Conchas Lake State Park, NM September 16 – 29, 2019

Posted on October 2, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

Conchas is in the Northeast Region of New Mexico, the same as Ute Lake State Park. Therefore, I was surprised to see the terrain in Conchas was unlike that of Ute which is flat/level. Instead, Conchas Lake State Park is more mountainous then Hyde State Park which is in the Northwest Region.

Prior to leaving Ute, I was depending on my gps to get me to the post office to mail a package; to Dollar General to stock up on jugs of water, and to the laundry mate to wash clothes because I hate travelling with dirty clothes. Before entering the small downtown of Ute, my cellphone died. It just so happened; I saw the post office on my left before going through the traffic light. So, I pulled my rv onto the shoulder and walked across the street to the post office.

Although three people were in the post office when I entered. “May I help you”, the clerk asked?

Sure, but these customers were here when I arrived, I replied.

The clerk and customers laughed. Honey, these folks live here. They come in daily to – just shoot the breeze. If they need anything; they can wait. So, what can I do for you? She asked.

I need to mail this package. Also, my cellphone died a little before I got here; I really need to find Dollar General and a laundry mat before I leave Ute. As well as find my way to Conchas State Park.

I bet you have Verizon, the clerk said.

Yes, I do, I replied.

Well I hate to be the one to tell you. Verizon cellphone service does not work in our town. This area is considered a dead zone. Also, your phone won’t work on the highway you’ll be traveling until you reach Tucumcari, NM for the same reason, the clerk said.

So, I am travelling blind, I replied.

No not really. The great thing is this… Everything you need is in a straight-line on your right once you make a right at that corner. Dollar General will be the first store you see; its on your right. Then make a right from Dollar General’s parking lot, the laundry mat will be a short distance down the street on your right as well, but you won’t see it. The tricky thing is this: You must drive slowly are you will miss these markers and be heading out of town. You are looking for a small motel on your left; as soon as you see it look to your right and make a quick right turn into a medium size alley street. At that time, you will see a hotel on your left and a vehicle parts store on your right. But you still won’t see the laundry mat until you park and walk back towards the street – making a right turn around the corner of the hotel. The laundry mat is the second door, a male customer said.

Regarding Conchas State Park, the street you’ve been traveling for Dollar General and the laundry mat is the highway you will take to Tucumcari and Conchas State Park. So, make a right turn from the alley where you parked. As stated before, your cellphone will not work until you arrive in Tucumcari. But I am not sure how long your connection will last because Conchas State Park is a desert-type environment. So, if you need to touch bases with someone, I suggest you do it before you leave Tucumcari.

Thank you for sharing information with me. I hope each of you enjoy your day, I said.

You’re more than welcome. We love helping our travelers. Also, you’re going to be okay, the clerk replied.

I’ll return in 14-days and update you on the results of that comment you just made, I replied.

We will be waiting right here, an older male said, laughing.

Believe me, truer words have not be spoken. They will be right here waiting, the clerk replied.

Bye and be safe. I love your butterfly tattoos, the first male customer said.

Thank you, I replied.

Highway to Tucumcari and Conchas, New Mexico

During my drive from Ute laundry mat to Tucumcari all I could see was a long desolate desert highway surrounded by mountainous terrain. This trip from Ute to Conchas turned out to be an hour drive and only two vehicles approached me as I travelled to Tucumcari. There was basically, no traffic; no stores, homes, business buildings or farms. Nothing, but desert and mountains.

I wasn’t worried about my vehicle because it was road ready. However, I was worried about running out of gas because I didn’t fill-up before leaving Ute, because I forgot to ask where the nearest gas station was located.

As stated by the clerk and post office customers, my cellphone was working once I arrived in Tucumcari. In fact, I used google maps to find the nearest Tractor Supply store to stock-up on puppy food for Dakota. The female employee that pulled the two large bags of puppy food from the shelve and put it into a shopping cart; was the same that rung-up my order; pushed the cart to my vehicle and loaded these bags into my mobile home which immediately made her focus on my puppy.

Dakota was smiling and wagging his tail, as usual when he sees people and other dogs.

Oh… Look at you – you’re a beautiful; friendly puppy. What sex is it? she asked.

It’s a boy, I replied.

May I pat him please? the employee asked.

Sure, I replied.

I have never seen a colorful Shepherd like you. I’ll love to see what you’ll look like as an adult. You and mommy must come back to see me. He is amazing, she said.

Thank you. By-the-way, do you know how far I am from Conchas State Park?

About 31-miles, she replied.

Thank you. Enjoy the rest of your day, I said

You do the same, the employee replied.

My gps confirmed the employee’s statement regarding the distance to Conchas State Park was correct. However, 13-miles before I reached Conchas State Park, my gps died again. I found myself wandering around in a picnic area without patrons. After circling this area twice looking for a park worker that wasn’t in his vehicle with no success. So, I made a left at a fork in the road which took me pass a few boat shops which were closed. I back tracked and took the second road fork showing Tucumcari.

After travelling up a long one-way dirt road. I found myself facing a small two-car bridge and a sign calling the area Conchas Dam. Nothing was coming – so I just sat there watching fast rushing water like floods shooting from every angle of that dam. I had never been this close to a dam in my life! Therefore, it was a little unnerving.

I decided, I would backup which I did until I saw a sign in my right mirror saying, “Don’t Enter.” Okay. I can’t back down that road to back track, I thought. However. I did notice a small parking area on my right while watching the dam’s water. So, I made a right into that area; a sign indicated this was a day use ONLY area. There must be an exit somewhere from this area, I said out loud. Then I saw a small road bearing around some bushes. As a result, I drove toward it thinking I could take an exit, and back track to take the opposite dirt road I had seen on my way to this bridge. Nope. When I rounded the bushes – I saw the gate was locked by a large padlock.

