQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20161224_064740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-FEZRF3WI1cg/Wk1ZJFTyXcI/AAAAAAAAEtU/N9zqHRdWMh8YrsKfnzcthDHkOCq1z2GHQCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20161224_064740.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panama Beach Florida</td></tr></tbody></table>Our elders are wise, so why not learn from them.&nbsp; &nbsp;As a vehicular nomad, one of your greatest strengths is to be able to move your home at will.&nbsp; &nbsp;Why not just drive to where temperatures are moderate and where you like them.&nbsp; &nbsp;If the weather turns extreme again, move on!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wf2BCkwCG0U/Wk1auRffViI/AAAAAAAAEtw/gqHlZbp09AUlCuqDNTMmnL42xt-A_8rVgCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wf2BCkwCG0U/Wk1auRffViI/AAAAAAAAEtw/gqHlZbp09AUlCuqDNTMmnL42xt-A_8rVgCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorado River, Ehrenberg Arizona</td></tr></tbody></table>Most often, people consider snow birding as moving from one end of the country to the other with the seasons, but remember that distance is not necessarily a requirement, just a change in temperature.&nbsp; Another, often cheaper, way to get that is altitude.&nbsp; &nbsp;For instance, you can live in warm Ehrenberg or Quartzite Arizona and stay in the desert through the cold winter, then move in the harsh summer by driving UP to Flagstaff or Prescott, Az where it is much cooler.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WgMYXU9hhuY/Wk1aO6bZ0AI/AAAAAAAAEtk/h7vs_tKzHKkNKtF2AxBerqp9dZT0j9OqwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171026_101401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="/-WgMYXU9hhuY/Wk1aO6bZ0AI/AAAAAAAAEtk/h7vs_tKzHKkNKtF2AxBerqp9dZT0j9OqwCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20171026_101401.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Winslow Az, Higher Altitude</td></tr></tbody></table><br />But if you are like me, sometimes it isn't possible to move, for work or family reasons.&nbsp; &nbsp;Or you may have missed your window of opportunity, and might become stuck in a cold weather situation.&nbsp; It's nothing to worry about, <i>as long as you are prepared</i>.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3MGnAonOcK8/Wk1b40B72UI/AAAAAAAAEt8/2_aDWW8qPOQjRcymOmeYTdXqPvWw0_upwCLcBGAs/s1600/ae624185-78d4-427f-88ae-9bf19f543276_1.2d6e99ccac9ec46ddd3baa6fa9734ca7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="/-3MGnAonOcK8/Wk1b40B72UI/AAAAAAAAEt8/2_aDWW8qPOQjRcymOmeYTdXqPvWw0_upwCLcBGAs/s320/b971d2d0c8165b19.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheap Garbage</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />There are many good ways to combat the cold, and I combine a couple of them.&nbsp; The first is a good sleeping bag or blankets (make sure you put one under you too), and layering on clothing.&nbsp; &nbsp; This works, and I certainly do it.&nbsp; &nbsp;I find a knitted cap is a surprisingly helpful thing to wear while sleeping to keep warm.&nbsp; If you need a sleeping bag, you need to make sure it is not some thin cheap junk.&nbsp; &nbsp;I went down that road, and even though it was supposed to keep you warm down to 20 degrees, you can forget that, it wouldn't keep me warm at 50.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Military-Outdoor-Clothing-Previously-Sleeping/dp/B00GCHKW12/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1515014571&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=military+surplus+sleeping+system&amp;linkCode=li2&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=5fa234bc83519cd2cfe055d5c9b37807" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B00GCHKW12&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00GCHKW12" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best Sleeping Bag!</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><b>Good bags</b> range from $60-200, usually with increasing quality with price.&nbsp; &nbsp;<span style="color: cyan;">But I have a good secret for you here</span>.&nbsp; &nbsp;Spend a little more, say around $140, and get the best sleeping bad you can, a surplus military <a href="http://amzn.to/2Clvusg" target="_blank">modular sleeping system</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; It is actually 3 sleeping bags in one, with a <i>waterproof</i> GorTex bivvy as the outside bag.&nbsp; The first 'patrol bag' is a lighter weather bag, the second intermediate bag can be used when it starts getting down low.&nbsp; &nbsp;But when you put the patrol bag inside the intermediate, and then the bivvy over it, you can be very very warm in any condition (-30 is the rating, and unlike Coleman and Ozark Trail, I believe it).&nbsp; &nbsp;You can literally sleep on the ground in the snow if you have to.&nbsp; &nbsp;In van and tiny living situations, versatility is king, and this is a crown jewel, 3 high quality things in one.<br /><br />Now, if you are like me, you may be thinking "Well, I don't want to live like a caterpillar all winter, what if I have to cook or pee?".&nbsp; &nbsp;Die hard survivalist and camping types would disagree, but a sleeping bag alone isn't enough to live this life style comfortably.&nbsp; &nbsp;So what I did, was insulate my van as well as I could using <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kingspan-Insulation-Common-0-75-in-x-4-ft-x-8-ft-Actual-0-75-in-x-4-ft-x-8-ft-R4-Unfaced-Polystyrene-Foam-Board-Insulation/999973072" target="_blank">polyiso styrofoam</a> taped to the walls between the steel ribs before putting up wall paneling.&nbsp; I have a mix of half inch and three quarter, fitting in what i could without sacrificing space.&nbsp; <br /><br /><i><span style="color: lime;">Let me just say, that a LOT of people in the vandwelling community advocate Reflectix for insulation</span><span style="color: red;">.&nbsp;</span></i> &nbsp;As someone who has experimented with both, please don't waste your money and time on Reflectix unless you are using it to cover your windows.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yes I know about the air gap.&nbsp; Even with an air gap it is next to useless in winter and even more useless in the summer.&nbsp; I put a section of each right next to them on the same wall for a year to see.&nbsp; &nbsp; I could feel heat radiating from the reflectix section when the sun hits the van.&nbsp; Just trust me, use the foam panels, huge huge difference.<br /><br />I then installed a propane heating system.&nbsp; &nbsp;Woah, sounds hard and expensive right, but it is easy peezy, and not too expensive.&nbsp; You don't <i>need</i> a pro installer, everything just screws together by hand (if you get the right hose below).&nbsp; &nbsp;You can check the connections with soapy water in a spray bottle just like checking a tire flat, it will blow bubbles if leaking.&nbsp; &nbsp;That said:<br /><br />DISCLAIMER:&nbsp; &nbsp;YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, I DO NOT RECOMMEND DOING WHAT I DO.&nbsp; &nbsp;CONSULT AND HEED APPROPRIATE LAWYERS, PROPANE INSTALLERS, RV TECHNICIANS AND YOUR CONGRESSMAN BEFORE DOING ANYTHING I WRITE.<br /><br />I LOVE YOU, PLEASE DON'T SUE ME.&nbsp; &nbsp;I AM POOR. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F232000-Indoor-Safe-Portable/dp/B002G51BZU/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=aps&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1515019727&amp;sr=1-1-catcorr&amp;keywords=mr+heater+buddy&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=1cc1823c04e6c62c73ffd7d13ff10b37" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B002G51BZU&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B002G51BZU" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div><br />Though you can get nicer heaters out there, for the value I recommend a <a href="http://amzn.to/2qk3PGI" target="_blank">Mr. Heater Buddy heater</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;Its round 90 bucks.&nbsp; &nbsp;An <a href="http://amzn.to/2Cnjff6" target="_blank">olympian heater with less output</a> can cost you around 200-250.&nbsp; Many people on the road use the buddy heaters, and for a good reason.&nbsp; &nbsp;The medium one can be hooked to a bulk propane tank (much cheaper) so you aren't throwing away money on disposables (helps environ too) using an <a href="http://amzn.to/2CMBJ9E" target="_blank">adaper hose</a> ($12) and a <a href="http://amzn.to/2CAQz5t" target="_blank">filter</a>&nbsp;(also $12).&nbsp; &nbsp;The prices usually drop on these heaters in the summer, so if you can plan ahead, keep an eye out for sales.<br /><br />A word of advice if you are leaving your van to work or long enough that it gets freezing while you are not there, buy a second filter.&nbsp; &nbsp;When it got below 10 degrees, sometimes the moisture in the filter will cause it to freeze, making your heater not work, or work erratically.&nbsp; I would keep the second one in my bag with me or a coat pocket, and if this seemed to be the case, swap it out when I got back to my rig.&nbsp; <br /><br />I will say that if you plan to stay in freezing conditions most of the time, like say in Alaska, I would recommend upgrading to the <a href="http://amzn.to/2ERVduc" target="_blank">Big Buddy</a> for more BTUs.&nbsp; It also has forced air option, but it will require some batteries. (you can still run it normally without fan).<br /><br />Propane tanks are pretty easy to get, tho the cheapest way is to buy an empty from a hardware store and fill it up a propane filling station (usually a hardware store that sells them also can fill them, but out west you can get them filled damn near everywhere...even a burger king :P).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tjpTSofHTSM/Wk1fvsJbapI/AAAAAAAAEuM/E5Mu8sq-GA4Sm3Iaebpal3Zq9h8o_BVjgCLcBGAs/s1600/spin_prod_ec_1199312510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="/-tjpTSofHTSM/Wk1fvsJbapI/AAAAAAAAEuM/E5Mu8sq-GA4Sm3Iaebpal3Zq9h8o_BVjgCLcBGAs/s320/spin_prod_ec_1199312510.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is just propane.&nbsp; Note it says 15lbs, but it can really hold 20.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />But the easiest way is to buy the little exchange tanks, usually about double the exchange rate.&nbsp; &nbsp;Be aware that these tanks are 20lb tanks, like most bbq tanks etc, but they only fill them with 15lbs and the label they put on says its a 15lb net weight (how much they are supposed put in).<br /><br />I have also had my doubts that they even fill a full 15lbs in some shadier places (I typically can guess how long a bottle should last), so there is a bit of risk there.&nbsp; Fill up places are inspected by Weights an Measures, the people who make sure gas stations aren't ripping you off, but not these exchanges.&nbsp; Usually you are still paying a premium price, well above what a propane place will charge to fill even 20lbs of propane.&nbsp; Why would anyone do this?&nbsp; For convenience.<br /><br />I try to manually fill my tank whenever possible (you can take the exchange tanks to a filler, and they will fill them, even all the way to 20).&nbsp; &nbsp;But there has been several times, especially in the east, where you can not find any place that fills propane tanks.&nbsp; Or I was snowed in and had to hitch a ride to go fill my tank.&nbsp; &nbsp;You can exchange your tanks all over the place, grocery stores, gas stations, and a very reliable one is Dollar General.&nbsp; &nbsp;They are plentiful, but especially you can find them in rural areas and towns fairly reliably.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kidde-Battery-Operated-Carbon-Monoxide-Digital/dp/B004Y6V5CI/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=hi&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1515020738&amp;sr=1-11&amp;keywords=carbon+monoxide+detector&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=1e6ced82ba84f9d5002d34d9d4cd97aa" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B004Y6V5CI&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My CO Detector with Readout.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B004Y6V5CI" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>All that is left is safety precautions.&nbsp; &nbsp;I highly, highly recommend anyone out there on the road to get a <a href="http://amzn.to/2qlAQCq" target="_blank">carbon monoxide detector</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;I mentioned this in the past, but it has probably saved my life before (someone parked next to me with his engine running exhaust under my van for hours.)&nbsp; &nbsp;The buddy heater is safe to use indoors, but it does make CO if it can't get enough oxygen.&nbsp; &nbsp;You just have to follow the directions for the heater, and provide ventilation.&nbsp; &nbsp;I open my roof vent in the van by 2 inches, but you can crack your two front windows an inch and it will work just as well.&nbsp; But in case something blocks that vent, or you have a dumb friend who after riding with you rolls up your window without telling you...., the CO detector will alarm well before it becomes dangerous.<br /><br />Obviously, give the heater the right clearances, especially in front and above.&nbsp; &nbsp;Keep it near the floor, never set it up on a counter near the ceiling.&nbsp; As an extra precaution, I bought <a href="http://amzn.to/2lPQnoJ" target="_blank">a little fire extinguisher too</a> and a <a href="http://amzn.to/2CjbYg7" target="_blank">high wool content&nbsp;blanket</a>, which serves multiple functions (like keeping you warm, even if wet), one of which is a fire blanket (more versatility, yay!).&nbsp; Make sure it had at least 80% wool though, other fibers will melt not extinguish.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Olive-Green-Retardent-Blanket-Military/dp/B00D1AJVHY/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1515021434&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=wool+blanket+military&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dazar-20&amp;linkId=b927872b88fa3030700dc47c63d27889" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B00D1AJVHY&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dazar-20" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scratchy but Effective</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=dazar-20&amp;l=li3&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00D1AJVHY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div><br />You may wonder where you can put the propane tank.&nbsp; &nbsp;You need a special compartment build with ventilation fans, iron crash proof reinforcement, and crap right?&nbsp; &nbsp;Well, I can't tell you how to live your life but I just stick that mofo wherever it will fit and reach.&nbsp; &nbsp;I currently have it sitting between my two front seats.