There’s something special about ending a long hike, lighting a campfire, and opening a good book under the stars. I can read a book in just a couple of days, especially if there are some humor within the reading .
Whether you’re relaxing at the campground, traveling in your camper, or planning your next national park adventure, the right book can inspire your next journey and help you slow down and enjoy the outdoors even more.
For hiking lovers, classics like Wild and A Walk in the Woods combine adventure, humor, and real-life trail experiences that make you want to lace up your boots and hit the trail. If national parks are your favorite destination, books filled with scenic photography, park guides, and travel stories can help you discover hidden gems across America’s most beautiful landscapes. My favorites are the series from Matt and Karen Smith “ Dear Bob and Sue “ . Told through a format of sending emails home to their friends, they tell hilarious stories of their travels throughout the United States and our national parks. They have a real skill in telling the stories about what has happened through their comical methods of storytelling. They are a must read.
Travel and adventure readers may also enjoy stories about van life, camping road trips, and wilderness survival. These books are perfect for rainy days in the camper, quiet mornings with coffee by the lake, or relaxing evenings beside the fire after a day outdoors.
No matter where your adventures take you, bringing along a few inspiring books can make your camping trip even more memorable. Sometimes the best travel companion is simply a great story and the sound of nature all around you.
We hope you will find a favorite and maybe someone will ask “ what’s so funny?”
Hopefully, these suggestions will shove you down the rabbit hole of organizations for your camper, providing a wealth of resources and opportunities that can enhance your camping experience—just try not to get lost and end up tenting with a family of raccoons! It’s easy to get carried away by the vast number of options available, but with a little guidance and organization, you can ensure that your adventure is not only enjoyable but also memorable. Remember, planning is key, and a little foresight can transform your camping trip into an exciting journey filled with fun activities and new friendships.
Welcome to the world of RV living, where organization is key! Regardless of your RV’s size, space can be limited, but with some creativity and clever storage solutions, you can bring order to your mobile sanctuary. This post offers innovative tips and products to help you manage clutter, turning chaos into a functional and inviting space. Get ready to explore stylish organizers and quirky hacks that make organization both practical and enjoyable, all while embracing your creativity. Whether you’re dealing with an overcrowded wardrobe or piles of paperwork, this guide aims to equip you with the tools needed to conquer your clutter and spark some joy!
Are you this person? Never being able to find all the utensils to cook a meal, the outfit for hiking or all your toiletries? We’re hoping these small , but, clever ideas will make you see a better way to stay on top of your belongings in your camper or RV.
Let’s expand on these, touching on each suggestion, giving you the tools you need and items you can check out for yourselves.
Fridge and Food
RV fridge sizes vary from model to model, and it’s essential to ensure that you never open the door too quickly. This is particularly important because a sudden rush of air can disrupt the internal temperature, potentially compromising the food and beverages stored inside.
I distinctly remember a memorable wine incident during one of our trips when a bottle of Pinot Noir tried to escape from the fridge. I had foolishly left the cork out, and there was a significant amount of sloshing. The result was a delightful but chaotic mess that led to extensive clean-up. I had to race against time to prevent the wine from staining our belongings and attracting unwelcome guests. Let me tell you, ants were definitely not invited to our little adventure! That experience taught me the importance of securing wine bottles properly before embarking on a journey. Don’t forget the cork screw!
Since that first trip, I’ve learned a lot about RV travel and storage. I’m still learning and adapting, as each adventure offers new insights and experiences. In the spirit of making the most of your RV, camper, or trailer, it’s crucial to adapt your storage solutions to fit your unique space. Customize your fridge organization by using bins, dividers, and other clever storage ideas to ensure everything is easily accessible while traveling. By thoughtfully arranging your supplies, you can enhance your travel experience and avoid any unplanned “leakage” incidents that could lead to a sticky situation!
Use clear stackable fridge bins to separate drinks, snacks, fruits, and meal prep items for easy access and less clutter. Plan ahead meals are key to help with not taking too much food. If you’re camping in an area where you can access an affordable grocery store, the better chance you have. Many things you can get while on the road for that day.
Add tension rods inside the refrigerator to keep bottles and condiments from sliding while driving.
Store small fridge items like cheese sticks and yogurt in pull-out drawer organizers to maximize vertical space. We use single serve yogurts, cheese sticks and fruit cups, taking less space as eaten.
