Boondocking... Off the Grid Security

[Eagle & Bear]

Thank you Ray for the narrative. I suspect that reading this thread will save folks a lot of problems in the future. There was an Airstream for sale in the local paper. I was looking for a horse trailer but the 29' 1976 Airstream was cheaper.

We sold our home and began traveling full time. We have been wandering aimlessly throughout N America. Only place we have not been to is the SE US. Those people scare me. We are now on our 12th year and planning to travel for another 12 or more.

I grew up in the Sierras bouncing around in the back of a surplus jeep. Several dad and uncles were weekend prospectors so we drove throughout central Nevada, the Sierras, areas outside of Death Valley NP and White Mountain range. No one got rich but I saw every square mile of the region.

I have an E350 Ford van on an aggressive 4X4 platform. It is equipped to camp in and we use it to tow the Airstream. We have traveled and stayed in OTG areas throughout the western US. I have decades of traveling on dirt roads whenever I get the notion. That includes turning onto a dirt road that shows no sign of maintenance and just driving until we find a flat spot to park on.

Over 90% of the time we are able to stay in remote areas and I have developed strategies that allow me to turn around on a narrow and often rough road. This strategy allows us to live among the coyotes, cats, Condors, badgers, wild horses etc. It is where I most feel at home...especially when I am living in my home near a wilderness area or a National Park.

We hike, fish, kayak, skip rocks, stargaze, smell the desert after a rain storm, swim in beautiful hot spring pools and some cold lakes, target practice with a bow and Judge and other stuff.

Several times we have gotten to the end of a road and not had the room to easily turn the 29' trailer around. One of the things that I have found that allows me to change direction is learning to back up with a huge trailer in a place where we probably should have scouted.

Another trick is to use the 12,000# Warn winch on the front of the van as an improvised hitch. I unhook the trailer from ball hitch on the van, drive the van to a place that I can turn around on, secure a short strap that is spozed to be rated at 20,000# to the trailer tongue and then hook the strap onto the winch cable and raise the trailer tongue up so that it will clear whatever path we take. So far so good.

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by Ray Eklund

.........

(4) Drop spare tire before or after removing flat tire.

........

(11) Anyone have a better idea? I am trying to keep this... short.

Hi

I would suggest that pulling the spare *first* before any of the other stuff, is the "right" way to go. Why?

1) Crawling around under things while they are jacked up is not a real good idea.

2) It lets you execute step 4a = check the pressure in the spare tire. Doing that early lets you see if you remembered to bring along the compressor. If not, you are still more or less level and can un-hitch to drive into town to get it aired up.

Same sort of logic applies to the tire / wheel you pulled off. I'd toss it in the back of the truck. That may not work for everybody. If it goes back under the trailer, do that after the whole process is completed.

Another tidbit I picked up recently:

If it's muddy, grab a garbage bag to use as a rug before you start crawling around in the mud. It won't take care of 100% of the issue. It will make the process of hosing out the truck afterwords a bit easier

Bob

[HRTKD]

In tight situations, I've learned that unhitching the trailer is often the best solution. It allows me to reposition the tow vehicle (CCLB F-350 has a turning radius slightly smaller than a battleship) independent of the trailer. I've had to use this technique a couple of times and it's been a significant timesaver.

[Ray Eklund]

Originally Posted by HRTKD

In tight situations, I've learned that unhitching the trailer is often the best solution. It allows me to reposition the tow vehicle (CCLB F-350 has a turning radius slightly smaller than a battleship) independent of the trailer. I've had to use this technique a couple of times and it's been a significant timesaver.

*****
A helicopter pilot needs to watch the left, right, above, below and behind. When OTG driving on narrow roads, substitute Airstream Owner for Helicopter Pilot.

We find ourselves in areas where the brush growing on both sides of a mountain road is overgrown in some areas. At one time a 1 1/2 lane was intended... but now almost narrowed down to 1 lane or less. The side brush grows where there is sunlight... and open road is exactly the perfect place.

Add some deep pot holes... you may want to back out of this disaster.

Unless you do not mind getting scratches running down one or both sides of Tow Vehicle and your Airstream... that you polished up so nice when you left home, get TWO.. ignore this Post.

Our 2019 27 foot International is 10 feet one inch tall. Three inch lift kit. Michelin 16" LTX tires and Sendel wheels. Air conditioning units on top. and the extra inch for the inside venting system in the ceilings.