&nbsp; &nbsp; In a crash, maybe not the best thing but you also have a giant tank of gasoline in a thin metal barrel under you as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;Most propane tanks don't explode under most conditions anyway, but when they rarely do the failure is typically at the valve.&nbsp; &nbsp;They are extremely, extremely tough.&nbsp; I turn off my valve when driving.&nbsp; I also make sure the tank can't roll or move.<br /><br />If you are still unsure and imagine a movie level explosion, I will link to you this episode of mythbusters where they actively TRY to make one explode using much more severe methods than you will encounter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="/vi/rhti2xAB-Gk/0.webp" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rhti2xAB-Gk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br /><br /><br />Whew, this post turned out being way longer than I thought, but I wanted to be thorough.&nbsp; &nbsp;I hope you found the information useful.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Using the amazon links above do help support my content by providing a percentage of anything you actually buy.&nbsp; &nbsp;Everything linked is something I have used and endorse or is something similar if its no longer available.&nbsp; Prices are from the date of this post obviously.&nbsp; &nbsp;Thank You!</i></span>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-46854107712053353602018-01-01T10:15:00.:002018-01-01T10:15:47.984-05:00I hope you have a terrific 2018 wherever you are!&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>My only resolutions are to get a new rig and a way to take a warm shower indoors this year.&nbsp; &nbsp;That's right, I plan to actually get out of the van, and into something more comfortable to drive long distance, and with more room inside for a shower.&nbsp; &nbsp;Right now I am not sure what form this will take as I have very little money, but I am currently looking at getting a used minivan, suv or small pickup and either a used small camper to refurbish, or an empty cargo trailer to build out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Since my work ended in October, my funds are set for now (savings), but I am hoping to receive unemployment soon while I'm out of work to give me a small boost toward my goals.&nbsp; I might also be able to sell or trade the van once I know I have a suitable replacement.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well see, as always if my upgrade plans fall through I still have the van to fall back too.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>To my friends out on the road and on the way to the RTR or already out there, safe travels, I'll be joining you next year :)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-2067932296367635402017-12-31T11:50:00.:002017-12-31T12:04:16.742-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RIlcu85ipmU/WkkNm3aBKpI/AAAAAAAAEr0/yUpLtdBs8HIyaDW2eWqbS1EFcfKxDc8MQCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RIlcu85ipmU/WkkNm3aBKpI/AAAAAAAAEr0/yUpLtdBs8HIyaDW2eWqbS1EFcfKxDc8MQCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fireworks went off right in front of this tower.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A year ago today I spent New Years Eve in warm San Antonio, Texas.&nbsp; &nbsp;Oh how i wish it was as warm here now, in West Virginia (currently 10 degrees).&nbsp; There isn't much to do for new years in west virginia unless you are in the 2 or 3 major cities in the state, so I typically don't celebrate it or care.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But since I could choose to go somewhere and celebrate it on the road, I broke my normal rule of avoiding urban areas and took a trip to San Antonio for their fireworks show.&nbsp; &nbsp;It wasn't disappointing.&nbsp; It is a beautiful city at night downtown.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVtJf5ez8yA/WkkNm9B79BI/AAAAAAAAEr0/C5llNtXDtsInAIi0GEd3fYS_6XZZlM0kgCKgBGAs/s1600/1231161854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="/-fVtJf5ez8yA/WkkNm9B79BI/AAAAAAAAEr0/C5llNtXDtsInAIi0GEd3fYS_6XZZlM0kgCKgBGAs/s320/1231161854.webp" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a mural i liked along a canal that winds through downtown.</td></tr></tbody></table>The only problem is, the city had probably the most confusing grid of streets I have ever experienced.&nbsp; &nbsp;Man, what a nightmare to navigate, and I lived in washington dc before.&nbsp; In this city, during 'events', the parking lots are allowed to charge 4 times the amount for parking they normally do.&nbsp; &nbsp;I stopped at one, and then bust out in laughter when i found out the price was 20$ per hour.&nbsp; Really?&nbsp; &nbsp;How many hours did i need to look around the city and catch the fireworks?!<br /><div><br /></div><div>I moved on and noticed signs for municipal parking was normal rates, about $6 dollars.&nbsp; &nbsp;There was a garage ahead, the entrance around the next left with its own lane on the street so i pulled in.&nbsp; &nbsp;Well what they dont tell you, and you cant see from that street before being locked in, is that the entrance to the garage was like 6'2.&nbsp; So my van did not fit.&nbsp; &nbsp;So here I am, locked into this lane blocking the entrance, unable to move forward or back.&nbsp; <br /><br />Luckily the supervisor for the place was behind me, and she got out, stopped traffic on the street, backed all the cars up and let me out.&nbsp; &nbsp;What a pain, that they could have avoided by putting a sign on the street you actually use to get in line.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I eventually debated whether to just give up and head to a nearby walmart for the night, or park in the outskirts (read: ghetto) and walk two miles in.&nbsp; <br /><br />I looked online for rules about parking the city on the street, and luckily discovered an interesting fact.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meters downtown are not enforced after 8pm.&nbsp; Sweet.&nbsp; &nbsp;I ended up parking near a hospital about a mile or two away and walking in after 8pm.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qn9HmwVFAk4/WkkR14btg9I/AAAAAAAAEsA/PP_xQTV7P_sXBs9eMieNg2SvMip9oJJggCKgBGAs/s1600/1231161910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-Qn9HmwVFAk4/WkkR14btg9I/AAAAAAAAEsA/PP_xQTV7P_sXBs9eMieNg2SvMip9oJJggCKgBGAs/s320/1231161910.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some lovely churches and buildings in San Antonio</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br />Just walking to downtown was difficult.&nbsp; &nbsp;Google GPS was woefully failing me in the city, even the mighty google was confused by this place.&nbsp; &nbsp; I did manage to find a canal that scenically takes you through the city, and that helped a bit.&nbsp; &nbsp;It still took a while to get near to where the fireworks show was happening.<br /><br />I finally arrived at the park, and was shocked to see so much fanfare.&nbsp; &nbsp;They had news casters setup like they do on Rockin New Year.&nbsp; &nbsp;There was a concert area (tho just playing dance music, no live singers till later).&nbsp; There were food stands and people shuffling about, much like a little carnival.&nbsp; &nbsp;There was also a separate concert area, that was absolutely packed to the gills with hispanic partiers, and there was a latin band playing.&nbsp; &nbsp;This spot was a lot different from the other area, it really seemed festive and fun, everyone was actually dancing and having a good time.&nbsp; I hung around there a while, out of place as ever with my giant white butt, but no one seemed unwelcoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Eventually i decided to find a place to sit and watch the fireworks, places to sit were at a premium.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you wanted to make some really nice coin on new years, go to this place and rent out little folding chairs.&nbsp; &nbsp;You'd make a killing.&nbsp; &nbsp; I eventually found a free spot on a bench next to what looked like a homeless man.&nbsp; &nbsp;No problem for me !&nbsp; I sat and watched the fireworks with him and a family who didnt speak english settled in next to us.&nbsp; I eventually gave up my seat to one of them.<br /><br />The fireworks show itself was amazing once it finally came.&nbsp; &nbsp;It lasted way, way longer than any other one i went to, even the one in baltimore.&nbsp; I enjoyed it immensely, though i was pretty happy to get back to the van after so long.<br /><br />This year I am back here, its too cold to do anything but sit in my sister's kitchen, and watch the year expire.&nbsp; &nbsp;A friend I met at the RTR is stopping by, maybe for the night, but I feel kinda bad for him.&nbsp; &nbsp;Its awfully boring here in the countryside on NYE, but I am glad to see a friend from the road as he sets out back west.&nbsp; &nbsp; Wish I was going too.<br /><br />Here is a video I made last New Years, if you want a better idea of what it was like.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="/vi/yJvvHg8hbVw/0.webp" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yJvvHg8hbVw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-17899694594402002172017-12-30T21:45:00.:002017-12-30T21:45:08.850-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wbhuH-zvgps/WkhMJg7-W3I/AAAAAAAAEqw/mVXVgJrkSQAph5tfbqxSCKj7B83pYQz9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Where%2527s_Waldo_The_Fantastic_Journey_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="280" height="320" src="/-wbhuH-zvgps/WkhMJg7-W3I/AAAAAAAAEqw/mVXVgJrkSQAph5tfbqxSCKj7B83pYQz9ACLcBGAs/s320/Where%27s_Waldo_The_Fantastic_Journey_Cover.webp" width="251" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />It's like where's waldo, but a lot less exciting!&nbsp; I can't believe it has been sooooo long since i stopped posting to this blog.&nbsp; &nbsp;What can I say?&nbsp; I'm entirely at fault.&nbsp; As an apology, I will spam random earth porn of my travels throughout this post :)<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pXKmxR80RCs/WkhM2RJZadI/AAAAAAAAEq4/Np__tsyhyUAPoHia2zWvtncuOvDAxS9HwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170922_080443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-pXKmxR80RCs/WkhM2RJZadI/AAAAAAAAEq4/Np__tsyhyUAPoHia2zWvtncuOvDAxS9HwCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20170922_080443.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Home While Camphosting</td></tr></tbody></table>I wanted to make a post or two about the RTR, but once I was there I had so much fun socializing and experiencing everything, the blog just fell to the wayside.&nbsp; &nbsp;After that I felt awkward posting about ..basically doing nothing for 3 months in the desert while i waited for my camphosting job.&nbsp; &nbsp;Then after that i was too busy working, and so on and so forth.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zAh6vt6VLQI/WkhNHQo10gI/AAAAAAAAEq8/wv-mGxZ15o0pgTxmQy-pc2tBsOJ5nnIOgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171014_115223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-zAh6vt6VLQI/WkhNHQo10gI/AAAAAAAAEq8/wv-mGxZ15o0pgTxmQy-pc2tBsOJ5nnIOgCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20171014_115223.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Island Lake, as seen from Grouse Ridge Lookout</td></tr></tbody></table>Well enough with the excuses yada yada.&nbsp; &nbsp;I do have some thoughts about the rest of that trip, and I will begin posting recollections of it in a more timely, but casual matter.&nbsp; &nbsp;Not a linear one..I want to post what I feel like posting about currently, and too much time has passed to be bound by such frivolities as time :)<br /><br />Did i just reach Enlightenment?&nbsp; &nbsp;haha<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vuerTq-7ijM/WkhNeqGP8NI/AAAAAAAAErE/xLn9E26hC8gTXGGB_tp9TtG7NkCpwZfIQCKgBGAs/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vuerTq-7ijM/WkhNeqGP8NI/AAAAAAAAErE/xLn9E26hC8gTXGGB_tp9TtG7NkCpwZfIQCKgBGAs/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carr Lake in the Sierra Mountains</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;I do have lots of photos and some footage from my time traveling across the country though, so I will be sprinkling it in.&nbsp; I also want to post about my experience as a camphost, how to get the job and what it did, and could, entail.&nbsp; And what I am currently up to right now.&nbsp;<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8xz7DIqLhQI/WkhOCjpZW-I/AAAAAAAAErM/i9HEu7kaFq8LHnlwzyKXmOI-moKF8DE7wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171026_174322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="/-8xz7DIqLhQI/WkhOCjpZW-I/AAAAAAAAErM/i9HEu7kaFq8LHnlwzyKXmOI-moKF8DE7wCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_20171026_174322.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winslow Arizona, such a fine sight to see.</td></tr></tbody></table>Anyway, for anyone who is reading this, thanks for joining my blog as I move forward.&nbsp; &nbsp;I hope it helps you, or entertains you.&nbsp;Unknown[email protected]3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-21516105934975955512017-04-15T17:10:00.:002017-04-15T17:15:48.609-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PZ70XPbq1aU/WPKDipGMNoI/AAAAAAAADfw/RIysMCiOuucfBobCwEUS2RBRd0Wk206FwCKgB/s1600/1230161631b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-PZ70XPbq1aU/WPKDipGMNoI/AAAAAAAADfw/RIysMCiOuucfBobCwEUS2RBRd0Wk206FwCKgB/s320/1230161631b.webp" width="320" /></a></div>Winnie City Park, Winnie Texas<br /><span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , &quot;verdana&quot; , &quot;geneva&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 14.4px;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , &quot;verdana&quot; , &quot;geneva&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 14.4px;">Winnie, Texas</span><br />GPS:&nbsp;<span style="font-family: &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , &quot;verdana&quot; , &quot;geneva&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 14.4px;">29.812117, -94.380234</span><br /><br /><a href="https://youtu.be/k--thJtYvL0" target="_blank">Youtube Review</a><br /><br /><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!8160&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net</a><br /><br /><br /><br />As I had discovered in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, some small towns try to attract travelers by offering up their City parks for a few nights of free camping (or parking in some cases). &nbsp;This brings in valuable tourist dollars that would be spent on campsites for most travelers anyway (unless they are like me) so it is a win-win. &nbsp;While being out in the wild wilderness camping for free is enjoyable, its also nice sometimes to be near shops and internet.