So, I turned my 30-foot mobile home around and drove back to my previous spot. I was waiting to see if other drivers would cross this bridge. Because, the bridge looked unused and very small compared to what I was driving. My thoughts were, “If you cross that two-lane bridge no one could pass you” which was replaced by, “Why are you thinking about other drivers passing you – No one has crossed this bridge since you arrived. Furthermore, there is no way for you to go back the way you came. There’s only one thing to do – which is to cross that bridge. Knowing; once you begin to cross – that entire sucker is yours because you will need every inch.”

Girl, you can do this! My ego voice screamed.

You’re right. Let’s get this over with, I replied.

It was a little tight for me to exit the Day Use Area because of the length of my vehicle and the angle I was exiting. After a few across the road pull-ups; back-ups and hard right turns I was properly angled to head for the bridge. Once I lined up between both sidewalls of the bridge; I noticed there wasn’t enough room for a bridge walker to pass me without being slapped by my mirrors. Mmm…Not my problem, I said. At this point, I focused my eyes straight ahead and crossed that small bridge with a fully loaded mobile home.

Then, I found myself wandering around this area for the same reason I had wandered around the previous; dead cellphone and gps. Finally, I stumbled upon a large lake where people were fishing, talking, laughing and listening to music. As well as, entering and existing their mobile homes, fifth-wheels, vans and primitive camping tents.

I got out of my vehicle and walked up to their area making Kock, Kock sounds with my mouth.

A friendly shirtless man greeted me. Hello, this is my first-time visiting Conchas State Park, and I am looking for the 14-day rv campground area, I said.

Few gps systems work in this area. So, it’s easy to get lost in this park unless you are a regular visitor. Anyway, you’re probably looking for Section C. So, you need to go back to the entranceway that brought you here; make a left and keep going. If you’re an annual State Park pass holder; your fee is half what the self-pay station shows which is the fee for the general public.

Thank you. But if you see me circling here again. You’ll know what that means, I said.

No problem, I’ll beckon for you to come to me. Then, we’ll start over again. Also, that’s a cool rig you’ve got there. I noticed you’re from South Dakota; I’ve heard and saw on the news that the weather is awful there right now, he said.

Yes, I’ve heard the same from my neighbor who stated, “Our area was hit by three tornados on three different sides of town.” It just so happens; I was in Why AZ at that time. Thank you for the information, I replied.

You’re welcome. Be safe, he said.

When I arrived at the rv campground, I was amazed by its environment and design. It appeared something large had chiseled out areas of a primitive, dry, barren inhabitable piece of earth and made it a viable environment for people from all walks of life to experience the simplicity of life without the need to hang onto stuff. As well as, for people with the need to escape the rat race and/or kindle his/her personal creative gifts.

Once my mind, eyes and heart made a connection with the above notion, I was hooked and ready to finish writing the travel articles and stories I hadn’t written to update my blog.

Also, I had settled into my campsite for two-days when I met and talked to the Park Ranger, who was a friendly, informative and laid-back individual. This is when I discovered the following: Conchas Dam is the only entrance and exit from this park; the only cellphone service that works on the outer perimeter and upon entering this park is AT&T, and to get to the nearest and only gas station you much cross the bridge and stay in the right lane which takes you to LA.

During a conversation with the maintenance man, I found him to be friendly, informative and funny. He stated, the bridge over Conchas Dam was built in 1939 to accommodate sensible size vehicles such as family cars. As a result, there is a yellow flashing light before you get to the bridge which is the stopping point for rv drivers to make sure nothing else is coming across the bridge before he/she enters.

I told him about my encounter with Conchas Dam which brought laughter and tears to his eyes.

You’re not the only person who had to convince their mind and eyes, that the bridge was the only way to go which you discovered while looking for escape routes. Can you image if the Rangers hadn’t padlocked gates and posted Do Not Enter signs. The crowds of people, who would be trying to back – back down that long dirt road to escape crossing that darn scary looking bridge? He asked, still laughing.

Now that you mentioned it. No, I replied laughing.

My findings are as follows:

Most parks I have visited as a full-time Rv’er are different on many levels such as layout, amenities, maintenance, security, camp hosts, managers and campground residents.

Based on the above, I found Conchas State Park to be the most unique because all campsites possess three-side stucco buildings that contains stone picnic tables and seats; concrete floors and an outside ground frame to separate this area from vehicle driveways.

(1) Once you back into your driveway. The front of your shed is blocked by your vehicle which provides privacy for meals and socializing.

(2) Amenities consist of electric and water spigot hookups; outside personal grills, clean public bathrooms and showers. As well as conveniently located trash dumpsters throughout the campgrounds, and water activities such as fishing, boating and swimming.

(3) Although not an amenity. The peaks and valleys offer additional privacy to camping residents.

(4) This park also uses a self-pay system.

Ute Lake State Park, New Mexico September 3 – 16, 2019

Posted on October 1, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

**Sunset at Ute Lake State Park, New Mexico**

Remembering the confusion at Hyde State Park when three new campers and I attempted to register for campsites. I determined it might be wise since I was parked on Wal-Marts parking lot and have internet service to see if Bob Wells of Cheap Rv Living had done any videos about Ute Lake State Park. Wala… He had. As a result, I discovered I should have paid $16.00 instead of $20.00 for my 4-day stay at Hyde State Park; as an Annual New Mexico State Park pass holder.

It was my intent to verify the daily fee of $4.00 for State Park pass holders at Ute Lake Park. However, upon my arrival at the park, I found it to be a self-pay station managed park; the same as City of Rocks and Hyde State Park. But there was also an entrance booth which was empty. Then my eyes were captured by the U.S. Flag blowing in the wind. Once I arrived at that location. Not only did I discover it was the Ranger’s Office, but it too was locked and empty.

Mmm. What a public mess, I thought to myself.