It is good if you can approximate your trailer's height and the low hanging branches. A stout branch can 'create a lower profile' without AC's and vent covers. I guess that is a plus.

Sometimes you need to pull a pine branch down and the other get the loppers out and take care of low branches. Even a step stool is handy to get the 10 foot clearance.

Just toss the debris off to the side of the road.

Those who travel like some who have posted will witness that a fallen branch or boulder in the road has been driven around... for a day, month or years. No one stepped out and moved it. They squeeze around it to avoid having to stop. We do community service by stopping and get it off the road. It also is great when you can remove the 'wedgie' from sitting for hours traveling. Ahhhh... I say.

Chainsaw is my choice with fuel. Spring 'blow down' can fall anywhere blocking your access. If manageable... go at it. If not, do as HRTKD does. New Mexico has these tall, small diameter, tall pine trees (like lodgepole of Montana) with shallow roots fall over blocking access. I plan to get my Stihl when they are on sale. They may through in the plastic carrying case.

We had to cut out a lot of brush to turn around on a washed out road in Nevada last year. After awhile a competent OTG Boondocker sees the space needed to work the tow vehicle and trailer around. With a 23 and 25 foot... easier. Now with this 27 foot, which is 28 feet Nancy says... can get complicated.

Often I do the 'lopping' and Nancy drags it off to the sides of the road.

We have even pulled over and dug drainage ditches to drain these mud holes that have been there for years where there is a steep drop off on one side. Some toss some logs into these 'moats', but... not for a nice tow vehicle or trailer in tow. Hunters tend to have some real beat trucks for... hunting. Some may have original paint... and fenders.

I call them Loppers. I like the aluminum long handled ones, as they may be less likely to break when using them on one inch branches. A His and Hers. Every so many years... if you do not sharpen them yourself... get new ones. When you need them... you want them sharp. Oil the bushing where they pivot.

You need the 'leverage' of long handles to spend a minute or twenty minutes cutting your way through the encroaching brush. Green brush and pine tree branches cut easily. Dead brush and pine branches will be a workout. It is best to spend the time, parked in the middle of the road... and trim your way out. Not just a couple inches, but do a good job. You may have to come back the same way.

As things go... some do not like to read a novel about something or other. Good. When you find them along one of these roads trying to cut the wiring off of their two AC's that are dangling off the side of their Airstream... wave, offer help, but no advice. Much too late. They learned by mistake.

[Ray Eklund]

Originally Posted by HRTKD

In tight situations, I've learned that unhitching the trailer is often the best solution. It allows me to reposition the tow vehicle (CCLB F-350 has a turning radius slightly smaller than a battleship) independent of the trailer. I've had to use this technique a couple of times and it's been a significant timesaver.

*****
OTG Boondocking towing requires a visual of left, right, up, down, forward and behind to travel, safely. Repeat this twice. For some... memorize this. First.

We find ourselves in areas where brush growing on both sides of a mountain road are overgrown in some areas. At one time a 1 1/2 lane was intended... but now almost narrowed down to 1 lane or less. The side brush grows where there is sunlight... and open road is exactly the perfect place.

Not often these obstacles are found... but often enough to be prepared for about anything. Excluding trailers hauling cattle, horses, hay or empty coming from the opposite direction...

Add some deep pot holes... you may want to back out of this disaster.

Unless you do not mind getting scratches running down one or both sides of Tow Vehicle and your Airstream... that you polished up so nice when you left home, get TWO loppers OR.. ignore this Post.

Our 2019 27 foot International is 10 feet one inch tall. Three inch lift kit. Michelin 16" LTX tires and Sendel wheels. Air conditioning units on top and the extra inch for the inside venting system in the ceilings.

It is good if you can approximate your trailer's height and the low hanging branches as you encounter them in the distance. A stout branch can 'create a lower profile' of your trailer when it is without AC's and vent covers. I guess that is a plus for future travel.

Sometimes you need to pull a pine branch down and the other get the loppers out and take care of low branches. Even a step stool is handy to get the 10 foot clearance.

Just toss the debris off to the side of the road.

Those who travel like some who have posted will witness that a fallen branch or boulder in the road has been driven around... for a day, month or years. No one stepped out and moved it. They squeeze around it to avoid having to stop. We do community service by stopping and get it off the road. It also is great when you can remove the 'wedgie' from sitting for hours traveling. Ahhhh... I say.

