Catalina State Park Tucson, Arizona

I had the pleasure along with my husband, and our yorkie Bailey, of visiting Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona this past weekend, and I was pleasantly amazed at it's beauty. I had heard about this place courtesy of my sister Jennifer who visited there last weekend. This park is nestled in the Coronado National Forest just minutes from a major city, and you would not have even known it. There is so much to talk about, so I will just get right down to it. The park itself offers so many adventures like hiking, bird watching, and camping.
The park is equipped with four major camping areas. The group camp area, (2 group sites) is the only area that will take reservations. You must have a minimum of 20 people and no more than 200. Each site has a 20x40 shade ramada, fire ring (bring your own wood) BBQ grill,and picnic tables. You can reserve up to 12 months in advance. The fees are $35 for the reservation, and $15 per vehicle per night.
The equestrian staging and camping area has 8 pens available. It is a first come first serve(no charge)area, which you can either use as a day trip which will cost you $6 or you can camp for $15, but there are no hookups. Horses cannot be ridden on some of the trails, so be sure to check ahead of time.
The next camp area (site B) allows RVs with no length restrictions. This area offers water and electric hookup and contains 95 sites. Here you will pay $25 a night with a 14 day maximum stay.
The last camp site which is (site A) has no hookups available. It has 25 sites available. all three of these campgrounds are all first come first serve only. The good news is that the campground facilities have bathrooms which are absolutely huge,clean,and have showers. The bad news is, since it is a first come first serve only, you may or may not find a site. They were full when we arrived, except by some miracle, there were 2 available sites in site B. One we got, and the other went to the people who were behind us. You can also take advantage of group day use as well. There are 2 day use group areas which are available also. It has a minimum of 20 people and a maximum of 200. It has the same amenities as the group campground and you can reserve this area as well. Good news about both group sites, they have flush restrooms and showers.
Camping is not the only thing available, you can also take advantage of some of the many wonderful hikes and site seeing as well. We arrived later than we expected so I was itching to do at least something before sun down, so I decided to take off walking towards the Romero Ruins with Bailey. Derek stayed behind and napped a little. I was so amazed to find a wash just before the trail head. It was so refreshing to walk barefoot in the sand. The Ruins were amazing to see. The scenery of the mountains and all the wonderful cacti and flowers were so breathtaking. The saguaro's were so abundant as well. I was able to capture some amazing pictures also. I am not a fan of camping around a lot of people, but I have to say the sites were spaced enough apart for complete privacy. It was very quiet and relaxing. I have had so many experiences where we have been kept up half of the night with other drunk campers in the area. You could have heard a pin drop that night. All in all, I would recommend this park not just for it's great camping, scenery, hiking, but for it's cleanliness, and hospitality it's employees have provided. A personal camp host takes you right to your camp spot. What other camp ground does that? Happy Camping everyone. http://azstateparks.com/Parks/CATA/index.html

Montezuma Well

Well, when I first started this blog, I intended it to be for camping advice, but since I find myself doing more traveling than camping lately why not write about my recent adventures. Due to the weather conditions in Flagstaff, Arizona over this past weekend, my husband and I were not able to visit the Wupatki National Monument just outside of Flagstaff. This is just one site of the three we did not attend. Since we had conquered all others in Flagstaff, we decided to travel south on Interstate 17 on our way home to see if anything of interest stood out. We saw a sign for Montezuma Well and thought, "what the heck" let's see what's it's all about. To our delight, we ended up enjoying every minute of this fantastic site.
Montezuma Well is sometimes referred to as "The living Desert Oasis" It was formed some 11,000 years ago. It is 365ft across and 55ft deep. Some of the early inhabitants are the Hohokam and the Sinagua Indians. The Hohokam Indians were said to have existed there around 600 A.D. and the Sinagua Indians around 1125 A.D. Scientists are not exactly sure what drove the Indians out, but they believe it was due to fear of war, disease, crop failure or even intra-villiage rivalry. In 1853, the first white man arrived at Montezumas Well. They found the vilage abandoned except for some local Indians living there. It wasn't until April of 1947 that it became a national monument. Once you arrive, you will be happy to know that it is free to visit here. Donations are accepted and much appreciated of course. There is a slight climb to the top of the overlook of the well, but when you get there, it pretty neat to see. They have stands with an overview of the history all along the entire path. You will see cliff dwellings, turtles, ducks, and even the irrigation system that was built and is still running today. This is a must see site. I don't want to give much away, as I want you to see this for yourself.

