OR/CA regional campout
posted April 23, 2017 3:43 PM RSS | iCal | +googleCal
Fri September 29 at 4:00 PM, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground, 1461 US-199, Crescent City, CA, USA (Map & Directions)
After noting the success of previous Oregon-Washington regional campouts, some California MeFites suggested one down thataway. UPDATE: Here is a link to the spreadsheet to coordinate meals, equipment, etc.
This time around we've settled on Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground for Friday afternoon Sep. 29 - Sunday morning Oct. 1.
The campground is 6.5-7.5 hours north of San Francisco (depending on which route you decide to take) and 5.5-7 hours south of Portland (ditto). I'm sure we'll find all sorts of hiking available nearby, and the ocean is 20 minutes away as well.
It looks like campsites are on the small side and have one tent pad apiece; so unless you have a really small tent and you're willing to share with someone else with a really small tent, we'll each have to reserve our own campsite. RESERVE EARLY (and often!)
The campground is 6.5-7.5 hours north of San Francisco (depending on which route you decide to take) and 5.5-7 hours south of Portland (ditto). I'm sure we'll find all sorts of hiking available nearby, and the ocean is 20 minutes away as well.
It looks like campsites are on the small side and have one tent pad apiece; so unless you have a really small tent and you're willing to share with someone else with a really small tent, we'll each have to reserve our own campsite. RESERVE EARLY (and often!)
I'm here to vouch for the pure wonderfulness that is a regional campout and want to encourage everyone to go to this that can. I'm not sure that I will be able to be there given distances involved and vacation days, but I will be with y'all in spirit!
posted by hippybear at 4:29 PM on April 23, 2017
posted by hippybear at 4:29 PM on April 23, 2017
The weather in Northern Ca is great in the fall. Is Crater Lake to far for the Cali people to come? I had done some research on a lake area near Medford. I will try and find it and see if it might be an option.
posted by cairnoflore at 12:45 AM on April 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by cairnoflore at 12:45 AM on April 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
Find out when deer hunting season happens in whichever area you choose.
The best fall weather is usually reserved for the hunters.
Remember to wear orange ....
posted by hank at 9:31 AM on April 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
The best fall weather is usually reserved for the hunters.
Remember to wear orange ....
posted by hank at 9:31 AM on April 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
I spent every memorial day weekend as a child sailboat racing and eating smores at Whiskeytown NRA. So maybe that's an option. Very nice if folks bring kayaks etc..
posted by vespabelle at 9:55 AM on April 24, 2017
posted by vespabelle at 9:55 AM on April 24, 2017
I have never been to Crater Lake and totally want to go there. But it is a 7 hour drive from here (San Francisco), whereas Shasta is only 4 hours. But carpooling with other mefites could make a long trip pretty fun! Whether I could make it to either one depends a lot on the timing and some other stuff that I can't predict yet.
posted by aubilenon at 10:08 AM on April 24, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 10:08 AM on April 24, 2017
I am totally into this idea! I have very limited camping experience in Northern California so I defer to the hive mind's expertise.
posted by sacrifix at 11:18 AM on April 24, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 11:18 AM on April 24, 2017
I think our ground rules, based on previous trips, are:
-Must be able to buy firewood, ideally on site
-Toilets (pit is fine)
-Reserveable
-Water available (?)
I think Castle Crags (the state park) fits the bill nicely. It's not terribly far from the freeway, which is good so we aren't adding extra hours of driving on a state highway. And it has onsite hiking for the so-inclined.
That said, it is crawling with both human-acclimated bears and poison oak. As will be everywhere in that area :)
If we wanted to go coastal, there are a lot of options in the Crescent City-to-Brookings swath of 101. Redwoods, myrtle, carnivorous plants, fewer bears, much less likelihood of burn restrictions for campfires. Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP on the CA side has the BEST REDWOODS ANYWHERE. It's straight out of Tolkien, that forest. 6 hours drive for everyone! J.Smith is reservable through Sept 30. On the OR side, there's Alfred A. Loeb SP.
posted by janell at 12:51 PM on April 24, 2017 [2 favorites]
-Must be able to buy firewood, ideally on site
-Toilets (pit is fine)
-Reserveable
-Water available (?)
I think Castle Crags (the state park) fits the bill nicely. It's not terribly far from the freeway, which is good so we aren't adding extra hours of driving on a state highway. And it has onsite hiking for the so-inclined.