Use rotating lazy Susan trays in the fridge for sauces, dressings, and frequently used condiments. Also, if you have excess restaurant condiments, a snackle tray ( repurposed tackle tray ) can do wonders to keep you organized and they’re ready for roadside stops . Or, just maybe when the drive thru forgets the extra ketchup, lol!!
The upper cabinets or pantry if you’re lucky enough to have them, they are life savers . Don’t overpack on the food. Plan out your meals whether you’re a family of six or a couple on the road. This saves packing and wasting of food. We often take too many snacks, I have learned if we don’t use them this trip, cut in half next time.
Kitchen and Grill Organization
Organize camper kitchen drawers with expandable dividers for utensils, gadgets, and cooking tools.
Use magnetic spice racks and wall-mounted baskets to free up cabinet and counter space. Remember, in a small camper, every inch counts – it’s like playing Tetris, but with your cooking supplies!
Store pots, pans, and bowls using nesting or collapsible cookware systems to reduce clutter. In our small camper, under sink and under dinette is where we store, and I have a system. A first out, last in way that works for us.
Grill gear in a tote or caddy. Because who doesn’t want their kitchen spatula to moonlight as a BBQ superhero? Toss in a cover to keep everything dry and raccoon-proof – you know, to avoid late-night furry BBQ bandits trying to swipe your secret mustard stash! An outdoor kitchen area of storage tent perhaps could solves those worries.
Clothing and Bedroom Storage
Let’s have a chat about that fabulously uncomfortable stock mattress, shall we? I’m convinced it’s made out of recycled cardboard from a pizza box! Our first attempt at comfort was slapping a memory foam topper on it – because who doesn’t love sinking into a squishy cloud, right? But eventually, we upgraded to a mattress that didn’t double as a medieval torture device, and voilà! Happy sleep and a happier marriage ensued!
There’s never enough closet space!!! Aaaarrrggghh!! If you find yourself struggling with a narrow closet, you’re not alone. Many people face the challenge of limited storage options, and it can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you have no drawers available for your clothes!
One effective strategy is to maximize vertical space; consider using cascading hangers that allow you to hang multiple garments in a single vertical line. This approach not only saves space but also makes it easier to see everything you own at a glance. Additionally, utilizing slim, non-slip hangers can help create more room for your clothes while keeping them secure and neatly organized.
If you’re a full-time resident lost in a jungle of seasonal attire, it’s time to face the fact that your winter sweaters have declared war on your closet. Create a dedicated battlefield for those garments that are out of season—preferably one that won’t require a therapist afterward. Vacuum-sealed bags are the caped crusaders of storage, diving in to rescue you by squishing those hefty sweaters and winter coats into submission, taking up way less space than your week-old takeout. Just remember, the ultimate hiding spot for this clothing coup could be under your bed, or if you’re feeling adventurous, shoved in a secret lair of side closets that haven’t seen daylight since the last snowstorm! I recently purged my home closets and even the camper—now I feel like a weightless fashion pioneer, free from the tyranny of unwanted clothes.
You might also think about creative solutions like over-the-door hooks or organizers that can hold everything from shoes to scarves, making use of every inch of your available space. If you have storage areas above the bed, with four rectangular compartments that run the width of your camper, these can be ideal for stowing items you don’t need immediate access to, such as camping gear or seasonal decorations.
Ultimately, careful planning can alleviate the stress of overpacking when heading out on trips. Consider making a checklist for each season or trip to ensure you only bring what you need. This organized approach will not only make packing easier but also enhance your overall travel experience by keeping your belongings orderly and within reach. Remember, allowing yourself a little time to plan can make a world of difference in how much you enjoy your space and your journeys!
Install hanging bedside caddies in the camper bedroom for all your nighttime essentials—phones, books, chargers, and glasses. Think of them as your personal camping butlers! You can also mount Velcro-type caddies above the bed, just to keep things extra out of the way. But seriously, watch out during those moments of adult time—you don’t want your “nocturnal adventures” interrupted by a flying phone!
Use under-bed storage containers for seasonal clothes, shoes, and personal items in small camper bedrooms. If possible, plan outfits and pack each together, rolled or hung.