Apache Lake, Arizona

One word come to mind when I think of Apache Lake and that is, "Beautiful". I know that just about anyone you ask ,who either lives in a different state, or just visiting Arizona, would say they have a lake just as equally beautiful they love to visit in there own state. But for me, the prettiest lake I have been to by far in Arizona, is Apache Lake.

Arizona is known for it's beautiful mountains, sunsets, and great weather. Of course there is much more, but these are just a few that come to mind. I have had the pleasure of visiting Apache Lake camping back in April of 2009, and early October 2009. The main campground area is Burnt Corral. We never did track the distance from the Marina to the campground, but if I had to guess, I would say about 7-10 miles. There are two ways to reach Apache Lake that I know of, and that is either along the historic Apache trail 88, or 188 from highway 87 north towards Payson, Arizona. If you travel from Mesa along the Apache Trail 88, some of the places you will see, is the Superstition Wilderness area, Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat's, Fish Creek Vista, Apache lake Marina, Burnt Corral Campground, and just as you make the turn onto 188 ,the majestic Roosevelt Lake. Apache Lake has been said to be the Jewel of the Salt River Lakes. The colorful rock formations stand so tall and majestic. It is a sight you just have to see for yourself. Now let me tell you about all the cool stuff you will find near this lake. First off, you have the marina and resort. Might I add, the workers there, are all so personable and welcoming. The lake is only closed two days out of the year, and can you guess why? Well if you said Xmas and thanksgiving, you are right. But hey, they are entitled to a break right?. They have a restaurant and lounge (with seating outside facing the lake), how cool is that. They have motel rooms and suites, full service marina with boat rentals, bait shop, and a gas dock. The have a campground with full RV hookup, as well as cable TV. There is a general store with most everything, and to include firewood and ice.

Since this lake and campround are situated in the Tonto National Forest, it does require a permit. I am told you can buy them at the resort, but I did not confirm. I will attach a link to TNF, as you will find a listing as to what merchants sell them. They are good for every twenty four hours.

Burnt Coral campground, which is located about 7-10 miles north past the marina, is really nice. You will find a cement picnic table, fire ring in your camp site, and if your lucky, a water spigot as well. You will find bathrooms throughout, and a friendly camp host. Don't just take it from me, please go visit Apache lake for yourself. Here are some great links. http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/home.shtml

http://www.apachelake.com/

Crown King, Arizona

Anyone up for some yummy homemade fudge? Well, this is just one of the many things I took advantage of while traveling through the town of Crown King, Arizona, just a couple weeks back. I find it truly fulfilling to have a husband who equally shares my interest in just short day trips at the spur of the moment. My sister Chris rode along with us on this trip as well.
Crown King, which is shortened from it's original name Crowned King Mine, is nestled in the Bradshaw mountains in the Prescott National Forest. There is plenty of history to learn from this old mining ghost town. If you arrive at Crown King hungry or thirsty, don't worry they have you covered at the CK Saloon, established in 1906 and CK Cafe. The bar is stocked and the menu has some great choices. If your a vegetarian, don't worry they have veggie burgers, and they go great with an ice cold beer. If your in the mood for fudge, visit the CK general store. I am not kidding, they have fabulous fudge and so many varieties. They will ship this fudge to wherever you would like also. What a great idea for birthday's or even Christmas. Don't forget to take advantage of the many wonderful souvenirs they have as well. I walked out of there with fudge, and two books. The prices are very reasonable as well. If you would like more information on CK, please visit their site at www.crownking.com
Lodging and Camping are just some of the many amenities they offer.