That said, it is crawling with both human-acclimated bears and poison oak. As will be everywhere in that area :)
If we wanted to go coastal, there are a lot of options in the Crescent City-to-Brookings swath of 101. Redwoods, myrtle, carnivorous plants, fewer bears, much less likelihood of burn restrictions for campfires. Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP on the CA side has the BEST REDWOODS ANYWHERE. It's straight out of Tolkien, that forest. 6 hours drive for everyone! J.Smith is reservable through Sept 30. On the OR side, there's Alfred A. Loeb SP.
posted by janell at 12:51 PM on April 24, 2017 [2 favorites]
Tiny pony: Can we attempt to not schedule this during Burning Man? Dates are August 27 - Sept 4.
posted by sacrifix at 1:08 PM on April 24, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 1:08 PM on April 24, 2017
I had a weird thing happen when I tried to go to Jedediah Smith last year -- our camp permit made it look like it was ADA-accessible, whereas the park ranger told us it was ADA-ONLY and refused to allow us entrance. We went up the road to a county park and lucked out in finding a great spot, and the camp host there told us they'd talked to 3-4 other groups that week that ran into the same issue. I've heard a lot of awesome things about JS but double-check what site you're reserving.
posted by curious nu at 4:34 PM on April 24, 2017
posted by curious nu at 4:34 PM on April 24, 2017
I have camped at Panther Flat Campground on 199. It tends to be sunnier due to being farther East than Jedidiah Smith. Nice swimming hole, nice bathrooms with lukewarm showers, places to hike, but an 8 drive up the coast from the Bay Area in perfect driving conditions.
Castle Crags looks very interesting.
posted by cairnoflore at 6:51 PM on April 24, 2017
Castle Crags looks very interesting.
posted by cairnoflore at 6:51 PM on April 24, 2017
Our usual procedure is to stay two nights, trickling in Friday late afternoon/early evening and leaving Sunday before the typical checkout time of 2pm. I tend to take both Friday and Monday off - Friday for traveling, and Monday for easing back into the mundane world...but that's just me.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:31 PM on April 24, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:31 PM on April 24, 2017
Having said that, if someone wants to camp for only one night, that's fine! Join us anyway!
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:42 AM on April 27, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:42 AM on April 27, 2017
Castle Crags looks nice, and is about how far I would want to drive in a day. I'm down for a weekend. If other people are going to bring their kids, I would bring my daughter (6). No kids is fine too.
posted by sacrifix at 4:17 PM on April 27, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 4:17 PM on April 27, 2017
We're usually a kid-friendly bunch, as long as the parents are reasonably attentive and don't mind their kids seeing adults having a few beers in a relaxed low-key manner.
posted by Greg_Ace at 5:46 PM on April 27, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 5:46 PM on April 27, 2017
I am into this camping plan. I will bring a cortex and he will bring a guitar and we will sing dumb campfire songs. Are campfires likely to be allowed?
posted by Secretariat at 8:35 AM on April 28, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 8:35 AM on April 28, 2017
I don't see a mention of campfire banning on the Castle Crags page, and an Internet search for "california state park campfire ban" didn't bring up anything either. I tried to call the Park but nobody answered. I guess we'll need to remember to check again later in the year.
posted by Greg_Ace at 1:41 PM on April 28, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 1:41 PM on April 28, 2017
To my knowledge, campfires are fine as long as they're in established campsites with a fire ring. They're not allowed in the backcountry, and if the season gets especially dry they may be temporarily banned.
I'd be interested in going to this, depending on my availability. Weirdo that I am, I would be more than willing to bring or make historic 19th century trail foods.
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 4:23 PM on April 28, 2017
I'd be interested in going to this, depending on my availability. Weirdo that I am, I would be more than willing to bring or make historic 19th century trail foods.
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 4:23 PM on April 28, 2017
Oh we are total foodies, and since it's car camping we throw caution (but not campfire embers) to the wind as far as bringing provisions. We eat well!
What would "historic 19th century trail foods" consist of? Not pemmican and stale hardtack, I hope....
posted by Greg_Ace at 4:38 PM on April 28, 2017
What would "historic 19th century trail foods" consist of? Not pemmican and stale hardtack, I hope....
posted by Greg_Ace at 4:38 PM on April 28, 2017
Captain's wafers are definitely involved. Bet you can't eat more than just one!
posted by hippybear at 6:54 PM on April 28, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by hippybear at 6:54 PM on April 28, 2017 [1 favorite]
Okay, so what's the process for picking a date? doodle? Will it help to wait fir more people to find the thread or does picking the date earlier make it easier for other folks to commit?
posted by aubilenon at 1:56 AM on April 30, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 1:56 AM on April 30, 2017
Basing my guess on last year's weather for the area, I'd suggest one of the weekends of September 29, October 6, or October 13.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:59 AM on April 30, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:59 AM on April 30, 2017
Castle Crags is a wonderful campground. It is near Dunsmuir, a lovely town which has an official slogan of "Home of the best water on Earth". And I can wholly agree on that. It has great fly fishing waters on Sacramento River if you are into that. The picturesque Mossbrae Falls is an easy hike to get to along the Union Pacific Railroad.