I must say, “This is the first-time, I have entered a State/Federally managed park that use self-pay systems. As well as, possess an unmanned entrance booth and a locked ranger office during workday hours.” All parks that I have visited (entrance booths and offices) are staffed by Rangers and knowledgeable Customer Service Employees. These are the people, who explains campground usage rules; distribute pamphlets, maps, brochures, accept customer payments, issue registration stickers to display on the front windshield of paid guests’ vehicles and yes…. They do return change to customers.

I consider myself a smart person and after spending 31-years as a federal employee; not only am I knowledgeable, alert and distrustful of how some state and federal agencies create information boards and brochures to embezzler money from unsuspecting citizens; especially when using self-pay systems. These agencies know, if customers pay more money than required because their park’s self-pay registration and park pass purchase instructions are incomplete; deceitful and/or hard to decipher – there is no customer service staff to make corrections or return overpayments to customers which is the intent of these parks’ managers. Therefore, it’s our loss as customers and their gains as thieves.

After riding through Ute Park and noticing water spigots on reservation campsites – I pulled into a site, retrieved my water hose from its exterior storage; attached it to the spigot and my mobile home and refilled my water tank. Then, I restored my water hose to its previous location and returned to the self-pay registration board and paid $56.00 for a 14-day stay. I was still roaming around the park when I noticed vehicles arriving at the office and people getting out and going inside.

I raced back to the office and was greeted by the last person, who appeared to be the supervisor going into this building. I told him how difficult it had been roaming from city-to-city and State Parks in New Mexico looking to converse with live park employees that can explain daily park fees for Annual Mexico State Park Pass Holders.

Well, we’re a little understaffed currently. Come on in, let me get you a map of this park which provides more information, he replied.Upon entering this room, I discovered a lot of people had congregated for lunch or a meeting. They were talking, laughing and surrounded by a smorgasbord of foods. Upon sharing my disappointment regarding New Mexico’s State Park confusing payment systems as well as campground map. A male, readily gave up his seat at the table to personally show me around Ute campground. Prior to him taking the lead in his cart. He introduced himself as the Camp Host. Then he explained the difference between reservation labeled and unlabeled campsites as follows: All campsites labeled with a green metal plate are reservation required campsites which are reserved via member telephone reservations. Campsites without reservation tags are up for grab, meaning first come first service. So, I will point out all available campsites and you can pull into the one you want. As a result, I pulled into a campsite that I wanted to occupy for the next 14-days.

Just for your information. If at any time you want to move to another site just make sure that site doesn’t display a green reservation metal plate. Because although, I’ll hate to knock on your door (early in the morning or late at night) to inform you; that you must move to an untagged site because the site you’re currently occupying is a reservation only site and the guest has arrived to claim it. I hate having to do that to campers, but it’s a part of my job – so I will do it, he said laughing.

**Camp Host Campsite on left near largest restroom on righ**t

No worries. I like this site. I can’t stand being boxed in (folks on both sides of my rv) by people I don’t know, I replied.

Meanwhile, if you need anything. Knock on my door, I am in the first rig near the restroom. I guess I should return to our staff meeting.

Thank you for the help, I replied.

I was impressed by this camp host’s hospitable attitude. In fact, I felt his attitude added a higher-level of security to residents using this campground, because the entrance booth and office certainly did not.

My findings are as follows:

As a full-time Rv’er I have travelled throughout Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, New Mexico, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming to name a few. I have stayed in Federal/State Parks, Canyons, National Forests, RV Campgrounds, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) properties, Army Corp of Engineering properties and a few hotels/motels.

Based on my past visits to five New Mexico State Parks, I have determined the use of self-pay systems is a cheap, lazy and dishonest way to conduct business with State Park patrons and Travelers.

Compared to other State Parks, I find these rangers to be less visible. During my 14-day stay I saw a range’s truck pass my campsite 6-times during this period. Never at night.

The entrance booth offers campground residents a false sense of security.

Overall, this is a beautiful spacious campground; one side is framed by a lake which offers boating, fishing and swimming opportunities to campers and community residents.

Amenities include personal grills, covered picnic sitting area, electric and water spigot hookup, children’s playground, clean public restrooms and showers. As well as, trash dumpsters and gravel streets throughout the campground.

I regularly see the camp host throughout the day performing maintenance tasks and patrolling this campground section at night to enhance camping residents’ safety.

It was the Host’s wife, who explained entrance and overnight camping fees for both, the general public and Annual New Mexico State Park Pass holders. At this time, I learned the camp host was an unpaid volunteer, whose compensation is a campsite that includes complete mobile home utility hook-up which consist of electric, water and sewage. However, as hard as my camp host worked on this campground during my 14-day stay; it is my belief that he should also earn a salary.

One day while dumping my tank, I noticed something hanging under my mobile home. Prior to returning to my campsite; I stopped at the camp host’s rig to see if he knew what it might be and how do I fix it. He greeted me with a warm smile and a look of concern. I couldn’t believe it when he put on his boots; followed me to my mobile home and laid on the ground to diagnose the problem.

“Ah…See those wires. This is a flap that covers/protects these wires from being damaged. Okay. I am in the middle of a project right now, but I’ll take care of it”, he replied.

I don’t know when. But the host made the repair on my mobile home while it was parked on my campsite without my knowledge or that of my puppy, Dakota. This Camp Host and his wife are wonderful people. They both are authentic with sincere hearts to serve the public. Because of the host and his wife, I will return to Ute Lake State Park annually if they are campground host.

In addition, I have Verizon services for my cellphone, business phone and office equipment. Service connection was sporadic and/or nonexistent. After several calls to Verizon Support Tech and their review of service tower locations. It was determined, the campground was 50-miles from the nearest service tower. Therefore, a cellphone booster might help get 2 to 3 bars rather than the 0 to ½ bar you are currently getting, a tech said. As a result, I learned to live with little to no connection services from Verizon during my 14-day stay. Believe me when I say, “I will discuss this matter with them.”

