Affordable Camping Gear Blog! » sleeping bags

Joe the camper — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:43:16 +0000

GunslingerTM Corral Hunting Holster Product Review

I know I’m not the only one that finds it difficult keeping a rifle slung on one’s shoulder while maintaining one’s balance climbing over rocks and deadfalls, or crossing creeks and logs, or low crawling to that ideal vantage point. And it sure seems like the rifle picks the most inopportune time to slip, clanking against a rock and dinging the scope or stock.

It’s just always been something that as hunters we’ve had to put up with — until now. Enter the Gunslinger Corral from New Frontier Products, a simple device that attaches to any belt, from a standard pants belt to the belt on a back pack, and if you’re a suspender man and don’t have a belt, well it comes with its own.

This isn’t a gimmick, it really works. I could write a few hundred more words about it, and I will just as soon as I’m back from my Canadian Moose hunt, but watching the Gunsligner Corral video will demonstrate what a great product this is. And just in time for hunting season. Affordable hunting gear.

Firearms!!

Joe the camper — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 21:52:42 +0000

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Camping Sites in Arizona 21

Joe the camper — Thu, 21 May 2009 17:28:06 +0000

Burnt Corral at Apache Lake
Arizonians love their desert lakes, and one the most spectacular is Apache Lake along the Apache Trail. The long, narrow body of water allows boaters access to remote desert wilderness. The Burnt Corral Campground offers aquatic sports enthusiasts the opportunity to moor their boat right at campsite, as the tents line the eastern shore of the lake. Shade from the sweltering summer sun is at a minimum, but the cool lake water is only a few feet away.
Don’t miss it: The drive up Apache Trail is one of the most scenic and breathtaking in Arizona.

Directions: Take SR 88 north from Apache Junction to reach the campsite.

More info: Tonto Basin Ranger District, 520-467-3200

Bonito
I look upward and marvel at the profile of the multi-storied structure as it embraces the clear, azure sky. Built entirely of red sandstone, the Wukoki Ruin at Wupatki seems to be on fire as the rising sun envelops more and more of the building. You don’t have to be an anthropologist to be fascinated by the ruins of ancient Indian cultures. Here at Wupatki, you can observe the remains of the Anasazi and Sinagua architecture constructed almost 900 years ago. Bonito is the closest campground to pitch a tent while exploring the ruins. It has all the amenities, such as paved roads and an auditorium for campfire programs.

Directions: Take SR 89 north from Flagstaff for 12 miles. Turn east on FR 545 to reach the campground.

More info: Peaks Ranger Station, 520-526-0866

Camping Sites in Arizona 20

Joe the camper — Wed, 20 May 2009 05:52:58 +0000

Pinery Canyon
Chiricahua National Monument
So, the Bonita Campground at the Chiricahua National Monument is full and you had your heart set on spending the weekend hiking the monument’s numerous trails? There’s an easy and beautiful solution: Pinery Canyon. It’s cool and spacious, without the crowd of RVs that populate the monument. Located in towering pines, you have a great opportunity to see wildlife after returning from a hard day of hiking. Bears are known to roam Pinery Canyon, so appropriate precautions must be taken. (For me, a visit from the local bruins adds excitement to a pristine camping experience.) You’ll find it’s not necessary to go to the monument to find superior trails. Ida Peak and Pinery Horsefall are just two of the excellent hiking opportunities.

Directions: Take SR 196 south to its junction with SR 181. Turn left on SR 186 until you see the sign for Pinery Canyon (FR 42), just outside the entrance to the monument. Take FR 42 up to the campground.

More info: Douglas Ranger District, 520-364-3468

Honeymoon

It’s not necessary to be newly married to stay at the Honeymoon Campground. But now that I think about it, maybe a honeymoon in this wooded paradise is a good idea. (The name originates from the time a ranger brought his new bride to Eagle Creek.) The real attraction here is the remote location to put up your tent and a plethora of wildlife viewing opportunities. Over several years and visits, I’ve viewed javelina, turkeys, coyotes and bobcats in the surrounding wilderness. Hiking on East Eagle Creek and Robinson Mesa trails offers entertaining diversions. Oh, a bit of advice: Be sure your bride wasn’t expecting Hawaii before you decide to honeymoon at the campground.
Directions: Head north on SR 191 from Clifton. Take FR 217 for 21 miles to reach the campground.