Add closet shelf dividers and hanging organizers to maximize limited wardrobe space.
Bathroom and Personal Care/Linens
We have a small cabinet under our sink, which sometimes feels a bit cramped, especially when we consider the varying needs of different campers, particularly those with a fifth wheel that often offers more ample space than we could ever fully utilize. This post aims to assist everyone, whether you are an occasional camper or a seasoned road warrior, by providing a comprehensive collection of products tailored for all your needs—both small and large. From innovative storage solutions that maximize every inch of your space to versatile tools and gadgets designed to make your camping experience more enjoyable, we’ve curated a list that caters to a wide array of preferences and requirements, ensuring that your next adventure is as comfortable and organized as possible.
Store extra linens and blankets in vacuum-sealed bags to save cabinet and under-bed space. Everyone gets a set of towels to use. Depending on the time away, you can adjust.
Use labeled fabric bins for towels, washcloths, and bedding so everything stays easy to find. Use a labeler or sticky labels for everyone to have their own, given your amount of space.
Roll towels instead of folding them to fit more into narrow camper cabinets. If you have wall space, a strategic placement of a wall mount unit may work for you.
Add over-the-door organizers in the bathroom for toiletries, hair tools, and cleaning supplies.
Use stackable bins under the bathroom sink to separate medicine, toiletries, and extra supplies.
Install adhesive hooks and shower caddies to keep wet towels and toiletries organized.
Don’t forget to carve out a laundry zone — otherwise, the socks might file a complaint for harboring too many funky odors!
Kids and Toys/ Beach Supplies
Create a beach gear station with mesh bags for towels, flip-flops, sunscreen, and sand toys. An outdoor towel rack will keep potential sand and water out of the camper.
Use collapsible bins near the camper door for quick cleanup of kids’ outdoor toys and sports gear. Shoes are often in the way, use a bin or wall rack depending on your needs and space.
Store kids’ toys in stackable soft baskets that slide under benches or dinette seating.
Add hanging shoe organizers for coloring supplies, small toys, snacks, and travel games.
Pet Supplies
Keep dog leashes, treats, toys, and waste bags together in a dedicated pet storage caddy—it’s like a canine command center! Each pet might have their own bag or tote, because who wouldn’t want their own ‘paw-some’ suitcase? Our Marley has a bag that could rival a magician’s hat: food, toys, pet waste bags, treats, cleaning supplies, and even her own tie-out run—she’s ready for anything! Just remember to check with your campground for the ‘ruff’ rules before you unleash the fun!
Use airtight pet food containers to keep food fresh and prevent spills while traveling—because no one wants a car that smells like a mix between old kibble and a mystery meat taco!
Install hooks near the camper entrance for pet leashes, harnesses, towels, and jackets.
Outdoor Gear
Stash your outdoor gear under that trusty camper in waterproof bins — because nobody wants a soggy hose surprise! Label them for hoses, tools, leveling blocks, and extension cords (because yes, they all deserve their own spotlight). Oh, and toss in a pair of gloves for tank draining, unless you enjoy smelling like a less-than-fresh campsite!
Embrace the joys of camping organization by mounting PVC pipe holders or storage straps under your camper for all your fishing poles, hoses, and outdoor mats. Finally, a classy way to keep long camping gear from becoming a trip hazard! And don’t forget the bungee cords — perfect for strapping down kayaks or paddle boards to a tree like it’s a rebellious teenager refusing to come home!
Whatever type or size camper you enjoy, be it a cozy pop-up that makes you feel like you’re on the set of a camping sitcom, a spacious travel trailer fit for royalty, or a luxurious motorhome that’s basically a hotel on wheels, we hope these lists help you navigate the delightful chaos of organization. Let’s be honest—staying organized while camping is as crucial as remembering the marshmallows for s’mores. After all, you don’t want to rummage through the depths of your camper searching for that camping stove while your friends are busy roasting their marshmallows and pretending they’re gourmet chefs! With a pinch of preparation and some snazzy gear, you can turn your camping trips into hilariously memorable escapades filled with comfort, convenience, and maybe the occasional misadventure. #ad #earnscommissions
Happy camping and remember to ” Take Life Easy ” from “The Wayward Travellers ”
Save this for your next camping trip! 🏕️ I’m sharing my favorite Amazon camping essentials that make summer adventures easier, more organized, and more fun. Which item is your must-have?