Dispersed Recreation Camping

This is referred to as camping away from a developed area, on public land. Although I may camp at designated campgrounds from time to time, I prefer this way. Most developed campgrounds, come with many features such as runnung water spigets, toilets, fire rings, trash facilities, and picnic tables. When you do dispersed camping, you must bring your own items. This may be okay for some, but if you are a beginner camper, you may want to stick with developed campgrounds. This way, you have the amenities provided, so that you don’t have to take out extra expenses for. With disperse camping, comes pretty strict rules. Most are just common sense, but some you must know about ,by doing some research ahead of time, by pulling up your local BLM, and forest service information online. Remember the song “this land is your land, this land is my land”?, well it’s true, this is our land, so let’s keep it clean and thriving for generations to come. Here are some good rules to follow, not just for dispersed camping, but whenever you go camping:

Dispersed camping is only allowed for specific duration. Check online, or contact your local BLM, or forest service areas ahead of time.
Camp at least 200 feet from any running water, such as lakes and streams.
No camping on private property, unless you have been given permission by the owner of the land.
Obey all signs.
Never dispose of refuse, waste, gray water, or anything hazardous that would pollute the area you are in.
Stay on designated roadways. Never create your own path, as this can destroy precious plant and animal life.
Always bury any animal and human waste ,about 200 feet out, and at about six to seven inches underground.
Pick up all your trash, and take it with you.
No camping within one-fourth of a mile from any watering hole, or tank hole. This will ensure that any animal, that relies on this water ,will not be denied.
Only gather wood that is on the ground for your campfire. Cutting down a tree for firewood, is illegal.
You as well as children, should know about fire safety. Always use a fire ring when building a fire. With disperse d camping ,you will likely have to build your own.
Never bathe in any local lake, stream, or watering hole/tank.
Always use common sense, and be respectful to people as well as plants and animals.
Whatever you pack in, you must pack out. It wouldn’t hurt to pack out just a little more of what others may have left behind.

Types of sleeping bags

I have to admit something. About two months ago, my husband and I went camping near Mormon Lake in Arizona, and I did not bring a sleeping bag. I figured since it is almost summer, I could get away with just bringing a blanket to sleep in. To my dismay, I froze my butt off. It got down to 40 degrees that night, and I could hardly regain any comfort. I have to express how important it is to bring a sleeping bag camping no matter what. In doing my research over the years, I have learned that there are basically two styles of sleeping bags, the rectangular, and the mummy.
The rectangle sleeping bag, is an older style bag which provides a lot of leg room and cushion. The good news with this style of bag is, that it can be zipped with an equal style bag to fit two people inside. The bad news is, that no matter how you roll it up, it takes up a lot of space. This style of bag is not as warm as the mummy bag.
The mummy sleeping bag is the most popular bag used especially for colder climates. Because of its cocoon shape, it allows you to maintain an equal body temperature throughout the night. Once you are in this style of bag, you can use the drawn sting to close the bag around your head only exposing your nose and mouth. I would not recommend this type of sleeping bag to someone who is claustrophobic. The best thing to do is when you are looking to purchase the right type of sleeping bag, make sure you follow these few principles:
-Check the weather ahead of time, so you have an idea what the temperature will be at night. If you purchase a sleeping bag that is expected to keep you warm at zero degree temperatures, and it’s only 70 degrees at night, you will probably wake up sweating and miserable.
-Look for good filling material. Currently there is synthetic fill and down fill. Synthetic is more cost effective, but down is warmer but more expensive.
-Look for the temperature rating on the tag affixed to the bag. Best thing to do is plan for an extra ten degrees to be on the safe side
-Look for tuck stitching on the bag. This is where the fabric is folded inward and the stitch is on the inside. This will make for better insulation.
-Make sure the bag you purchase will be long enough for you to fit comfortably in.
-Always check with a camping specialist if you visit a sporting goods store, as they tend to provide some good advice. If you purchase online, make sure you do your research first. As always, Happy Camping America.