<br /><br />Winnie Texas is one such example. &nbsp; Unlike Breaux Bridge however, you do have to register at the sheriffs/clerks office first. &nbsp;As you head toward the park, you want to stop there first by making a left at the Exxon station onto Broadway, the light before the park. &nbsp; The process is pretty painless, you just hand over your license to the very nice clerk, she makes a copy and then gives you a permit for 3 days. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-lKIe8MKadUA/WPKD5EeT5QI/AAAAAAAADf0/LFeC7YIK71c24QUaeBI6YQRirr6_U_h1gCKgB/s1600/1230161526.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-lKIe8MKadUA/WPKD5EeT5QI/AAAAAAAADf0/LFeC7YIK71c24QUaeBI6YQRirr6_U_h1gCKgB/s320/1230161526.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The park, like the others I come to find in Texas, is immense. &nbsp; I guess Texas earns its 'Bigger' reputation in this regard. &nbsp; The park has a large, elaborate playground, several sport areas, a rodeo/horse track, and what I am assuming are festival event areas with stands. &nbsp; Multiple covered picnic areas, some with giant BBQ grills/smokers. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1qA7obKBzeI/WPKJESqPq4I/AAAAAAAADgM/IrxVlgiaFa0Ui-S0T8QS9n-YDI6kKCERgCLcB/s1600/winnie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-1qA7obKBzeI/WPKJESqPq4I/AAAAAAAADgM/IrxVlgiaFa0Ui-S0T8QS9n-YDI6kKCERgCLcB/s320/winnie2.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Any size rig can easily fit here, more sites and parking than can likely be filled if they try. &nbsp; My guess is they were preparing for Rodeo shows with this space. &nbsp; There are water and electric hookups all over the park. &nbsp; I do not know if they are included for your free stay, I would ask the clerk first. &nbsp; She didn't forbid it, and since I didn't need them, I didn't ask. &nbsp;Both the electric and water did work though. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4U_m2NMohck/WPKJETjDlKI/AAAAAAAADgI/xsXLhYLtBjkmytgUXA6ddpAXHEHuImz_gCLcB/s1600/winnie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-4U_m2NMohck/WPKJETjDlKI/AAAAAAAADgI/xsXLhYLtBjkmytgUXA6ddpAXHEHuImz_gCLcB/s320/winnie1.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The park has bathrooms, though they are rather spartan in my opinion. &nbsp; Its rare to find open public bathrooms with absolutely no stall doors or even curtains in them. &nbsp;According to reviews, the ladies aren't spared this either. &nbsp; I thought metal urinals were strange too, though since then I have seen they are a common thing in the southwest. &nbsp;Trash cans are sparse but around.<br /><br />The park is beautiful, many of the trees scattered throughout were adorned with lights for Christmas (tho it was over already). &nbsp; Something about manicured grass that makes me want to lay down on it and nap, tho it was still a little on the chilly side for that.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-L2QOYIonoHk/WPKD5O-TWBI/AAAAAAAADf0/Jpcl_PC6JlgwPTBkdyUCNHdOZ8rQ0rpqwCKgB/s1600/1230161631.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-L2QOYIonoHk/WPKD5O-TWBI/AAAAAAAADf0/Jpcl_PC6JlgwPTBkdyUCNHdOZ8rQ0rpqwCKgB/s320/1230161631.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>There is a Dollar General about a quarter mile from the park if you take the road at the rear of the park out, and across the highway from that is a local supermarket. &nbsp; The little town has anything you need, restaurants, gas, even tire repair, though I don't think there is much in the way of entertainment.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5CX_EGWK90/WPKI4i-LheI/AAAAAAAADgE/pis7j2FFkp8NcvJxN8XjR_IrhRO-bGwPQCLcB/s1600/winnie3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-Y5CX_EGWK90/WPKI4i-LheI/AAAAAAAADgE/pis7j2FFkp8NcvJxN8XjR_IrhRO-bGwPQCLcB/s320/winnie3.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />After filming several of the areas for my youtube, I decided to settle in under a cute tree at the end furthest from the empty playground after filming it (it is a pretty amazing little castle playground).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGH0gx7PR40/WPKD5EGBKyI/AAAAAAAADf0/te8WCvoLaD0N-S7rHGzK3NbnxOEwjE9iACKgB/s1600/1231160742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-bGH0gx7PR40/WPKD5EGBKyI/AAAAAAAADf0/te8WCvoLaD0N-S7rHGzK3NbnxOEwjE9iACKgB/s320/1231160742.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />It didn't help much because before it even got dark I had a cop knock from a sheriff's deputy. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />I must admit that I was a little surprised at this, considering I literally gave my driver's license at the sheriff's office and had their permit on display in the front of my dash. <br /><br />The officer wasn't very rude but he clearly was suspicious. &nbsp; He either didn't bother to look for the permit first, or saw it and feigned ignorance. &nbsp; He said someone called about a suspicious vehicle hanging around (There were 2 pickups hanging around most of the time i was there as well...guess only vans count..). &nbsp; He asked what I was doing, and I told him camping. &nbsp; He then looked for the permit and remarked that I had one. &nbsp; I was ok with all this to this point, by the way, I understand how it looks to have a dark colored cargo van, with a huge dude getting out and walking around a children's playground by himself.<br /><br />What bothered me after this point, however, was that it continued beyond seeing my permit. &nbsp;He asked for my license and ran it thru dispatch, despite me providing it already. &nbsp;He then asked me where I was coming from and going. &nbsp;While we waited, despite me just telling him i came from LA to here, he asked me what did I think of Texas so far. &nbsp; I think he started to sense my annoyance when I replied "I haven't decided yet, THIS is the first experience I've had in it." <br /><br />After nothing came back on my license he was polite in letting me get back to my business. &nbsp;Honestly I was even a little pleasantly surprised that he didn't ask to look inside the van, as this is how things went previously with my cop knocks. <br /><br />But I didn't fail to notice him drive over behind the rodeo bleachers, and park there for 30 minutes to watch me before driving off. &nbsp;I left my side door open and ate my Haagen Daas while looking back at him until he left. <br /><br />I don't want you to take the above experience as me suggesting you should not stay at this park. &nbsp;It is highly unlikely you will encounter the same experience, and all told it was not even that unpleasant, more just a short bother. &nbsp; After that no one came by or bothered me, and the park is lovely and quiet. &nbsp; Other than on the Gulf coast, there is little free camping in Texas beyond rest stops and parking areas, so it is definitely a good idea to stay here at least one night if you plan to head straight west. <br /><br />If you would like to see the youtube video that likely prompted me to get a visit from Mr Deputy, check it out below:<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k--thJtYvL0" width="560"></iframe></div><br /><br /><br />Unknown[email protected]3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-23448137590918760802017-04-01T15:38:00.:002017-04-01T15:38:19.289-04:00Due to several factors, prime of which has been my lack of motivation, i haven't updated in a while. &nbsp;I decided to give a heads up on my current doings, and upcoming plans. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>Since Quartsite,AZ in January, I spent my time in Ehrenberg, AZ, which is a pretty uninteresting place to look at, as its mostly all rocky desert, but it is the perfect place to long term camp in the winter. &nbsp;No time limit or fees, a pit toilet i can dump in for free, all the services nearby i need, including free water (tap). &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>My main reason for going to Quartzsite this year was to secure a camp hosting job, which i did. &nbsp;It will be at Fuller Lake in northern California, in the sierras near Nevada City. &nbsp;I was planning to meander up that way throughout April, and get there in time to start in may.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, due to some unfortunate circumstances, a friend i met in Ehrenberg needed a ride to San Fran, California right away. &nbsp;She proposed that since I needed to head that way soon, she would hire me to shuttle herself and her adorable cat Hunter up there. Since it would help me out financially and help her get where she needed to go, it was a win win for everyone (except my back ;])</div><div><br /></div><div>So a day later I am in the Bay area, about to visit a landmark. &nbsp;Its a little early for the normal camping season, so finding a place to camp for the next few weeks might be a challenge, but that is what an adventure is all about. &nbsp;Walmarts here are no go as well. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>My tentative plan is to head up to Mendocino NF and look for some open campgrounds, or if i have to do so, disperse camp. &nbsp;Then hoof it east to my host job.</div><div><br /></div><div>Before I get too remote for internet, I will hopefully continue logging my travels and campsites in Texas, a more thorough RTR post, and my Ehrenberg experience so look forward to that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for reading!</div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-37135621089808448002017-04-01T15:07:00.:002017-04-01T15:07:16.616-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIU4bCTXlkU/WJ_mZC-63PI/AAAAAAAADVs/gipZno5OqNgnFnXvNdR4lpqh20dRIP9EwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_111841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-aIU4bCTXlkU/WJ_mZC-63PI/AAAAAAAADVs/gipZno5OqNgnFnXvNdR4lpqh20dRIP9EwCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_111841.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Although I hadn't planned to spend much time in Alabama, I didn't want to completely blaze through the state.&nbsp;&nbsp; So even though I wasn't camping, I decided to take a small detour and check out the USS Alabama battleship at the Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, AL back in december.<br /><br />If you've been following me on this blog or youtube, you might have surmised I am more clenchfisted than scrooge, so this stop was actually pretty nice for me.&nbsp; You can pay to take the tour (15 bucks I think) of the ship, but it only costs 2 bucks to enter the park and roam around looking. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7D2KQyW8wD4/WJ_nyVksOtI/AAAAAAAADV8/2IKMrWZIfyAKqxY44dP5EhawWP_68BejgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_110240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-7D2KQyW8wD4/WJ_nyVksOtI/AAAAAAAADV8/2IKMrWZIfyAKqxY44dP5EhawWP_68BejgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_110240.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ceremonial Gun outside visitor center.</td></tr></tbody></table>In the visitor center, you can find bathrooms, and there is a whole area just ahead of the battleship with picnic tables, pavillions and grills. &nbsp; You almost forget that it is an actual park.&nbsp; If you have a furry friend, he isn't allowed on the tours, but they do provide kennels and water for your pets. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rNkJR_DqFFg/WJ_nyQ2HVFI/AAAAAAAADV8/oc_QVz-BRV8seMZ5_lBKO8hPPqlHn4bdwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_115043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-rNkJR_DqFFg/WJ_nyQ2HVFI/AAAAAAAADV8/oc_QVz-BRV8seMZ5_lBKO8hPPqlHn4bdwCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_115043.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kennels, there is a water hose.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;It was crazy humid here, and I went in the winter, I can't imagine what Alabama must be like in the grips of summer.&nbsp; I felt like I was breathing through a sock like a bellows and I'm from a pretty wet area myself.&nbsp; <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b7H1ERkW5pk/WJ_m3FHI0PI/AAAAAAAADVw/7SX79CFFjU4pXZ9LFRfTyy404FLTV1ZCACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_113902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-b7H1ERkW5pk/WJ_m3FHI0PI/AAAAAAAADVw/7SX79CFFjU4pXZ9LFRfTyy404FLTV1ZCACKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_113902.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ship is so huge, this is all i could fit in the shot!</td></tr></tbody></table>It would definitely be better to actually go on the ship as it is a self guided tour, but I didnt mind.&nbsp;&nbsp; If you never seen a battleship in person, it is impressive just to look upon.&nbsp; And massive.&nbsp; It astounds me no end just how massive ships can be on the water, it almost seems limitless.&nbsp;&nbsp; Its like someone took a skyscraper and knocked it over on its side.&nbsp; I can't even conceive how the massive guns must sound when they fire.&nbsp; I wonder if they ever fire off blanks or something.&nbsp; I might break open the wallet a little further for that experience.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VipI3L5gqDM/WJ_nyfhT_DI/AAAAAAAADV8/An661auS2JoJTJ74_IDw2Y6uDhWBK9K9ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_112408.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-VipI3L5gqDM/WJ_nyfhT_DI/AAAAAAAADV8/An661auS2JoJTJ74_IDw2Y6uDhWBK9K9ACKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_112408.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Its fun to see some of the nick names given to the vehicles.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HfxKW795T_g/WJ_nycRzChI/AAAAAAAADV8/90ITDzS_KhIFm9gOLtQ68yqiTPTsrRFOACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_113808.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-HfxKW795T_g/WJ_nycRzChI/AAAAAAAADV8/90ITDzS_KhIFm9gOLtQ68yqiTPTsrRFOACKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_113808.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The battle ship itself is not all there is to see in this park either.&nbsp;&nbsp; For your $2, you can walk around and check out tons and tons of tanks, artillery guns, and an actual bomber, an MRBM, fighter planes (that have seen better days mind), helicopters, you name it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DLTOKf4w1q4/WJ_nyVgXMrI/AAAAAAAADV8/v5U1jIUB4-k84hTdBfZ0gBZELd1WwjCrQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_111901.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-DLTOKf4w1q4/WJ_nyVgXMrI/AAAAAAAADV8/v5U1jIUB4-k84hTdBfZ0gBZELd1WwjCrQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_111901.webp" width="320" /></a> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-gTnp8OjBbdw/WJ_nyR6k4zI/AAAAAAAADV8/xIMHodNVz_QfqqTdOxUr_zQNuhW8htfDACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_111929.