| |
Subject |
Author |
Date Posted |
Forum
|
 |
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
Just a suggestion if you want to stay longer than your reservation are. Boon docking can be done in the N.Kaibab National Forest, just take Forest Rd 22 in about 3 miles and there is a area well suited for large vehicles. This places you about 6 miles from the N.Rim entrance.
That looks like a great area. We are open ended, so it's nice to know we've got options ;-)
Just an FYI, the DW and I are originally from Hemet, class of '64 and '66.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/28/12 09:09am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
...the pull thru driveway looks to be almost 70ft long, and I'm just short of 50. That's why I was 'confused' about the '27ft' restriction. As I said, TWT ;-)
Many times it's not the size of the site that causes the length restriction but the roads getting to the site.
Yes, that was my point when I posted about what the lady on the phone told me that the max. length was 30 feet ;-)
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 06:47pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
We were there last year and the Rangers/Hosts were....well, "strict" about fitting in the campsite. If a wheel from your rig or tow vehicle is not completely within the asphalt pad you will be in "violation". They don't kid around there. It's such a beautiful place I hope you get a chance to squeeze in your site and enjoy it! As a side note: my husband, my dog and I were napping in our site when the Host and his wife stopped by for a "welcome to the campground" visit and startled us (all 3 of us) awake! I jumped, my husband jumped and my dog jumped with a big hefty "woof, woof, woof, woof"! The Host looked at me and said gruffly "I sure hope that dog of yours doesn't bark like that all day. We run a quiet campground!". I started laughing and told him as long as strangers don't sneak up on us and startle us all while we are asleep in our chairs in our campsite we should be ok"......but it kind of gives you an idea about how inflexible they can be. However, we did enjoy our stay there and the only other uninvited visitors we had were lots and lots of deer in our campsite. We have about a zillion photos of them. And, no, my dog did not bark at them! LOL about the camp host and your dog! And deer?!? We live on a golf course and I have about 30 of them strolling by every evening...and can't grow a darned thing thanks to them...long legged rats as far as I'm concerned ;-)
That concept of having the wheels on the asphalt is typical of where were stay too, so we're used to that, and that is why I felt comfortable booking that site when I saw the pictures...the pull thru driveway looks to be almost 70ft long, and I'm just short of 50. That's why I was 'confused' about the '27ft' restriction. As I said, TWT ;-)
Thanks for the note.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 05:41pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
We were at the North Rim CG three years ago. We have a 30 foot TT and were pulling it with a extend cab F150 at the time (close to 50 total ft length). We fit fine into out pull-thru spot. Problem is, I can't remember the specific spot number (maybe 24) It specifically said it was a 40 ft spot. If you can find one of those spots still open, switch it one of them (limited amount of them).When I booked I had very few to choose from, and I could actually see the availability decreasing as I evaluated those left. Now there is nothing available for the 3 nights we are booked...except a random single night here and there.
As indicated above, I do not have a concern at all that we would fit...with lots of room to spare in fact (which is why I picked that site in the first...but I did NOT see the disclaimer re the length when we booked).
For me it is now more the 'technicality' of how subjective/strict the hosts/rangers will be in 'their' execution of the 'rules'. But after my phone call I now feel more comfortable...TWT ;-0
One of life's little adventures....
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 02:19pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
If you are a serious photographer don't miss the guided tour of Antelope Canyon. We went with Chief something or another. Pay for the extended photographer's tour. Navajo guides have the timing for best lighting down to a science. Well worth the price.
I just booked the photographic tour and am now more excited about that than any other thing on our trip :)
I was a able to plug that into the day before we go to the GC (made camping reservations in Page the night before) so if for any reason the tour gets 'washed out' I can re-schedule it for when we leave the GC 4-5 days later ;-)
Oh, and the book is scheduled to be delivered tomorrow.
We leave on a 2 week Caribbean cruise next week (after 3 days in Yosemite) so I will definitely take it with me for reading on our 'sea days'
Thanks for you help!!!!
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 01:10pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
You might try calling the park directly and asking them about that specific site. Also, check if all the sites have that same description. Perhaps it's a "blanket" comment. Also, perhaps there's a wrong picture with the site description.Perhaps our posts about calling crossed in cyberspace ;-) One of the pics on the site shows the site sign-post in it, so it is clear the pics are of the right site.
