R-pod Owners Forum : Big Sur in July! https://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Camping Adventures : Big Sur in July! Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 15:59:55 +0000 Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:03:09 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 https://www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=4306 R-pod Owners Forum https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.rpod-owners.com/ Big Sur in July! : We just wrapped up our first outing... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42776#42776 Author: Thinkcooper
Subject: 4306
Posted: 18 Feb 2014 at 5:03pm

We just wrapped up our first outing in the Rpod 177 this weekend in Big Sur, about 70 miles south of home. Camped two nights at Fernwood, and had a great tim. We drove south and hiked in Limekiln - easy yet gorgeous trails, and then decided we'd return next month, but perhaps do Kirk Creek south of Limekiln and Big Sur to try something a little more remote.]]> Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:03:09 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42776#42776 Big Sur in July! : I guess you could say the California... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42750#42750 Author: rimshot
Subject: 4306
Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 10:26pm

I guess you could say the California coast north of San Francisco is our stomping grounds. I see on your itinerary that you will go from Monterey to Jed Smith Redwoods, which I'll add is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. That's a long haul for one day. I would recommend stopping on the way for the night. There are great places on the way. Here's a few. Bodega Dunes Campground. You can have some killer cioppino soup at the restaurant that was filmed in the movie The Birds. Still Water Cove Campground. No stores and kind of small but real quiet and a very nice beach. Gualala Point Park, or Anchor Bay Campground right up the road. One on the river right up from the beach, the other smack dap on the(private)beach. MacKerricher State Park near Fort Bragg. The bridge you cross to go into town was used in Murder She Wrote I was told. From Fort Bragg you have to go inland a bit for a while but there are many very cool campgrounds in the redwoods. You'll pass through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park too but you'll be getting close to Jed Smith there. Stop and check out the elk herd though. One last tip. I haven't been there in about five years but you should stop and eat at the Samoa Cookhouse just north of Eureka but make sure you're REAL hungry. Forgot to mention, these places are if you choose to get off of 101 and go up 1. If you stay on 101 once you hit the redwoods I spoke of there are lots of neat places. Richardson Grove State Park, Benbow Lake State Recreation Area, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and drive the Avenue Of The Giants. It's the old hiway... Happy trails....Bill        ]]> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 22:26:55 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42750#42750 Big Sur in July! : Visiting Big Sur, take time to... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42476#42476 Author: jj
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Feb 2014 at 10:02pm

Visiting Big Sur, take time to vist: 

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, waterfall flows from cliff right onto beach. park on highway 1 West side across from park entrance, walk South and take stairs down to viewing area. 


Pfeiffer Beach, Huge rock with key hole, and beach sand has purple layer, do not tow rpod to beach small road.


Point Lobos State Park, beautiful, lots of wildlife, do not tow rpod limited parking.

Carmel Mission not to miss either.

All these location are in close proximity of Big Sur. 

]]> Thu, 06 Feb 2014 22:02:05 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=42476#42476 Big Sur in July! : I've learned in our short... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41791#41791 Author: bodie55
Subject: 4306
Posted: 13 Jan 2014 at 2:03am

I've learned in our short podding life that plans for state parks in CA must be made well in advance! It's my backyard and I never knew how popular the campgrounds were. We spend most of our free summer time in Tahoe. We did enjoy the Central Coast over winter break. You should definitely bring layers for the coast in summer, though. Foggy and cool (why we escape SF every summer) but you'll enjoy the scenery as long as you're warm:) Oh, and having driven from KY back to S F last summer, I think you will need those 5 days. Nevada seems endless and it's windy quite often, so it might slow you down or at least kill your gas mileage. And the weather in the plains can be challenging if you hit thunderstorms and hail. Have a good weather radar app available.]]> Mon, 13 Jan 2014 02:03:56 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41791#41791 Big Sur in July! : Wow, they fill up fast! Mades... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41740#41740 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4306
Posted: 10 Jan 2014 at 7:10am

Wow, they fill up fast! Mades reservations at the following Campgrounds. I felt like a Kmart shopper on Black Friday!

Beverly Beach State Park


Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground


Kalaloch Campground


"We're on our way to Monterey!"

fred
]]> Fri, 10 Jan 2014 07:10:54 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41740#41740 Big Sur in July! : Hey West Coasters!Were are preparing... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41700#41700 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4306
Posted: 08 Jan 2014 at 10:12am

Hey West Coasters!

Were are preparing to make reservations (today) at Cougar Rock Campground - Mt. Ranier, WA.

We're planning on two day drive from Big Sur, CA. It's about 950 miles. In between is Crater Lake National Park.

Current itinerary really doesn't give us any sight seeing time @ Crater Lake. Should we bypass it? Is their any recommendations for smaller convenient campground along the coast?

BTW, I can't tell you how helpful having this group and traveling with very seasoned campers is! I had no idea we need to make reservations for these places TODAY! Setup my Recreation.Gov account this morning.

I tried to get Monterey Aquarium to pay for the trip. Even offered to dress the Pod as a jellyfish or turtle or otter with the slogan, "We're On Our Way to Monterey!" but, alas, they would't go for it...Tongue

Thanks for any and all input!