Along the CA coast, Mendocino is a great destination. For camping, Van Damme State Park is a good choice. Great recreation around the area too. Canoes and bikes can be rented at Big River. Tons of hiking trails. Further north, Fort Bragg is nice as well if you like quaint working fishing villages. And for those coming from the Bay Area, driving through Anderson Valley along highway 120 can be reminisce of old Napa Valley before it got touristy.
posted by gloturtle at 2:37 PM on April 30, 2017
Along the CA coast, Mendocino is a great destination. For camping, Van Damme State Park is a good choice. Great recreation around the area too. Canoes and bikes can be rented at Big River. Tons of hiking trails. Further north, Fort Bragg is nice as well if you like quaint working fishing villages. And for those coming from the Bay Area, driving through Anderson Valley along highway 120 can be reminisce of old Napa Valley before it got touristy.
posted by gloturtle at 2:37 PM on April 30, 2017
Yikes, too late to fix a typo. For Mendocino, it is Highway 128 through Anderson Valley, not 120.
Addition, Mendocino is a bit further south than what OR mefites might want to travel.
posted by gloturtle at 2:48 PM on April 30, 2017
Addition, Mendocino is a bit further south than what OR mefites might want to travel.
posted by gloturtle at 2:48 PM on April 30, 2017
While I'm thinking of it, I want to thank everyone for all the great suggestions so far! I'm going to keep all of them together in a file, for more camping ideas later.
Let's start trying to get a consensus, with an initial choice:
1. Jedediah Smith/redwoods
2. Castle Crags
3. Somewhere else?
posted by Greg_Ace at 2:57 PM on April 30, 2017
Let's start trying to get a consensus, with an initial choice:
1. Jedediah Smith/redwoods
2. Castle Crags
3. Somewhere else?
posted by Greg_Ace at 2:57 PM on April 30, 2017
I'm more inclined to let everyone else pick a date, since I'm not 100% sure what my availability will be then anyway.
I've been curious to check out Jedediah Smith for a while now, personally.
Also, historic trail foods... er, not hardtack and pemmican, but hardtack and salt pork or bacon (I think pemmican might have been more of an eastern thing, or at least I haven't seen any references to it in accounts of cattle drives and military camps). Fortunately, I also have some historic chuckwagon cookbooks, which are more along the lines of chilis and hashes and that sort of thing, and those are pretty tasty. Hot chocolate made with cocoa, hot water, and condensed milk is surprisingly good (I think that's more of an early 20th century recipe, though).
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 6:15 PM on April 30, 2017
I've been curious to check out Jedediah Smith for a while now, personally.
Also, historic trail foods... er, not hardtack and pemmican, but hardtack and salt pork or bacon (I think pemmican might have been more of an eastern thing, or at least I haven't seen any references to it in accounts of cattle drives and military camps). Fortunately, I also have some historic chuckwagon cookbooks, which are more along the lines of chilis and hashes and that sort of thing, and those are pretty tasty. Hot chocolate made with cocoa, hot water, and condensed milk is surprisingly good (I think that's more of an early 20th century recipe, though).
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 6:15 PM on April 30, 2017
Yum! (The cocoa. Salt pork can go either way. Other items are unknown to me in real life. )
posted by janell at 9:22 PM on April 30, 2017
posted by janell at 9:22 PM on April 30, 2017
Well bacon is known to me
posted by janell at 9:22 PM on April 30, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by janell at 9:22 PM on April 30, 2017 [1 favorite]
I am fine with any of the proposed dates. I graduate in 6 weeks and still haven't found a job yet so my schedule is wiiiiiide open! *sobs*
posted by sacrifix at 5:10 PM on May 1, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 5:10 PM on May 1, 2017
I do believe any of those dates will work for me, as far as I can tell at the moment. And I'm pretty into either of the locations. I have a couple friends in Klamath Falls, OR so I was originally imagining stopping by there on my way to this camping trip (Mt. Shasta area)- but a trip to the Redwoods sounds fun too, so I'd happily head that way if people are more in favor of that.
posted by Secretariat at 8:22 PM on May 1, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 8:22 PM on May 1, 2017
I'm sensing a slight lean toward coastal redwoods...? Please, speak up, I'd love to encourage a maximum possible number of people happy and involved and excited about this event!