Chainsaw is my choice with fuel. Spring 'blow down' can fall anywhere blocking your access. If manageable... go at it. If not, do as HRTKD does. New Mexico has these tall, small diameter, tall pine trees (like lodgepole of Montana) with shallow roots fall over blocking access. I plan to get my Stihl when they are on sale. They may through in the plastic carrying case.

We had to cut out a lot of brush to turn around on a washed out road in Nevada last year. After awhile a competent OTG Boondocker sees the space needed to work the tow vehicle and trailer around. With a 23 and 25 foot... easier. Now with this 27 foot, which is 28 feet Nancy says... can get complicated.

Often I do the 'lopping' and Nancy drags it off to the sides of the road.

We have even pulled over and dug drainage ditches to drain these mud holes that have been there for years where there is a steep drop off on one side. Some toss some logs into these 'moats', but... not for a nice tow vehicle or trailer in tow. Hunters tend to have some real beat trucks for... hunting. Some may have original paint... and fenders.

I call them Loppers. I like the aluminum long handled ones, as they may be less likely to break when using them on one inch branches. A His and Hers. Every so many years... if you do not sharpen them yourself... get new ones. When you need them... you want them sharp. Oil the bushing where they pivot.

You need the 'leverage' of long handles to spend a minute or twenty minutes cutting your way through the encroaching brush. Green brush and pine tree branches cut easily. Dead brush and pine branches will be a workout. It is best to spend the time, parked in the middle of the road... and trim your way out. Not just a couple inches, but do a good job. You may have to come back the same way.

As things go... some do not like to read a novel about something or other. Good. When you find these examples along one of these roads, with the driver trying to cut the wiring off of their two torn off AC's, dangling off the side of their Airstream... wave, offer help, but no advice.

National Grasslands and roads within... do not get me started on those either. Western Nebraska has... lots.

Much too late for them. They learned by mistake. Be the example of smart. It is in short supply.

[The Ice Man]

Originally Posted by Eagle & Bear

Only place we have not been to is the SE US. Those people scare me.

Sadly, your loss. Rest assured they feel the same about you, particularly now that you admit to being from California.

The AS Forum members I have met over the years, including from the southeast and from California, have universally been terrific folks and are disinclined to make arrogant, provocative gratuitous comments.

[Ray Eklund]

I know... I am full of surprises.

Ice Man may recall the TALL pine trees at the New Mexico Boondocking Adventure a few years ago.

Some DEAD pine of 90 to 100 feet, weighing about the same as materials to build a RV Garage... plus some.

Eventually, like others rotting away in the forest... were... leaners and dead. They will come down. Is it today... or in the distant future. Hire someone with a Crystal Ball and maybe get an idea. When these come down... you can prevent an accident waiting to happen.

A leaner with a lean and clear of other trees... estimate the drop and set camp outside a logical drop zone. Tons of lumber falling in an empty forest... no one knows. The same when you are camped out of range... you will hear it, but will have a life time supply of fire wood. A plus plus.

There were three 90 to 100 foot pines, dead and leaning some at this area in the Gila National Forest. The nicest open area was... of course... where they would fall. Even the Hunter's Camp was set off where we were camped. They had even built a pit toilet with seat... left for the next hunt. Pretty handy, I say.

So after all of the lopping and trimming to get there and the Dead Trees ruin your sleeping, dreaming of squashed contents in an Airstream. It happens. The days of these being cut down by the Forest Service and stacked up for fire wood... are so... 1950's. My dad did this west and north of Flathead Lake, Montana. Even noted it in a note book. He also noted and marked living huge 'leaners' that the timber crews could cut down and haul to the lumber mill in Somers, Montana. I heard... as a 7 year old of a $5, maybe a $10 bill being passed, leaning giant next to the road...that got marked for removal... but... maybe not.

It would have made a beautiful home at Lakeside, Montana with beach frontage.

So when discovering a campsite. Check for dead wood standing or leaning. Also Aspen is terrible about falling over. A Spring or Fall snow can knock over a forest or cause them to lean on top of each other. Star Valley Ranch in western Wyoming has a neighborhood with thousands ready to fall over, sooner than later onto homes. Check it out if you are curious. South of Jackson about 90 miles.

Oh... Avalanches. Boondocking is just one great disaster waiting to happen. I can say that Kansas and Oklahoma... are SAFE. Go OTG Boondock there, rather than the Rocky Mountains. Why be a victim exploring where no man has stepped... and get crushed by a forty ton chunk of Volcanics, while you were tiring your boot laces... Or better yet... using the outdoor restroom and whammm.

