Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park is a hidden gem located in the Florida Panhandle. The park is only a $3 toll away from some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Destin Florida and some of the whitest, crunchest sand I have ever seen or walked upon.

One of the park’s main attractions is its beautiful bayou. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes and explore the bayou’s calm waters.

The bayou is also home to a variety of fish, so fishing is another popular activity.

I knew my resilience would payoff, finally the clock in my car ? is showing the correct time.

The park is also home to a campground, which is a great option for us looking to spend a night or two surrounded by nature and these beautiful beaches. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, as well as amenities such as showers, restrooms, washer and dryers and a playground. We found most of the sites level and spacious.

Robin states “I’m sexy and I tow it!!”

One of the unique features of this park is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum. The museum showcases the history of the CCC and its work in creating many of the parks and public lands throughout the country during the Great Depression. Visitors can learn about the history of the CCC and see artifacts and photos from the era.

Trails to hike within the park

• Rocky Bayou Trail: This trail is a 3.5-mile loop that winds through the forest and offers beautiful views of Rocky Bayou. The trail is relatively flat and is suitable for all skill levels. We hiked this trail and loved it.
• Sand Pine Trail: This trail is a 1-mile loop that takes visitors through a sand pine forest. The trail offers views of several native plants, including wiregrass and saw palmetto.
• Red Cedar Trail: This trail is a 1-mile loop that takes visitors through a red cedar forest. The trail is relatively flat and is suitable for all skill levels.
• Turkey Oak Trail: This trail is a 0.5-mile loop that takes visitors through a turkey oak forest. The trail is relatively flat and is suitable for all skill levels.
• Jackson Trail: This trail is a 0.5-mile loop that takes visitors through a hardwood forest. The trail offers views of several native plants, including southern magnolia and American holly.
• Sinkhole Trail: This trail is a 0.2-mile loop that takes visitors to a large sinkhole. The sinkhole is approximately 20 feet deep and is a popular spot for photography.
• The park also has several multi-use trails that are suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. These trails are marked with yellow blazes and are open year-round. Visitors are advised to stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the park’s delicate ecosystems.

”As I think about all the people I have lost over my life, Maybe I should not have been a trail guide ? “

**Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life**

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. “I Don’t Need Therapy, I Just Need To Go Camping.”

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts ? Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park –

Overall, Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the area’s natural and cultural history. The park is close to beaches, the trails are enjoyable, and the fishing ? is good.This campground and park has something to offer everyone.

Campers have s’more fun. ?

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

 

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

No trip through Tallahassee, Florida on I-10 would be complete without a detour to Apalachicola. Oysters from this region are often referred to as “Appalachia cola” or “colossal” oysters because of their large size and unique flavor.

One reason these oysters are considered among the best in the world is because of the nutrient-rich waters in which they are grown.

Another reason these oysters are highly regarded is because of the traditional farming methods used by many Appalachian oyster farmers. Many of these farmers use sustainable and environmentally friendly methods, which can result in healthier and more flavorful oysters.

Apalachicola oysters are so prized that they have been designated as a regional delicacy by the State of Florida. They are also protected under federal and state regulations, which help ensure the sustainability of the industry and the preservation of the unique ecosystem of the Apalachicola Bay.

Our detour towards Apalachicola took us through the village of Carabelle,FL. One of the most interesting and unique attractions in Carrabelle is the world’s smallest police station. The station is located on US Highway 98 and is housed inside an old phone booth. The phone booth was originally used by a police officer who patrolled the area on foot. He would use the phone to call the station and report any incidents or crimes he encountered.

Over time, the phone booth became a symbol of the town and was eventually converted into a police station. Today, visitors can stop by and take a look at the tiny police station, which is just large enough to hold a single person.

Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it

Our journey took us through Apalachicola on a Sunday. Many of the shops were closed; however, we found a restaurant called Half Shell and the oysters were delicious but the Bloody Mary’s topped with a pimento cheese sandwich and Hush Puppies was a meal ? by itself. We highly recommend a visit to this restaurant.

Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.

Things to do in Apalachicola

• Visit the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve: This reserve is located on the Apalachicola Bay and offers visitors a chance to learn about the ecology and biodiversity of the area through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
• Explore the Apalachicola Historic District: Take a stroll through the historic district and admire the beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. You can also visit the John Gorrie Museum State Park, which honors the inventor of air conditioning.
• Take a boat tour: Take a boat tour of the Apalachicola River and Bay to see the local wildlife and learn about the area’s fishing industry.
• Sample the seafood: Apalachicola is known for its oysters, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies. Visit one of the many local restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal.
• Visit the Apalachicola Maritime Museum: This museum showcases the maritime history of the area and includes exhibits on boatbuilding, navigation, and local fishing.
• Attend a festival: Apalachicola hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Florida Seafood Festival and the Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off.
• Go fishing: The Apalachicola Bay is a popular spot for fishing. Hire a charter boat or rent some gear and try your luck at catching some fish.
• Go kayaking: Explore the calm waters of the Apalachicola River by kayak. You can rent a kayak and explore on your own, or join a guided tour.
• Visit St. Vincent Island: Take a ferry to St. Vincent Island, a pristine barrier island located just off the coast of Apalachicola. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including endangered species like the red wolf and the sea turtle.
• Visit the Apalachicola Center for History, Culture and Art: This center showcases the art, history, and culture of the Apalachicola region through exhibits, programs, and events.

You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

We love to camp in National Forest. The price is great and no frills. Usually no water nor electric hook-up in Federal Forest sites. If a pit toilet ? does not scary you away consider these campgrounds ⛺️. We stayed at Mack Landing for the night within the Apalachicola Forest. There were 10 sites and camp host was very friendly and helpful. The bugs were bad; albeit, for $8.50 a night no complaints.

**Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life**

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. “I googled my symptoms… turned out I just need to go camping”

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

“Life is better by the camp fire”

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

 

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Okefenokee Swamp should not be ignored on your trip through Georgia

Stephen C. Foster State Park is a beautiful and tranquil nature preserve located in the Okefenokee Swamp of southern Georgia. The park is named after the famous American songwriter, Stephen C. Foster, who wrote several popular songs, including “Oh! Susanna,” “Camptown Races,” and “Swanee River.”
Important note if anyone from the State of Georgia Department of Transportation reads this: I was embarrassed by the amount of trash along the road on the Okefenokee Trail leaving Folstron toward the campground.

The park covers over 80 acres of land and is located within the 402,000-acre Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. The park’s main attraction is the Okefenokee Swamp, which is the largest blackwater swamp in North America. The swamp is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, turtles, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can explore the swamp by boat, canoe, or kayak and take in the breathtaking views of the cypress trees and Spanish moss that drape the waterways.

We rented canoes for the day. We highly recommend!

Observation: The water is so very dark.

~Camping is defined as paying a fortune to live like a homeless person

*The park has 64 campsites, including RV sites and tent sites, as well as six cottages that can accommodate up to six people each. The cottages offer modern amenities, including a full kitchen and bathroom, air conditioning, and heating.

The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and the memories we’ve made along the way.

In addition to the swamp, Stephen C. Foster State Park also offers a variety of other recreational activities. The park has several hiking trails, including the .25 Trembling Earth ? boardwalk Nature Trail, which winds through a forest of tall pines and oaks. Easy trail we recommend.

Visitors can also fish ? in the park’s lakeand streams, or enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many picnic areas

**Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life**

~The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go~

THINGS TO DO

1. Take a Boat Tour: One of the best ways to explore the Okefenokee Swamp is by taking a guided boat tour. The park offers a range of tours, including the Swamp Island Drive Tour and the Okefenokee Adventure Tour.
2. Canoe or Kayak: Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the swamp on their own. We had a blast doing canoeing ? the waterways. The park offers several water trails, including the Suwannee River and the Big Water Trail.
3. Hiking: The park has several hiking trails, including the Trembling Earth Nature Trail, which we recommend which is a .25 mile loop trail that winds through a forest of tall pines and oaks.
4. Fishing: Visitors can fish in the park’s lakes and streams. The park is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, bream, and catfish.
5. Wildlife Viewing: The Okefenokee Swamp is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, alligator ? snakes, ? snakes, turtles, and over 200 species of ? birds. Visitors can observe the wildlife from the park’s boardwalks, observation towers, or by taking a guided tour.
6. Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas, including a covered pavilion and several tables scattered throughout the park.
7. Camping: Visitors can stay overnight in one of the park’s 64 campsites or six cottages. The campsites offer modern amenities, including electricity, water, and sewage hookups.
8. Stargazing: The park is located in a remote area, making it an excellent destination for stargazing. The park hosts several astronomy events throughout the year.
9. Biking: Visitors can bring their bikes and explore the park’s roads and trails.
10. Ranger Programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, campfire programs, and wildlife talks.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. The state of Georgia offered us free daily admission and a discount on camping with the Lifetime pass. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. “I googled my symptoms… turned out I just need to go camping”

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts ? Stephen C Foster State Park –

Overall, Stephen C. Foster State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor adventurer, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, this park has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of recreational activities, it’s easy to see why Stephen C. Foster State Park is one of Georgia’s most beloved natural

“Life is better by the camp fire”

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

 

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Blowing Rock and Boone NC are near and are great mountain towns ? to explore and catch a football game from the Mountaineers!

Julian Price Campground: A Nature Lover’s ?Paradise in North Carolina

North Carolina is known for its stunning landscapes and scenic beauty, and Julian Price Campground ⛺️ is no exception. Located in the heart ♥️ of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this campground is a nature lover’s paradise and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

We loved this campground.. if nature becomes to much then head into Blowing Rock ? or Boone NC ?

~Camping is defined as paying a fortune to live like a homeless person

Nestled along the shores of Price Lake, Julian Price Campground is a popular destination for campers, fishermen ?, hikers ?, and outdoor enthusiasts. I did not bring my fishing pole but I will next time. With its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains this campground is a photographer’s camera ? dream come true. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, Julian Price Campground has something for everyone. ***What do you call a bear with no teeth? A gummy bear!***

One of the highlights of Julian Price Campground is its location. It is situated within the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of America’s most famous scenic drives ? . The Blue Ridge spans over 469 miles but in my opinion the section between Asheville and Blowing Rock NC is the most scenic ?and breathtaking to explore. This means that you’ll be surrounded by stunning views and natural beauty throughout your drive and stay. Whether you’re driving, hiking, driving or simply relaxing ?, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in nature.

***Why don’t oysters share their pearls? Because they’re shellfish!***

In addition to its stunning location, Julian Price Campground also offers a variety of activities for visitors. From fishing and boating on Price Lake, to hiking and exploring the surrounding forests (we drove down the road to Linville Falls), a quick trip into Blowing Rock NC, Grandfather mountain spark and suspension bridge ?there’s never a shortage of things to do.

One of the most popular trails in the area is the Boone Fork Trail, a 5.5-mile hike that takes you through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Below is pictures from our hike to Linville Falls

**Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life**

In terms of camping facilities, Julian Price Campground offers a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences. From traditional tent camping to RV sites. The campground also offers amenities such as showers, toilets, and picnic areas, making it an ideal choice for families and groups.