So for all those that follow behind me with the same question, about the end of May I'll come back here and tell you how this story turned out ;-)
...DeMotte just outside the national park entrance. Our 40' motorhome fits into those sites. At that same area to the west is a good gravel road right off the hwy. that will lead you into wonderful boondocking spots. You don't have to drive far on that road to find one - perhaps 1/2 mile or so. We've done that, too. So you have options. Good luck! Thank you for this info...may need it ;-( Boondocking is fine with us...as long as I have something to take pictures of ;-)
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 12:49pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
I had to search a bit, but I found a direct number to the park/campground and was able to talk with a 'real' person. She said that 30' is the max. length they allow in the campground due to the infrastructure of the roads (Yosemite says 27'). She also indicated that if there was an issue with the truck and trailer fitting that there is parking for the truck just outside the campground.
I guess I'll see when we get there...can't make changes now as the placed is booked solid.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 12:26pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
The CG at the North Rim is tight on a good day. Their website spells out quite clearly that you won't fit. I would get in touch and try to make other arrangements vs just showing up and hoping you can make due as finding another site will be difficult since that CG is usually full.
I guess the confusing part for me is the fact that the pictures provided of this nice drive through campsite show that it could clearly (based on a camp that is set up in the pictures) accommodate our rig...with room to spare! If it was a narrow drive, back-in site I could understand the length concern, but not for this one.
BTW it is site #28 if anyone would like to take a look.
Steve
PS, after posting this reply I went back in and followed the link and although it showed the campsite description the pictures were not correct. I had to go into the list/map to site 28 to get the correct pics.
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 11:30am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
Grand Canyon North Rim Campground length issue
I made a reservation some time ago for a drive through site in the Grand Canyon North Rim Campground that looks (from the pictures on the website) plenty long to accommodate our truck and 5er.
Typically when asked the length of the trailer I give the 'net' length behind the truck, which is 24' (29' from nose to rear bumper). I just went back and looked at the site on recreation.gov to refresh my memory and noticed that it says "This site can accommodate ONE tent or an RV up to 27 feet in length. If your equipment is longer than the stated maximum length for this site, we will not allow you to occupy this site and we will NOT be able to move you to another site."
My experience in Yosemite and other Ca. State Parks is that if you can make it fit, you can book it.
Is that the same here or might I have an issue?
Thanks
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/27/12 09:39am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
Does your droid require cell service to work right as a GPS? Nope, GPS works even w/out cell coverage ;-)
As for getting a permit, last time I tried for a walk up permit there were at least 50 other people trying for that day. They only give 20 a day as I recall, half of which are the reservation permits, and the other 10 for the walk ins.This is all getting me a little confused...which area are you talking about re the permit issue?
Thanks
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 08:33pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
Aaaa...Whats the 'Wave'?
LOL, until day before yesterday I would have asked the same thing ;-)
Google "Vermillion Cliff and Wave" and see what you get...blew my mind!
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 08:26pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
Aaaa...Whats the 'Wave'?
LOL, until the day before yesterday I would have asked that same question. Just google "Vermillion Cliffs and Wave" and see what you get ;-) It blew my mind!!!
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 08:17pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
.... and more to ponder....if you're interested in slot canyons, here's a great site:
Slot Canyons
Also, if you happen to get a slot at The Wave - be sure to take your GPS for cookie tracks. Once you start wandering around it's easy to become disoriented! :) Have fun.
Your timing is perfect...just got a new Droid Bionic last week and installed mapmyride.com on it. I use it for tracking my bike rides (and my wife's walk routes), and it should be perfect for what you are talking about...plus I bought 2 extended life batteries ;-)
I have looked at the guide options at Slot Canyon and think I will definitely have to look into making a reservation.
You guys are really getting my psyched with this Slot Canyon stuff!
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 06:32pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
If you are going to Arches, it isn't far to get to Goblin Valley . While there, if you stay more than a few hours, you can hike a little (or a lot) of Little Wild Horse Canyon.
The White Pocket Fold area is also in Vermillion cliffs area but that too involves hiking to get to the best sites (great photography here). I'm not sure what your limit is for hiking but it is usually pretty warm in May so take lots of water.
If you are driving a vehicle that can handle some mud and/or sand, driving around on the dirt roads will let you find things most people don't see. Of course, check at the Contact station before trying any of them...