Bear in mind that lead times for reserving campsites in popular areas are in months, not weeks or days (unless, like, incredible luck runs in your family or something). If we want to schedule a weekend in the fall, we're already in the critical 6-4 month period for snagging what we want before it's booked.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:09 PM on May 3, 2017
Bear in mind that lead times for reserving campsites in popular areas are in months, not weeks or days (unless, like, incredible luck runs in your family or something). If we want to schedule a weekend in the fall, we're already in the critical 6-4 month period for snagging what we want before it's booked.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:09 PM on May 3, 2017
Welp, I just checked the Jedediah Smith reservation website and the weekends of Oct. 6 and 13 are already booked! Not only that, but Castle Crags is full for all three weekends. Ai-yi-yi. Do we want to commit to there like RIGHT NOW for the weekend of Sep. 29, or shoot for something at another date and campsite, or slide the date to next Spring?
Again, I'm sorry for putting off posting this until the last minute.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:51 PM on May 3, 2017
Again, I'm sorry for putting off posting this until the last minute.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:51 PM on May 3, 2017
I'm on board for the weekend of the 29th in the Redwoods. Or another weekend at a campground closer to Portland.
posted by cairnoflore at 10:09 PM on May 3, 2017
posted by cairnoflore at 10:09 PM on May 3, 2017
The 29th is during Burning Man, but that's fine with me, I'm not going this year.
posted by aubilenon at 8:43 AM on May 4, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 8:43 AM on May 4, 2017
(...to burning man. I'll try like heck to go to this!)
posted by aubilenon at 8:43 AM on May 4, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 8:43 AM on May 4, 2017
The prettiest sites with views of the river are taken, but campsites 15, 16, 18, and 20 are currently available. I'll try to find out whether they'll fit 2 tents so we can cozy up and save money, otherwise we'll each have to reserve our own site.
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:22 AM on May 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:22 AM on May 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
Yeah, I'm all for it, Redwoods on the 29th- even if we end up camping dispersed, it would be nice to have a couple of sites side-by side for the "hangout" area.
posted by Secretariat at 11:34 AM on May 4, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 11:34 AM on May 4, 2017
The Redwoods are lovely, and the 29th should work really well with my schedule (but I'm only a maybe). We'd be biking down, so if anyone wants to bikepool from Portland, get in touch!
posted by aniola at 5:52 PM on May 6, 2017
posted by aniola at 5:52 PM on May 6, 2017
The 29th is fine. Of course it is the same weekend as Oregon flock & fiber, but is is ok. Bogs full of carnivorous plants are right up my alley.
posted by janell at 12:44 AM on May 7, 2017
posted by janell at 12:44 AM on May 7, 2017
I'd really like to go! I'll confer with my girlfriend, but we've both been meaning to drive up north for a long time, and I haven't been up that way in at least 10 years. Plus, if anyone is driving up from the Bay Area, you can stop at the Samoa Cookhouse in Eureka on the way up. It's the last of the lumber camp cookhouses! I've never been, but my mom used to go in the 70s, and she says it's great.
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 1:02 AM on May 7, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 1:02 AM on May 7, 2017 [1 favorite]
I think you should just declare the date will be 9/29-10/1.
posted by janell at 5:23 PM on May 7, 2017
posted by janell at 5:23 PM on May 7, 2017
I think we can do that weekend. And it's a month *after* Burning Man.
posted by gingerbeer at 6:59 PM on May 7, 2017
posted by gingerbeer at 6:59 PM on May 7, 2017
I think so too janell, just giving the weekend viewers one last chance to put in a word. If nobody speaks up for an alternative, I'll reserve site 18 on Monday morning and make this event official.
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:27 PM on May 7, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:27 PM on May 7, 2017
Ok- I reserved site 20 for the 29th and 30th. The sites say maximum 8 people and maximum 2 vehicles. I am 2 people and 1 car, but I listed 4 people and 2 cars when I reserved and am happy to share the space. Looks like there's lots of sites available- including a few cabins if there are people who would prefer to not camp, and some nearby walk-in sites if you'd like a little more distance for your tent.
posted by Secretariat at 9:22 AM on May 8, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 9:22 AM on May 8, 2017
Confirmed!