OK. The Casino breakfast omelet and three doughnuts are wearing off. I leave it to some of you to add some more great experiences. You all cannot be poor typists. I try to proof read... there and their... but by the time I type, I have already put the next paragraph together.

[HRTKD]

The area I hunt was hit by a forest fire three years ago. There are plenty of Dead Tree Standing situations there. The Forest Service as well as the Colorado Parks and Wildlife has issued numerous warnings to people to keep an eye out for falling timber.

Our preferred site for Elk Camp had a number of these vertical charcoal logs, none more than about 8" in diameter. I didn't have my arrival coordinated enough to cut them down before I parked the trailer. I connected my ATV's winch with a snatch block and put significant pressure on the dead tree. By doing that, I could put the tree within about 10' of where I wanted it to fall. Neither the ATV or trailer were ever in any danger. TIMBER!!!

[Ray Eklund]

HRTKD needs to keep posting. I will learn something.

I lived west of Castle Rock, Colorado in the Hills, for a number of years. Front Range Beverly Hillbillies with a fence. When we could hear 24 hour traffic about five miles east of us on I-25... it was time to move into another area. LAS VEGAS. Now that is OTG Living I can handle. Less traffic as 70% fly silently in and out of town.

There are a couple others who understand that a RV Campground access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is Boondocking (Jacob Lake, AZ), but to the west in the Forest... is OTG Boondocking all to yourselves. A good number of pullouts in the woods, close to the parking lot where you can hike to the Colorado River in a one or two day hike. You find it yourself... that is another Thread.

Jacob Lake has the most expensive gasoline in Arizona. Probably true until you get to California, which would be CHEAPER. The JL gasoline and diesel is so expensive that someone pumps your gas... He said they get their gasoline from California. Why not New Mexico where it is much cheaper? Considering they are the ONLY gas station in the area... I suspect if the gasoline was taken from your gas tank, over night, it would be expensive.

The best source of information for OTG Boondocking are as HRTKD knows. From hunters. Hunters also are not going to tell you where, either. Why ruin a good thing?

In 2006 while in the Black Hills, south of Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Monument... we found a very nice, quiet OTG Boondocking campsite for our tow vehicle and 23 foot Safari. Squeezed into it and enjoyed our stay. A small patch of Black Hills National Forest on the map, surrounded by private property. Google an aerial map to find campsites.

Be prepared to be... disappointed. People leave in the morning. Early. The spaces are filled before noon. If you like to sleep in... better stay where you are. The Early Boondocker to Rise... gets the opportunity to fit 60 feet of vehicle and trailer into a 35 foot space. Smart OTG Boondockers know how this works.

One Forum Member mentioned not exploring the SE USA for Boondocking. I do not think Boondocking exists until you get further north into the REAL Forests of the Appalachians. Georgia, the Carolinas... kind of forests. Laying on the Beach is not my kind of camping. Cooking myself in the sun, either. I have no interest in being a spectator among scantly dressed, if even that... at a Beach Party. This is what he probably meant. Watching volley ball is not for me. Now... tackle football, I would have to think that over.

I would rather watch a herd of Elk grazing. OK?

There are fewer places and more difficult access to remote campsites in the Rockies. Mostly because the side roads are now mostly ATV routes and the FS would be wasting their time keeping them maintained. Be prepared for ATV traffic near Urban Area campsites. If you were disturbed with scantly dressed men and women on the Beaches and electric generators at campgrounds... ATV campers wear lots of clothes and live the great life that Toy Haulers and ATV have to offer. We just do not have room to store all this stuff needed. Generators are a fact of life today. Where is a herd of Elk when you need them?

I have too many shovels.

I limit myself to less than TEN words of value in a post. "I have too many shovels'... is five. Everything else are distractions to figure out how deep of a Hole someone can dig themselves into. Trust me... I have TOO many shovels and none have any rust.

'Half a Hole' is much too difficult to explain to novices, anyways. Mark Twain and I would get along very well. Opps... 8 words now.

The End. Done.

[Burnside Bob]

Ray!!

A most entertaining thread. Classic Ecklund. Thanks Ray.

And speaking of Jacob Lake, what do you know about the Honeymoon Trail?


Giddyup.

[Thalweg]

Originally Posted by Ray Eklund

'Half a Hole' is much too difficult to explain to novices, anyways. Mark Twain and I would get along very well. Opps... 8 words now.

Reminds me of Cool Hand Luke; "why is there dirt in my hole?".