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-gTnp8OjBbdw/WJ_nyR6k4zI/AAAAAAAADV8/xIMHodNVz_QfqqTdOxUr_zQNuhW8htfDACKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_111929.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>Look at the tiny door<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u> :D</u></span></u></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-noLTmKCEEbY/WJ_nySTcMaI/AAAAAAAADV8/bWDbfXouOzY7AYLc5G4_eIy-MgEl-BGQQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_114927.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The aircraft were in pretty bad shape, not sure if just disrepair or war damage?</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-j9l9Odj1xnM/WJ_nyQfAmJI/AAAAAAAADV8/Bixmx-HDZ6M0_G-jmGgzgByKKXGfj4CXgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_114442.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-j9l9Odj1xnM/WJ_nyQfAmJI/AAAAAAAADV8/Bixmx-HDZ6M0_G-jmGgzgByKKXGfj4CXgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_114442.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-noLTmKCEEbY/WJ_nySTcMaI/AAAAAAAADV8/bWDbfXouOzY7AYLc5G4_eIy-MgEl-BGQQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_114927.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNt5lbcXExk/WJ_nyZf9EKI/AAAAAAAADV8/Bhkdy3hLUz45bi6kFuFNqoas45Y7fPtvgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_114756.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-vNt5lbcXExk/WJ_nyZf9EKI/AAAAAAAADV8/Bhkdy3hLUz45bi6kFuFNqoas45Y7fPtvgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_114756.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This plane looked to be in the best shape, I think it could still even operate.&nbsp; Check out the artwork.</td></tr></tbody></table>There is also a submarine that is propped up on the ground. &nbsp; Its a part of the battle ship but you can check out the outside pretty close up from the park. &nbsp;&nbsp; There is also a giant aircraft hanger, but access from outside the tour area is a no go, which was disappointing to me because it appeared you could go in at first, but the doors are all blocked off. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eV91d7bsUPo/WJ_nyV7GjWI/AAAAAAAADV8/jNpf8GnNS78eByhFN7D65qBwF6z1yi1wgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_114456.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-eV91d7bsUPo/WJ_nyV7GjWI/AAAAAAAADV8/jNpf8GnNS78eByhFN7D65qBwF6z1yi1wgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_114456.webp" width="320" /></a> </div><br />I'm not a military expert of fanatic, i must admit, but i still get a lot of enjoyment from looking at the marvels mankind can make when driven to destruction (or protection, given your viewpoint).&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HICFRxATBgA/WJ_nyQSyNxI/AAAAAAAADV8/11FVjgNGmhQOzfXFPSOXJfo3NOVmsFYswCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_113114.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-HICFRxATBgA/WJ_nyQSyNxI/AAAAAAAADV8/11FVjgNGmhQOzfXFPSOXJfo3NOVmsFYswCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_113114.webp" width="320" />&nbsp;</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8yvXP6L_FI/WJ_nyS9taoI/AAAAAAAADV8/qFBvmPtkH1g_IDYMr11IyZahkZnXcCY7QCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_112950.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-Z8yvXP6L_FI/WJ_nyS9taoI/AAAAAAAADV8/qFBvmPtkH1g_IDYMr11IyZahkZnXcCY7QCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_112950.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought this little tank looked awesome with 2 barrels up front.</td></tr></tbody></table>Since I dont know much about these machines, I don't have much to say about each one, or hell even name them, but hope you enjoy the pictures and video I took of my visit there.&nbsp; Maybe you can tell me more about them in the comments or identify them for me (some had plaques, but not all did).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqhIfqGxdGo/WJ_nyd3eqrI/AAAAAAAADV8/1sWi3GD59xsRfceOJfQ_KB8QWpgD4Nu6gCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_115619.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-lqhIfqGxdGo/WJ_nyd3eqrI/AAAAAAAADV8/1sWi3GD59xsRfceOJfQ_KB8QWpgD4Nu6gCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_115619.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u>Neat up close</u></span> look at the cockpit.</u></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwrizu9PHfI/WJ_nySfaI3I/AAAAAAAADV8/lAo6r1EX9z0Efong3vG1JMSVmVQ35mizgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_115536.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-vwrizu9PHfI/WJ_nySfaI3I/AAAAAAAADV8/lAo6r1EX9z0Efong3vG1JMSVmVQ35mizgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_115536.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />I will say that my favorite things to see were the MRBM (Medium Range Ballistic Missle)&nbsp; and the bomber.&nbsp; You can actually stick your head up inside the missile as the engine has been removed (its there underneath if you want to check it out too).&nbsp; You can see the gears and chains that I assume actuate the fins that guide it to its target.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xZOcWUrmCZs/WJ_nyRreMgI/AAAAAAAADV8/FpFXKZPafQoRJMJe8Ds10SQnI3hfnocTwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_120228.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-xZOcWUrmCZs/WJ_nyRreMgI/AAAAAAAADV8/FpFXKZPafQoRJMJe8Ds10SQnI3hfnocTwCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_120228.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fVVDkTBn9Es/WJ_nydhB_vI/AAAAAAAADV8/PTYATZbfvq88oFWc1F6Q_De52WjzA4v0gCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_115748.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-fVVDkTBn9Es/WJ_nydhB_vI/AAAAAAAADV8/PTYATZbfvq88oFWc1F6Q_De52WjzA4v0gCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_115748.webp" width="320" /></a> </div><br />The bomber was interesting to me.&nbsp;&nbsp; It clearly had some work done to it for appearance sake.&nbsp;&nbsp; The skin of the thing was painted black and it almost looked like it was made of black tinfoil, I don't know if thats how they actually were constructed originally.&nbsp;&nbsp; The bomber had decals (or painted on) bombs near the cockpit, representing bombs it dropped on the enemy.&nbsp; There was a lot of them.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-UevOjSV6_BI/WJ_nyRCxryI/AAAAAAAADV8/v7zPIJcvWic1QN8tlZCAJX49p4Srt1gbACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_121235.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-UevOjSV6_BI/WJ_nyRCxryI/AAAAAAAADV8/v7zPIJcvWic1QN8tlZCAJX49p4Srt1gbACKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_121235.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />Almost in a strange sorta contrast to all the firepower and killing machines, the place has several beautifully made memorials dedicated to the Vietnam, Korean war, and the middle eastern wars (on terror).&nbsp;&nbsp; I was also pleasantly surprised to see sculptures and plaques dedicated to dogs who fought and died in service.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s_AYkqeFBa4/WJ_nyWVPM5I/AAAAAAAADV8/6XRbL6sMO1okWAKWo1dZqppyYsaj-yZQgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_121304.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-s_AYkqeFBa4/WJ_nyWVPM5I/AAAAAAAADV8/6XRbL6sMO1okWAKWo1dZqppyYsaj-yZQgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_121304.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTu3sqqOCC4/WJ_nyYC1ovI/AAAAAAAADV8/28CIBxtVObEe2VDh-0Sg8h1CKDLnh3jWgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_121223.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-rTu3sqqOCC4/WJ_nyYC1ovI/AAAAAAAADV8/28CIBxtVObEe2VDh-0Sg8h1CKDLnh3jWgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161226_121223.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Vietnam memorial was especially lovely, yet saddening at the same time.&nbsp; Even the very large noisy family that walked up behind me quieted here, it had that kind of impact.&nbsp; There is a statue of a soldier standing between 2 marble slabs atop bamboo. <br /><br />There is a particularly potent quote from a Vietnam vet across from the names of those local men who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the war.&nbsp; I'll type it out just to make it easier to see than the picture.&nbsp;&nbsp; I highly recommend spending a day at this park, and check out my youtube video to get a better look at everything.<br /><br />I think this is a good point to end on.<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">"Vietnam - War/Pain/Sorrow/Mystery/Jungle/Swamp/Mountains/Hot. <br />Vietnam means something - different but the same - to all of us.<br />Vietnam has a lasting effect of one sort or another on all Americans.<br />Vietnam can only be understood by those of us who where there --<br /><div style="text-align: right;">--And we don't understand it."</div></blockquote></blockquote><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gbv9gbZsoJE/WJ_jRPQshYI/AAAAAAAADVk/Mnx5lle-Rr48Ng2WOrbfIZ9vPu84G6P7wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161226_120547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="/-Gbv9gbZsoJE/WJ_jRPQshYI/AAAAAAAADVk/Mnx5lle-Rr48Ng2WOrbfIZ9vPu84G6P7wCKgB/s400/IMG_20161226_120547.webp" width="400" /></a></div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-12219336228920320062017-02-12T01:16:00.:002017-02-12T01:24:29.:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxGs34PvfMg/WJ_xVDoU8bI/AAAAAAAADWM/h1BqsUH81ns0FEog4uNIWzqjY7sjqXYRQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_131209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-rxGs34PvfMg/WJ_xVDoU8bI/AAAAAAAADWM/h1BqsUH81ns0FEog4uNIWzqjY7sjqXYRQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_131209.webp" width="320" /></a></div>City Park<br />Breaux Bridge, Louisiana<br /><br />GPS: <span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">30.275892</span>, <span itemprop="longitude">-91.899345</span></span><br /><a href="https://youtu.be/GmeX_DbrqCw" target="_blank"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Youtube Video</span></span></a><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!8693&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">FreeCampsites.net </a></span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">This small town is a short trip from I-10, and well worth the detour.&nbsp;&nbsp; I've run across a couple of these small towns who try to revitalize themselves through enticing tourists to the area with free camping.&nbsp; It is a marvelous idea, and apparently effective because I otherwise would have never known about the place. </span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The city park is located after you cross the bridge that gives the town its name. &nbsp; There is a sharp right entrance here but I do not recommend you take it unless you are in a vehicle that will not drag, as it is a steep incline. &nbsp; Take the street to the light, and make a right, and once you past the cemetary you turn into a much better and wider entrance to the park. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G9sMh0MNJv0/WJ_5eg50ADI/AAAAAAAADWY/oQZpcjuqfV8EL_cENkjaudDk9NPyh-pYACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_121555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-G9sMh0MNJv0/WJ_5eg50ADI/AAAAAAAADWY/oQZpcjuqfV8EL_cENkjaudDk9NPyh-pYACKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_121555.webp" width="320" /></a></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Its a nice park, and it was pretty much empty save for one or two stragglers and boaters.&nbsp; Lots of parking, though I did not see any RV specific spots I think you can find places to park. &nbsp; There is a large field that you may be tempted to park an RV on, but signs indicate that this is no longer something they appreciate.</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">I believe you can stay two nights, but there is no limit specifically posted. &nbsp; I stayed one without a problem.&nbsp; There were a couple of looky loos cruising through and looking at the van, but no police disturbances.</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNSG4rKLd-E/WJ_5ej6RYtI/AAAAAAAADWY/Br0BoTJO17srMYG1njKWYho1HgQRHPFFgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_120302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-NNSG4rKLd-E/WJ_5ej6RYtI/AAAAAAAADWY/Br0BoTJO17srMYG1njKWYho1HgQRHPFFgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_120302.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The bathrooms here are excellent, there are pavilions with stone benches (with informative carvings on them), but I did not see picnic tables or grills. &nbsp; There is non-potable water and electrical outlets at the bathrooms, the electric is on the back side and includes usb ports, regular sockets and a little ledge to put smaller devices on.&nbsp; These outlets stayed powered all night.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EWCvSRdYxok/WJ_5ehYyOPI/AAAAAAAADWY/dN4W8JMy3_YPOJKu6M24IsabjXeYZZtswCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_121227.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-EWCvSRdYxok/WJ_5ehYyOPI/AAAAAAAADWY/dN4W8JMy3_YPOJKu6M24IsabjXeYZZtswCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_121227.webp" width="320" /></a> </span></span></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Im not sure about the womens restroom, but oddly the lights in the mens room did not work at night though they were left unlocked and you could use the facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp; It might have been a broken motion sensor.</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">There is a canoe rental place in the park, it almost looks like someones home.&nbsp; I'm not positive on how that all works, but there is a boat launch and a floating dock. </span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Be sure to check out the sculptures/plaques and stone benches, there is some really cool local lore.&nbsp; Like the&nbsp; Native American legend of how the Bayou Teche was created.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eB3Wt9AWyo/WJ_5esF4MKI/AAAAAAAADWY/ESRhmCKipZwLtT_wjNdzpyuqD5jG7cZJgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_121930.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-9eB3Wt9AWyo/WJ_5esF4MKI/AAAAAAAADWY/ESRhmCKipZwLtT_wjNdzpyuqD5jG7cZJgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_121930.webp" width="320" /></a> </span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;</span></span></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C700E4XheDc/WJ_5ekVrDQI/AAAAAAAADWY/5qNAv41Dge0Bnwy7pbGHWjOoPklKz2HiACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_121955.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-C700E4XheDc/WJ_5ekVrDQI/AAAAAAAADWY/5qNAv41Dge0Bnwy7pbGHWjOoPklKz2HiACKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_121955.webp" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></span></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The landscape is lovely.