Hyde State Park, New Mexico August 30 – September 3, 2019

Posted on October 1, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

Around 11:30am today, after leaving Family Dollar I arrived at my Hyde State Park designation located in Northwest Region of NM. My surprise was being greeted by the friendliest Mexican neighbors, who helped me park near the curb of my inaccessible campsite to create enough space to extend my awning and setup an outdoor setting area to accommodate a few chairs. Also, they readily claimed me as an addition to their family. I was invited to hang-out at their rig, eat meals and play family games. However, before settling down for the evening, I joined the self-pay station registers along with my neighbor and other confused campers.

Our Hyde campground was a combination of hills, valleys and flat land. I discovered flat land campsites required reservations and include utilities (water and electricity). Wherein, some hilly campsites like my neighbor’s had electricity and others like mine had no utilities. These sites are claimed by the first person to arrive. In addition, there were no phone or computer services at any of these campsites.

**Reservation sites across street and first come first serve on hill**

Further, since my mobile home is self-contained with water, a full kitchen (propane stove and microwave), bathroom (shower, sink and toilet). As well as, a built-in generator to run furnace, air condition and lights; paying to have water and electric hookup to my mobile home – only saves my onboard resources and me a little time. Otherwise, it can be a drag when I must leave a comforter campsite to refill these resources and dump my (gray & black water) tanks in nearby towns when I stay at the same spot for 14-day or more). Though I have a Verizon tower setup in my mobile home that provides connection service to operate my cellphone, business phone, scanner, fax and copy machine; like my neighbors and other campsite patrons. It didn’t work, so I didn’t have services either.

Once my adopted family left Hyde on September 2nd, I was looking forward to my own September 3rd departure. When I’ll be heading to Ute Lake State Park – my next designation.

I had been told by my neighbors and other campers that there was a free Rv dump station for guest staying or had stayed at Hyde. But it’s difficult to find and drive through if you don’t really know where it is. So, prior to leaving the area I decided to take advantage of the dump station if I could found it. But I did not want to deal with getting lose or Gila Forest again.

After travelling a short distance from the campground. I saw a Forest Ranger directing traffic; blowing a loud horn and shouting SLOW DOWN.

I put on my flashers; pulled as far as I could on the shoulder of the highway and shouted Good morning sir. He put his hand out; stopped the traffic and walked across the highway.

What is wrong with these drivers?

Ma am, most are impatience and rude. Others are just plain crazy. You know, I can stand here and shout at them all day long, and nothing changes until an accident occurs. How can I help you?

I stayed at Hyde for 4-days. Campers told me there is a dump station nearby.

Yeah, there is. Tell you what, I am going to put on my flashers -just follow me, he replied.

The Ranger led me a short distance down the highway and put on his right turn signal; I did the same. He led me towards an area of tall trees. The dump station was corralled behind a strange looking fence with both ends closed by two big gates. The Ranger got out of his vehicle; opened the gate and drove through with me following him. I would have never found this dump station without him, I thought to myself.

Okay, Ma am. I already closed the rear gate behind you; all you need to do once you have finished dumping your tanks is to close the front gate, you have a nice day, he said.

Thank you, sir. I hope you have a nice day as well. Also, be safe out there, I replied.

My thoughts regarding this park are as follows:

Terrain was too hilly to accommodate mobile homes with low-chassis frames.

The campground was small, so campers were close to his/her neighbors, especially campers with utility hookups.

The bathroom was cleaned twice a day by the same Forest Ranger with the friendly disposition.

One-day I said, “I see you twice a day cleaning this bathroom – are you on punishment?”

Laughing… I wish I was because this would be the only task I’ll have to do. The problem is we don’t have enough employees, and somebody’s got to do it. Bye the way, do you want a job?

Laughing. No thanks, I am good, I replied.

Alright. If you change your mind let me know, he said.

Although, this Forest Ranger was directing traffic which was a dangerous job due to speeding drivers, who appeared not to care a Ranger with flashing lights on his patrol vehicle; using a loud blasting horn and shouting slowdown at drivers coming down Gila mountain accomplished absolution nothing. Yet, this Ranger was trying hard to keep side-of-the-road bicyclist and drivers safe.

This Ranger was kind enough to leave his post to make sure I made it safely to a hidden dump station. Then, he returned to his post.

No internet or cellphone service. Therefore, its extremely easy to get loss. Travelers need to make sure he/she has a full tank of gas. Also, a spare can of gas can’t hurt, either.

I would never return to either, Hyde State Park or Gila National Forest.

On my way to Ute, I stopped at Wal-Mart to purchase groceries to restock my refrigerator and cabinets. But prior to shopping, I decided to talk to the manager. Upon walking into the store, Hello Mrs. is your manager here today?

I am right behind you, how can I help you, he asked. Well, I am an RV Traveler passing through your city. I am a long way from my next destination and would like to ask, If I can…… “Yes, you can”, he replied. All truckers and Rv’ers are welcome to spend the night here. I just ask that truckers and extra-large mobile homeowners park on the outer perimeter of my parking lot. I hope you enjoy your evening, he replied as he turned and walked away.

I had to smile. I used to be one of those folks, who remarked to myself and friends about Wal-Mart sometimes looking like a parking lot until (I became one of those parkers) May 2018. This is when, I discovered the magnitude of Wal-Mart’s store owners and managers unselfish commitment to the safety of its citizens, townships, cities, states and communities – by allowing truckers, Rv’ers and regular vehicle travelers passing through his/her areas to spend the night; if sleep overtakes him/her prior to making it to their designation or a rest stop.

Most citizens have no idea how many lives could be lost if the beforementioned travelers had no place to rest during long road trips, other than far away rest stops. Furthermore, if I had known this was the case for many drivers including myself, I would have thanked Wal-Mart’s owners and managers for keeping me as well as unsuspecting citizens out of harms way.