[MAJORJDB]

Originally Posted by Ray Eklund

JonDNC... interesting. We seem to be towing a similar trailer and a similar F350. Thank you for participating.

Very... very few Airstream owners Boondock Off the Grid. The SOB's with ATV's out number Airstreams by 50 to 1, more...or less. Airstreams are considered the 'delicate trailer' by the other brands. Also, the owners of Airstreams are not given high regard to their skills when off the road, nor off road abilities.

Well... a small number, who actually took the time to make a post on this Thread, as well as those who completed several 'Adventures' since 2016 on this Forum did do the Airstream impossible.

Airstream has no difficulty going anywhere... other than clearance checks of the bumper and plumbing. Adding 3 inch lift to our 27 foot International and 16 inch Michelins were the 'icing on the cake'. Airstream CAN manage to go anywhere... if you, as JonDNC posted, have the will and the preparation.

I have battled against the naysayers that you must be a... fool... to take your Airstream off into the ruts, rock and grit of OTG Boondocking, and they may be partially correct. You are the Fool if you have not tried.

From fear, or plain nonsense that traveling over unpaved roads will ruin an Airstream. I went from 23 feet... no problem. Then to 25 feet no problem. Then to a Tenting Summer... no problem and back to a new 2019 27 foot International. Its maiden voyage was to the same locations in Central New Mexico... gravel and rutted dirt roads within the Gila National Forest/Apache National Forest area. Wonderful exploring as Ice Man of Arizona may comment with remote hunter's campsites AND 2,000 year old Pit Houses scattered in what we find as Wilderness.

It is embarrassing to me, that some members of this Forum degrade the nameplate on their Airstream. It is the OWNER that is incapable, not their Airstream. Be it a 1956 or a 2020.

Eight years with the 23 foot Safari, with the small factory Solar opened up the Wilderness to myself, Nancy and our two Blue Heelers. Comfortable exploring with the 23 foot, went to a 25 foot and now a 27 foot. Probably the longest Airstream for our purposes, but a 3 inch lift kit on a 30 foot would probably handle the same roads as our 3 inch lifted 27 foot International.

It is not the trailer. It is the owner that cannot, even if they were not interested... is not a reason to criticize those who take their Airstream where few would travel. When we set camp you can watch the Ranchers and Horse Packers slow down and probably think the impossible is now possible. It always had been. The owner needed to prepare themselves and trailer with tools, shovel, provisions, fresh water conservation and a list of inexpensive items.

I cannot comprehend those on previous Adventures I led that they showered every day and needed to dump their grey and black tanks frequently. This is... Boondocking OTG. Anyone can pay for a RV Campsite. Anyone.

Few are mentally prepared for a challenge. Oh... they claim I just do not want to... That is OK with me, but it is not necessary to criticize those who require items that City Slickers and Social Travelers do not need... other than cork screws and wine tasting as their purpose.

Sure... sitting around and socializing for hours is entertaining, for some. Maybe most. But my heart is with those who dare to explore and risk getting a sun burn, sore feet and smell to high heaven.

I do not criticize those who prefer RV Parks, showers and electric outlets. But do not believe that those who Airstream Boondock OTG suffer from anything. It is a true NON group experience to be on your own, using your instincts and maybe, just maybe have the hair on your forearm raise a bit... when the Huckelberry brush shakes in western Montana near Flathead Lake.

I only ask that these people try to understand that there are many places an Airstream can travel and arrive safe from injury and damage. It takes lots of skill and courage. Jen comes to mind in the 2016 Wyoming Adventure. Jan and Ed and others who actually survived ten days in Wyoming's BEST. Ice Man in New Mexico. Thalweg... and Connie. Others I can picture in my mind, but the names are fleeting but the memories are not forgotten.

Wow, you make it sound like you have to go through "selection" to be a boondocker!! Trust me, your nothing special because YOU chose to camp (squat) off of dirt roads, good for you. People RV the way they want, we enjoy RV parks near places we want to visit and the amenities provided by said parks. We live in a rural area so to us, boondocking is out the back door. Our trailer is lifted 3" w/16" tires as well, for easier access underneath for maintenance and service. I think you might be surprised to learn that most RV people could care less what your towing and where you tow it as they are enjoying their own experience. Insofar as security, while we have never had any issues in 35 yrs of RV'ing, we always travel prepared and qualify annually with our tools... Good luck and safe travels, Jim

[carl2591]

I saw this video the other day about DIY mud flaps that looks interesting and a good way to help protect your trailer.. I would put them closer to the ground like a inch from dragging to keep the tire from throwing up rocks and dinging the guard which are there to protect the front.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aoZINNP-jE

Originally Posted by Ray Eklund

Since purchasing a new Airstream, I learned from the last 13 years of towing an Airstream there are many improvements to the Trailer itself... and the Tow Vehicle.