David Crockett State Park is a scenic Tennessee state park in Lawrenceburg known for camping, hiking, fishing, waterfalls, and its connection to legendary frontiersman David Crockett. The park sits along Shoal Creek and covers more than 1,300 acres. Within the park, there are two campgrounds, 1 and 2. Sites on section 1 seems to be more level ground, with plenty of greenspace. Lots of kids taking advantage of what we called the ” racetrack”. The paths between sites were perfect for their scooters , roller skates and bikes. We drove through campground 2, where the sites in 2 are elevated, with concrete pads and higher sites, all with a fenced picnic table area. It did not seem to be complimentary to families with kids or older people. Appeared to be more need to climb around your site. Our section of campground was family and dog friendly, We love campground 1, we intend to come back soon. We were just yards off the creek with a great view of the slow moving water.
We cook at the campsite, it’s my favorite thing to do! I received the Blackstone 22″ griddle a few years back from my husband as a birthday gift.
It’s easy cleanup, I can cook almost anything on it. Keep it level, I had eggs run out the back. ” damn, damn, damn, ” We secured the eggs and promptly leveled with a flip flop! We bought a cover recently to keep it dust and grime free. Works great for the campsite as well as in the garage. We use the pumice stones to remove any stuck on grime. Check out our Amazon Store to get all of these items.
Hike trails like the Turkey Ridge/Shoal Creek Loop
See Crockett Falls and the covered bridge
Camp in RV or tent sites
Stay in waterfront cabins
Fish or rent paddle boats on Lindsey Lake
Visit the seasonal museum about David Crockett’s life
The park is especially popular for weekend camping trips and family getaways. Reddit hikers mention the creek areas, short scenic loops, and peaceful atmosphere as highlights.
Checking out the shower and bath houses
The bath houses are very close to our site. There are 8 shower stalls, all with separate walk in doors and locks. A family would be able to use this easily. There do need to be extra hooks in actual shower area, to hang a toiletry bag for easy access.
The heat of water is adequate and pressure is decent for a campground. The ladies and mens room each have three stalls. They are all kept very neat and clean as well as supplied. There is a dump station before you exit the campground where we are, easy to access before leaving.
There are pet waste stations with bags and a disposal area. All the campers walking their pooch seemed to clean up, especially nice since there were so many kids playing throughout the campground. The waste cans do need to be emptied. It’s quite full in campground 1.
Marley and I walked part of the Shoal Creek Loop today. It’s slightly hilly , but, an easy path. There are many pretty plants including ferns. There was very little debris as if they kept the path maintained. We have to investigate the sounds we were hearing, they were either a lot of frogs or birds of some sort. I understand there’s an aviary here so that may be where it was coming from.
My favorite spot
Were investigating the rest of the campground, The aviary has a few birds that are caged, mainly due to injury, more likely not being able to be released into their natural habitat. For safety reasons, they are better to be kept at the aviary.
There several cabins to rent, I checked out the online photos and they look very nice. Since they are on the water, there are stairs to climb down to access the door to entry. Currently for the season I reviewed, prices are about $195.00 per night. Great for a family or people participating in events such as weddings.
Crockett Falls a great place to swim or relax
Marley enjoyed the cool creek
There is a fishing dock and boat access. The lake looks very clean and inviting.. There were several people taking advantage by fishing off the dock.
Entertainment Nearby
If you’re looking for entertainment and more things to do in the Lawrenceburg area this weekend and throughout the month of May, check out these lists below.
Here are some of the bigger things happening around Lawrenceburg this weekend:
The Levitt AMP music series kicks off Saturday evening with a free outdoor concert at Veterans Park. Gates open around 4 p.m., and the city has been promoting it as one of the major community events of the month. This might of particular interest to music fans, it’s featuring country music artist Jimmie Allen. Known for his genre-blending sound and high energy performance, this is not to be missed.
Off-Road Weekend
Wheelin in the Country is running events this weekend for ATV and off-road enthusiasts. The tourism calendar lists activities Friday through Sunday.
Artisan Market
The Farm Artisan Market is scheduled for Saturday, featuring local crafts, produce, baked goods, and vendors from the Amish and Mennonite communities nearby.