-fred
]]> Wed, 08 Jan 2014 10:12:34 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41700#41700 Big Sur in July! : While you're on your trip,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41686#41686 Author: Kokopod
Subject: 4306
Posted: 07 Jan 2014 at 11:05am

While you're on your trip, I may be biased, but Utah and Wyoming have some of the most beautiful camping areas I've ever seen (and we've been camping for 44 years now all over the country). If you truly want a beautiful camping experience along the way back from California, choose the Uinta Mountains near Manila, UT. If you get off of I-80 in Green River, Wyoming, head south on U.S. 191 past Flaming Gorge Reservoir. About 1 1/2 hours off the interstate, after the prettiest drive you can imagine on really good secondary roads, turn left at the forest service building in Manila, UT and head up the mountain toward Vernal, Utah. There are remote camping areas all along the way for 50 miles. You'll want to stay a week! You never knew there were so many stars in the sky. Yellowstone, the Tetons, Jackson, Bryce, Zion -- fabulous, as everyone knows -- but backcountry in Wyoming and Utah, you won't be disappointed.      ]]> Tue, 07 Jan 2014 11:05:37 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41686#41686 Big Sur in July! : We keep a smaller Crock Pot in... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41683#41683 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4306
Posted: 07 Jan 2014 at 7:20am

We keep a smaller Crock Pot in the pod all the time, but we mostly stuck with microwavable meals or sandwiches on the big trip, when we weren't sampling the local cuisine.  Our favorite food story this time around was we stopped into a hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaraunt in the center of Texas, which my wife found had good reviews on one of her food apps.  Three of us ordered everything Mex on the menu.  My youngest daughter ordered spaghetti and meatballs, which she gets just about everwhere we go.  Why they had it on their menu I don't know, but she swears it was the best she had the whole trip!

I agree about the planning; the road trip itself is also part of the adventure.  Embarrassed
 
I usually don't have a problem with Google Maps on IE at work, but I can't get your link to load...
]]> Tue, 07 Jan 2014 07:20:00 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41683#41683 Big Sur in July! : Wow! All great input. I think... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41678#41678 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 6:33pm

Wow! All great input. I think I'll put together a Google spreadsheet/survey that we all might be able to use as a reference. Can't believe no one mentioned the crock pot? Oh, that's a different list.

Planning is a really big part of the fun for me.

Here is a very preliminary westward push itinerary (link does not work well on iPhone or IE8,7 - Google knows and wants you to buy Android or use Chrome):

https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zdqWA7KlVR48.kTYGaOstbd30

Yeah, it's aggressive. But, considering the Cannon Ball Run was recently completed in 28 hours and 50 minutes, I feel pretty confident we can do it. Star

Thanks folks!

-fred
]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 18:33:02 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41678#41678 Big Sur in July! : In September and October we traveled... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41676#41676 Author: Kokopod
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 3:03pm

In September and October we traveled from Wyoming to Niagra Falls, Vermont, Maine and then down the east coast as far as South Carolina before heading back up through North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee Illinois, to St. Louis, MO and back to Wyoming (8,500 miles). We were gone 7 weeks. We always carry tools, camp chairs, stand-alone table, R-dome. We also have a 12-V Igloo cooler and an adapter (it was a great addition for carrying beverages in the car). Took way too many clothes (weren't sure about season changes along the way). We feel too much extra "stuff" is a real burden unless you plan remote camping. Consider staying a couple of nights at a Cracker Barrel parking lot, just for the novelty of it. They will welcome you with open arms. Have a great trip. We envy you! ]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 15:03:42 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41676#41676 Big Sur in July! : Originally posted by fwunder But... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41675#41675 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 2:15pm

Originally posted by fwunder

 
But seriously, what do you think was the most important items in terms of tools and spares you pack for an extended trip. What do you wish you would have packed?
 
I always carry jumper cables, oil, a tire plug kit, pliers, and 12 volt air pump in every vehicle.  I've only had one tire over the years that I couldn't fix while it was still in-place.  The generator I carry on big trips has a 12 volt charger built-in if I had to recharge either 12 volt battery.
 
The generator - mounted in a home-made box, on a cargo tray, to a 2" receiver on the front of my truck - was useful for the nights we just wanted to pull into a truck stop or Wal-mart for the night.  Nice for the multi-day long-hauls where paying for a campground would have been a waste. 
 
In the pod I carry a Phillips, flathead, adjustable wrench, duct tape, and a torque wrench for the pod's lugs (which I could use to replace a tire if necessary).  I use the torque wrench before most trips, although they've stayed seated lately so I haven't bothered as much.   The last trip I could have used wire snips and some wire, which I have bushels of at home.  My voltmeter is now on my list to take on trips.
 
If I take the generator on a trip I also take a gallon of lacquer thinner.  If I get gas on my hands a shot of that alters the gas so then regular soap and water completely removes it.  I hate the lingering smell of gas on my hands and this solves the problem.
 