If you travel a lot of unpaved roads, these are a must. If you do not... these should be on a short list before you regret the stainless steel front guards of your Airstream getting mutilated by thousands of impacts of rock and grit.

I spent plenty of time checking and comparing... what I thought would be an easy cure to my 2016 F350 NOT coming with Mud Flaps as Standard Equipment. Those that say 'Ford' and made to fit my truck were not adequate, nor inexpensive. So I went... well, turned my pockets inside out and found DuraFlap.

Sticker Shock... was one, but then... the stainless steel trailer fender guards are REAL expensive to replace on your Airstream!

They, DuraFlap have a set of mud flaps for specific trucks by year and model.

I searched 2016 Ford F350 and they make them very specific, front and rear flaps. I was tripped up ordering Non-Flair trim, as I did not realize what I had was a 'flair'. But I made these back mud flaps work, although may have been easier had I knew the difference. So, do your homework.

The first flap took an hour and half to figure it out. Twenty minutes for the other side. The fronts I needed to make my own bracket from my 'junk box of hardware', bent them, drilled a small hole into an inside fender support... and Bingo... a great secure flap.

If you price the stainless steel fender guards on your Airstream... you WILL want to put mud flaps onto your Pickup. I optioned, with the higher 3/4t on and 1 ton Ford (F250/350) for the rear flaps with the two inch extension and for a bit more digging into my pocket, a cowboy on a bronco stainless steel cutout. YaaaHooo, I say.

They look smart. They will save gravel impacts onto the trailer. The flaps have a 5 year guarantee... for what, I do not know. Someone stealing them could be more of an issue, if you know what I mean. Mine cost about $300.

If you took the time to follow this Thread... I thank you. Unsolicited 'advice' is scarce when you are looking for it. If you have some tidbits to offer to others... do step forward.

If you found a brand that worked for you... step forward.

By the way... Made in Oregon. Heavy duty weighing 20 pounds in the carton... for shipping.

[Ray Eklund]

Originally Posted by MAJORJDB

Wow, you make it sound like you have to go through "selection" to be a boondocker!! Trust me, your nothing special because YOU chose to camp (squat) off of dirt roads, good for you. People RV the way they want, we enjoy RV parks near places we want to visit and the amenities provided by said parks. We live in a rural area so to us, boondocking is out the back door. Our trailer is lifted 3" w/16" tires as well, for easier access underneath for maintenance and service. I think you might be surprised to learn that most RV people could care less what your towing and where you tow it as they are enjoying their own experience. Insofar as security, while we have never had any issues in 35 yrs of RV'ing, we always travel prepared and qualify annually with our tools... Good luck and safe travels, Jim

******
Probably ignore my Threads and take two aspirin would be my suggestion.

OTG Boondockers ARE Special. The ones who can.

Been to New York... East to West. Finger Lakes were rather interesting. Montauk Point Light House (NY) on the East and to Ashtabula, Ohio to the west... Been there. Done it.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Mackinac Island if I had horses to pull my Airstream I may have hauled it over, as well . Beautiful Country. I like the fudge... Just not my kind of camping.

I was born and lived in the High Country of the West. You can take the Boy out of the West... BUT, you cannot take the West out of the Man. I do not need carry a cell phone, watch television when camped. If I can get a talk show on AM Radio I am one happy camper. My wife loves camping in a tent or trailer. Our two Blue Heelers are wonderful company. What else can I ask for?

You... parked next to me? I do not think so.

Daughter and Husband lived in Brooklyn, NY for a spell. I liked the Dime Bank that had the Mercury Dimes and old coins on the handrails. (I believe it was called the Dime Bank.)

So????

Thirty Five Years. That is great. So????

"Most RV 'people' probably do not care what I tow and where". That is fantastic.

I did not buy my trailer, or even a tent, to be camped among a crowd. You do. That is OK with me. I would never say that you were helpless, afraid of the dark and insecure... because that would be something I would not say to anyone.

I ENJOY my kind of Boondocking because the people who DO... I can trust and depend that will not do anything stupid to harm themselves or my family.