Campgrounds and Cabins along Highway 260 in Arizona

I had the opportunity this past weekend to take notice of some wonderful places situated along highway 260 from Payson to Heber, AZ. Although I did not have a chance to visit all places, I did do a little research on the ones I passed. I hope that you find some of this information useful. The stretch from Payson to Heber along highway 260, is absolutely breath taking. The abundance of pine trees and fabulous weather are very popular among all types of motorists. More often than none, your sure to see elk crossing the highway. Just watch your speed as you drive along the winding stretch of highway. There are several passing lanes to allow for faster motorists.
A few miles up, and approx 17 miles from Payson, is Kohl's Ranch. This is a fabulous getaway for both children, adults, and pet's, Yes pet's. Here you will find creek side cabins, ranch lodge rooms, horseback riding, swimming, hot tubs, tennis, basketball, shuffleboard, steakhouse and saloon, and much much more. One nice thing is, this is also a pet friendly lodge. Only special rooms are available though. For more information on this great getaway, call them at 800-331-KOHL or locally at 928-478-4211. or visit http://www.ilxresorts.com/
Just up aways, we came upon Ponderosa Campground. Although I have never camped here, I took a drive through the campsite today. This is a great campground for many reasons. the first thing you will notice is the tall beautiful ponderosa pine trees. They tower above. There are 61 campsites available. Here are the amenities you will get. The site itself comes with a fire ring and table. There are bathrooms facilities and water spigots throughout. You will also find trash receptacles as well. I noticed when we first drove in, there was firewood for sale. Although I didn't take note of the fee, I did notice the fee for camping which is $16 per night. It may seem expensive at first, but after you look at how clean and spacious the campsites are, you will most likely think to yourself, it sure beats paying for a cabin which can run anywhere from $130-$280 a night. This campground said FULL when we arrived. It is first come first serve. If you click this link http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto/recreation/rec-camping-index.shtml, this will give you some helpful info on fees, passes, etc. Tonto National Forest may require you to purchase a pass before you camp. It appears that Ponderosa Campground, collects it's fee on the spot. Also check out group campsites there as well.
Traveling on, I came across Tonto Creek. This is a place I have camped, hiked, and had picnics at growing up. This creek flows year round. Although you cannot camp right on the creek, you can camp pretty close. The sound of the flowing water is so relaxing, and the abundance of surrounding wildlife is breath taking If you stay on the same main road along the creek, you will end up at the Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery. Although this facility is closed to fishing, you can learn a thing or two about fish production. Here they raise several species of trout. One of the many creeks they stock, is the very own Tonto Creek. If your into bird watching and photography, here is the area to notice. For more information on Tonto Creek or the hatchery, contact the Payson ranger station at 928-474-7900.
Not far from Tonto Creek, is small town called Christopher Creek. My husband and I have stayed at Christopher Creek lodge. This was an awesome trip. They have individual cabins nestled right along the creek. The quiet atmosphere, along with the sound of the creek, was great. You can take nature walks as well as sit on your porch and watch birds and squirrels. Not far from there, is Christopher Creek Campground. This campground sign is visible from the highway 260. It is a first come, first serve campground, which means it is likely you will see a full sign come Saturdays during the summer months. There are 43 units which include, Picnic tables, toilets, grill, fire ring, trash service, and water. You can also fish for trout in the creek that runs through the campground. Fees are $15 and $7 for additional vehicles. For more information contact the ranger station at 928-474-7999. http://www.christophercreeklodge.com/
Another great campground is Canyon Point Campground. It is situated in the Apache- Sitgreaves National Forest about 14 miles west of Heber. They have 88 units ,of which 32 have electricity. Tents, trailers and motor homes are welcome, as long as you don't exceed 75 feet. Here you will find group sites, amphitheatre, grills, picnic tables, water, shower facilities, flushing toilets, RV sanitary facility, paved road, and a wonderful camp host. To get a copy of the fee schedule checkout this link . I would advise you vist this site regarding group reservations. http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/recreation/campgrounds/devcamp/devcamp_canyon.shtml