Sometimes, its humorous to be the first traveler on Wal-Mart’s parking lot. Who had shopped; put away my grocery and turned in for the night. Then awaken by the sound of generators. As a result, I look out my window to find I am surrounded by a slew of 18-wheelers, mobile homes and passenger vehicles.

We, travelers will always be grateful to Wal-Mart owners and managers. Who provides a safe area for us to crash when nothing else is available. You (owners and managers) make it easy and safe for us to sleep at night because we protect each other. Although, your customers whine and/or complain. We travelers resting on your parking lot makes it safe for them (your customers and late-night employees) as well.

Like me, I am sure these folks take their ability to shop late at night; leave and return to their vehicles after shopping or arrive to work the nightshift for granted. Without the thought – that there is safety in numbers. We make sure other travelers; late night employees and customers are safe just because of our presence and the fact, that one or more of us (travelers) are always watching to ensure Wal-Mart’s customers and employees are safe.

Thank you, Wal-Mart, from a full-time travelling Rv’er

Gila National Forest August 28 – August 30, 2019

Posted on September 30, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

After a five-minute picture taking visit, I left City of Rocks, Silver City NM in hopes of arriving at Hyde State Park before dark. However, after passing an entering Gila National Forest sign; my cell phone, google maps as well as my CB radio died. All I could do was keep driving because there weren’t any pull-offs or turnaround areas. However, I knew without a doubt – I would eventually stumble upon a sign directing me to a nearby highway.

Wrong… Picture this. Six hours later (4pm -10pm) I was still winding higher and higher up this Gila National Forest mountainous road during 20 to 35-miles an hour; discovering various mile markers, Campgroup signs (but none I could get my 30-foot mobile home into). Every freaking sign you have seen or might have only heard about was on this godforsaken stretch of mountainous road such as, your typical Bus stop signs, Orange Triangles, Left Curve – 25 miles. Right Curve 35-miles, Caution, Bump, Slow, Dip, Reverse Curve, Degree Curve, Truck Rollover, Right Diagonal Stripe, Animal Crossing and more. Also, there were no protection guards to prevent drivers from falling over the side of this mountainous roadway. So, vehicle skid marks over the mountain side and swerves became a common sight. I could only hope, I didn’t become one of those misfortunate drivers.

But, I discovered rather quickly not knowing this road and dangerous turns around a mountain which was on my right-side and put me closer to the actual mountain, because of the pivot length of my mobile home became a reality when my rear tire hit a large road opening beside the mountain; causing me to make a quick left-swing correction to clear the tail-end of my vehicle. This move caused me to slam on my brakes because I was headed at an angle across the road. Every time I eased my foot off the brake – my mobile home would move closer to the drop-off point.

My first thought was, “Dam, I have travelled all over the U.S. and nothing has ever made me feel so vulnerable or afraid until now! Then I prayed, “Please God, don’t let another vehicle come around this mountain until I can backup and return this mobile home to my side of the road. Okay God, it’s me and you!” I said.

I slammed on the gas pedal; quickly dropper my left-foot from the brakes and my mobile home jerked backwards close to the mountain but on my side of the road. “Thank you, Lord,” I said.

Again, I begin to slowly make my way down the mountain. It wouldn’t be honorable not to recognize it was God that saved me. In fact, like a movie every night for a few weeks – this incident has run repeatedly in my mind. I see an on-coming vehicle hitting me broadside and both of us falling off the mountain. Tumbling like boulders from mountains during an earthquake. The sound of breaking trees and things breaking apart and crashing in the mobile home which never stopped until we hit the bottom of the mountain. Then, I found myself standing on the top of mountain with Dakota in my arms looking down at wreckage which looked like toys use by children to playhouse. I asked God to wrap his protective arms around the driver that hit me.

After everything I had already dealt with – It appeared I would never get out of Gila National Forest. It’s dark; I am tired, and hungry (hadn’t even had breakfast before arriving and leaving City of Rocks in Silver City). At this point, I just wanted this forest thing to be over. However, I found myself running through little communities with houses setting way back from the road; and folks speeding pass me – like they stole something and was running from the police.

Finally, I came upon a small motel. The office was closed and there was one vehicle parked in front of a room. If other guest had been there; I wouldn’t have been able to pull my mobile home into the courtyard. Yes, it’s late. I don’t know who is staying here (male or female). But I am going to knock on that door and ask for directions which I did. A lady opened the door. Hello, I am sorry to be knocking on your door this late. But I have be lost in Gila National Forest since 4pm; can you please tell me how to get off this mountain?

Laughter… I know just how you feel. I drove in here from Texas early this morning and had my own similar issues. But you are almost out of the forest. Just keep going the way you are heading. You will eventually see a school. You’ll know it’s a school because kid’s crafts are all over the fence. There, make a sharp left then a right which will bring you pass the front of the school. Shortly therefore, you will see a route sign. It’s either 295 or 285; anyway, it will lead you to Silver City, NM.

I thanked her for the information and left. I didn’t care – I was heading back to Silver City which is the City of Rocks location. An area I had visited earlier during the day. I just wanted to get out of Gila Forest and take a few deep breaths. However, I never saw the school. Although, because of darkness – I wouldn’t have seen it if it was setting on the road ahead of me. Night-driving is just that bad for me.

I had been driving for ten-minutes when a white male doofus, who had passed me twice in his white pickup truck. Now, pulled up on my left, stopped and shined a flood light into my face and the cab of my mobile home which completely blinded me. This caused me to slam on my brakes which caused a hidden vehicle behind me to do the same and slide-out a little to my left. Resulting in this coward with the flood light – cutting off his light and speeding away. Dang-it my gun is in the back of this mobile home, I said to my empty vehicle. However, I did connect with highway 285 and arrived in Silver City, NM a little after 10pm and pulled onto Family Dollar.