~The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go~

THINGS TO DO

1. Hiking: The park offers over 25 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Price Lake Loop Trail and the challenging Boone Fork Trail.
2. Fishing: Price Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish including trout and bass.
3. Camping: The park has two campgrounds, one of which is open year-round. Both campgrounds have restrooms and showers. One of the parks in located on Lake Price and the other is across the road.
4. Picnicking: There are several picnic areas throughout the park, including one at Price Lake with tables and grills.
5. Canoeing and kayaking: Price Lake is a great place for canoeing and kayaking, with rentals available at the park’s concession stand.
6. Wildlife viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species.
7. Scenic drives: The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the park, offering beautiful views and access to other nearby attractions like Grandfather Mountain and Linville Falls.
8. Photography: The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, making it a great place for photography.
9. Horseback riding: The park offers horseback riding trails, as well as a horse campground for overnight stays.
10. Skiing and snowboarding: In the winter, nearby ski resorts like Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
11. Visiting nearby attractions: There are many nearby attractions to visit, including the charming town of Blowing Rock, the historic Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, and the scenic Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. “I googled my symptoms… turned out I just need to go camping”

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts ? Julian Price Memorial Park

The Smokey mountains are a magical place and Julian Price Memorial park is a diamond ? within this paradise. We loved the park and would go back. Although the park is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, we did not find the traffic noise was annoying nor noticeable. One can be as lazy or busy as you wish and we offer this campground a Two ? thumbs up. ?

“Life is better by the camp fire”

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

 

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Edisto Beach State Park is one of four state parks in South Carolina located on ocean. I’m going to argue this is the best state park in South Carolina on the ocean. The park is approximately 50 miles from Charleston, SC making day trips to the Holy City very convenient. Beware coming back late at night as the two lane highway is known to be haunted with ghost ? and the Lizardman.

Edisto Beach State Park is nestled within a sleepy ? town that begs for families to come and enjoy the sun and fun. ? The State park has 120 campsites ? and is divided into two campgrounds. The first is located right on the beach. These sites are very close to each other; although, a short walk to beach ?. We stayed at the Live Oak campgrounds about a mile and half away. We loved the privacy offered to each site and there is nothing more beautiful than the sun ? set over the marsh in SC. It’s magical not to mention all the hiking trails and fishing ? opportunities.

At the live oak campgrounds the hiking trails are a great escape from the blistering heat. Most of the trails are short and friendly to novice and experienced hikers.

Local secret: Edisto Beach and the surrounding area offers what many believe to be the best fishing anywhere.

The mysterious 4,000 year old shellmidden along side the tidal basin – we could not find but the search was worth it!

CAMPGROUND TRAIL

Length: 0.3 miles
Type: Hiking and Biking Trail 
Difficulty: Easy 
Description: This trail will take you from the campground to the Scott Creek Trail.

SCOTT CREEK TRAIL

Length: 0.7 miles
Type: Hiking and Biking Trail 
Difficulty: Easy 
Description: The Scott Creek Trail takes one through the maritime forest offering views of the marsh from three boardwalks. The Scott Creek Trail connects to the Spanish Mount Trail.

SPANISH MOUNT TRAIL

Length: 1.7 miles

Type: Hiking and Biking Trail 

Difficulty: Easy 

Description: One of the earliest Native American shell mound sites in South Carolina can be found at the western terminus of the Spanish Mount Trail.

What is a Shellmidden? Signs of early settlements directly associated with villages, as a designated village dump site. Shells and bones ? and other refuse.

Close by the state park are grocery stores, restaurants, water and bike rental companies to make camping as Boosie as possible. We grabbed some chicken wings at McConkey’s Jungle Shack and would recommend.

THINGS TO DO

• Take a Botany Bay Ecotour from Edisto Beach State Park!

• Fishing Information:  Enjoy surf fishing or fishing in the salt marsh for flounder, whiting, spot tail and other species.
  
• Fishing:  Yes 
• Saltwater Fishing:  Yes 

• Boating and Boat Access:  A boat ramp and courtesy dock is located on the western boundary of the park which offers guest access to Big Bay Creek. 
  
• Boating:  Yes 
• Boat Ramp:  Yes 

• Wireless Internet Access:  Complimentary wi-fi is available for park guests near the office area and in the wi-fi room located adjacent to the office. The wi-fi room includes a sitting area and restroom.
  
• Picnic Area and Shelters:  Two picnic shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis for family or other group gatherings at no charge.
  
• Park Store/Gift Shop:  A small retail area is located in the Ranger Station and includes tshirts, caps and limited gift items.
  
• Picnic Shelters:  Yes 
• Swimming:  Swimming is permitted in the Atlantic Ocean at your own risk. There are no lifeguards on duty.
  
• Bird Watching:  The best area for bird watching is along the trails in the park. Water fowl can also be spotted along the beach or marsh areas.
  
• Geocaching:  Geocaching is permitted. Several geocaches are located on the park. For more information visit the official geocaching website.
  
• Biking:  Yes 
• Birding:  Yes 

• Interpretive Trails:  A series of short, mostly level trails wind through Edisto Island’s maritime forest of live oak, hanging Spanish moss, and palmetto trees. During your walk you may see white-tailed deer, osprey, or alligators, and may even catch a glimpse of the wary bobcats.
  
• Hiking:  Yes

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Another South Carolina treasure (Charleston area)

The Angel Oak Park is located on Johns Island where you can find what is known as “A Lowcountry Treasure”. The Southern Live Oak tree is a historical site and focal point of one of the City of Charleston’s public parks. It is considered to be the largest Live Oak Tree east of the Mississippi estimating to be 300 to 400 years old.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. “I googled my symptoms… turned out I just need to go camping”

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts ? about Edisto State Park

I called Edisto a sleepy ? hamlet but let me be clear the secret ? of this town is out. The beach and town can get very busy with tourism and locals alike. I still believe even in busy times one will find this state park enjoyable. Definitely place this state park on your to Do list. “Life is better by the camp fire”

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Trip taken August 2020

We had almost completed ✔️ our visit to Utah’s Mighty 5 (reviews at this link) and our plans were to venture into Arizona and boondock on Lake Powell and go to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. However, the heat was so hot ? and we don’t use generators so we decided to scrap the South Rim but I still wanted to see the Grand Canyon for the first time. In between Bryce Canyon and Zion, we took an excursion to the North Rim. Wow ?! Rookie mistake we did not plan enough time to explore this area adequately. The North Rim of the GC sits at 8,000 feet ? compared to the South Rim at 7,000 ? which makes temperatures much cooler. We experienced 80s during the day and 50s at night. It was a relief ? from the heat.