Sharp Creek Campground is located about 23 miles northeast of Payson just off highway 260. Here you will find 28 campsites to include, toilet, water, picnic tables, grill, fire ring, lantern holder, and firewood for sale at $6.00 a bundle. $20 for the first vehicle and then $10 for the second. This is usually open between Mid April -End of October. For more info on this campground contact the ranger station at 928-474-7900 or visit www.fs.fed.us/r3/tonto

Rustic Rim Hideaway Cabins located near Woods Canyon Lake in a town called Forrest Lakes, which is about 36 miles east of Payson. This is a great getaway place for summer, spring, fall, or winter. They have fully stocked cabins They are kid and pet friendly, but you must bring your own blanket for Fido. For more information on this location call them at 888-801-9030 or 928-535-9030 or on the web at http://www.rim-hideaway.com/

Black Canyon Lake is situated amongst the Apache- Sitgreaves National Forest about 15 miles southwest of Heber. It was built by the game and fish dept. back in the 60's to provide recreation to the public. With the devastation of the Rodeo-Chedeski fire back in 2002, it is only a day use picnic and fishing area. There are some amenities you will find such as parking area, restrooms, and boat ramp. If you plan on boating, they will allow 10 hp gas motor, or single electric motor only, There is camping nearby at Black Canyon Rim Campground which has 21 sites, toilets, water and gravel road access. Just a couple miles down is Gentry Camprgound, which has only 6 sites, toilet, water, and gravel road access. Both are a fee use area, and no reservations are needed.

As always, please obey all fire restrictions. Just a few years back, the Apache- Sitgreaves National Forest and Tonto National Forest, suffered a devastating human made fire, which burned thousands of precious acres of land. We want to keep this beautiful land for years and years to come.

Before traveling to any of these places, be sure to check ahead of time for any restrictions and fee schedule changes. The internet or the rangers stations can provide all the information you need. Happy traveling everyone.

Setting up Camp

Whenever I roll into camp, the first thing I do is check out the area. You want to make sure you are camping at a reasonable distance from the next camper to allow some privacy. Check the ground for any glass, nails, animal feces, rocks, cacti, or any type of obstruction. It is also a good idea to look for water. Most campsites have water spigots which allows you to have access to free water during your stay. If there is a camp host, ask where the water is. Once you set up your whole campsite, there is no turning back. Whether you camp in desert climates or wooded areas, look for flat areas where you can find shade from trees or bushes. I like to set up my whole campsite right away, that way I can get it done and relax.
This is my personal step by step method I use for setting up camp, but you choose what works best for you.
The first thing I do is set up my tent. Depending on the style of tent you use, this could be the most time consuming part of setting up. I will go over types of tents later on. Once you have your tent up, this will allow for all your blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, clothing, air mattress, and any other personal items you want stored and out of the way. The next thing I unpack is my camping kitchen. Whomever created them, was a genius. I am able to organize all my kitchen items. The next thing is to unpack all camp chairs, put together your toilet, put up a portable shower, put up the canopy, and set out all other Misc items. Don't forget to put out a garbage bag right away. I usually find a tree branch that is just aways from camp, so you don't get bothered by bees and flies. Make sure you pack out everything you packed in when your ready to leave. Here are a couple of good tips to remember:

Flies, ants, and bees are always unwelcoming guests when camping. Make sure you store your food above ground. Make sure you keep lids on all containers, including any food or garbage cans you may bring. Bees love to fly around used pop and beer cans. If you hang a garbage bag, try using the drawstring kind to keep it as closed as possible. Always pick up animal waste as soon as you see it, if you don't, you will see more flies than you knew existed. Happy Camping Everyone.