Downtown Cruise-In
The Lawrence County Classic Car Club Cruise-in is also on the calendar this weekend with vintage cars and community gathering downtown. We love vintage cars, may have to attend this one!
Live Music & Nightlife
If you want evening entertainment, these spots usually have weekend crowds and live music or karaoke:
A few events can shift because of weather, especially outdoor concerts and off-road activities.
Be sure to check out our Amazon store through the links. I have posted in our blog. As an Amazon associate, we may earn a commission on any purchases made through our links.
Father’s Day is just around the corner, everyone is looking for something Dad doesn’t have! What could he use or what has he asked for before?
Making camping easy , fun and hassle free is what taking life easy is all about. Having things available to help with that, well, makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Not everyone likes to go camping and have to cook every meal. I love to cook while camping, but, certainly not every meal. Having the tools at hand makes preparation quick .
I used to be the one who made several trips inside the camper, always forgetting something. One of the best things we have found is this useful caddy, for storing utensils, spices, paper towels and more.
We have a few tables we set up at our site to use for the ice maker, radio and more. This table makes having or using an outdoor kitchen more manageable. With zipper. Posited to stow away dishes, flatware, napkins and daytime snacks. I would never leave door in it overnight or unattended.
Easy to fold away for carrying and for camper or truck storage.
I’m not sure hi ow many times we have used this next item at camp, but, at home it has become invaluable. We use all Ryobi tools because the batteries are interchangeable. You can see me blowing off our rug at the campsite, small pebbles and leaves are no match for me! I’ll Link it below too, but, our fave is this Ryobi battery operated fan.
Recently we had a power outage due to tornadoes. It saved us during a slightly warm evening . Useful for those who boondock too! There is a shelf sitting one and one that clamps. Both could be handy depending on your situation.
This one has the battery out which includes an extra charger, perfect if you’re already a Ryobi fan….pun intended lol.
The clip on is perfect for bunk areas in a camper where an extra breeze is needed or for those women over fifty who get the hot flashes like myself. Either way, it’s sure to do the trick
Small enough to carry under the belly of our 16 foot Wolf Pup, I love this portable leaf blower , easy to use and lightweight. does the job we need for our camp area to keep it clean.
The most recent lifesaver is a power inverter. I never understood what these were until our home power went out form the recent North Alabama tornadoes. Granted, only six hours, but , this was the handiest tool of all. Charge your phones, power lamps and much more from the battery pack. We have extra power supplies so we are always prepared. A great gift for the man or woman who has everything. They may not think to buy this for themselves.
This non Ryobi but compatible inverter has a two pack available now. One for home and one for the camper. At just $59.99 for a limited time, you can’t miss!
The next item is the most used at our campsite . Our Blackstone griddle does everything we need for breakfast and dinner. We snack at lunchtime, how about you?
We have had ours for four years and absolutely could not be happier . Surface area is enough for us and a few guests . We have the stand , but, you can use on a table like a concrete one available at most campgrounds.
There are many sizes and options available, this is ours along with the legs.
If you don’t have outside speakers on your camper or you’re just chilling on a lake for a fishing day, this little JBL speaker comes in handy great sound at a great price!
As often as we use our phone, we have multiple charges in varying places. This retractable charger is handy. The cords aren’t hanging out everywhere and you could also use it inside your camper as well as your tow vehicle.
Want a comfy chair, even for the biggest guy? This one fits the bill. A gift to my husband three years ago, the size does matter. It’s large enough for two kids or a larger person. Up to 400lb capacity and a handy side table to hold the phone or binoculars.
These are just a few of our favorites we have purchased and used. If you decide to purchase for your Dad, friend, grandpa or yourself,we do earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.
Have a great day celebrating Dad, Grandpa and all those step up dads out there!
Buy something they will really use while enjoying the great outdoors .
I often see posts on Facebook in camper groups about what are the must haves when you were first starting out with your new camper. Everyone always suggests camping in the driveway for the first time and go with what you have already in there. This is a wonderful idea and exactly what we did. You will start to see your needs as you do your daily tasks. What types of items will be essential for your first camping trip? Read through to find out more.
As an Amazon associate any links that I provide in my blog will direct you to the Amazon site. Purchase is made may provide me with a small incentive if you make a purchase through that link. Click any of the photos to start shopping for your camper finds.