More info: Clifton Ranger Station, 520-687-1301

Camping Sites in Arizona 18

Joe the camper — Sat, 16 May 2009 05:04:50 +0000

42. Idlewild
Chiricahua Mountains in southern Arizona
The Chiricahua Mountains are one of the most famous of the “sky islands” in southern Arizona, rising from the desert floor to elevations up to 9,600 feet. Components of the Sonoran Desert, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Madres come together to create a unique combination of flora and fauna that has captivated the scientific community for decades. Every spring, the Cave Creek section comes under scrutiny as birders descend into this ecological melting pot attempting to catch a glimpse of the elegant trogon. With a spectacular red breast and green metallic feathers on its upper parts, the trogon is one of the few tropical species in the continental United States.
Other rare species also are known to inhabit the Cave Creek area. Idlewild’s close proximity to the Southwest Research Center (managed by the Museum of Natural History in New York) makes it an excellent base of operations for birdwatchers.

Directions: Take SR 80 south from Interstate 10, then turn west to Portal. From Portal, take FR 42 west for two miles to the campground.

More info: Douglas Ranger District, 520-364-3468

43. Cattail Cove State Park
Lake Havasu
On a lake where rambunctious boat parties are common, this park offers one of the quieter camping experiences. Nice views of Lake Havasu are afforded by most of the somewhat smallish campsites. But visitors come for the boating and swimming, which are easily facilitated by a boat ramp, jetty and dock. After all, with the lake adding humidity to one of the state’s hottest temperature zones, hanging around the campground is the last thing you’ll want to do. The facilities are superb, with showers, a horseshoe pit and a playground for children.

Directions: Take SR 95 south from Lake Havasu City. Turn right at the sign for the park. Campsites can be accessed from any of the boat ramps on Lake Havasu, or from the boat ramp in the park.

More info: Cattail Cove State Park, 520-855-1223

44. Cattail Cove Boat-In
Lake Havasu
My friend John is riding the wake of the boat on a pair of water skis. The cool breeze washes over me as we skim the calm waters of Lake Havasu. I’m searching the shoreline for a secluded cove in which to set up camp. Spotting a likely location, I yell back toward Bob and point. Swerving toward the shore, Bob releases the line and coasts in. The east shore of Lake Havasu is your oyster — if you have a boat and camping supplies. The 140 campsites that can be accessed only by boat are spread over 15 miles of shoreline and offer a unique camping experience. Bob and I set up camp and return to the water for more skiing. Tonight, we’ll watch the stars come out and wait for the moon while pork chops sizzle on the barbecue.

Directions: Take SR 95 south from Lake Havasu City. Turn right at the sign for the park.

More info: Cattail Cove State Park, 520-855-1223

Camping Sites in Arizona 17

Joe the camper — Fri, 15 May 2009 06:57:39 +0000

Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge
Southern Arizona
It sometimes seems more liquid than flora: When the wind gusts, the grass ebbs and flows around my knees like the tide. Moving in, then sucking out. I watch a single gust of wind sweep across the grass like a wave in a turbulent sea. Radiating a golden luminescence in the fading sun, the rolling grasslands cascade against the distant mountains. I’m standing on dry land in the middle of an ocean at the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge, while obviously a place to observe a plethora of wildlife, offers a pristine camping experience in the savannahs of southern Arizona. All camping is backcountry and is permitted only at designated sites. A multitude of roads crisscross the deserted countryside, allowing travelers to find complete isolation.

Directions: Take SR 86 from Interstate 19; turn south on SR 286. Continue until you reach the sign for the refuge.

More info: Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, 520-823-4251

   West Stronghold
Dragoon Mountains in southeastern Arizona
     It’s easy to see why Apache chieftain Cochise chose to hide in the Dragoon Mountains while waging his personal war on white settlers. The Dragoons are a veritable maze of granite spires, yawning crevices and abrupt precipices. Balancing rocks and boulders, the size of small houses, are sprinkled across steep hillsides. Cochise successfully evaded the U.S. Army and lived comfortably off the land while holed up in the friendly confines of the West Stronghold for years.
     When I think about it, I realize I like the Stronghold for the same reasons. I can disappear from the maddening crowds, and although I don’t exactly live off the land, I enjoy camping here. There is no organized campground, but there is an abundance of natural campsites. Hole up next to the stream, surrounded by massive sycamores and barren canyon walls. Or withdraw to the wide, rolling grasslands that seem to cascade against the mountains. In the West Stronghold, the choices are abundant.

Directions: Take Middle March Road east from SR 80 just north of Tombstone. Turn left onto FR 687 and follow the signs.