Pro Tip – When planning a long country time it is important to be prepared to venture off your route as unexpected fires, flood, storms, snow, and pandemics may make destinations dangerous or impossible to reach. Don’t be disappointed ? because there is plenty to see in this big USA. We were forced to cancel the state of California; albeit, Idaho and Montana easley filled in the gaps.

The crowds were much smaller. Of course, we did explore during the pandemic ? so this could have skewed our perspective. Park rangers say, the North Rim is 1/10 less crowded than the South Rom. I also felt the tourist attractions were non existent so the camping experience was intensified. The road to the North Rim transversed open valleys and forest ? which had me pondering ? whether any settlers became lost heading West and traveled the same roads we were on only to find a big hole called the Grand Canyon in their way? It gives a new meaning to Gilligans Island character “Wrongway Feldman”

Grand Canyon North Rim Visitor Center – The North Rim Visitor Center is located next to the parking lot for Grand Canyon Lodge and has park information, maps, exhibits, ranger programs as well as a bookstore. This is a good place to start when exploring the North Rim.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

We highly recommend hiking Bright Angel Point, the most popular viewpoint on the North Rim, is accessed from a steep, paved trail which begins near Grand Canyon Lodge. The hike is only a quarter-mile from the lodge area and is often the first scenic viewpoint that visitors experience after their arrival at the North Rim. Take your time if you are not used to higher elevations. Acrophobia can be a bitch!

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Most visitors expect clean air and clear views in parks. Unfortunately the day we visited there was a lot of haze in the air as Grand Canyon National Park (NP) is downwind of air pollution from coal-fired power plants in the Four Corners region, nearby mining, urban farming and industrial pollutants from Mexico and California.

Visibility effects on views at the Grand Canyon:

• On most days, reduction of the average natural visual range from about 175 miles (without the effects of pollution) to about 140 miles because of pollution
• On high pollution days, reduction of the visual range from about 120 miles to below 90 miles

If we could have a do-over, we would have done Mule Rides at the North Rim

Mule rides are offered from the North Rim. These rides do not descend to the floor and the Colorado River but are shorter and more available to book than the South Rim mule rides. Minimum age is 10 years old and maximum weight allowance is 220 lbs. North Canyon mule trips can be booked at https://www.canyonrides.com/grand-canyon-mule-ride/

There are 3 mule trips:

1. One-Hour Rim Ride – This tour lasts approximately one hour traveling along a rim trail. It is the perfect tour for a those that want a quick fun experience of riding a mule. The cost is $45 including  tax.

2. Three Hour Ride to Uncle Jim’s Point – A little more extensive, this mule ride departs the North Canyon Lodge and follows the Ken Patrick Trail to Uncle Jim’s Point. A wonderful tour of the North Rim! This mule ride is $90 including tax.

3. Three Hour Ride to Supai Tunnel – Descend down the North Kaibab Trail on the back of a sure-footed mule until you reach the Supai Tunnel, 2300 feet below the rim. A popular way to get below the rim and take a mule ride together. The Inner Canyon Mule ride is $90 including tax.

We only had a day at the Grand Canyon so after Bright Angel ? trail and the visitor center we launched onto a day of scenic driving….

Grand Canyon North Rim Scenic Drive – The remote quiet beauty of the North Rim can be appreciated on the Scenic drive. Along the route, there are pull-outs and viewpoints to see Point Imperial and Cape Royal. The drive usually takes a half a day if you enjoy short walks and photo opportunities. Point Imperial is approximately 11 miles or 20 minutes from the visitor center and Cape Royal is 23 miles or 45 minutes. There is a second, unpaved road that leads to Point Sublime, about 20 miles west of the visitor center ~ Do not miss this drive!

Half way through our drive we found this picnic ? table next to Grand Canyon. What better way to enjoy a turkey sandwich ? with this view.

A walking stick or Trek poles and proper shoes will make a hike in the Grand Canyon more enjoyable. We can not count how many people we passed who were struggling on some of these trails.

Hiking at the North Rim

The National Park Service posts serious warnings to all hikers about hiking from Rim-to Rim or Rim-to River in one day. The inner gorge temperatures, lack of water and difficulty of the trails tax even the most experienced of hikers. Dehydration, injuries, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are very common for hikers that are not prepared for this extreme environment. Do not attempt a one-day Rim-to-Rim or Rim-to-River-Return in one day for your safety.

Cape Royal Trail – An easy trail with the most sweeping, grandiose view of the Grand Canyon? What more could you want! The trail starts at the end of the paved Cape Royal Road and is less than a mile round trip. Although the magnificent vista can be seen from the car, the short walk opens even more breathtaking views. We highly recommend this short easy walk.

Demotte Campground – located within the North Kaibab Ranger District just 7 miles north of the entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim.  It has 38 single family campsites with tables and cooking grills. There is no group site. The 38 single family campsites can accommodate tents, trailers and small motor homes. However, no utility hookups are available.

Half of the sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the other half are available with reservations. Reservations can be made through the Recreation.gov website or via telephone at 1-877-444-6777.

We took advantage of the “first come, first serve” option and had no issues getting a site on a Friday in August. It was a bit surprising to me. There were actually quite a few open sites. People came after dark and still got a site. It is always fun to watch people set up their RV in the dark. The sites were decent with enough space to not be right on top of one another. The bathrooms didn’t smell horrible. There’s a store across the street with lots of things in case you forget something.

Quick link to Grand Canyon Website

Robin love ? to cook ?‍? and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious ? while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

We are often asked do we have travel insurance and the answer is NO except for car and RV insurance. I was reading Money Magazine and found this article.

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

Paid ads-we recommend

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday ? so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you ? Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Trip taken August 2020

We left Las Vegas August 10, 2020 and our plans were to head towards Idaho. Now the drive across the Great Basin is a lonely road. There is over 400 miles of vistas and high deserts to transverse Nevada on this 2 lane highway (US 93) and be aware reflections off the pavement and the wide-open country can greatly hamper distance perception resulting in some bizarre passing/not passing decisions. However, your journey will be reward by visiting one of our most under appreciated national parks. Hello!! Great Basin National Park ?.