I've reserved site 18, since as far as I can tell it's got a suitable setup for communal meals and a central fireplace to gather around, and sites 13, 16, 19, 21, and 23 are available as of the time I'm posting this comment (NOTE: 17 is handicapped-ONLY).
As usual, once September rolls around I'll post a Google Docs spreadsheet to help us plan meals, equipment, etc. And since fresh seafood will be a short jaunt away, we could discuss replacing Bring Your Own Meat night with Bring Your Own Seafood...
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:04 AM on May 8, 2017
I've reserved site 18, since as far as I can tell it's got a suitable setup for communal meals and a central fireplace to gather around, and sites 13, 16, 19, 21, and 23 are available as of the time I'm posting this comment (NOTE: 17 is handicapped-ONLY).
As usual, once September rolls around I'll post a Google Docs spreadsheet to help us plan meals, equipment, etc. And since fresh seafood will be a short jaunt away, we could discuss replacing Bring Your Own Meat night with Bring Your Own Seafood...
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:04 AM on May 8, 2017
I have site 15. :) There will be room for more people & another car if needed. The only iffy item is the size of the tent pad.
posted by janell at 10:20 AM on May 8, 2017
posted by janell at 10:20 AM on May 8, 2017
Oh good, I noticed it had been reserved and I was hoping one of y'all had grabbed it!
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:45 AM on May 8, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:45 AM on May 8, 2017
I got 19. Still not 100% sure if I'll be able to make it, but their cancellation policy is reasonable.
posted by sacrifix at 11:28 AM on May 8, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 11:28 AM on May 8, 2017
I now have a second tent sharing my site on Saturday. (Yay, camping trip!)
posted by Secretariat at 3:40 PM on May 8, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 3:40 PM on May 8, 2017
Oh, I should say about site 16, I only have a small tent, so I can easily share the site with someone.
(Also, exact timing TBD, but I'll be driving from San Francisco, and can carry up to three more people and associated gear in my car)
posted by aubilenon at 4:01 PM on May 8, 2017
(Also, exact timing TBD, but I'll be driving from San Francisco, and can carry up to three more people and associated gear in my car)
posted by aubilenon at 4:01 PM on May 8, 2017
I may want to carpool with you! I'm in Davis at the moment.
posted by sacrifix at 10:11 PM on May 8, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 10:11 PM on May 8, 2017
My heart's cockles. They are warm. I'm so glad y'all are getting this together! Yay for regional MeFi camping trips!
posted by hippybear at 10:08 AM on May 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by hippybear at 10:08 AM on May 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
I would like to go and have reserved Site 21 just in case. If anyone is thinking of NOT going because there are no site let me know because I may not be able to come (Husband has work that weekend and not sure if I want to solo it down.)
But I am really missing s'mores (and trunk meat) so I am a solid maybe.
posted by vespabelle at 5:49 PM on May 14, 2017 [1 favorite]
But I am really missing s'mores (and trunk meat) so I am a solid maybe.
posted by vespabelle at 5:49 PM on May 14, 2017 [1 favorite]
Origin of "trunk meat" reference, for those who are perturbed about punctured pachyderms.
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:04 PM on May 14, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:04 PM on May 14, 2017
Vespabelle, we should have a spare seat in our car (yes, even with all our camping gear) if you'd like to carpool!
posted by Secretariat at 7:40 AM on May 15, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 7:40 AM on May 15, 2017
Just a note to anyone who hasn't reserved a spot yet - only site 23 is left unreserved in the area where we're clustered. Lots of spots still open elsewhere, just not as close to our main grouping.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:31 PM on May 18, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:31 PM on May 18, 2017
IMPORTANT UPDATE: It looks like campsite #22 is available again, which is right next to the others we've reserved! Now would be an excellent time to snag it.
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:40 PM on June 24, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:40 PM on June 24, 2017
(so far we've got sites 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, and 21)
(which is interesting considering only 4 people have committed to Yes so far)
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:46 PM on June 24, 2017
(which is interesting considering only 4 people have committed to Yes so far)
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:46 PM on June 24, 2017
Definitely probably biking down for this one. (Plus all our California people are overdue for a visit.) Finally maybe-actually going to make it to one of these! Hiker-biker sites are the best, y'all, if anyone wants to bikepool.
posted by aniola at 11:54 AM on July 8, 2017
posted by aniola at 11:54 AM on July 8, 2017
Hey, I just saw this for the first time and it sounds great! I booked site #22. That weekend is right at the beginning of a Fall quarter crunch, so it's possible that I might have to back out, but if that's the case I'll donate the camping site to the cause.