[Ray Eklund]

Swan Song: "A metaphorical phrase for a final gesture, effort or performance given just before death or retirement. The phrase refers to an ancient belief that swans sing a beautiful song just before death, having been silent during most of their lifetime." Wikipedia

This was actually from the Greek. Not some political hack in a RV Magazine speaking of Travel Trailers do not belong in the forests, but organized RV Parks to save the environment.

Boondocking has evolved. It was camping without Hookups, Dry Camping in a completely undeveloped area. A campground without hookups. (2011)

Today... Sushi Bars and Swimming Pools? Probably. Social wine tasting, dress up time and community gatherings. Just a new alternative that will become the norm. I am a product of a different time and different customs. Both are fair use of our precious free time.

The vast majority of Airstream owners are not Boondockers. Very few even have the thought of what I consider OTG Boondocking, which use to be... Boondocking.

The first thought that comes to me is that the majority remind me of Livestock on a Ranch. The cattle follow each other on a narrow path, usually along a barb wire fence. Nose into the other's buttocks. Modern Boondockers.

Those 'strays' which Ranchers curse and cuss at, as they have a streak of independence and indifference to what the majority consider... 'NOT a proper use of an Airstream'.

Airstream Trailers are tied with Oliver as being the Best of the Best. Oliver is restricted due to the manufacturing process of fiber glass and length and weight. They are the Number ONE OTG Boondocking trailer.

Airstream. A bit impractical for Boondocking, but it can be upgraded to compete with all of the Box Cars on Axles. Oliver... still is the BEST from what I have seen for under 25 foot travel trailers at a RV Park and remote campsites.

There is a bit of 'attitude' among Airstream owners, mostly later year model owners. I am not impressed with this attitude and do not fit among them. I chose Airstream because it offered almost 100% of a Home on the Range... but needing some upgrading.

- Lift kit of 3 inches. Enough to clear the rear bumper. Other than that... the lift kit has less need.

- Tire upgrade to 16 inch. Traveling at Highway Speeds and capable for unpaved travel to OTG Campsites. I may have the world's record in towing speed, by accident, on a straight vacant highway. Tow vehicle, trailer and hardware is the KEY. Not the mumbling of those who have no clue and depend of slick advertising for choices.

Again, the Herd complex of comfort levels.

The majority think of OTG campers as abusing an Airstream. (Fill in the blank on that one.) Most owners are the Cattle I mentioned earlier. I remain that stray that prefers a different view... if you get my drift.

My camping as a 16 year old in Western Nebraska... no longer exists.

Hunting and Fishing has changed, dramatically.

Lumber and Mining activity of the late 19th Century into the early 1950's no longer build roads into the mountains and those that existed... are becoming impassable. This lack of maintenance is not an oversight... there are too many seeking some solitude and comforts of being away from the City and Town.

When Cattle Drives from Texas to the railroads in Kansas quit... change was slow but now permanent.

Today... National Forest Service camp grounds are designed for forty year ago trailers that were under 23 feet. Even Lake Mead National Recreation Area major campgrounds... you cannot fit a 25 foot trailer with tow vehicle. Trust me... it was an eye opener how that entire system has fallen into disrepair and overgrown with brush and decomposed. There are more armed Park Rangers than service people maintaining campsites. Volunteers are expected to do it. Without a 'chainsaw' class and permit... these retired folks cannot even cut back the dead wood.

It is a sad situation. Those of you who still are among that small group of Boondockers... you are special. Your time will be like the Cattle Drives of the West. Make the best of it as one day, you will not be welcome.

The Era of Glamping is becoming mainstream for Airstreamers.: "A Form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping."

[Gearheart]

Ray, I just saw this thread today. It’s a mandolin not a banjo. We were back on the Greys this last summer. High water due to last winter’s heavy snow and the late spring storm made fishing tough. No joy on the Grey’s but the Snake gave up a few cutthroats.
Next year’s big Airstream rally will be in Loveland Co. Investysly will be there and we have talked about revisiting Wyoming after the rally. I’d like to visit the hot springs that we passed on due to a fire in 16. I still have the dossier with all of Thalweg’s maps in the trailer. We have fond memories of the 2016 adventure. I appreciate your dry humour. Hope to cross paths with you again.
Gerard

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by Gearheart

.......
Next year’s big Airstream rally will be in Loveland Co. Investysly will be there and we have talked about revisiting Wyoming after the rally. ....

Hi

Loveland is pretty civilized. We were there a bit over a month ago. Very nice, but not exactly boondocking. North from there into Wyoming, yes indeed that is a very different sort of camping. It's on our "need to revisit and poke around" list as well.