Pro Tip – Stock up on extra drinking water to bring in your car. Literally it is 100s of miles between towns and if you have car troubles you do not want to combine issues with thirst and dehydration.

Great Basin National Park – At an elevation over 13,000, Great Basin is an adventurers dream come true. Spelunking in the Lehman caves, driving the scenic Wheeler Peak road, angler fishing ? the streams, hiking one of the many trails, observe & be amazed by the bristlecone pines (oldest living organize on the planet ?)and as the sun sets one can not imagine the star gazing. This is irrefagablely one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Pro Tip – Plan your visit during an upcoming meteor shower. We were present for the Persiod Meteor shower August 13, 2020 and never in my life did I witness as more amazing displays of astromomical wonder. We counted 28 shooting star.

Wildlife is abundant in this high desert ? as this big rattlesnake decided to crawl through our camp ground at cocktail ? hour.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Most do within the GreaT Basin National Park – I have never felt so innocent and young until I stood before a 3,200 year old tree. (No this is NOT a misprint). The bristlecone pine found within the Great Basin NP are the oldest organism on the planet and were here when Mesopotamia and Egypt ??were just forming villages and communities. These odd twisting pines have a beauty that made me intimidated standing in it’s presents. These lone pines live in habitats that are harsh and the bark is resistant to insects. After the tree dies the remains will likely last another 1,000 years. I never thought ? I could be so amazed by 1 tree.

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The hike to the interpretive center at the Bristlecone Pines grove is a moderate hike of 4.5 miles but the experience is so worth the calories you will burn.

You can add another 1 mile to your hike and witness Wheeler Glacier which is the Southern most glacier in the US. This is also called the Bristlecone pines glacier trail. You have already done the toughest part so if you can walk just a little more to see the glacier, you will thank me.

We also decided to add a few more miles onto the hike and see the alpine lakes Teresa and Stella; albeit, in August these are more like a puddle.

A walking stick or Trek poles and proper shoes will make a hike in the Great Basin NP more enjoyable. We can not count how many people we passed who were struggling on some of these trails.

Lower Lehman campground – We camped among the lush green vegetation which hugs Lehman Creek and we secured our RV within earshot of clear mountain water which has tumbled 3000 vertical feet from the lakes and snowfields of the high Snake Range. There are 11 campsites and No electric hookups. Naturally landscaped with red-barked water birch, aspen and white fir a stroll through this sky island ecosystem provides for great bird-watching or a cooling dip in the stream while placing you just minutes from spectacular Lehman Caves. We paid $20 a night and the bath ? houses were clean.

The scenic 12 mile Wheeler Peak drive is open June to October weather permitting and is a must do. There is a limit of single cars no greater than 24 feet but there is an area available to leave your rv if you are not staying in one of the 6 campgrounds.

Lehman Caves was on our to do list but with Covid raging in August 2020 this was closed. Check the National Parks webpage for updates; however, there is so much available to do that this should not discourage you.

Quick link to Great Basin Park Website

Drone flying around Lower Lehman campground (sorry but windy so very shaky)

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

Robin love ? to cook ?‍? and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious ? while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

We are often asked do we have travel insurance and the answer is NO except for car and RV insurance. I was reading Money Magazine and found this article.

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

Paid ads-we recommend

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday ? so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you ? Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Trip taken August 2020

The Valley of Fire is a brilliant, colorful spot located in Nevada, just one hour from Las Vegas. Filled with panoramic vistas, hiking trails, petroglyphs, and stunning red and pink rock formations, the Valley of Fire makes an excellent day trip from Vegas. Warning: We ventured into this paradise in August and temperatures reached around 110. Everyone states it is a dry heat but I will tell you it is very uncomfortable ? so we canceled most of our planned hikes and just drove through. Pro-tip plan your arrival times with temperatures that will match your activity level. You are in the desert ?

 

What does it cost to visit? An entrance fee is charged per vehicle at $5 upon entering Valley of Fire State Park. This fee is collected at the fee booth or at self-pay stations. Camping: Additional fees are charged for the use of camping areas and are payable at the campgrounds.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Why is it called Valley of Fire ?? In the 1920s the name was coined by an AAA official traveling through the park at sunset. This person purportedly said that the entire valley looked like it was on fire; hence the name.

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Driving through the Valley of Fire is the easiest way to enjoy the view. Pink, red, and orange sandstone rocks create amazing vistas that you can see from your car. The main road, Mouse’s Tank Road, curves its way through these rocky formations, creating beautiful views.

World-renowned for its 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops nestled in gray and tan limestone, Valley of Fire State Park contains ancient, petrified trees and petroglyphs dating back more than 2,000 years.

A Visitor Center provides exhibits on the geology, ecology, prehistory and history of the park and nearby region. We highly encourage a stop ? within the Vistor Center. Pro-tip – very cool exhibits and the A/C is worth a recharge.

The park is open year round and the sunrise and sunset in the desert ? will have you wanting to stay longer.

I love the desert and it’s incomparable sense of space – Robyn Davidson

Did you know a mountain goat is not a goat?

8 facts about Mountain Goats

We highly recommend driving through this state park. If the weather is agreeable then hike some of the many trails offered. One can spend a couple hundred in Vegas or leave with a couple hundred memories from the Valley of Fire State Park.

 

 

Robin love ? to cook ?‍? and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious ? while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

 

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

 

Quick link to Valley of Fire Website

 

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

Paid ads-we recommend

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday ? so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you ? Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Trip taken August 2020

Zion National Park is a special place to visit and explore. It’s not hard to understand why Mormon settlers felt a spiritual connection to the land when they arrived in the mid-19th century and used religious references such as Towers of the Virgins, Tabernacle Dome, the Three Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) to name areas of the park. ~ “Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein

But the park’s human (and spiritual) history goes back much further, first to the Ancestral Puebloans and then to the Southern Paiute people who’ve been stewards of this land since it was known as Oawingwa—“a place where the stream flows.” After one of our hikes ?‍♂️, we lounged in these cool waters; however, in the summer bacterial blooms are common so follow the warning signs ? as to not end up with a bad rash or worse at the hospital.