Food and beverage at the Campsite

When it comes to food and beverage the sky is the limit on what you can bring. If you are like me and have been camping for years, you probably remember the only style of cooking was on the old portable gas stove or even straight onto the campfire. while some find nothing wrong with this except, we have moved into the 21st century of cooking and that means cooking in style, and doing it in the outdoors, is no exception. Today you can literally buy cordless appliances such as auto drip coffee makers, blenders, grills, fryers, cookers, skillets, and ovens, yes ovens. So really these appliances have taken the guess work out of preparing food. You will pack what you like, here is a basic checklist of some of my must haves and favorites:

Meat (chicken, beef, pork, lunch meat, fish), bread, eggs, milk, coffee, chips, salad (potato,macaroni, house), pickles, olives, bacon, sausage, butter,salad dressing, potatoes (canned, instant, or raw), popcorn, fruit, juice, peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and cheese, soup, crackers, beans (canned),cheese, snacks (nuts, chocolate, dried fruit), soda, condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, salt, pepper), bottled water.

Some good packing tips:
Uncooked foods like chicken, beef, and pork should be kept at a safe temperature at all times until your ready to cook. They should be kept at temperatures below 51oF. It is best to store these items in an insulated cooler by themselves in safe proof containers. If you don't want to mess with raw meats, try cooking them at home first and then reheat later. Preparing sandwiches ahead of time, saves time and space. Try using plastic baggies for some of your items. Pack the non perishable items in a plastic tub, or even a box. Pack the perishable items in a separate cooler than the meat and beverages. If your wondering what type of ice to pack in, try block ice as it last longer than cubed or crushed. Save all excess water from your cooler in case you run out. I don't recommend this for drinking purposes.

Camp Fires

What is camping without a campfire? The smell of burning logs, the social gatherings, the story telling. When fires are permitted, it usually makes the whole camping trip worth it. Most campfires are made either at the crack of dawn, or just as the sun is setting. Just how do you make a proper campfire? Most campsites already provide a ring or a pit as they call it. This allows you to know exactly where your fire will be for the duration of your stay. If you are not staying in a camp facility where there is not a designated ring or pit, you will have to make your own, and you must ensure you follow some strict rules. Know the fire restrictions in your area. Here in Arizona we have a lot of them and for a good reason. It is HOT and Dry. If Smokey The Bear says "NO FIRES" he means it. If you have the A- okay here are some good tips to follow:



Never allow children to run around an open fire. Never let a child feed the fire with wood. They should only be allowed near a campfire with a responsible adult.

Gather only wood you see on the ground. Don't chop down the nearest tree, as fresh wood is harder to burn, and it's illegal.

You can also buy store bought wood, which usually costs about $5 a bundle, and last only about an hour, so I suggest you stock up.

Gather bark, pine needles, and small pieces of wood which are already on the ground, as this makes great kindling. You can also use good ole fashioned newspaper.

Make sure you have all the wood you need, so you don't start the fire and leave it unattended, why your out looking for more wood.

When building your fire, make sure you are about 6-8 feet away from any hanging branches, twigs, trees, leaves, and flammable things such as propane, or gasoline.

Make sure you have a supply of water by your fire, in case it starts to get out of control.

Have a camp shovel and Axe, or even a chainsaw.

Place kenneling in your pit tee pee style. This will allow air flow up the middle. Once you have this going, then gradually add larger pieces of wood until your fire reaches a safe burn.

Don't throw anything into the fire, that gives off toxins such as plastic and Styrofoam.

If the fire is out of control and you cannot get a handle on it, "DON'T PANIC". Try to put it out, or call or drive for help. It's a good idea to know exactly where your camped, in case you have to call for help. If you panic, you might not be able to tell the person on the other line where your at.

Completely put the fire out before going to bed. You can pour water or dirt, or both on it. If you still hear the fire crackle, it's not out.

When you are leaving, make sure that the cleanup process also involves removing any garbage you left in the fire pit.

Please be responsible when it comes to campfires. As Smokey The Bear says, "Only you can prevent forest fires".