We removed a lot of extra stuff we normally take on trips - EZ-ups, tables, dome, grill, propane stove, most fans.  We did keep our chairs, one fan, and one cube heater.  I remember snow in Yellowstone on July 4 in '86.
 
I was glad I took a backup cooler.  We had problems with the fridge not staying cold after the first day and ended up keeping milk on ice the rest of the time.
 
We always keep a dish pan in the pod and we used that to catch the large amounts of condensation that kept dripping back into the pod from the A/C.  I think I've solved this problem but I won't know for sure until it gets 100 degrees warmer than it will be tonight (2 F currently forecast).
]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 14:15:28 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41675#41675 Big Sur in July! : I was last there in the early... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41672#41672 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 1:23pm

I was last there in the early 50's.  My Mother's cousin owned a resort in the area where the movie "One-Eyed Jacks" was filmed.  I imagine the area has been updated considerably and is probably even more magnificent than it was back then.]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 13:23:59 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41672#41672 Big Sur in July! : Congratulations. Big Sur is a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41670#41670 Author: Camper Bob
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 12:01pm

Congratulations. Big Sur is a fabulous area. Having lived in L.A. for almost 40 years, we and our sons have camped in Big Sur many times. The giant redwoods are something you can only see in that part of the country. You will see travel groups from all over the world, who come to see that area. Don't forget Monterey and Carmel. Carmel has a 20 mile drive that is amazing, however, the last time we were there, the city now charges to drive thru public roads. Another must see is a restaurant, bar called Nepenthe. Has been there for many years but you must have a drink on the outside patio, while the sun is setting. Truly awesome. You should consider yourselves quite fortunate in getting reservations, as Calif. opens up a year in advance and Big Sur is one of the most popular campgrounds. Also the Monterey Aquarium is a "must see." Probably one of the finest if not the finest aquariums in the world. As it gets very busy in the summer, I would recommend getting tickets now. Check on line. Your in for a fantastic treat. Last but certainly not least, a trip down Highway 1 to Hearsts Castle. Also get tickets in advance. Lots to see and do in that area. Have a fabulous trip, and post some pictures, if you can. Safe Travels. ]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 12:01:28 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41670#41670 Big Sur in July! : You should add a jack and spare... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41668#41668 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 10:49am

You should add a jack and spare bulbs and fuses.  I have not yet checked to see what types of fasteners are used on our 178's, but if torque-headed ones are used anywhere, you might want to add torque wrenches to your arsenal. 

We took a 6000 mile trip out west in May-June.  I carried way too many tools and spares, using only wire cutters (strippers) and duct tape.  But, you never know what situation might develop.

Back in the 60's, other than a small tool kit, all I carried was a roll of baling wire and tape.  I have not had to use wire for years, but still carry a short length of clothes line wire.  I also carry a small roll of 12 gauge wire electrical wire, but this is also something I have never had to use.

How about adding a jack and a multimeter to your list?

Bob
]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 10:49:25 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41668#41668 Big Sur in July! : Originally posted by techntrekWe... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41665#41665 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 10:23am

Originally posted by techntrek

We did 3 1/2 weeks across the southern states this past summer, from MD as far west as Albuquerque, NM.  This coming summer will be another 3 1/2 weeks in the mid-west, in the CO, UT, AZ area.

Doug, I'd call that some experience!

Being a tool and parts guy, I always tend to pack way more than I really need. Besides the obvious roll of duct tape, sae and metric sockets and open ends, various needle nose, vice-grips, channel locks, pipe wrench, hammers, hatchet, allen sets, punches, wire stripper/crimper, Leatherman, DMM, 18v and 9v drills and screw chasers, bits, various screw drivers, and wheel hub assembly, what do you carry? Wink

But seriously, what do you think was the most important items in terms of tools and spares you pack for an extended trip. What do you wish you would have packed?

-fred
]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 10:23:08 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41665#41665 Big Sur in July! : We did 3 1/2 weeks across the... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41663#41663 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4306
Posted: 06 Jan 2014 at 8:50am

We did 3 1/2 weeks across the southern states this past summer, from MD as far west as Albuquerque, NM.  This coming summer will be another 3 1/2 weeks in the mid-west, in the CO, UT, AZ area.]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2014 08:50:10 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41663#41663 Big Sur in July! : We just confirmed reservations... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41646#41646 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4306
Posted: 05 Jan 2014 at 3:17pm

We just confirmed reservations in July at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park with friends and family.

We're super excited. Looking for any reviews and advice about the park. We will be traveling with another couple in a Roadtrek and it looks like this site is unique in allowing us to share a single site w/3 vehicles.

The trip should be interesting. We'll be leaving from New Jersey and hope to get out there in four or five days. We are on a schedule for a CA wedding. Then, a couple or three or four weeks coming back. No particular schedule. Mt. Rainier looks interesting. This will be a great adventure for us and Henry (the cat)! Our seasoned Roadtrek friends recommend reservations in advance for "destination" stops. Otherwise, don't worry while traveling highways in between.

We're rookies now. I suspect we won't be by the end of the summer! Are you a cross-county Podder?

-fred
]]> Sun, 05 Jan 2014 15:17:33 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4306&PID=41646#41646