Bob

[PKI]

Originally Posted by Eagle & Bear

-- snip -- Only place we have not been to is the SE US. Those people scare me. -- snip --

E&B, we toured the SE this fall. We were wrong to be concerned. Folks were just folks like we find everywhere. Suggest the two lanes, the parkways, and the small town experience. Stay away from I40. I10 is not as bad as people sometimes report.

Disclaimer - we avoided Florida, because the SE experienced a heat wave this fall. We chased the cooler weather. Elevation like the Blue Ridge Parkway helped. Savannah was better than Charleston. Our experience may vary from others, but the path sliced through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Virginia, N/S Carolina, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

The worst comment of the trip came from an ex California resident, so maybe they do have a lot more to fear from us than we do from them.

Advice - give it a try. Good folks everywhere. The heat, now that's different. Pat

[mythbuster88]

Originally Posted by HRTKD

In tight situations, I've learned that unhitching the trailer is often the best solution. It allows me to reposition the tow vehicle (CCLB F-350 has a turning radius slightly smaller than a battleship) independent of the trailer. I've had to use this technique a couple of times and it's been a significant timesaver.

Unless one has a ProPride hitch which can be real PIA on uneven ground. Probably not the best hitch for deep woods exploring.

[Ray Eklund]

Flushing your Airstream's water system seems to be some kind of secret handshake, fill the fresh water tank and expect the plumbing system to... actually work. Plenty of misinformation and if you were to find a Thread that covered how to force the AIR out of the hot and cold water lines... that is where to START.

- Fill the FRESH WATER TANK. Fill the Fresh Water Tank -BEFORE- you purge the City Water outlet into the trailer and interior. I like filling it until it runs out of the filling overflow. If you do not want to haul the weight of the water, there are advantages and disadvantages. (I can tell you if someone posts they want to know. Otherwise, I will let your figure it out on your own.)

- Attach your fresh water hose to the City Water connection. I like to use a brass on/off valve between the water hose and the hose that is screwed into your fresh water connection. This is often given to you on a new trailer purchase. (This is not the water inlet that has the locked small door.)

- It is nice if you have an INSIDE person and you outside. Once you have connected to the source of fresh water, make sure your brass on/off is OFF. That is important. This is step one for me.

- Make sure your Hot Water Tank has the PLUG, that nylon plug, snugged up. Your hot water tank is the first to fill with water. This is necessary to purge the air out of your HOT WATER line.

- Have the inside person open a faucet at the sink to the HOT water. If you do the cold first, that is OK as well. I want the hot water tank to fill and then the water begins to force itself in the hot water lines inside the trailer. ALL faucets, shower (inside and the outside) need to be OFF.

- Once the hot water tank is filled you will notice that the water flowing will slow down going into the trailer. By sound. Have the Hot water turned on at the sink and there will be a 'hissing' and then the water begins to enter. Shut off. Go to the bathroom sink, do the same. The interior shower. Lastly... the EXTERIOR SHOWER. This is the one that most everyone misses. This is what can cause the midnight 'burp' when the water pump wants to pressure up and shuts down.

- Repeat all of the above. When you no longer hear air or bubbly water mix... Go to the COLD WATER side of the system. REPEAT.

- The toilet COLD WATER line is often missed. Just 'hit the peddle' and let if flow and the water pump will be running. Then release... the water pump should build up to pressure... and STOP. Any purring, then stop. You did not catch all of the Air in the lines.

- This takes more time to explain than it will to actually do it. Maybe fifteen minutes to purge the AIR out of the system.

- If your system has the AIR purged... the water pump when running water will stop immediately. If it purrs a bit before it stops, there is still some air to remove.

- The water running during the purge you can let run into your Grey/Black tank as you need water in the tanks to help slosh around to clean them up when traveling. That is another Thread... by the way.

This will take care of your water pressure on your trip. When you stop, turn on the fresh water pump... it will pressure up after traveling. It should start and stop without a slow purring buildup. Use should take care of any remaining air.

This may seem like a waste of time for some. That is your choice. When Boondocking, having the water pump running off of your 12 volt battery system while you are having a good time in town, is not good. A leak in the system will empty your fresh water tank... and end up where you will do plenty of damage within your trailer... and all could have been prevented.

When NOT using your water. Shut the water pump OFF. Always. If the system develops an air bubble or leak... you will also figure that on your own.