Since the entrance doors were propped open, I entered and found two white cashiers restocking shelves. May I help you, one asked. Yes. I need to purchase 10-gallon jugs of water, I replied. I wish I had some to sell you. But this is a holiday weekend; the jugs were the first to go. But I do have a few cases of bottled water, she replied. Thanks, but no thanks. My puppy would easily drink five or more bottles at a time.

Because they were women, I shared the doofus incident that occurred during my search for a route connection to exit Gila National Forest. As well as, how long I had been lost in the forest. Mmm. We don’t ever go up there. Nor do any people we know, the other replied. We’re glad you made it down safely. You can spend the night on our parking lot if you like; people do it all the time, she replied. Thank you. I think I will do that. I am too tried to drive, and I do have night blindness.

Based on research and comments from tour guides, Gila National Forest and its wilderness areas covers over 3.3 million acres of the most beautiful pristine land in the world. It is also known as one of the largest tracts of public land in this country. The forest’s terrain ranges from rugged mountains and deep canyons to mesas and semi-desert.

The next morning Dakota and I left Family Dollar’s parking lot at 6am heading for Hyde State Park, again.

Sorry, I didn’t get that many pictures of Gila National Forest. The crap I dealt with on that mountain and the fact God was with me is all the memory I care to have.

City of Rocks, Silver City, NM August 29, 2019

Posted on September 12, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

When I left Why AZ, I had planned to stay at City of Rocks State Park in Silver City, New Mexico for a few days. Then head for Hyde Memorial State Park, New Mexico which is said to be the first State Park set in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains amongst a forest of pine trees along the Little Tesuque Creek. Little did I know these two trips would be my first site-seeing disappointments.

First, upon my arrival at the entranceway for City of Rocks State Park. I was surprised to find operators/managers of this park expected first-time visitors to figure out how-to use the Parks’ do-it-yourself pay system in order to complete an entrance form and pay fees prior to entering the park with absolutely no guidance. However, entrance forms did state, “All fees are daily rates. NO REFUNDS.”

In addition, the do-it-yourself payment area displayed a map of the park which include numbers assigned to overnight campsites to aid campers in his/her selection and payment for these sites. However, there were no guidance on how first-time visitors were to accomplish this task or determine if a campsite was already occupied or reserved by another camper; until you had paid the fee and entered the park to take possession of the campsite you chose. Furthermore, no information was provided to assist Annual State Park Pass Holders, who paid $225.00 for his/her pass to determine what fees were covered and shouldn’t be paid when completing entrance forms.

As a result, I elected not to pay fees for campsite #7 (the month of my birth) as a chosen overnight campsite which turned out to be a good decision. Because I found the campsite was reserved by another camper which meant; I would have lost my entire payment due to this parks’ No Refund Policy.

Based on this finding it’s my opinion; the registration method being used at this park is to save money by not hiring employees to provide customer service. Instead, park managers are using a do-it-yourself payment system which enables these folks to embezzle money from unsuspecting park visitors, who do not understand the registration form and pays too much to enter the park and use its amenities.

Otherwise, I find this park to be unique; extremely small and limited space to accommodate mobile home travelers. However, it’s a mecca for hikers, trail walkers and primitive campers, who use traditional modes of transportation. But, this park’s entrance presents an inhospitable atmosphere to visitors as well as Annual State Park Pass Holders. Further, I believe this park is benefiting financially from taking unwarranted advantages of its visitors and pass holders.

What are your thoughts?

Coyote Howls, Why AZ Aug. 21 – 28, 2019

Posted on September 6, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

One afternoon in February 2019 while spending 14-days at an BLM (Bureau of Land Management) property known as Saddle Mountain Forest located in Tonopah AZ. I was stretched out on my couch admiring the clouds and mountains which I am sure you have discovered by now; these views including wilderness animals and meeting like-minded strangest, who enjoys the same no-mad lifestyle as I are my favorite things to do.

It was at this time, I observed a lady, who kept stopping every second or so to dig at the ground. Then she’ll pick something up and put it in her knapsack. Because she kept performing this same ritual over-and-over again, I was curious to find out what she was doing and why. As an enquiring mind person. I went outside; introduced myself and ask what was she doing.

Hello, my name is Edith. I ‘ve been watching you for the last several minutes. What are you doing?

The lady laughed. “My name is Rose, and I am collecting rocks, gems and minerals to make jewelry which I sell to the general public and jewelry store owners at annual events (i.e. rock and gem shows, gem and mineral shows and arts and craft fairs),” she replied.

Wow. Rose, that sounds like an amazing hobby and profession. “Yes, for me it is, because as an artist I decide on the design and/or creation of my jewelry based on the selling value of the rock; the rock’s color, its original shape as well as my rock cutting skills. As a result, I decide if one rock or a variety of rocks would serve a female or male customer better as a bracelet, brooch, necklace, ring or a pair of earrings. I use the same process when designing my specialty line of cactus necklaces.

Mmm…Cactus necklaces? Rose Laughed. “They aren’t prickly once I am done with them. Further, it makes beautiful necklaces. In fact, customers really like these unique designs which is one of my best-selling ornaments. I love your mobile home. Are you a full-time Rv’er or a part-timer, she asked?

I am a full-timer, I replied. What about you? I am a full-timer as well. But currently my mobile home is old and falling apart which I intend to replace soon. However, my mobile home being old isn’t a big issue right now for me because I live in Why AZ which is a great and inexpensive location to live in comparison to many rv parks (i.e. many rv parks only allow mobile homes that are 1 to 10 years old to park at their campgrounds). However, my Coyote Howl Campground’s manager/owner’s only requirement is that your residential vehicle (i.e. mobile home, bus, van, car or whatever you call home) can crank up and move to another spot if needed. In addition, my neighbors consist of painters, music writers, rock collectors, sculptors’ and many others, she said.