More info: Douglas Ranger District, 520-364-3468

Camping Sites in Arizona 16

Joe the camper — Thu, 14 May 2009 06:39:40 +0000

Bog Spring
Madera Canyon
Serious birdwatchers flock to southern Arizona from all over the country to add to their life-lists. Fabulous Madera Canyon is one of their most popular destinations, as the lush canyon attracts a variety of species. Watch as a vermilion flycatcher does his bat imitation in the pursuit of airborne insects. Listen as a pyrrhuloxia (also known as a gray cardinal) announces your presence with a loud alarm. Monsoon rains in late summer sometimes precede an explosion of colorful butterflies in this mountain oasis. The canyon also offers hikers many choices with over 65 miles of trails. The cool, wooded campground proffers shaded campsites and a nature trail.

Directions: Take the Madera Canyon exit east from Interstate 19. Follow the signs to the campground.

More info: Nogales Ranger District, 520-281-2296

Patagonia Lake State Park
Southern Arizona
Moderate year-round temperatures and wooded, lakeside campsites are the attractions. A swimming beach and paved boat ramp are available, and nearby Sonoita Creek Trail offers recreation for hikers. As with all state parks, the modern facilities include showers.

Don’t miss it: My favorite activity is floating around the placid waters in a rented boat — while pretending to fish.

Directions: Take SR 82 from Nogales. At milepost 12, turn west onto a paved access road until you reach the park.

More info: Patagonia Lake State Park, 520-287-6965

Hawley Lake
East of McNary
First light barely penetrates the tent fly. I roll out of my sleeping bag, crawl through the doorof my camping tent and grab my rod ‘n’ reel. I hear the faint cries of distant coyotes carried on the still morning air as I barefoot gingerly down to the shore. The smooth surface of the lake reflects the rich reds of sunrise as I rear back and send out a near-perfect cast. My fly sends out a series of small ripples when it alights on the water. A trout rises up and takes the fly almost immediately. Ah, breakfast on the hook. Where can you fish right out of your front door? You guessed it, here at Hawley Lake. The campsites are arranged around its edge, giving campers a feeling of near-isolation even when the campground is full. Gotta go; the frying pan is hot!

Directions: Take SR 260 east from McNary. Turn right on Route 473 and drive until you get to the campground.

More info: White Mountain Apache Reservation, 520-338-4385

Camping Sites in Arizona 15

Joe the camper — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:00:28 +0000

Cutthroat at Big Lake
White Mountains
There is a place where ponderosa pine and quaking aspen trees surround the azure water of a wide and gentle lake. Deer and elk come down to drink the clear water and the fish, well, they jump right into your boat. No, this place isn’t in Colorado or even Wyoming, but is high in the White Mountains of Arizona at Big Lake. And while at Big Lake, I prefer to avoid the cavalcade of RVs by camping in the “tents only” campground at Cutthroat. Facilities at Cutthroat are modern and the visitor center offers scheduled programs. For alpine camping and fishing, it is hard to beat Big Lake. (Oh, by the way. I was just kidding about the fish jumping right into your boat; you actually have to fish for them.)

Don’t miss it: My favorite activity is floating around the lake in a rented boat, while my daughter prefers renting a horse for a leisurely ride through the green aspens.

Directions: Take SR260 from Eager, turning south at the junction of SR 261. Follow the signs for Big Lake.

More info: Springerville Ranger District 520-333-4372

Picacho Peak State Park
South of Phoenix

A f ield of golden desert poppies carpets the desert floor, swirling in a slight breeze. The blue bells of desert lupine are interspersed amongst the undulating yellow cover of flowers. Pale, pink mountain mallow glisten sporadically in the washes. Saguaro cactus and green palo verde trees rise up from the bajada ahead. Towering over the entire scene, solitary and majestic, is Picacho Peak. Located on I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson, the campground offers a convenient spot for travel weary visitors to rest and enjoy a spectacular desert vista. More adventurous travelers may want to hike to the top of the peak.

Don’t miss it: The desert in springtime is an inspiring sight, and the one the best places to view it is at Picacho Peak State Park.

Directions: Look for the Picacho Peak exit on I-10 about 40 miles south of Phoenix.
More info: Picacho Peak Sate Park 520-446-3183

Lost Dutchman State Park
Superstition Mountains

The name Jacob Walz, known as the “Lost Dutchman,” is one of the most famous in Arizona lore. His mythical gold mine, buried deep in the aptly named Superstition Mountains, still fascinates treasure-seekers today. Geologists and park rangers insist there is no gold to be found in the Superstitions, but this doesn’t stop scores of professional and amateur prospectors from scouring the hillsides and draws in search of the lost mine. The campground at the base of the mountains offers a fantastic view of the legendary mountain range, as well as a perfect starting point for hikes through scenic desert vistas.