Of Utah’s five national parks, Zion stands out for its geological wonders, a place where water and sand meet to form arguably the most dramatic landscape in the country. Here’s our primer on how to see it all, from big hits like Zion Canyon and the Narrows to the gems many visitors overlook.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks

Pro Tip: There are many reason to visit Zion which we will list; albeit, timing ⏱ when you visit is crucial. In July and the summer months, the crowds are immense and it’s hot.? Well, you are in a red rock desert. Many of the hikes require taking shuttles and waiting in line. Did I mention lots of people. With Covid 19 in full swing we opted to skip many of our planned hikes such as Angel ? Landing (closed when we arrived) for lesser known destinations within the park. If one can visit Zion when less crowded we highly recommend; however, just driving through the park is a thrill and a must do.

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Watchman campground is located 1/4 miles from South entrance and offers 190 options for camping: ⛺️ There is NO full hookup but there is a dump station. Generators are not permitted. 69 campsites are for tent camping only which cost $20 a night. We camped on one of the electric ⚡️ only sites for $30 a night. The restrooms were very clean but a constant roulette game of closing a bathroom for cleaning ? and the other bathroom was on other side of park. Not a fun walk if one ☝️ waits to long for a rest stop and picks a bathroom being cleaned. We will definitely be back but would chose a time with less people.

Hiking trail ~ the Good, the Hard, and the insane

Weeping Rock Trail ? Shortest Trail in the park .5 mile. ? Lush hanging gardens that are continually moist due to a constant water flow from the canyons above.
A unique view of the Great White Throne to the upper left can be seen when standing behind the dripping water and looking out.
Mostly Paved. Highly recommend.

Best time to hike

*Year Round
*Portions can be closed in winter due to falling ice.
*Spring and Fall provide the most water flow.
*Summer can be very crowded.

SECRETS/TIPS

Steps by the hiker’s bridge also provide access to the stream below. This is very popular with children. We did not venture into the water here due to the algae blooms in this area but rest next to the water after our hike was refreshing.

UPPER EMERALD POOLS Trail ~ 3 MILES

HIGHLIGHTS

If you start at the Zion Lodge you will pass right by the Lower Emerald Pools (first 0.6 miles) and Middle Emerald Pools (another 0.2 miles) on your way to the Upper Emerald Pools. We stopped to explore the lodge; however, there were so many people we did not enter and ventured to Lower Emerald pool to explore this hiking trail but turned back as no one seemed to want to wear a mask ?.
Another way to hike Emerald Pool – you can start from the Kayenta Trail starting at the Grotto Shuttle Stop (stop 6) to add another mile to your trip for a different less-traveled way to get there.
The Middle Emerald Pools Trail was closed due to a 2010 rockslide and continuing instability but can still be seen on your way to the Upper Emerald Pools via either starting points.
The trail past the paved Lower Emerald pools trail is dirt, sand, more rugged and rock covered.
Waterfalls, beautiful alcoves, and natural pools can be seen all around.
Colossal cliffs surround the end of this trail on three sides in front of you creating a natural amphitheater.
Many majestic views of Zion Canyon can be seen from here to provide a very unique perspective.

SECRETS/TIPS

Go early in the morning during the summer or later in the day as the trail can get very busy.
Make sure to stop at the Middle Emerald Pools. If open!

CANYON OVERLOOK Trail is a Steep 1 MILE Hike

But so rewarding!!

HIGHLIGHTS

Steps leading up to a maintained, rocky and uneven dirt trail. We recommend hiking boots. ? Shortest hike in the park to get you to a viewpoint above the canyon offering amazing views down into the Pine Creek slot canyon. We hiked this trail early in the morning with hopes of seeing mountain goats ? but we had no luck. There was a cool shaded alcove with lush ferns growing out of the walls.
Other things to check out once you are at the viewpoint:
Route 9 switchbacks below, Bridge Mountain (the highest peak on the left side of the canyon), the East Temple (the impressive rock formation above the viewpoint to the right), the canyon wall to the left to spot “windows” of the tunnel, and the Pine Creek stream below

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Year round

SECRETS/TIPS

If parking is full, continue down the road and there are several other overflow parking lots or shoulders to park. We went early and had to park along the shoulder; however, we discovered numerous hiking trails which we explored prior to reaching the trailhead.
While driving up the mountain, stop ? at the last bend of the switchbacks (3rd bend) to spot the Great Arch of Zion. Great place for a picture and if you look closely you can see people on top of it. This is where the Canyon Overlook Trail viewpoint can be seen.
A great night hike to see a wonderful display of stars or sunset (make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp).

Drone flying around Watchmans Campgrounds

ANGELS LANDING is 5 &1/2 MILES of Terror with a great view and a long fall to the bottom

HIGHLIGHTS

Partially Paved and this hike is NOT for the faint of heart ❤️. When we arrived this trail was closed due to Covid.
The hike begins with a set of 21 zig-zags known as Walters Wiggles before you reach Scout’s Lookout. Scout’s Lookout offers beautiful vistas from above the canyon. One could stop here if your fear of heights overwhelms you. (Don’t be a scared ? cat)
If you do decide to go all the way up Angel’s Landing, you will be rewarded with magnificent views in every direction you look. Plenty of chains, guard-rails, and carved steps are provided to help ease your mind of all the drop-offs on both sides of the canyon. Warning ⚠️ The last 0.7 miles of the trail is roughly only about 4 ½ to 5 feet wide and Acrophobia (fear of heights) can be challenging.