&nbsp; There is an old cemetery and catholic (i believe) school that shares the parking lot with the park.&nbsp; I parked right in front of the cemetery, and there were some interesting little religious shrines along that side on the sidewalk.&nbsp; I don't know their purpose, but they all depicted Jesus in some way.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zwSOXeTUhXs/WJ_5eosq0TI/AAAAAAAADWY/PEURLDVpex8xg46w5MyCp1mJVaeaiexHwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_120322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-zwSOXeTUhXs/WJ_5eosq0TI/AAAAAAAADWY/PEURLDVpex8xg46w5MyCp1mJVaeaiexHwCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_120322.webp" width="320" />&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j0uSwGnbORM/WJ_5eqFxOEI/AAAAAAAADWY/Pv_1UtUgHPk7cFEUORkUSHuyPiWav1VUQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_122411.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-j0uSwGnbORM/WJ_5eqFxOEI/AAAAAAAADWY/Pv_1UtUgHPk7cFEUORkUSHuyPiWav1VUQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_122411.webp" width="320" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Ducks and geese are wandering around, and you can find plenty of relaxing shady spots to chill out and&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">decompress.</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkRPQ8mrJWE/WJ_5eldv1II/AAAAAAAADWY/2S0HkI5k3wk0OebNTNx9UZecworBxhSWgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_121425.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-hkRPQ8mrJWE/WJ_5eldv1II/AAAAAAAADWY/2S0HkI5k3wk0OebNTNx9UZecworBxhSWgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_121425.webp" width="320" /></a> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Apparently there is a large crayfish festival here every year, and you see posters in several shops. &nbsp; It seems to me the town is based heavily on antiquing, with the majority of the shops selling them for quite a bit of money.&nbsp; I absolutely love the southern art and architecture, and you can find it represented well here.</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-leqZtEjrqpY/WJ_5emHAX0I/AAAAAAAADWY/Q2dZd7fcVjIHjD9EKNMxM2Fui9ctGnXLACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_124809.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-leqZtEjrqpY/WJ_5emHAX0I/AAAAAAAADWY/Q2dZd7fcVjIHjD9EKNMxM2Fui9ctGnXLACKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_124809.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Be sure to check some stores out, but be aware of some that are little more than thrift store/junk stores trying to ride the pricing of their more upscale neighbors (the 'flea market' in town is actually one of these junk stores, not a flea market at all, just a junk store selling like its carrying fancy antiques). &nbsp; </span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OB3M311aQ0I/WJ_5ekoFDLI/AAAAAAAADWY/GzDmxtaqOT89N3WuO_ETsQL7SgHaIp5PgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161228_124645.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-OB3M311aQ0I/WJ_5ekoFDLI/AAAAAAAADWY/GzDmxtaqOT89N3WuO_ETsQL7SgHaIp5PgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161228_124645.webp" width="320" />&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The food is a little pricey but not unexpected. &nbsp; I went to the burger joint in town, and the food was ok even though i felt the service was subpar. &nbsp; I was never given a refill, and when I asked if I could get one as im leaving she replied 'sure you can', suggesting I go get it myself.&nbsp;&nbsp; Was I supposed to do this all along?&nbsp; I've been in places like that, but it would have been nice to know that up front.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Sorry, a bit of a rant there. &nbsp; There is a classier looking restaurant serving french and Louisiana cuisine nearby, maybe a better option.</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">But you can't beat the price of free when camping, especially when you don't have to worry about bbeing disturbed. &nbsp; If you have the chance, walk down to the bridge and take a look inside the control room. &nbsp; Its kind of interesting seeing the old control system for raising the bridge. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Check out my youtube video to see the best way to enter the park, and a short tour.</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GmeX_DbrqCw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GmeX_DbrqCw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-60270600871089969452017-01-31T13:59:00.:002017-01-31T14:03:23.506-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hJC4hAyJdY/WJDTGPsYaaI/AAAAAAAADRs/bfNMbnd4MVQ2ql1abek1ycnay8q1_WkdACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_164356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-5hJC4hAyJdY/WJDTGPsYaaI/AAAAAAAADRs/bfNMbnd4MVQ2ql1abek1ycnay8q1_WkdACKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_164356.webp" width="320" /></a></div><span id="goog_743206526"></span><span id="goog_743206527"></span><span id="goog_743206524"></span><span id="goog_743206525"></span>Escribano Point WMA (Bayside)<br />Grassy Point Road<br />Milton, Florida<br /><br />GPS: <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/30%C2%B030'50.2%22N+86%C2%B056'55.9%22W/@30.513937,-86.9510467,17z/am=t/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x0!8m2!3d30.513937!4d-86.948858" target="_blank">30.513937, -86.948858</a> (turn-in to clay road, follow this road till it ends, no deviations!)<br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vre59ElFucY" target="_blank">Youtube Video</a><br /><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!7545&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Free Campsite.net Link</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Welcome friends to probably my favorite campsite since I left in my travels (up to this date of course). &nbsp; This campsite is a little tricky to get to if you try to find it with a normal car GPS, but it is well worth it. &nbsp; This site is located very close to Pensacola Florida (Navarre), so if you want to explore this area, this is a terrific home base to do so from, for free.<br /><br />Google navigation will take you the whole way, but car gps will repeatedly try to make you take small sandy roads that you WILL get stuck on without 4x4. &nbsp; You want to take the paved roads until you get to a wide, well packed, bright red clay road just to the right before you enter the air force base proper.&nbsp;&nbsp;<b>&nbsp;</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v4rkhvB7RQ8/WJDbucGvwoI/AAAAAAAADSA/v0enT0VuDTo-fMYTEYz287fFm-4TbWu9wCLcB/s1600/grassyPointFL1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-v4rkhvB7RQ8/WJDbucGvwoI/AAAAAAAADSA/v0enT0VuDTo-fMYTEYz287fFm-4TbWu9wCLcB/s320/grassyPointFL1.webp" width="320" /></a></b></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MuP0D5R3Nlk/WJDbusjO5gI/AAAAAAAADSI/U_GSc4pbk0wEvcIBd56rDS2l0kPWWq7vQCLcB/s1600/grassyPointFL2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-MuP0D5R3Nlk/WJDbusjO5gI/AAAAAAAADSI/U_GSc4pbk0wEvcIBd56rDS2l0kPWWq7vQCLcB/s320/grassyPointFL2.webp" width="320" /></a></b></div><br /><br /><b>Follow this road till it ends.</b>&nbsp; This road is a looong curving road first one way then the other, with many little jeep trails that cut across from it in one point to connect it at another.&nbsp;&nbsp; Your GPS hates you, and will want to get you stuck in these places because it thinks you want to get there faster at the risk of getting stuck.&nbsp; Ignore it both going in and out.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />The campsites do require reservations, which can be done very easily online here. &nbsp; I made mine right before I left and a fellow vandweller I met at there picked an empty spot and then reserved it right there. &nbsp; If you dont have internet and its business hours, there is a number to call them to make a reservation.&nbsp;&nbsp; Your reservation can be up to 10 days, they do not have to be consecutive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_hTXAZE-o_k/WJDcQIufuWI/AAAAAAAADSU/22dWoIqOaoI3U4O1clVB9VayjyG1tuGnQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_165313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-_hTXAZE-o_k/WJDcQIufuWI/AAAAAAAADSU/22dWoIqOaoI3U4O1clVB9VayjyG1tuGnQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_165313.webp" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xcoy9RfN9tc/WJDbunyJgcI/AAAAAAAADSM/mQ-FHkWnT8YZywbXudcxAFHcVGmkK1yJQCEw/s1600/grassyPointFL4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-Xcoy9RfN9tc/WJDbunyJgcI/AAAAAAAADSM/mQ-FHkWnT8YZywbXudcxAFHcVGmkK1yJQCEw/s320/grassyPointFL4.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The site I had was site number 2.&nbsp;&nbsp; About half of them are right on the water, and all of them have a large fenced area with fire ring and large table. Site 2 had a tree in it, but not all do.&nbsp;&nbsp; The ones without trees can probably fit most sized RVs, they are very wide sites.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; They are not pull through sites however. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Most have their own trash can.&nbsp; There are 2 porta potties available, one regular and one handicap accessible.&nbsp;&nbsp; I was there in winter, and while it was never free and clear of insects, they were a minor annoyance a little deet handled.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgOU_TjmgNY/WJDdkxxlmyI/AAAAAAAADSg/g4jrJcGUi7Ynn--bPhKgXmNdJ9jX5FmpQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_165326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-OgOU_TjmgNY/WJDdkxxlmyI/AAAAAAAADSg/g4jrJcGUi7Ynn--bPhKgXmNdJ9jX5FmpQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_165326.webp" width="320" /></a></div>The sunsets here are unspeakably gorgeous, right over the water.&nbsp;&nbsp; There is a mist on the far shore that refracts the light, and its splendid.&nbsp; The water is very shallow, you can walk a pretty far distance out.&nbsp;&nbsp; The water is extremely salty, I don't think you have to worry about gators here.&nbsp; You can walk just steps from your campsite to a bench set just for viewing, or go down to the beach and follow it out to the point.&nbsp; The trees here are lovely, covered with (i believe) spanish moss.&nbsp;&nbsp; Even the dead ones on the beach look nice.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UYrCerQI2Bc/WJDbzDT7cpI/AAAAAAAADSY/T5_WeaSKWF04Ma0XgWAnC9sWn0mJN8LNwCEw/s1600/grassyPointFL5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-UYrCerQI2Bc/WJDbzDT7cpI/AAAAAAAADSY/T5_WeaSKWF04Ma0XgWAnC9sWn0mJN8LNwCEw/s320/grassyPointFL5.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7H7L60KL0eI/WJDd6wb0xZI/AAAAAAAADSk/QJFAI6M2kg4YJCFoXBf64iauthigqgvLACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_155531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-7H7L60KL0eI/WJDd6wb0xZI/AAAAAAAADSk/QJFAI6M2kg4YJCFoXBf64iauthigqgvLACKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_155531.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />I will 100% be returning to this campsite if I ever go down there again.&nbsp;&nbsp; I stayed there on christmas, and it was cool watching my neighbors celebrate with a little potted tree on the picnic table. and rv leds, with christmas music playing.&nbsp;&nbsp; The kids got theiir gifts then went and played in their shorts and bathing suits at the tire swing.&nbsp; :)<br /><br />I highly recommend you visit there too.Unknown[email protected]2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-12603620336295895522017-01-31T12:42:00.:002017-01-31T14:02:52.:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z4iIw3Uhcc/WJDGy5SHeHI/AAAAAAAADQ4/A7tzsVEGRzcF9bcHWvB0pWiCVm7l6lbqACLcB/s1600/restStopSanderson6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-4Z4iIw3Uhcc/WJDGy5SHeHI/AAAAAAAADQ4/A7tzsVEGRzcF9bcHWvB0pWiCVm7l6lbqACLcB/s320/restStopSanderson6.webp" width="320" /></a></div>Osceola NF Rest Stop (Fanny Bay Trail)<br />I-10 Westbound Baker County Mile 318<br /><br />GPS: N 30°15'15.7, W 82°23'45.5<br /><br /><br />Youtube: https://youtu.be/MzeH5ncDgBw<br /><br /><br /><br />Strange as it seems, this rest stop just off the interstate sits within the Osceola National Forest.&nbsp;&nbsp; Why is this significant?&nbsp; Because that means rather than the department of highways management taking care of it, the forest rangers do.&nbsp;&nbsp; More importantly, it means that you can camp there overnight without worry over getting a knock by police or security.<br /><br />As I was traveling westward from Pensacola, I kinda got tired of dealing with my gps and decided to just wing it.&nbsp;&nbsp; Near sanderson florida, there are very few free campsites near I 10 in this area, and all of them are swamp land.&nbsp;&nbsp; It was already humid just in my vehicle heading down the road, I just could not imagine a swamp.&nbsp;&nbsp; So I just kept on driving thinking maybe I could discover a walmart or cracker barrel soon.&nbsp;<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qWhcc-ylny8/WJDG-GLjlSI/AAAAAAAADQ8/Oq4gCrGdaA8yYcW7AGNoildFUVlZBUUAgCLcB/s1600/restStopSanderson2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-qWhcc-ylny8/WJDG-GLjlSI/AAAAAAAADQ8/Oq4gCrGdaA8yYcW7AGNoildFUVlZBUUAgCLcB/s320/restStopSanderson2.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Thats when I notice this curious rest stop, which has the same sorta large national forest sign as the camping locations so i pulled in.&nbsp; No signs prohibiting parking, so I was feeling good. &nbsp; It only got better because this place was clearly a superior rest stop. &nbsp; It was extremely clean, had nice vending machines, tons of picnic tables and wooded areas all around. &nbsp; I am not positive but I think there might have even been grills.<br /><br />There were water spickets for pets.&nbsp; Im guessing if its meant for pets, its probably safe to drink for humans. I filled up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AzuLX_S0syQ/WJDHDB2jLAI/AAAAAAAADRA/ub-8g59fo_smcxft43XxyOaXGhdH0hWFQCEw/s1600/restStopSanderson3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-AzuLX_S0syQ/WJDHDB2jLAI/AAAAAAAADRA/ub-8g59fo_smcxft43XxyOaXGhdH0hWFQCEw/s320/restStopSanderson3.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />&nbsp;There are informative plaques around talking about the local wildlife nearby, which was cool. &nbsp; Reading one of these I discovered that there was a forest trail right behind the rest stop. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p1ZUpwntCPg/WJDHDUoLPeI/AAAAAAAADRQ/9HtEPUB3T_UD0oMzgXu4l0W_pLtpAYiwQCEw/s1600/restStopSanderson4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-p1ZUpwntCPg/WJDHDUoLPeI/AAAAAAAADRQ/9HtEPUB3T_UD0oMzgXu4l0W_pLtpAYiwQCEw/s320/restStopSanderson4.