Note: You're going to see these people in real life.
Okay, that's actually a really useful reminder for introverts who tend to commit to things without thinking them through. Too bad I didn't see it before booking the campsite.
posted by mudpuppie at 9:17 AM on July 12, 2017
Note: You're going to see these people in real life.
Okay, that's actually a really useful reminder for introverts who tend to commit to things without thinking them through. Too bad I didn't see it before booking the campsite.
posted by mudpuppie at 9:17 AM on July 12, 2017
We're a pretty low-key relaxed bunch mudpuppie, if you just want to sit and stare into the campfire and ignore the rest of us that's cool.
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:19 AM on July 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:19 AM on July 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
Are any folks interested in staying later than Sunday? We don't get there until Saturday and could stay longer into the next week if other people are interested.
posted by gingerbeer at 9:35 PM on July 16, 2017
posted by gingerbeer at 9:35 PM on July 16, 2017
I've been on the fence about this, but I'm calling it and saying we won't be able to go. I met a few of you a couple years ago, and it would have been nice to see friendly faces, but I'm going to be too busy. Have fun, everyone, and enjoy the redwoods!
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 9:52 PM on July 16, 2017
posted by shapes that haunt the dusk at 9:52 PM on July 16, 2017
Quick heads-up to anyone who hasn't reserved a site yet but still plans to - California's switching over from ReserveAmerica to their own reservation site; you won't be able to make a reservation after midnight July 26, until the new ReserveCalifornia.com site / phone reservations at 800-444-7275 are available starting August 1. Existing reservations will be honored.
Also, the current ReserveAmerica site shows that the rest of the campground is beginning to fill up for the weekend of Sep. 29-Oct. 1...
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:16 PM on July 21, 2017
Also, the current ReserveAmerica site shows that the rest of the campground is beginning to fill up for the weekend of Sep. 29-Oct. 1...
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:16 PM on July 21, 2017
> Are any folks interested in staying later than Sunday?
I think I could stay another day at least (unless Vespabelle is counting on me for a ride- but even if so, I'm pretty confident we could work out a different carpooling distribution of gear and people for the trip back to Portland). I haven't attempted extending my reservation yet, but from what Greg says it sounds like I'll have to wait until August 1 to look into that.
posted by Secretariat at 10:19 AM on July 28, 2017
I think I could stay another day at least (unless Vespabelle is counting on me for a ride- but even if so, I'm pretty confident we could work out a different carpooling distribution of gear and people for the trip back to Portland). I haven't attempted extending my reservation yet, but from what Greg says it sounds like I'll have to wait until August 1 to look into that.
posted by Secretariat at 10:19 AM on July 28, 2017
I just saw this, and I've been meaning to get down to Jedediah Smith! Anybody willing to share a space with a solo lady and her compact car?
The ReserveAmerica site threw an error that the California State system isn't available. It *looks* like there's still some availability, but who knows.
posted by momus_window at 8:58 AM on August 5, 2017
The ReserveAmerica site threw an error that the California State system isn't available. It *looks* like there's still some availability, but who knows.
posted by momus_window at 8:58 AM on August 5, 2017
The new site is ReserveCalifornia.com (or reserve by phone at 800-444-7275), but it shows ALL sites as reserved for that weekend...not sure whether that's accurate or not. We've got seven sites reserved, though, so I'm hoping each site is big enough to hold two tents if we end up needing to double up.
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:31 AM on August 5, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 9:31 AM on August 5, 2017
I'm planning to come too but haven't made a campsite registration. Does anyone plan to have extra space or should I reserve another one that's available? There are still quite a few sites left.
posted by bendy at 9:02 PM on August 20, 2017
posted by bendy at 9:02 PM on August 20, 2017
I'm not sure about the accuracy of California's new reservation site, but as it stands everything appears to be booked up that weekend *and* the following week. I guess if anyone wants to stay beyond Sunday we'll have to check with the campground manager to see if the sites are all truly reserved.
For the weekend, though, I think we'll have enough sites to accommodate everyone.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:29 AM on August 21, 2017
For the weekend, though, I think we'll have enough sites to accommodate everyone.