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Spring, Summer and Fall. Winter can get dangerous due to rain, snow and ice collecting on the trail. Portions can be closed in winter due to trail conditions.
Summer is very crowded

SECRETS/TIPS

Go Early! This is a very popular trail that can quickly become crowded.
On your way down hike some of the West Rim trail. The views from that trail are also very stunning and could be a great spot to take a picture of Angel’s Landing.
Bring lots of water and snacks. Most of the trail (especially the last part) can be very sun-exposed and hot.

The Narrows is the ultimate slot Canyon .5 to 16 miles

Highlights

For miles one can hike the North fork of the Virgin River with sheer rock walls on both sides. The trailhead begins at the end of the Riverwalk trail at Temple Sinawaua. The Riverwalk trail is about a mile of paved road. The simplest way to hike the Narrows is a boomerang ? (out and back) hike until you run out of time or become tired, and turn around.

For the more adventurous, consider a top down overnight hike for 16 miles that begins on the private property Chamberlain ranch and ends at the Riverwalk. This hikes requires permits.

BEST TIME TO HIKE

Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Winter can get dangerous due to rain, snow and ice collecting on the trail and the water is cold ?. Portions can be closed in winter due to trail conditions and did I say the water is cold.
Summer is very crowded

SECRETS/TIPS

A walking stick or Trek poles and proper shoes will make a hike in the Narrows more enjoyable. We can not count how many people we passed alone the Narrows with bloody shins and knees because they slipped or tripped within the rapid rushing water.

Robin love ? to cook ?‍? and her favorite accoutrement is this fish spatula from Amazon also check out her recipes within the webpage. All tried and delicious ? while on the road.

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market

Biking Zion

Cycling is a great way to see Zion National Park and is a popular alternative to shuttle buses for accessing the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Certain park operations, including the shuttle buses, have changed dramatically due to COVID-19. For more information, find out how COVID-19 will affect your visit.

General Regulations

• Bicycling is permitted on all park roadways and on the Pa’rus Trail. All other park trails, off-trail routes, and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel are closed to bikes.
• Bicycles must ride single file on the right side of park roads and the Parus Trail.
• Please wear your helmet!
• Cyclists are limited to groups of 6 bikes or less. Larger groups prevent vehicles from passing them in a safe manner on the narrow park roads. Groups of more than 6 bikes can split into smaller groups but must be separated by one quarter mile or more. 
• Bicycles are allowed on the park shuttle buses, though you will need to be able to lift the bikes on and off the front racks yourself.

Pa’rus Trail

• The Pa’rus Trail is a multi-use path with foot and bike traffic, so slow down and please be considerate of other visitors.
• Bicyclists must obey all traffic signs including stop signs. The side trail to the Human History Museum is not open to bicycles.
• There are lots of turns, bridges, blind corners, and wildlife along the trail. Cyclists must warn pedestrians before passing, either verbally or with a horn or bell. Pedestrians have the right of way. Bikes must stop if the path is not clear. 
• Be careful when passing wildlife and pets. The speed and sound of a bicycle can startle animals. 
• The Pa’rus Trail begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and can take you to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive without the need to ride on UT-9 (the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway).

The town of Springdale is just outside the gates of Zion along with Virgin and Hurricane, Utah.

Explore the awesome little town that hosts Zion National Park travelers. We drove through Springdale but due to Covid-19 we did not dine at any of the quaint establishments and there are a lot of quaint establishments!

Every big destination needs a host city – somewhere to get you fed, watered and rested before you set out on your adventure. Cuzco is basecamp for Machu Picchu, the Acropolis sits above Athens and Zion National Park has Springdale.

Springdale ~ sits on the southern border of Zion with a population of 529. It rests in the shadow of the towering red, white, and pink striped cliffs that define Southern Utah, essentially an incorporated annex of the park proper, giving you incredible views right from the main drag, aptly named Zion Park Blvd. It’s got plenty of entertainment for those of us not quite ready to renounce civilization altogether, and lots of outdoor retailers for those of us who are. These retailers will rent you water shoes for a hike in the Narrows.

Springdale’s the perfect getaway/gateway: Laid back, all the amenities and incredible access to unforgettable adventure.

We drove to the town of Virgin, UT and purchased cactus jelly at a road side vendor. (Delicious) ? There is no limit to the road side attractions offered around the towns surrounding Zion.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National parks more than three times you will save money. The pass will also allow you access to the National Monuments and sometimes discounts in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility we can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees. 

Quick link to Zion National Park Website

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

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After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

We enjoy a good cup of coffee ☕️ and one of our favorite cafes offers a pour over. ( How to make the best pour over coffee) If you are still making coffee in a pot break the yoke of social conformity and consider alternatives to a drink of the gods (coffee) every morning. This Insta Pot has been a godsend to our travels.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refridgerator do coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday ? so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you ? Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.

Excellent detour off I-70

As we traveled the highways and byways of America, it was our amazement to drive through the Colorado National Monument. We were not expecting this detour to wow ? us as we drove from Grand Junction to Fruita, CO. The high desert ? was not an image conjured when ruminating about Colorado. You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself. – Glinda the Good Witch

The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive offers redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and glorious views along the way for motorists and bicyclists. The monument’s feature attraction is Monument Canyon, which runs the width of the park and includes rock formations such as Independence Monument, the Kissing Couple, and Coke Ovens.

Colorado National Monument’s Rim Rock Drive is one of the most spectacular drives in the United States. Redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and verdant green juniper splash fantastic views along the way for motorists and bicyclists. However, the road is challenging, narrow, and steep in some sections with sheer dropoffs. Special considerations must be made for road travel since motorists and bicyclists share the road. Use caution when on tight corners and hills. On the east side of the monument, motorists may encounter large trucks that use four miles of the monument’s roadway to access the community of Glade Park. Road work is an on-going process.