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u-0HAs224XE/WJDHDEwzpsI/AAAAAAAADRE/hwur8ynmuK8XNAGXbb--X_PFWSyQy9znwCEw/s1600/restStopSanderson5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-u-0HAs224XE/WJDHDEwzpsI/AAAAAAAADRE/hwur8ynmuK8XNAGXbb--X_PFWSyQy9znwCEw/s320/restStopSanderson5.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />That's something you dont see normally! &nbsp; I went over to have a peek at the little trail head, but since it looked like rain was coming on and I was still limping from crippling gout, I didnt venture further in. &nbsp; The signage at the trail head mentioned seeing crazy cartoonish looking caterpillars, banana spiders, and neat looking frogs. &nbsp; I believe the trail was a short 1 mile loop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mf3-jVsJqjI/WJDHl34dKrI/AAAAAAAADRM/JFcZ8Frqqs8f7zX-CqkPP8_07zA90j6GgCLcB/s1600/restStopSanderson7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-Mf3-jVsJqjI/WJDHl34dKrI/AAAAAAAADRM/JFcZ8Frqqs8f7zX-CqkPP8_07zA90j6GgCLcB/s320/restStopSanderson7.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is a ranger station on site as well as a security office, but both were unoccupied when I was there, so not sure if it is just manned seasonally.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spent the night with no problems, then headed to alabama to see a battleship :)<br /><br />If you like to see more, here is a video I shot of the rest stop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MzeH5ncDgBw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MzeH5ncDgBw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-82188067674393565512017-01-12T18:59:00.:002017-01-12T19:01:52.135-05:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yp9RHPgNVTs/WHgX8b41M9I/AAAAAAAADFI/EFk2aiqlijUNqGvuHLFDkO7VVC8fLTDhACKgB/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yp9RHPgNVTs/WHgX8b41M9I/AAAAAAAADFI/EFk2aiqlijUNqGvuHLFDkO7VVC8fLTDhACKgB/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The moon was huge, despite the lies my camera tells</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Greetings from the present, which is this blogs future...i guess lol&nbsp;&nbsp; Im trying to catch up on my travels, but wanted to just update to say I'm being heavily distracted by the RTR in Quartzsite, so at least I have a good excuse!&nbsp; :D<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gm4RGlb5Tgw/WHgYE7ppe8I/AAAAAAAADFM/yf3rmintzesZeCWFy_bZXAC0cRE4pJW2ACKgB/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gm4RGlb5Tgw/WHgYE7ppe8I/AAAAAAAADFM/yf3rmintzesZeCWFy_bZXAC0cRE4pJW2ACKgB/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is someone cooking a chair? </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Ive already met some great people, some colorful people, some crazy people, and hoping to get to know more soon.&nbsp; If you are there look for the big blue van with the white wood rack and say hi!Unknown[email protected]7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-19867527225025742362017-01-09T19:51:00.:002017-01-09T19:51:00.805-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-60MY5pDGP4g/WHA12LQOV3I/AAAAAAAAC7E/TcCZH1qcYgwsVhsndIW1Np7vyo45X6dygCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_061816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-60MY5pDGP4g/WHA12LQOV3I/AAAAAAAAC7E/TcCZH1qcYgwsVhsndIW1Np7vyo45X6dygCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_061816.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />After I left Fernandina Beach, I had only a very tentative idea of where the heck I wanted to go next.&nbsp;&nbsp; Making it to the beach was kind of my goal.&nbsp;&nbsp; I did initially toy with the idea of plunging further south to cocoa beach and maybe the keys as well.&nbsp; But i started to think this might be better saved for another trip where I have more time and resources to dedicate to going down there.<br /><br />So I just started heading west on I-10. &nbsp; I starting thinking that I wanted to see a few more cool things, so at a Pilot pit stop, I searched <a href="http://www.roadsideamerica.com/location/fl" target="_blank">roadside america</a> for oddities to visit.&nbsp; Well one place came up a lot, and it was Panama City Beach. &nbsp; Sounded really cool, so i diverted there to my second florida beach.<br /><br />Freecampsites wasn't coming up with much in that area.&nbsp; So i tried my second avenue, walmart. &nbsp; But I actually <a href="http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Beach-Wal-Mart-towing-policy-causes-some-confusion--371335031.html" target="_blank">found some news stories</a> about how aggressive the tow companies at those walmarts are, so despite some people caliming it was cool, I vowed to avoid them.<br /><br />There was a listing for some <a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!86291&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">mysterious unnamed parking lot</a>. &nbsp; OK, I'm down to check that out later. &nbsp; But for the day I wanted to hit the beach. &nbsp; Christmas was coming up and I got it in my head to build a sand 'snowman' for my family. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XU_Du5f0uqI/WHA5Eo5GHkI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/5ZTu_tmqRl8M9leruJMzTsmXFuRGmdg0QCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161223_131130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-XU_Du5f0uqI/WHA5Eo5GHkI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/5ZTu_tmqRl8M9leruJMzTsmXFuRGmdg0QCKgB/s320/IMG_20161223_131130.webp" width="320" /></a></div>I did a little research and found free parking with restrooms and cold showers at a city park, with beach access. &nbsp; It was an ok park, basically just the parking lot, you walk through the bath house and then to the beach.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0zrJi7b6EY/WHA5En1ZKDI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/GRH0J1eMtqwSZGtq-xma9QVcIBWVRrjfgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161223_131409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-Q0zrJi7b6EY/WHA5En1ZKDI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/GRH0J1eMtqwSZGtq-xma9QVcIBWVRrjfgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161223_131409.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />But what a beautiful beach it was. &nbsp; The area was like some place out of a beach set movie.&nbsp; Palm trees down the boulevard, neat garishly colored houses, but not in the run down crappy way it was in myrtle beach. &nbsp; People lived and worked here all year, it wasn't only about getting that tourist dollar. &nbsp; Everything was open, not closed for the season, which I felt was a good sign.&nbsp; It was thriving and energenic.<br /><br />So I eventually did get to make my sand man, well, about ten versions of him before settling for this one.&nbsp;&nbsp; It is a lot harder than you think to build one!&nbsp;&nbsp; Especially when all you have is a regular plastic bowl and a kiddie shovel someone left on the beach :D<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uTqBo5uo0w/WHA5wQYka5I/AAAAAAAAC7Y/WfnSki_TcnIoZaVIq8siboLWnUE8VSC8gCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_080452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-_uTqBo5uo0w/WHA5wQYka5I/AAAAAAAAC7Y/WfnSki_TcnIoZaVIq8siboLWnUE8VSC8gCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_080452.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Mission accomplished, I resisted the urge to enter those glistening, refreshing looking clear green waves, and went to look for my overnight spot in the mysterious lot.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5DAKhMsVc4s/WHA5Eooc5kI/AAAAAAAAC7U/S3y108mvv_M3JGy3NGTrsVxn8s0r24q_gCPcB/s1600/IMG_20161223_161550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="/-5DAKhMsVc4s/WHA5Eooc5kI/AAAAAAAAC7U/S3y108mvv_M3JGy3NGTrsVxn8s0r24q_gCPcB/s320/IMG_20161223_161550.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Turns out the lot is near a dave &amp; busters which is apart of this huge outdoor mall called Pier Park.&nbsp;&nbsp; Its a neat little place with shops, an overpriced I-max theatre, a little choo choo train and amusement rides for kids.&nbsp;&nbsp; I went to the starbucks here for some uploading, and then crashed in the lot about 6.&nbsp;&nbsp; By about 12:45, 45 minutes after dave and busters closed, I got a knock from the security guard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-qwXbaT5jRV0/WHA5Evj5YeI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/OPV4GROCZjcwZ9oc2a89eO5ftFJiIYEKQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161223_160926.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-qwXbaT5jRV0/WHA5Evj5YeI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/OPV4GROCZjcwZ9oc2a89eO5ftFJiIYEKQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161223_160926.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />I expected this to some degree, hence my early bed time.&nbsp;&nbsp; He told me to try the walmart and was very nice about it, but no staying in the mall.&nbsp;&nbsp; As I left, I noticed at the actual fishing pier, cars parked in the public spaces for beach access.&nbsp;&nbsp; I triple checked and there were no signs forbidding over night parking.&nbsp;&nbsp; I even checked ordinances, which only prohibit it in restricted areas.&nbsp; So I spent the rest of the night there until before sunset, where I hit the beach again to catch it (pic at the top).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qFoOIlYrAoA/WHA6mDQuTNI/AAAAAAAAC7k/LI56xFZmubsIzzytTwXhH1b59I1O_TV0wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_111741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-qFoOIlYrAoA/WHA6mDQuTNI/AAAAAAAAC7k/LI56xFZmubsIzzytTwXhH1b59I1O_TV0wCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_111741.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5LZgYbRVSV0/WHA6mHbPDHI/AAAAAAAAC7k/8jGwe45Y6aIeNITQVPzGyBiHgw70kztDgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_111836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-5LZgYbRVSV0/WHA6mHbPDHI/AAAAAAAAC7k/8jGwe45Y6aIeNITQVPzGyBiHgw70kztDgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_111836.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tear in the side is drawn on!</td></tr></tbody></table>On the way out, I wanted to check out a couple of those oddities.&nbsp;&nbsp; Right near the park was some of the 'giant' stuff, like giant shark mouth you can stand in etc.&nbsp;&nbsp; What really got my attention, and made me want to get a closer look was Ripley's and Wonderworks buildings.&nbsp;&nbsp; Not what was inside (tho i'd like to visit one day and go inside) but the unique..architecture?&nbsp; Artistry?&nbsp; Someone was awesome, thats for sure.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="/-KbrzvIDgE8U/WHA6mKSAvzI/AAAAAAAAC7k/fmovdqt0ofctPcKwcZLuYPsrwljJiq4pACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161224_111656.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-KbrzvIDgE8U/WHA6mKSAvzI/AAAAAAAAC7k/fmovdqt0ofctPcKwcZLuYPsrwljJiq4pACKgB/s320/IMG_20161224_111656.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the upside down trees and phone poles!</td></tr></tbody></table>After that I hit the backyard burgers (i think its called) across the street, and they were amazing.&nbsp; Why isn't this a huge chain?? And took off heading toward Pensacola, and probably my favorite camping spot so far on my trip.&nbsp; <br /><br />Unknown[email protected]1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-10872721885482853292017-01-05T21:14:00.:002017-01-05T21:24:55.726-05:00<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MmTs46Odz2s/WG7y6UNm3yI/AAAAAAAAC4I/Z0KcKdnNahkEr79SQ7JWdkompC8DNcBYQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161217_131938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-MmTs46Odz2s/WG7y6UNm3yI/AAAAAAAAC4I/Z0KcKdnNahkEr79SQ7JWdkompC8DNcBYQCLcB/s320/IMG_20161217_131938.webp" width="320" /></a>Peters Point Park<br />1974 S Fletcher Ave<br />Fernandina Beach, Florida<br /><ul><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">GPS:&nbsp;</span></span> <span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">30.598782</span>, <span itemprop="longitude">-81.443501</span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://youtu.be/zhWNa6VBFxQ" target="_blank">Youtube Video</a> </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;<a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!15793&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net Listing</a></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"> </span></span></li></ul><br /><br /><br />Camping on the beach?&nbsp;&nbsp; It was definitely one of my traveling bucket list items, and I am glad I did it.&nbsp;&nbsp; Though to be honest I was rather miserable for most of the night.&nbsp;&nbsp; :D&nbsp; The van has spoiled me, most especially the mattress.&nbsp; You would think sand would be soft and comfy but you would be terribly wrong.&nbsp;&nbsp; Maybe compared to rocks!<br /><br />Don't let that fool you though, I had a really nice time here.&nbsp;&nbsp; Getting to the beach in florida was a kind of mental milestone for me, and walking onto the beach brought a smile to my face.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mg5lhZYtWMk/WG75EP-OOZI/AAAAAAAAC4w/2DLdd_CAgnMX_-ZqGHF62cOsT5Zxj-efgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161216_160231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-mg5lhZYtWMk/WG75EP-OOZI/AAAAAAAAC4w/2DLdd_CAgnMX_-ZqGHF62cOsT5Zxj-efgCKgB/s320/IMG_20161216_160231.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Fernandina beach is a gorgeous, upscale, golf resort type of area.&nbsp;&nbsp; Unlike the other beaches I have visited, this one doesn't seem to care about tourists one way or the other, which is almost a relief.<br /><br />Of course it has its drawbacks too.&nbsp;&nbsp; You were once able to freely camp at the beach parks like Peter's Point (there are 3-4 of these on this stretch of beach), but now there are signs forbidding it.&nbsp;&nbsp; However, you are technically allowed to camp on the beach itself, and that is the loop hole I exercised.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />Not the first night though.&nbsp;&nbsp; I got in late, it was cold and the wind was viscous.&nbsp;&nbsp; Combine that with the fact I had never before camped on a beach, I decided this wasn't the time to learn.&nbsp;&nbsp; So I spent my first night at a little walmart nearby.&nbsp;&nbsp; They give you 48 hours to park an RV, then the police might ticket or tow you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-g4OIy7AZjeE/WG75y7dZ22I/AAAAAAAAC48/UA1w0k3_BOwxtalQI7wvfWnHachjSHbxQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161217_114121.