Thanks, I can use all the planning help I can get ;-)
Our TV is a 4WD F350, so I have no problem taking it on 'back roads'. We used to have a Scout (back in the day) and I really miss those off road trips we used to take out into the Anza-Borrego area ;-(
And short hikes will be on the agenda too if needed to get to a 'not to be missed' photo op ;-) But hiking takes up a lot of time, so I would rather drive some where than hike to it.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 06:25pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
The wife won the on line lottery for the wave twice. Hike is not all that hard and worth the effort. Coyote Buttes South is an easier permit to obtain and worth the drive and hike.
If you are a serious photographer don't miss the guided tour of Antelope Canyon. We went with Chief something or another. Pay for the extended photographer's tour. Navajo guides have the timing for best lighting down to a science. Well worth the price.
Wire Pass is a good hike at same trailhead for the Wave. Nice slot canyon but a bit rough.
There is a campground at Lee's Ferry along the cliffs. Seemed like a nice place for a couple of days.
OK, now googling chief somethingorother ;-)
Thanks...good stuff.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 08:11am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
Steve,
Awesome area. If you don't already have it, I suggest that you get the book "Photographing the Southwest, volume 1 - A guide to the natural landmarks of Southern Utah" by Laurent Martres.
The Wave is hard to get permits for, but sort of fun trying. To do this, you will have to be at the Paria Contact Station off hwy 89, first thing in the morning. Lots to do in this area if you don't get a permit. There is a RV park about a mile away from the station or you can dry camp (water avaliable at the Station, just bring a few 5 gallon containers to haul it with) in several places right by the station (hint, take a hike up the hill behind the station and you will find a great spot...yes, you can drive there)
The personal at the Contact Station can assist you in finding other places to explore in that area as well. Be warned though, it would be easy to spend your entire two weeks there.
Have fun and safe travels,
Steve
Good thing our trip ends there...but now it might become a 4 week trip ;-)
Thanks for the book recommendation! I went to Amazon Prime and ordered a similar one by him just now...2 day free shipping ;-) (It has AZ. and Utah)
Now I'll start researching Contact Station.
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 07:57am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
OK, between the lottery and the hike, it sounds like the wave is out, but are there other sites worth seeing that are closer to trail heads that don't require 'lottery' permits of a lot of hiking?
Thanks
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/26/12 06:24am |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
Vermillion Cliffs, Az; 5th wheel camping
We have a 2 week road trip all planned out for May, going through Zion, Bryce, Arches and North Rim GC in our 5th wheel (1st trip to red rock country). We were telling some folks about our trip the other night and they said we should try to visit the Vermillion Cliffs if possible. I had never heard of them so came home and did some googeling...as a photographer when I found a pic of the Wave I knew I needed to do what I could to try to go there!
As it turns out, currently our last reservation before heading home (NorCal) is at the North Rim, and we could easily add an extra day (or 2) and go to the Vermillion Cliffs as a detour on the way home.
My research into the Cliffs so far is all of about 30 minutes, so I don't even know yet what can be seen w/out much effort (the DW), or would require some hiking (me). And I don't know where we might find a place to park the trailer for a night or two (boondocking is fine).
Any advice would be helpful.
Thanks
Steve
|
calberry
|
03/25/12 11:17pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Goulding's Lodge Camping; ASCI ???
A couple of panoramas that I shot at MV several years ago.
Artists Point
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m94/rlandry6/ArtistsPoint2_filteredDIC.jpg
The 1st Turnout(The Mittens)
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m94/rlandry6/MonumentVally2sjpdic.jpg
In the above photo. on he right side, there is a piece of dead Juniper sticking up that nade a great focal point for the photo. The last time I was at MV, that whole area on the right had been trashed by Indian kids that had set up a couple of tables and were selling trinkets. What a shame to destroy such a beautiful scene. That trip was probably my last.
Too bad about the 'trashing', but wow, what great pics! Thanks for sharing. As a bit of an amateur photographer I am now looking forward to this trip even more!!!
We are taking 2 weeks and have reservations already; 3 nights Zion, 2 nights Bryce, 2 nights Arches, 1 at Goulding's, and 3 at North Rim GC...with two days driving each way (from NorCal).
Steve
|
calberry
|
12/25/11 01:24pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
|
RE: Goulding's Lodge Camping; ASCI ???
I believe it is ACSI not ASCI, but I still have no clue what it represents!
LOL...dyslexia strikes again. Yup, ACSI it is ;-) At least one of us was paying attention.
Now I better go back in and check my reservation details to see what else I messed up ;-)
Steve
|
calberry
|
12/25/11 12:21pm |
RV Parks, National Parks, State Campgrounds & More
|