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:29 AM on August 21, 2017
Hi again,
My mom has just made plans to come into town on September 30th, so I won't be able to make it. Site #22 is reserved in my name on 9/29 and 9/30 and is now up for grabs. If you want it, send me a MeMail with your email address and I'll forward you the reservation confirmation.
posted by mudpuppie at 12:25 PM on August 23, 2017
My mom has just made plans to come into town on September 30th, so I won't be able to make it. Site #22 is reserved in my name on 9/29 and 9/30 and is now up for grabs. If you want it, send me a MeMail with your email address and I'll forward you the reservation confirmation.
posted by mudpuppie at 12:25 PM on August 23, 2017
I got a job (yay!) so that means I can't go (boo!). I have #19 for 9/29 and 9/30, if someone would like to take it over. MeMail me, if I don't hear from someone within a week or so I'll cancel it.
posted by sacrifix at 10:25 PM on August 25, 2017
posted by sacrifix at 10:25 PM on August 25, 2017
Sorry you'll miss it, mudpuppie and sacrifix. Maybe next time!
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:11 AM on August 26, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:11 AM on August 26, 2017
I've posted a spreadsheet for coordinating meals, equipment, etc.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:51 AM on September 2, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:51 AM on September 2, 2017
Oh, and I guess we can discuss the various merits of Bring Your Own Meat night vs. Bring Your Own Fish night (assuming there's fresh seafood in Crescent City).
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:53 AM on September 2, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:53 AM on September 2, 2017
I'm a vegetarian - who makes a mean mushroom risotto. It's probably not worth the bother to make it for just me, but if anyone else wants some, the amount of effort it takes basically stays constant regardless of how much I make. Does that sound appealing to anyone?
(If there's vegans, I can veganize the recipe easily enough, but I won't do that unless someone says they're vegan)
posted by aubilenon at 12:09 AM on September 4, 2017
(If there's vegans, I can veganize the recipe easily enough, but I won't do that unless someone says they're vegan)
posted by aubilenon at 12:09 AM on September 4, 2017
I'm an omnivore but I'd never turn down an offer of risotto!
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:57 AM on September 4, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 8:57 AM on September 4, 2017
Also an omnivore, but mushroom risotto sounds amazing!
I was thinking of bringing the fixings for walking tacos. (Is this a food people are familiar with? I wasn't until recently). Since it sounds like Greg may bring smoked meat, I think I'll make them meatless and meat can be added or eaten on the side.
posted by Secretariat at 12:12 PM on September 4, 2017
I was thinking of bringing the fixings for walking tacos. (Is this a food people are familiar with? I wasn't until recently). Since it sounds like Greg may bring smoked meat, I think I'll make them meatless and meat can be added or eaten on the side.
posted by Secretariat at 12:12 PM on September 4, 2017
I put it down for friday dinner, but it could actually be a pretty easy and quick lunch, too. I'll probably have almost everything prepared in advance, it will just need a little reheating.
posted by Secretariat at 12:16 PM on September 4, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 12:16 PM on September 4, 2017
Yes, I shall have a smoked meat prepared. As I recall from previous campouts, people often trickle in over Friday afternoon/evening, and it sounds like walking tacos/frito pie (that was new to me) are the sort of meal that can easily accommodate that.
posted by Greg_Ace at 12:50 PM on September 4, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 12:50 PM on September 4, 2017
aubilenon, risotto sounds lovely (both fresh and as leftover fritters) but I loathe the texture of mushrooms. Would it be be convenient to have the fungi either chopped teensy (so they dissolve into creaminess) or pick-out-ably large? (It's totally cool if the answer is No).
Relatedly: non-dairy folks -- what (if any) condiments do you like with your tea/coffee?
posted by janell at 1:15 PM on September 5, 2017
Relatedly: non-dairy folks -- what (if any) condiments do you like with your tea/coffee?
posted by janell at 1:15 PM on September 5, 2017
I'll be sautéing the mushrooms so I don't think I can make them too small, but maybe that'll improve their texture for you. I guess I'll try making them on the larger side so you can try eating around them.
posted by aubilenon at 12:47 AM on September 6, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 12:47 AM on September 6, 2017
No coffee or tea condiments for me or cortex! I'm fine with tiny or large mushrooms, though.
posted by Secretariat at 8:06 AM on September 6, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 8:06 AM on September 6, 2017
So did anyone want to carpool up from San Francisco? My arrival/departure schedule is pretty flexible.
posted by aubilenon at 12:46 PM on September 17, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 12:46 PM on September 17, 2017
Anyone who hasn't done so yet, please be sure to review and update the spreadsheet to help us plan meals, equipment needed, and so on.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:27 AM on September 19, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:27 AM on September 19, 2017
I added myself for Saturday lunch, I'll bring a bunch of chili. I know we have at least one vegetarian, so I can make some of it non-meat (i.e. beans only instead of beans+meat). The question is, how much of that should I set aside - would anyone else prefer non-meat chili?