We typically go where there is water and electric hook up , occasionally we Boondock when we are out west on BLM lands. We prefer to cook outside and only inside when it’s raining. So what we have for a cooking basics is very important to how we love to cook. We keep storage straightforward and simple. Everything has to stack beneath the dinette and, items we use to prep must be collapsible. We have managed this quite well so far!
Three years ago for my birthday, my wonderful husband got the Blackstone 22 inch griddle. I prefer this over any other cooking method while at the campground have you tried it? What do you think? I do breakfast, like frittatas, hash browns and sausage with plenty of room to move things around for their own space.n There are numerous accessories for this grill and other Blackstone versions. We have the griddle stand which enables mobility to a picnic table if you choose.
We also have a vintage Coleman camp stove, two burner with propane can hookup. My husband used this one as a child. We recommend everyone have this as a survival tool as well.
Essential for everyday campers or backpackers
We have an assortment of kitchen tools, and we got a couple of sets that we carry with us for camping that we got as wedding gifts four years ago . It has a variety of tools for any type of grills. Funny story on that, some people did not believe what we had on our Amazon wedding registry. It was all camping items. After all, we were in our mid fifties and had all that home decor stuff. We were ready for fun items.
This one has everything you could possibly need for cast-iron cookware or grill top. If you’re taking a charcoal grill with you that has the grid top. You could use this as well. Brush spatula meat, fork, tongs, corn, skewers, and so much more we find it to be the ultimate set.
There are so many ways to stay organized when you’re camping. If you’re not already a prepared chef, it can be hard to carry things in and out if you love to cook outside. We started with a tray, passing it through the door. How many times must we go in and out for one meal? So, an outdoor kitchen or storage area has saved the day. Keeps everything clean and dust free and at hand. Your tools, plates and seasoning are at your fingertips.
Outdoor Storage and Camp Table
Let’s get organized!
We recommend this one , because it has roll up covers on compartments and keeps critters out of your belongings. A sturdy area for your Blackstone too. We love to see raccoons and squirrels when we camp, but, who needs those pesky buggers trying to mess with your utensils and more?! We only use this with food inside during awake time. Otherwise, you’re just inviting Rocky and friends to the party, am I right?
No one invited you for dinner!
Whatever you love to do in the great outdoors, hiking, relaxing or just getting away, remember ……” Take Life Easy from Home to Camp”
There’s a commercial from Progressive where a girl interrupts two people speaking, so she can complete her social media post. In the now generation of “ all about me “ , this is what comes to mind. These unhidden gems, people have discovered , then , they show up! Take over a beautiful location, previously unspoiled , want to act like they just discovered it. Make it their own and create noise, buildings and traffic.
“ practicing gratitude, manifesting abundance “
We discovered our current camping location because of good friends, who had been fishing and camping here for forty years. It’s our local place of solitude. I need to be near water to be peaceful, it slows down the pace.
This property has had several names over the years as well as a few owners. We’ve only been camping here four years. It was a KOA for a short time , now Beyonder Getaway. They want to add more to make it a destination location. More sites, perhaps a marina and more activities. This they hope will bring in more people. Choose the right activities, prices and proper site maintenance , that will certainly help. The bath houses are not bad with multiple toilets and two separate showers for each gender. They installed new shower heads which helped a great deal .
We have few campgrounds close enough to home where we can “ getaway” and be a short trip home or to work. This location been great for us a couple times each year for camping close to home. Nestled in Mallard Creek area on Joe Wheeler Lake, part of the Tennessee river. It’s on a peninsula and I’ll include a map location and camp site map too.
Beyonder Getaway Campsite Map
Fishing is fantastic as my friend Jim and his buddies can attest.
Jim and his catfish catch Conrad and a huge catfish Jim and Gary with another haul The McDuckersons
I definitely recommend Beyonder for those passing through, it’s a short trip to I 65 through Alabama or east / west on highway 72. A great family place with horses, beach, zip lining , boat rentals and more. We prefer the less busy time through the week, they offer discounts for Mon-Thurs stays .
Offer for 15% off Mon-Thursday- Call to reserve and guarantee rates.
They have added many campsites in the last two years and have several cabins if you don’t have an RV of any kind. Tent camping down by the water is a “ roughing it “ option on the property.