It sounds like a cool place to live Rose. I assure you; I will visit Coyote Howl one day, because I love exploring forests and cool inexpensive places to live, I replied.

Now, that you know how and why I visited Why, AZ. I would like to share my findings:

I discovered there were two Coyote Howls (East and West). Coyote Howls East is a primitive campground whereas, Coyote Howls RV Park West is a full-service hookup community neighborhood with assigned addresses; consisting of long-term and weekend residents. As well as, travelers passing through like myself. Because I don’t like community or development living, I spent one-day at Coyote Howls RV Park West. Therefore, other than stated above I know nothing about Coyote Howls West.

Upon moving up the road to Coyote Howls East, a Primitive Campground. I found this area though primitive to be very calming with wide open spaces. Here, residents can park and live wherever he/she wish. As well as, move to another area if it fits their fancy. Amenities includes a laundromat, library, bath houses, dump sewage systems, water spickets and a business office that enable residents to send/ receive mail and packages.

Rates at Coyote Howls East are as follows: Daily rate – $10.00; Weekly rate – $42.00 and Monthly rate – $125.00.

A flyer for Coyote Howls RV Park West indicates: Daily rate – $22.00; Weekly rate – $145 and Monthly rate – $230.00 plus electricity. If it hadn’t been for the heat: 90 something to 107 degrees during the day and 92 to 97 degrees at night, I would have stayed for a month or more. However, during my short stay, I met some interesting/friendly folks and enjoyed views of sky, clouds and mountainous terrain. Many residents said, “its normally not this hot. We might have one or two really hot days here and there. Just come back and visit with us in October.”

Anyway, I hope you can see and enjoy the few images I captured in pictures. It was just too hot to take pictures during the day.

Business office, mail send/pickup services as well as resident gathering area and library

Cedarville State Forest

Posted on August 27, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

Cedarville was the second state run facility I called home during my additional time spent in Maryland (May 7 to May 20^th), because this state-run forest met the twenty miles or more distance requirement from Smallwood (my initial facility) to Cedarville (my new facility). I could stay 14-days at this location.

This forest is 3,510 acres and offers two types of campsites (electric and non-electric). I found Cedarville to be a safe environment that allows opportunities for family members and friends to spend quality time together or alone. Visitors can bicycle, hike, explore a variety of trails, fish and hunt. Fire rings for campfires and a picnic table are provided on all campsites. A gray and black water dump station, trash dumpster, pavilion for group gatherings and freshwater spigots are in various areas. In addition, campsites are available to support youth groups and equestrian activity.

All Campsites has a picnic table & fire-ring
Roadway
RV Dump Station
Walking Trail
My RV

I must admit, finding this state forest was a surprise and a blessing. Otherwise, I would have been forced to live at one of the many Bureau of Land Management (BLM) properties managed by the State of Virginia (i.e. national forests, BLM, army corps, national parks and public lands), and commute back and forth to Maryland as needed.

Further research to identify and locate the same types of lands owned/managed by the State of Maryland were very disheartening because there weren’t any in comparison to other states. I also determined Maryland has allowed most of its public/forests lands to be developed into money making ventures. As a result, Maryland possess and/or manages limited state properties such as Cedarville State Forest, Smallwood State Park and Greenbelt National Park.

On the other hand, many other states have embraced its responsibility to care-for and protect their BLM properties like precious stones to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of these public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. These states are as follows: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Dakotas, Eastern States (i.e. Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri). As well as, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington State and Wyoming.

I hope you take the opportunity to visit and camp at national forests, BLM, army corps, national parks and public lands in the future. You will find these properties to be amazingly beautify as well as relaxing.

Smallwood State Park

Posted on June 10, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

Smallwood State Park, Charles County, 2750 Sweden Point Road, Marbury MD

Based on my future arrival to Maryland on April 23rd, I did a lot of research to determine where I could park my 30-foot mobile home. As a result, I stumbled upon information regarding Smallwood State Park, located on Mattawoman Creek which became my home of residence for 14-days (April 23 to May 7^th).

I was a resident of Maryland for thirty-one years and never knew this park exist. None did I know this park which consist of 984 acres contains a marina, boat ramps, fishing pier, picnic areas, cabins for rent, hiking trails, nature center, primitive campsites; fifth-wheel trailers and mobile homeowner campsites. Also, the park is the historic preservation site for General William Smallwood, Smallwood’s Retreat.

This State Park is stunning. For 14-days I was in awe every time I walked the one-lane vehicle roadways, smelled the freshness in the air, listened to chirps from birds, see squirrels chase each other – up trees or through bushes. Yet at night, this park was extremely quiet except for occasional hoots from owls. In addition, I consider Smallwood State Park to be a convenient blessing for mobile homeowners, since it provides a free dump and freshwater station which alleviates the need for Rv’ers to search for these stations elsewhere. Please call 301-743-7613 to determine the daily rate or 14-day fee before you go.

This is what I saw through the lens of my camera. I hope you enjoy these pictures and visit this park in the future.

One-Lane Street

Goodbye to La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) Quartzsite AZ

Posted on May 28, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

My first Snowbird season in Quartzsite AZ was amazing. The slow pace desert environment, fresh non-polluted air, country roads, small city streets and highways with little to minimum traffic made trips around town and to nearby towns such as Avondale, Buckeye, Cottonwood, Glendale, Mesa, Parker, Peoria, Surprise, Wickenburg and Yuma tranquil drives due to spectacular mountain terrains.

The thought of me leaving the above-mentioned areas to tackle traffic congestions on my east coast journey back to Maryland to honor previously planned appointments suddenly became an insane commitment. As a result, I drove for 7-days (April 17 to April 23^rd) to honor my appointments.