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-g4OIy7AZjeE/WG75y7dZ22I/AAAAAAAAC48/UA1w0k3_BOwxtalQI7wvfWnHachjSHbxQCKgB/s320/IMG_20161217_114121.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />It was fine, and the next day I hit the park early.&nbsp;&nbsp; This place is awesome for more than just the beach.&nbsp;&nbsp; It had been so long...so very long....since I had a HOT SHOWER.&nbsp;&nbsp; Yep, they have actual hot showers, free and clear for anyone to use. &nbsp; Not just warm cause the water was sitting in a pipe or something, I mean real heated showers.&nbsp; Amazing, something I hadn't encountered before or since on my journey.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_OxnQWZxb8/WG76BqOexZI/AAAAAAAAC5A/exvxo0gcyNYKAfUYwRy3Ha0SjfZnDOK1QCKgB/s1600/IMG_20161217_085834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-9_OxnQWZxb8/WG76BqOexZI/AAAAAAAAC5A/exvxo0gcyNYKAfUYwRy3Ha0SjfZnDOK1QCKgB/s320/IMG_20161217_085834.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />After my shower I made lunch under one of several pavilions.&nbsp;&nbsp; Tossed my trash in one of many trash cans around, then boldly walked down the boardwalk to pitch my tent on the beach and set up my chair.<br /><br />I wasn't sure where exactly to put my tent.&nbsp;&nbsp; I was pretty sure the dunes were a no go, as they were home to wildlife (I saw a turtle in its lil hole..), and past the dunes were tracks from the vehicles that had permits to drive on the beach.&nbsp;&nbsp; There is about 10 feet from there to the high tide line, and thats where I pitched my tent.&nbsp;&nbsp; Others were doing the same.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I0Lv-Ajmakk/WG76W7A_ykI/AAAAAAAAC5I/pk85mFs-OI0WR8bMwWzKXp9lkelyMyj0ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20161217_082601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-I0Lv-Ajmakk/WG76W7A_ykI/AAAAAAAAC5I/pk85mFs-OI0WR8bMwWzKXp9lkelyMyj0ACKgB/s320/IMG_20161217_082601.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This bird was my guide.&nbsp; Note tire tracks</td></tr></tbody></table>It made me a little uncomfortable putting my tent up just a few feet from where vehicles were driving.&nbsp; Most others had their own trucks or cars out there as a sort of wind screen and car buffer.&nbsp;&nbsp; I was hard to see in just my little tent.&nbsp;&nbsp; I tried my best to line my tent up with the others so they might block for me.&nbsp; Luckily there wasn't too much traffic and late night partying, everyone seemed to want peace that night.<br /><br />The sound of waves at night are very restful.&nbsp;&nbsp; I'm sure if I would have dragged my mattress down there and crammed it in my tent I woulda been in heaven, but twas not to be.&nbsp;&nbsp; My van couldn't make it on the sand, I know because a vandweller in a transit got stuck twice trying it before retreating to the parking lot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Another vandweller was up there too...despite the rules against it.&nbsp;&nbsp; So about 2am I gave in and took the walk of shame back to the van for a few hours of blissful sleep.<br /><br />Still enjoyed the beach, especially that hot shower, and would highly recommend anyone visit there.<br /><br />Check out my video review of Peter's Point Park:<br /><br /><div align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zhWNa6VBFxQ?list=PLaA4Xe7BRvmXOa26SM_ZEEfJppI3rWN4W" width="560"></iframe></div><br />If you found The Campsite Compendium useful or enjoyed reading my blog, consider supporting me and my content <a href="http://www.patreon.com/vanlifecrisis" target="_blank">through my patreon</a>.&nbsp; Patrons get exclusive content as well as my gushing thanks!Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-82334291839519398842017-01-05T19:09:00.:002017-01-05T19:11:41.260-05:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wHm9R23zJCc/WG7gKNr6oqI/AAAAAAAAC34/BUG0VodfTCciUFNgrunaRy1cG1awPsPogCKgB/s1600/1230161526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-wHm9R23zJCc/WG7gKNr6oqI/AAAAAAAAC34/BUG0VodfTCciUFNgrunaRy1cG1awPsPogCKgB/s320/1230161526.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free official spot, best of both worlds</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;So far I have gloried in the fact that I have paid next to nothing for free camping on my travels so far.&nbsp;&nbsp; But today as I pulled out of a texaco station after having to abort an attempt to find a camp spot in the Dragoon Mountains of Arizona, I began to wonder.&nbsp; In my mind I was thinking, sure, free is always better.&nbsp;&nbsp; But if you are just looking for a place to crash for a night or even two, sometimes it isn't worth the cost in gas, wear and tear and time to go out into the middle of no where.&nbsp; I've seen rv parks for 15-39 dollars a night, I probably spent at least 15 in gas to find that campsite in the mountains if you count my return trip.<br />&nbsp; <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr7yr5EnVZA/WG7e17vMxFI/AAAAAAAAC3s/E8zDtHIJPrENUwSgf-66z04Tb2mfJd-swCKgB/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr7yr5EnVZA/WG7e17vMxFI/AAAAAAAAC3s/E8zDtHIJPrENUwSgf-66z04Tb2mfJd-swCKgB/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was quite pretty, despite traffic</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Now of course there are other factors to consider.&nbsp; How much are experiences worth to you? &nbsp; You can very easily find a roadside rest area or parking area, especially down in the southwest. &nbsp; But it won't be as beautiful as this camping spot. &nbsp;&nbsp; It's also kinda nice knowing the likely hood you will get a cop knock is low, but you wont in an rv park either so thats kind of a wash.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azgC7OUu4q8/WG7emQvt8-I/AAAAAAAAC3o/050cnHlTotUXmulMCTKiLQyN8rYUPmRzgCKgB/s1600/.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azgC7OUu4q8/WG7emQvt8-I/AAAAAAAAC3o/050cnHlTotUXmulMCTKiLQyN8rYUPmRzgCKgB/s320/.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But this has it beat I think</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Scenery and memories aside, lets assume you are all about efficient traveling.&nbsp; I think boondocking at a free site, even if it takes more in gas and time, becomes worth it when you extend your stay. &nbsp;&nbsp; The longer the stay, the better the value. &nbsp; One trip in, and one trip out costs the same whether you spend 1 night or 14. &nbsp; In any RV park, even the cheap one for 15$ with full hookups I saw in Iraan Texas, can't claim the same. &nbsp; The longer you stay the more it costs. <br /><br />Since I wanted to go to the RTR this year I haven't stayed more than 3 days at any spot, but after the rtr my rate og travel will slow down significantly to conserve finances for just this reason.&nbsp;&nbsp; But when you are on the road and moving around, the jury is still out whether its worth it to always seek out those free spots.<br /><br />What do you think?Unknown[email protected]2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-67090750322646096792016-12-30T14:22:00.:002017-01-05T21:26:14.780-05:00<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4z2deGO_tuU/WGVZPps5coI/AAAAAAAACl8/VExwNWq7V6IWVYozeQH8OCs8YCm6e3RVQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161215_153328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-4z2deGO_tuU/WGVZPps5coI/AAAAAAAACl8/VExwNWq7V6IWVYozeQH8OCs8YCm6e3RVQCLcB/s320/IMG_20161215_153328.webp" width="320" /></a><br />Savannah Historic Visitor Center<br />301 MLK Blvd<br />Savannah, Georgia<br /><ul><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">GPS:&nbsp;</span></span> <span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">32.076046</span>, <span itemprop="longitude">-81.099091</span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://youtu.be/I63lfCcE07U" target="_blank">Youtube Video</a> </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!5985&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net Listing</a></span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Cost: $8 </span></span></li></ul><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"></span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Located right smack in the middle of the historic district, the Savannah Visitor Center seems like an unlikely camping spot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Well the term camping is used lightly, as they do not allow tents or grills but they do allow overnight parking and even have large RV specific spots.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dqrjQ87Tnxg/WGVZPdvyXxI/AAAAAAAACnI/R9Z9Ft-X0ucMeMDimUOhMrjwdZr9DvJcQCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_154228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-dqrjQ87Tnxg/WGVZPdvyXxI/AAAAAAAACnI/R9Z9Ft-X0ucMeMDimUOhMrjwdZr9DvJcQCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_154228.webp" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">You can stay here for $8 dollars a night, or $14 for 2 nights.&nbsp;&nbsp; I know you are shocked, I actually paid for camping?&nbsp; Well, you have to pay for parking pretty much anywhere in the district anyway, so you get parking and a place to stay for one price, with the perk of being within walking distance of everything worth seeing in Savannah.&nbsp;&nbsp; If thats still not good enough, you can park for free at a pilot I visited briefly before entering the city, right off I-95.&nbsp;&nbsp; Or...if you are feeling daring, after hours the visitor center opens their gates and lets anyone in, so you could slip out in and out at night without anyone the wiser.&nbsp; YMMV.&nbsp;&nbsp; I think they may do the same on weekends.</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iI8NsXFk08o/WGVZWao8hTI/AAAAAAAACnI/qu1ikCOljjogbbxa0GqQG-K5R9iFfQMZACEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_170118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-iI8NsXFk08o/WGVZWao8hTI/AAAAAAAACnI/qu1ikCOljjogbbxa0GqQG-K5R9iFfQMZACEw/s320/IMG_20161215_170118.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the stairs are historic :)</td></tr></tbody></table><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">But turns out the $8 was money well spent. &nbsp; This site isn't about where you park your rig as much as what is around it.&nbsp; Savannah, GA's downtown, river market, and historic district is absolutely beautiful.&nbsp; Every street, house, plaza and even back alley is like a work of art taken out of a museum.&nbsp;&nbsp; I keep wandering to parks in the distance to sheepishly discover it wasn't a park, but just a traffic median strip...that just so happens to have picturesque statues, fountains and amazing greenery.&nbsp; </span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Wicw9Yb81c/WGVZSgtjBPI/AAAAAAAACnI/EXgDlqIB8AcadcwncWzrliycJxglb0cxgCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_163507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-3Wicw9Yb81c/WGVZSgtjBPI/AAAAAAAACnI/EXgDlqIB8AcadcwncWzrliycJxglb0cxgCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_163507.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Apparently Savannah was big in the earlily days of quite a few churches, so they are represented throughout. Statues and giant churches built on the remains of other churches. &nbsp; Some were replaced by more humble businesses, but respect is still paid with signposts and plaques to the original places.</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jjpCSWEyGE/WGVZVC_DWaI/AAAAAAAACnI/uXYuNaTbQg00ANi49Waq3_7JFui_ycNgQCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_165644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-6jjpCSWEyGE/WGVZVC_DWaI/AAAAAAAACnI/uXYuNaTbQg00ANi49Waq3_7JFui_ycNgQCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_165644.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The man who sold me my pass at the visitor center suggested I check out the river market if I get the chance, so eventually I got my bearings and limped on down there.&nbsp;&nbsp; It was about a mile away but I was excited, feeling vindicated in stopping here for the night, especially after my disappointing visit to Myrtle Beach.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9W9YGNSftRM/WGVZbrXxMtI/AAAAAAAACnI/tYknEQYKfgsKi4DbD6-1i8ZddfUNQIwDwCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_173700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-9W9YGNSftRM/WGVZbrXxMtI/AAAAAAAACnI/tYknEQYKfgsKi4DbD6-1i8ZddfUNQIwDwCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_173700.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KuqkPWkddg/WGVZYiKrdEI/AAAAAAAACnI/F3rzVZbNKNsPTbKmW34WFVS9pVlKWqH9QCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_170643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-7KuqkPWkddg/WGVZYiKrdEI/AAAAAAAACnI/F3rzVZbNKNsPTbKmW34WFVS9pVlKWqH9QCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_170643.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The area did not disappoint.&nbsp; The cobblestone streets lead down to some 'historic stairs' that take you down to the water.&nbsp;&nbsp; I was hoping to see an old riverboat.&nbsp;&nbsp; There were two there, tho I think they are gas powered rather than steam ;)&nbsp; Good enough, and they make a lovely backdrop against the sunset.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1C0yzqKKjaM/WGVZaktmEtI/AAAAAAAACnI/Wgyh0zKE8lsEGxyN-AfVtosgxKsF6yeGQCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_173300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-1C0yzqKKjaM/WGVZaktmEtI/AAAAAAAACnI/Wgyh0zKE8lsEGxyN-AfVtosgxKsF6yeGQCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_173300.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />The River Market area was packed with a pretty varied array of shops, clubs, restaurants and even a pet store.&nbsp;&nbsp; usually I avoid tourist area shops like the plague, and while the usual stuff was present a lot of the shops were unique and clever in their approach (ill admit the 2 stores beside each other, Bob's your Uncle, and Fanny's your Aunt got a smile out of me).<br /><br />Walking along the edge of the river, I found a pretty awesome WWII memorial.&nbsp; It was a world split in two, and inside were names inscribed.&nbsp; Pretty powerful and sobering message, kudos to the artist.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ub1tkcPWBWY/WGVZaI54pOI/AAAAAAAACnI/5brflI5mN5sSbcElwJ0_YGpSO5z6ZG1kgCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_170937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-ub1tkcPWBWY/WGVZaI54pOI/AAAAAAAACnI/5brflI5mN5sSbcElwJ0_YGpSO5z6ZG1kgCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_170937.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />As night was approaching, and the clubs started cranking up the music, I found one more statue near the river exit out to the bay.