Reclusive canyon dweller John Otto mounted a one-man campaign to have his “backyard” declared a national park. That designation came in 1911, with Otto as its first superintendent. Otto famously wrote, “I came here last year and found these canyons, and they felt like the heart of the world to me. I’m going to stay and promote this place because it should be a national park.” Ultimately, Colorado National Monument was established on May 24, 1911, as a presidential proclamation by President Taft under the authority of the Antiquities Act.

The park became more well known in the 1980s partly due to its inclusion as a stage of the major international bicycle race, the Coors Classic. The race through the park became known as “The Tour of the Moon”, due to the spectacular landscapes the race passed through on Rim Rock Drive.

Rules to follow on the road within this monument:

Please Follow These Rules:

• Use your headlights in all tunnels and watch for bicyclists and other vehicles.
• Obey all traffic laws and speed limits. The maximum speed is 25 mph. 
• Do not attempt to proceed around bicyclists unless you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and a safe passing distance. Do not pass in the tunnels.
• When passing bicyclists, please allow at least three feet of clearance between your vehicle and the bicyclist.
• Check carefully for bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles before pulling out onto the road from pullouts.
• Allow other motorists and bicyclists to pass if you are obstructing traffic and there is a safe place to pull over.
• Remember that bicyclists have all the rights and responsibilities of any vehicle.

What to expect during your drive?
The monument boasts canyons as deep as 500 feet and rock monoliths as tall as 450 feet.  Of the three tunnels along the 23-mile-long Rim Rock Drive, the longest is 530 feet long. . Serpent’s Trail, the original dirt road into Colorado National Monument and now its most popular hiking trail make 54 switchbacks in just 2 1/2 miles. We did not allocate even time for hiking but would recommend. If seeking additional hiking trails the monument boast 47 more trails for all skill levels. Do not forget to bring extra water on these hikes as Colorado National Monument records an annual average of fewer than 12 inches of rain. It was hot hot ? hot on our visit.

What kinds of wildlife can we expect to see in this desert region?
Visitors often see mule deer and may also spot coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, desert bighorns and much smaller mammals such as foxes, desert cottontails, squirrels, and other rodents. We had no luck witnessing the fauna as the desert heat kept most animals in the shade.

Road warriors need to pass the time when on the road. I highly recommend the Audible books ?

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Camping options:

Unfortunately for us, we underestimated the beauty and solitude offered within the Colorado National Monument while making our plans. If we could have a do over then we would have considered sticking around for a few days. You have two choices for camping within the park.

Saddlehorn Campground: You’ll find this within proximity of the Visitor Center. It is the only established campground in the whole park, with individual and group campsites available. Tent camping and RV sites are available, each with a picnic table and grill. Restrooms are open in the summer only. Reservations are advisable (recreation.gov), and you can make them up to 6 months in advance.

Backcountry: You can get a free use permit to travel, hike and camp in the backcountry. Permits are good for 14 nights, although you can only stay 7 consecutive nights at one time. There are no services or water available in the backcountry, so you do have to pack a considerable amount in with you.

Pro-Tip One of the shortest trails, also popular, is Devil’s Kitchen. The trailhead is located near the eastern entrance of the park on Rim Rock Drive. This trail is about 1 mile long, and ends in a sandstone grotto. Devil’s Kitchen trail is well suited for families with smaller children, as the hike is short and the “kitchen” itself provides plenty of opportunity for child-sized exploration.

Money saving tip: Buy the annual national parks pass. The National Park Pass will also allow access to all the national monuments. The cost is $80. If you plan on being in any of the National Parks more than three times within a year then you will save money. The pass will sometimes allow discounts to camping in the National Forest ?. There’s also discounts for seniors which can be applied against camping threw out America. Other discounts apply so please read the eligibility which can save you more money. We estimate we saved over $600 in park fees.”We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”—Native American proverb

This site contains paid advertisements. By clicking the links it does not cost you any extra money as the seller pays Travelswithgg a referral fee. We will never place any links without 100% satisfaction of a product we use.

Traveling across the country is challenging enough to not have to worry about ones drinking water. We carry with us the Berkey water filtration system which we consider one of the best on the market.

Our thoughts ? about the Colorado National Monument

As one traverses the country, the demand for a detour can not be summarized in rest areas. We believe old and young will find some activity to be entertained within this national monument. This departure from the interstate is guarantied to recharge your soul. I promise you will not be disappointed. ~One touch of nature makes the whole world kin. —William Shakespeare

Amazon Launchpad Holiday Gift Guide

Drone flying is fast becoming a hobby of mine. After much research I purchased the Mini from DJI. I am very satisfied but still an amateur having a blast. Check out our drone videos within the blog which we hope you will enjoy.

Products we love ❤️

After 12,000 miles on the road and hundreds of miles hiking ? throughout America, our Merrells have withstood all types of terrain and although they may be dirty, the quality is outstanding and are ready for the next 12,000.

Being on the water is very therapeutic and lots of fun. Space is always our issue so the inflatable kayak was our answer. Easy to inflate but we did buy a battery ? pump to make life easy. We have kayaked the lakes of Montana, Idaho, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Carolina, Arizona and the Intex has not let us down.

Robin’s favorite outdoor cooking utensil

Great personal usb fans. Perfect for warm dry camping nights

Our Retro Jr offers only so much space so to expand the cooking area, Robin loves this easy to put up table from Lifetime. No issues after multiple setups and break downs.

Campers are for the most part very honest and friendly people. However, pulling GG through a city and leaving her to go explore can make one feel uneasy ? so this easy locking ? system was our solution.

Our teardrop does not come with a refrigerator so coolers are our life blood. We needed to keep our food cold for days on end and these coolers did the trick.

Grand daughter had her first birthday  so the best gift was to start her love of camping. Love you  Bridget.

Traveling over 12,000 miles in a Teardrop trailer one realizes space is an issue. We highly a roof rack to aid in carrying more items ie inflatable kayak, life jackets, oars, and etc.

12,000 miles on the road, one of my best purchases was my Costa sunglasses ?. The glare from driving is gone and the polarized lenses intensified the colors of my surroundings.