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:08 AM on September 22, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:08 AM on September 22, 2017
I appreciate your willingness to accommodate me, but in addition to being a vegetarian, I've got a complicated mix of other food issues and long story short, I can't eat even the vegetarianest of chili. I'll be totes happy just fending for myself.
posted by aubilenon at 11:42 AM on September 22, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 11:42 AM on September 22, 2017
Oh, ok. Well, chili was just an idea, I'm not stuck to it. I'm totally open to other group-lunch-type suggestions from anyone, that would work better/be more flexible for all involved.
posted by Greg_Ace at 4:04 PM on September 22, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 4:04 PM on September 22, 2017
I'm afraid I have to pull out of this meetup- I fractured a bone in my foot last weekend, and I'm on strict orders to not put weight on it. I know camping with crutches/disabled camping is totally doable, and if I were a few more weeks into this and had my crutch technique perfected, I'd probably be all for it. But I'm not even positive if I'll have my real cast on by the time I'd need to leave for this trip. I'm sorry to miss it, I've been looking forward to this all year!
posted by Secretariat at 11:01 AM on September 23, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 11:01 AM on September 23, 2017
Ouch, that sucks! Sorry you'll miss it. Feel better soon. Maybe we can shoot for a June campout next year instead of waiting until next fall.
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:27 AM on September 23, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:27 AM on September 23, 2017
So currently it looks like we've got 5 tents and 6 reserved sites, if anyone was waiting to the last minute to decide to come and missed out on reserving a site.
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:42 AM on September 23, 2017
posted by Greg_Ace at 11:42 AM on September 23, 2017
What are you talking about, this isn't anything like the last minute yet.
posted by aubilenon at 11:31 AM on September 24, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 11:31 AM on September 24, 2017
Is anyone interested in my campsite? I could try to figure out transferring it to someone. Otherwise I'll cancel it.
posted by Secretariat at 8:02 AM on September 25, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 8:02 AM on September 25, 2017
I'm glad you'll make it to join us, Bendy! (or so I presume since you've signed up for lunch cookery)
posted by janell at 10:09 AM on September 27, 2017
posted by janell at 10:09 AM on September 27, 2017
I actually added that since I had discussed food with her, only to find out later that she may not be able to come after all. Or she might drive down on Saturday.
Meal planning is chaotic this time around, but there's always enough food so it'll all work out.
posted by Greg_Ace at 12:50 PM on September 27, 2017
Meal planning is chaotic this time around, but there's always enough food so it'll all work out.
posted by Greg_Ace at 12:50 PM on September 27, 2017
Someone tried to break into my car yesterday or this morning with some kind of prying instrument, and it messed up the door and window pretty good. Now things don't close properly and it's super loud on the freeway and basically I'm thinking two 6+ hour drives like that would be pretty miserable. So I'm super sorry to miss this, but I think I've gotta bail.
posted by aubilenon at 6:47 PM on September 28, 2017
posted by aubilenon at 6:47 PM on September 28, 2017
Oh, that stinks! Sorry your car got messed up.
So let's see...are Janell and I camping by ourselves at this point?
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:14 PM on September 28, 2017
So let's see...are Janell and I camping by ourselves at this point?
posted by Greg_Ace at 7:14 PM on September 28, 2017
But we can lord it over 6 sites! And it isn't supposed to be raining there.
But we could consider someplace closer.
posted by janell at 9:54 PM on September 28, 2017
But we could consider someplace closer.
posted by janell at 9:54 PM on September 28, 2017
Bummer about your car, aubilenon. In my experience, the hassle of dealing with such a thing is 3-10x the hassle of losing whatever the person was after.
posted by janell at 9:56 PM on September 28, 2017
posted by janell at 9:56 PM on September 28, 2017
we could consider someplace closer.
Ehh, I wanted to go there anyway at some point, might as well be now. And it's not like finding another campground with available sites is likely to happen at this point.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:10 PM on September 28, 2017
Ehh, I wanted to go there anyway at some point, might as well be now. And it's not like finding another campground with available sites is likely to happen at this point.
posted by Greg_Ace at 10:10 PM on September 28, 2017
They have great trees, it's true. See you tomorrow!
posted by janell at 10:20 PM on September 28, 2017
posted by janell at 10:20 PM on September 28, 2017
This thread has been archived and is closed to new comments
posted by Greg_Ace at 4:08 PM on April 23, 2017