&nbsp; I wish pictures at night could do it more justice, but the statue depicts a woman and her dog waving at travelers both arriving and leaving on their voyage. &nbsp; It felt like a fitting stopping point for my visit to Savannah.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZWhMmrkcVc/WGVZcKyYcRI/AAAAAAAACnI/-vRfrQcwZZIrEu5EgrmrBHcCpIprORaXQCEw/s1600/IMG_20161215_174554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-6ZWhMmrkcVc/WGVZcKyYcRI/AAAAAAAACnI/-vRfrQcwZZIrEu5EgrmrBHcCpIprORaXQCEw/s320/IMG_20161215_174554.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span>Unknown[email protected]1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-2658036120850440432016-12-29T13:03:00.:002016-12-29T13:08:21.789-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQaLVO5YDQo/WGVIg1byxXI/AAAAAAAAClE/4wlAWrctoh84h5HvNrkgVoTuf5ARCyZrgCLcB/s1600/greshamWMA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-JQaLVO5YDQo/WGVIg1byxXI/AAAAAAAAClE/4wlAWrctoh84h5HvNrkgVoTuf5ARCyZrgCLcB/s320/greshamWMA.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />Marsh WMA<br /><span class="_Xbe">Murray Rd &amp; Pine Log Landing Ct&nbsp;</span><br /><span class="_Xbe">Gresham, SC</span><br /><ul><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">GPS:&nbsp;</span></span> N33° 58.982, W079° 28.254<span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://youtu.be/FYnn3P0eN7g" target="_blank">Youtube Video</a> </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!9236&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net Listing</a></span></span></li></ul><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">This was a super convenient place to stay for 2 nights.&nbsp;&nbsp; Fairly close (30-40 mins?) to the tourist trap of Myrtle Beach, this little camp was surprisingly enjoyable. &nbsp; This is mostly a hunting spot, but you are free to camp there to for up to 4 days. &nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-8N8C5eMiCO8/WGVLrh71FHI/AAAAAAAAClU/sZ15EkcUmsY8pnhyduVOYjqvkWtt1eg7wCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161212_134822.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-8N8C5eMiCO8/WGVLrh71FHI/AAAAAAAAClU/sZ15EkcUmsY8pnhyduVOYjqvkWtt1eg7wCLcB/s320/IMG_20161212_134822.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">I followed the GPS coordinates on freecampsites, and it left me hanging a good ways from the campsite itself at night.&nbsp;&nbsp; This lead to several sharp frantic turns as I followed signs to get there.&nbsp; Use the cross streets above in google navigation or the coordinates I provide to get closer to the kiosk.</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The road into this place is sand, and its a marsh, so while well packed it will flood out. &nbsp; I met a great local here with his dog who stopped for a chat, and I asked how bad was it to get out of here when it was raining. He told me dismissively that it wasn't a problem at all. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A0LcRh951L8/WGVLr8DLsEI/AAAAAAAACls/dhBH_WDlPP8URbwz4gqwCYCQYa2Mi2W2QCEw/s1600/IMG_20161212_134804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-A0LcRh951L8/WGVLr8DLsEI/AAAAAAAACls/dhBH_WDlPP8URbwz4gqwCYCQYa2Mi2W2QCEw/s320/IMG_20161212_134804.webp" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Then he proceeded to tell me, with sincerity, how they come back through there all the time in their john boats and don't even scrape the propellers at all. Needless to say when it started pouring after 2 days I took off like a bat out of hell, and just barely made it.&nbsp;&nbsp; So go if the sky is dry, but avoid in wet conditions unless you have 4x4.</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlcFPK_td98/WGVLuBd8hdI/AAAAAAAACls/cTWn6qH5OVgugptEb0pVdtPMGEI_BvNJQCEw/s1600/IMG_20161212_135403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-DlcFPK_td98/WGVLuBd8hdI/AAAAAAAACls/cTWn6qH5OVgugptEb0pVdtPMGEI_BvNJQCEw/s320/IMG_20161212_135403.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">You can only camp in designated campground area, namely, the area right across from the Kiosk. &nbsp; They have a log at the kiosk in the bird feeder (weird..) so be sure to fill it out.&nbsp; I just put camping for reason i was there.&nbsp; I think its mostly for hunters anyway but better safe than sorry. </span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The site itself was neat though, there is a brick fireplace and a roofed area.&nbsp;&nbsp; Next to it you can find a hand well with water (little brown, not sure if potable) and a sink.&nbsp;&nbsp; I think this is mostly to help with game processing, and there is a rack nearby to hang up your catch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1hcwa7_X00/WGVLtYAmoTI/AAAAAAAACls/WhnG0X9hRIQLinI5aiMpDsifat7JVmJlgCEw/s1600/IMG_20161212_135152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-_1hcwa7_X00/WGVLtYAmoTI/AAAAAAAACls/WhnG0X9hRIQLinI5aiMpDsifat7JVmJlgCEw/s320/IMG_20161212_135152.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">During the day you can see all kinds of awesome wildlife, I saw a bunch of different birds in vibrant colors.&nbsp; Without hunter orange clothing of some sort, I didn't want to hike too far into the woods.&nbsp; Other than that, not much out there.&nbsp; The local guy told me that travelers often do camp there and then drive into Myrtle Beach instead of paying for an RV park, and so I felt a little better doing the same....at the time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Get the idea I didn't enjoy Myrtle Beach?&nbsp; lol&nbsp;&nbsp; I will touch on it a bit since its the reason I came to this site.&nbsp;&nbsp; I know I went in the off season, so i adjusted my expectations.&nbsp;&nbsp; Even then the whole place felt very..hmm...trashy?&nbsp;&nbsp; One street away from the beach I saw dumpy houses with junk all over the yard and a couch hanging off the curb.&nbsp; Its like a slum dressed up as an attraction.</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Walking down the main strip near the board walk hustlers and hawkers nearly assaulted me.&nbsp;&nbsp; There were no public restrooms in sight, and it generally seemed run down.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Worried I had judged the place too harshly, maybe all beach tourism towns were like this.&nbsp; But panama beach florida busted that theory.&nbsp; Unlike Myrtle they didn't just want to squeeze some tourist dollars out of people and do the bare minimum necessariy to facilitate that goal, they actually built up the area and made it nice.&nbsp; The people who lived there cared about the area beyond it's ability to milk cash from tourists and it showed.</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Anyway, check out the video of Gresham, SC below, and subscribe while you are at it so you can catch my Myrtle Beach video as well when I upload it.</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FYnn3P0eN7g" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-38566295740724530092016-12-29T11:30:00.:002016-12-29T11:57:45.954-05:00So now that i am on the road, I have been staying at a lot of campsites and cool spots, and maybe some not so cool ones.&nbsp;&nbsp; But the goal has been to spend as least as possible for camping on my travels.&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="http://www.freecampsites.net/" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net</a> has been an invaluable resource for this, as has <a href="http://www.allstays.com/c/wal-mart-locations.htm" target="_blank">walmart allstays</a>, cracker barrels, and truck stops.<br /><br />While some of the information provided is helpful, I kept wishing there was more I could know about these places before I head there and try to find them.&nbsp;&nbsp; GPS is great but time and again I found myself in the middle of no where and not quite there, so I started recording my drive into each campground (when possible) and documenting the site a bit.&nbsp; I also wanted a place I could personally find the spots i've been to if I am ever going through the area again.<br /><br />I will have <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaA4Xe7BRvmXOa26SM_ZEEfJppI3rWN4W" target="_blank">a playlist up on youtube</a> for each part of the compendium (fastest updates there), and on this blog I will do a more detailed post for each one, with my thoughts on the campsite or things I've done nearby. &nbsp; I will also be adding a link in the menu above to the campsite compendium that will be indexed by state so you can easily find each site.<br /><br />I'm working on the format, so it may undergo some changes in the future, but <a href="http://www.vanlifecrisis.com/2016/12/yates-place-troy-nc.html" target="_blank">check it out here</a> or in the menu above. Unknown[email protected]0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139907054478890572.post-18437181461550949672016-12-29T11:29:00.:002016-12-29T11:29:41.901-05:00<br /><ul><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zMSgeZq0gcg/WGUoL_HKa8I/AAAAAAAACj8/-RL7mo3ROns2gJMoLzSEuc87du1wEm05wCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161210_140756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-zMSgeZq0gcg/WGUoL_HKa8I/AAAAAAAACj8/-RL7mo3ROns2gJMoLzSEuc87du1wEm05wCLcB/s320/IMG_20161210_140756.webp" width="320" /></a></ul>Yates Place<br /><span class="_Xbe"><br /> Troy, NC 27371</span><br /><ul><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="latitude">GPS: 35.364606</span>, <span itemprop="longitude">-79.989031</span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp; </span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">&nbsp;</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://youtu.be/-W9n6MPT440" target="_blank">Youtube Video</a> </span></span></li><li><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><a href="https://freecampsites.net/#!60907&amp;query=sitedetails" target="_blank">Freecampsites.net Listing</a></span></span></li></ul><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Yates Place campground is a small campground in Uwharrie Forest in Troy NC that I spent 2 nights at in November 2016.&nbsp; This was a great camping spot after my visit to the town of Mayberry not too far from this location.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ngwPKjwam1I/WGU4YjZS79I/AAAAAAAACko/rFPE2IS2sbIiXXP6H058TFb-i2RsuutbwCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161209_150430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-ngwPKjwam1I/WGU4YjZS79I/AAAAAAAACko/rFPE2IS2sbIiXXP6H058TFb-i2RsuutbwCLcB/s320/IMG_20161209_150430.webp" width="320" /></a></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The campsite is pretty easy to find, coming from town you want to look for a cemetary across from the turn in to Dusty Road.&nbsp; The road into the campground is gravel, but well maintained, probably because there are homes back there and school buses do go down these roads.&nbsp;&nbsp; At first I thought a skoolie conversion camper was coming into camp, but it was the local school bus making a turn in the overflow area that is available right before the entrance proper to the campsites.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erlUmzF0ai4/WGUqn-jYW9I/AAAAAAAACkI/RbfluItJKyMOeQEbA2CWtAqWpAv-a9VagCLcB/s1600/IMG_20161209_150818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="/-erlUmzF0ai4/WGUqn-jYW9I/AAAAAAAACkI/RbfluItJKyMOeQEbA2CWtAqWpAv-a9VagCLcB/s320/IMG_20161209_150818.webp" width="320" /></a></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">There are several campsites available, during my time here very few were actually occupied.&nbsp;&nbsp; Most of the people who come to this campsite do so to backpack on the trail or hunt.&nbsp;&nbsp; In fact there isn't much else you can do in this area.&nbsp; Though other parts of the forest has jeep and 4x4 trails galore, they are not allowed at this end.&nbsp; So it is a pretty quiet experience at night.&nbsp; Most sites are near to the gravel road, but traffic is sparse.</span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4u4Y6Fl-UV8/WGU4J0taQKI/AAAAAAAACkk/CYnx90_jVBsofWNJLrG-GGIW28VAmuE4wCLcB/s1600/YatesPlaceNC2.mp4_snapshot_04.26_%255B2016.12.29_11.21.24%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="/-4u4Y6Fl-UV8/WGU4J0taQKI/AAAAAAAACkk/CYnx90_jVBsofWNJLrG-GGIW28VAmuE4wCLcB/s320/YatesPlaceNC2.mp4_snapshot_04.26_%5B2016.12.29_11.21.24%5D.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. &nbsp; Some of the sites have a lantern pole but not all. &nbsp; The sites are pretty close together, so if it is busy plan to cozy up to a neighbor. &nbsp; If you are lucky enough, and you value a little privacy, there is one site by itself to the left of the road in the woods, right before you get to the trail gate.</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ihGFBORMpI/WGU5YIHPYCI/AAAAAAAACk0/-6UuG2msebYE-wkBOFZj791nDzJWKUMBwCLcB/s1600/YatesPlaceNC2.mp4_snapshot_05.45_%255B2016.12.29_11.26.40%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="/-2ihGFBORMpI/WGU5YIHPYCI/AAAAAAAACk0/-6UuG2msebYE-wkBOFZj791nDzJWKUMBwCLcB/s320/YatesPlaceNC2.mp4_snapshot_05.45_%5B2016.12.29_11.26.40%5D.webp" width="320" /></a></div><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The site has a pretty standard vault toilet, but it was clean.&nbsp; Bring your own toilet paper though.&nbsp; Bearproof trash cans are provided in the middle of the camp.&nbsp; There is no water available, but the dollar general is about 8 mins away in town, and has a propane exchange (that i needed!).&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">The locals seem very friendly.&nbsp;&nbsp; The highlight of my stay was meeting a young man named George who owned the hammock in the picture above.&nbsp; Polite almost to a fault, but clearly welcoming some company and conversation from someone living a similar life.&nbsp; <br /><br />He actually had been living in this and a nearby campground while attending community college and his enlistment in the area.&nbsp; He told me that he hasn't had any problems out there or seen a ranger.&nbsp; Unlike me he lives the more survivalist lifestyle, and feels like it will help him transition into the military easier.&nbsp; His tale is fascinating, involving losing his father to PTSD and his reasoning for following in his footsteps, but if you want the details, you might have to seek him out yourself there, in Yates Place.</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude">Be sure to check out my video below, where I show the road into the site and give a little video tour:</span></span><br /><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span><span itemprop="geo" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/GeoCoordinates"><span itemprop="longitude"><br /></span></span> <br /><div align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-W9n6MPT440" width="560"></iframe></div>Unknown[email protected]0