It’s been a while since I have written anything, we have had quite the whirlwind of a summer. More to come later on that subject.
May is normally a month that we go camping, and stay about a week to be near our friends who fish the entire four weeks they’re camped. Fish fries, campfires, paddle boarding , nature and great friends! Always a special time with Jim, Pam and anyone who comes along to join the party.
Click link above ! Produces plenty of ice Jim my buddy
This location is convenient to home, less than 45 minutes, easy if working or when mom comes to spend the day.
Mom
We made our plans for the local KOA ( now Beyonder ) May is also David’s birthday month so we love to spend time there during that special event. We try to get the same spot as very time, most times we do!
Our Favorite Site The McDuckerson family
This campground was recently purchased by BeyonderGetaway with few changes . It is still our favorite local campground and I will link the new owners information in case you would be interested. I’ve reviewed the KOA in north Alabama on Google and several other sites. It is full of amenities, from horseback riding, kayaking, boat rental, fishing, playgrounds, zip lining and a community pavilion. New reservations for us start on October 30 during Halloween!
If you’re traveling the southeastern United States , it’s just over the border from Tennessee into Alabama. Two and a half hours south of Nashville, thirty minurtes from Huntsville, very close to large cities and lovely small towns.
We’re here, it’s breezy and cold. Forecasted to be 26 degrees in the am, I’ll take the 50 degrees and start n right now.
My stick
I’m always up early at camp, this time, there was a wonderful thing happening! Check out the thousands of birds who came for breakfast of brim! I couldn’t tell what the birds were, but, it was spectacular! They covered a large portion of Mallard Creek.
We brought candy with us ,just in case there are ghouls and ghosts about tonight. We’ve decorated our site with pumpkins, heads and witches!
We were finally leaving our spot in Spearfish South Dakota. We had fallen in love with that campground, the views, the people and the UFO. We still talk about it, I do not know if anyone believes, yet, we tell everyone.
We managed to see one last site in the area before leaving, Spearfish Canyon. It was right behind the campground; we had wondered where the walking trail led.
From Spearfish, we were on our way to Wyoming. Most people think of Wyoming as Yellowstone, that was not where we were headed. Our first stop was to be Devil’s Tower. You know, the one from Close Encounters of the Third Kind. This is the vision that comes to my mind. The entire way there, yep, mashed potatoes. It makes sense, he has a vision of a place he has never been. The potatoes were his medium to show his family. It certainly got us thinking of alien life, After all, Star Wars had come out, we had long been watching Twilight Zone and similar tv shows. Lost in Space for instance, we grew up thinking there was life out there. Perhaps there is or was .
The real story or legend of Devils Tower comes from Indian lore.
Painting by Herbert Collins taken from NPS website
Now that we have left South Dakota, we barely went into Montana. I don’t know if you can really count it. What do you think?
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This was our path from border to border as we drove toward Devils Tower. We never go in a straight line, it’s not that interesting. We didn’t officially travel into Montana, the sign just as you entered was as far as we ventured. On to bigger and better things.
Spearfish, north on 212 until we hit Montana, I am counting that as a visit.
Off we go, got the obligatory sign picture, so we’re good. If you have never been to Devils Tower, it is ominous! We could spot it from a great distance, sprouting up from the earth, looking volcanic and massive. This giant rock rising out of the earth, from a distance looks like it is on a plain or prairie. Where did it come from? A rock rising more than 5112 feet, that’s nearly a mile. No wonder you can see it from 10-12 miles away. It is indeed a sight to behold. All things in the United States, all lands, mountains, canyons, waterfalls/ buttes, rock formations and I want to see them all. We thought as we approached, wow, to camp here. Can you imagine the stars above, no light from towns, the wildlife that could be there. This is a journey again later in our life, we are certain of it. While David was in the tourist gift shop, I was happily taking photos for a group travelling on motorcycles. I was admiring the Indian bike, when one of them made me an offer I had to refuse. I was almost a biker chick on the back of the single guys ride. Hahaha, really nice folks enjoying their country. Bikers have a leisurely and interesting ride with a fantastic view.
Devils Tower up close and ten miles away.
On the next post, we will be travelling from Devils Tower to Cody Wyoming. A scary and treacherous ride! Wow what a view we had.