I must mention, this trip was worst then I predicted. For instance, I no longer recognized any highways or streets I travelled while residing in Maryland. There were traffic jams (like parking lots) everywhere. Many roads (highway and city streets) and exits were under construction and/or closed routing traffic via detours. Cars were cutting in front of me; driving a 30-foot mobile home. The same occurred with 18-wheel drivers. Once there, these drivers were stuck like everyone else. At this point, I conclude I didn’t miss Maryland or the east coast at all!

The greatest things about living in the desert are quietness, thousands of acres of uncultivated lands, no rush hour traffic, no streetlights – just total darkness. Neighbors living near you or on the same acreage of land are there because it’s their preferred method to disconnect from financial woes caused by high mortgage notes and rent; utility expenses, credit card debt, high taxes and on-going repairs to homes he/she no longer want or needs. As well as, pay-off debts, save money and live a stress and crime-free lifestyle. Further, if you don’t like your neighbors it’s a lot easier to move to the other side of the desert or to an entirely different state.

Bulldog Canyon, Mesa Arizona,,

Posted on March 9, 2019 by Edith Eveon Brown

During my travels throughout Arizona this is the first-time, I have encountered a locked gateway entrance to a Boondocking National Forest. Wherein rv owners and primitive camp boon-dockers, as well as off-highway vehicle (OHV) owners must register and pay a fee at the Forest Service, Tonto National Forest, Mesa Ranger District Office to receive 4-digit entrance/exit codes and a permit(s) which must always be in your possession. However, there is no usage fee requirement for guests, who possess National Forest America the Beautiful Senior Pass Card or similar senior cards; only the presentation of his/her pass card and driver’s license.

I must share my story about the entrance gate: It wasn’t funny when I was struggling to find a way to enter my 4-digit code in order to enter the forest during a rainstorm, but it’s funny now.]

I was under the impression the lock on this gate would be easily accessed and my combination entered as done with similar locks. At the rangers station the only thing I was told, “Once you enter your code; don’t pull the lock down – instead push it up which would allow you to open the gate.”

As you can see in the above picture– there is no accessible combination pad lock. So, I pulled the chain on the top of the circular-metal enclosure, but nothing happened. I felt under the enclosure thinking I’ll feel the lock and could pull it down to enter my combination. I didn’t feel a lock. As a result, I had to get down in the mud on painful knees.

I swear, that lock was attached to the shortest chain I had ever seen. So, there was no way I could pull it down. As I continued to fool around with the lock it tilted a little to the right near a square hole. How the heck, do I put my code in this thing when I can’t see the numbers on the bottom? I said out loud to the rain! I even removed my eyeglasses to determine if I might be able to see the combination area better; no such luck.

After four failed attempts to find a way to access this lock to enter my 4-digit code. I was drenched by the rain and gave up. I decided to wait for another guest familiar with opening of this gate to arrive. So, I backed up from the gate and pulled over beside the fence.

I was setting on the couch in my mobile home when I heard a vehicle pull up to the gate. I grabbed my hooded rain jacket and ran outside. “Hello sir, would you please show me how to enter my code to open the gate?” Sure, come on over. The lock on this gate is not visitor friendly, especially if you’ve never been here before.

“Well, that would be me,” I replied.

Laughing… From the look of your pants, I see you’ve already been on your knees. However, you need to get back on them again to access the lock which is on a short chain. “I complied.”

Grab the lock under the hood; pull it towards that square hole in a position that allows you to see the numbers under the bottom of the lock. I know, it’s hard to see the numbers because they are the same color as the lock. So, just keep moving the lock around until you can see the numbers. When you can see it, dial in the 4-degit code the ranger gave you in that area. Did the lock open?

“Yes.”

Great. Hold onto the lock. Get up off your knees and grab that circle on top of the hood; the pad lock is attached to it. As you pull the metal rod up – push the pad lock up until it’s on the top of the hood. Disconnect the lock from the rod. Now you can push open the gate.

“Don’t forget to use the same process when you exit. Never, leave the gate unlocked. Let me move from in front on the gate. So, you can enter. I’ll lock the gate behind us.”

Thank you. I appreciate your help.

You’re welcome. I hope you found a good spot to park and enjoy your stay here at Bulldog Canyon. I really like this place, he replied. However, due to a rutted entrance road, as well as the design of my mobile home which has low-hanging levering jacks and a sewage pipe connector. I was forced to pull into the first site on the left of the roadway. the previous occupant(s) left trash in the fire-pit on this site.]

“I am not cleaning this up, because I didn’t put it here, I said to my empty mobile home.”

The next day was sunny. Therefore, I took a brief walk up the dirt road to check-out my neighbors. Thinking, I am sure these people saw the trash on my spot when they arrived but preferred not to clean it up. Meanwhile, every time I looked out of my window I was appalled by the previous site-users treatment of this forest. As a result, feeling embarrassed of the site I was now occupying. On the fifth day, I pulled on rubber gloves and bagged the trash from my spot. Since I was going into town to grocery shop, wash clothes, dump my rv tanks and discard my own trash an extra bag was no big deal.

Although, every camper knows or should know: “Whatever he/she brings into the forest or to campsites, must be taken out by them. It’s not other people’s jobs to cleanup your mess. Further, campers should always leave an area better than they found it.”

Upon returning to the forest, I found a rv from up the road had moved to the spot I had just cleaned up. Yes, I was irritated, but realize this is the world we live in now-a-days. A world dominated by self-centered, inconsiderate, freeloaders. Therefore, after dragging my leveling jacks, hitting my sewage connection and getting hung up on a high rut-hill in the middle of the road, I finally parked in another space for the night. I arrived at my repair service appointment on Wednesday to be told and shown. “What happened, why is your gray water sewage pipe broken in half? I told them what had happened. Now, I am pissed because this emergency pipe and control lever cost $261.96 to replace.

Okay enough. I hope you enjoy my pictures.

Jeteak Press

Author, Blogger, Entrepreneur & Freelance Writer