Don’t miss it: My favorite hike is the Siphon Draw Trail that climbs to the top of the mountain range, affording awe-inspiring views of the surrounding wilderness.

Directions: Take the Apache Trail (SR 88) out of Apache Junction and turn right at the sign for the park.

More info: Lost Dutchman State Park, 602-982-4485

Camping Sites in Arizona 14

Joe the camper — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:31:18 +0000

Bright Angel Campground
Grand Canyon backcountry
For a while the spectacular ever-changing views compensate for the pounding my legs an knees take as I descend the long trail. As the miles roll by, the pack on my back seems heavier, and my quadriceps begin to burn. To me, hiking continually downhill always seems more taxing than the uphill journey. At the end of the 18 miles trail, the campground at Bright Angel awaits, shining in the growing dark like a beacon to my weary and battered body. This is certainly one of those situations where the destination is as rewarding as the journey. Located in the amazing inner gorge, Bright Angel is one of the most incredible backpacking campsites in the world.

Don’t miss it: The canyon walls glow deep, glorious shades of reds as twilight slowly encroaches on the day.

Directions: Bright Angel can be reached from the south rim on the Bright Angel trail, or the from the north rim via the Kaibab trail.

More info:Grand Canyon NP 520-638-7875

Horseshoe Reservoir
Cave Creek
Boaters, fishermen, birdwatchers, and hikers are all attracted by the recreational opportunities available at Horseshoe Reservoir. Although this is a wonderful place to do some quiet fishing, my favorite activity is bird watching. Bald and golden eagles are often sighted in the tops of the tall sycamores. I have spent many an hour leaning back in a lawn chair watching an eagle’s activity with binoculars. The spacious campground is located in a thick and lush mesquite thicket. So bring your boat, fishing rod, hiking boots and binoculars; Horseshoe has got it all. You will have plenty of places to set up your camping tent.

Don’t miss it: Across the dam is some of the wildest and isolated country in the state; determined bushwhackers may be rewarded by a fleeting glimpse of a lion or bobcat.

Directions: Take Cave Creek Road from carefree and turn right on FR 19. Turn left on FR 205 and drive to the junction of FR 205A. Turn right to reach the campground.

More info:Cave Creek Ranger District 602-488-3441

Upper Canyon Creek
Pleasant Valley
The wind gusting through the tall ponderosa pines whispers something I can’t quite make out. The leaves caught in the current of the bubbling creek make lazy circles in the eddy below. Just beneath the surface, silent shadows of elusive brown trout periodically catch my eye. Canyon Creek lies in the shadow of the Mogollon Rim, offering solitude and peace (and an occasional trout) to those who seek to escape the beaten path. The backcountry campsites are dispersed along the creek.

Miss it: Intermittent visits from the local bruin population require the usual precautions. (After all, this isn’t Jellystone and that large black bear pawing through my food box isn’t Yogi.)

Directions: Take FR512 toward Young from SR260. Turn left onto FR33 to reach the campground.

More info:Pleasant Valley ranger District 520-462-3311

Camping Sites in Arizona 13

Joe the camper — Mon, 11 May 2009 23:06:40 +0000

Granite Basin
Prescott
Just outside the city of Prescott is an outdoor paradise offering a cornucopia of activities. If angling is your sport, cast a line into the sheltered enclave of Granite Lake. Technical rock climbers are fascinated by the endless routes (with all degrees of difficulty) traversing the steep inclines of Granite Mountain. Hikers can be alone with their thoughts in the Granite Mountain Wilderness. The campground at Granite Basin is located at 5,600 feet in the heart of this outdoor Garden of Eden. This is a great place to set up your camping tent.

Directions: In Prescott, take Gurley Street west to Grove Avenue. Follow Grove to Iron Springs Road and turn left. From Iron Springs, turn left onto FR 374 and follow it for four miles until you reach the campground.

More info: Bradshaw Ranger District, 520-445-7253

Sheep’s Crossing
Tonto National Forest
In 1943, the Flagstaff Sheep Company fabricated Red Point Sheep Bridge to minimize losses when herds crossed the unpredictable Verde River. After years of use by local cowboys and sheep ranchers, it was declared a safety hazard and disassembled. The state of Arizona, noting the suspension bridge’s historical significance, later had it reassembled, creating a bizarre backcountry destination. Although the camping facilities are undeveloped, many beautiful, natural campsites can be found along the Verde River.

Don’t miss it: Relax in the bubbling, natural hot springs found on the northwestern side of the river.

Directions: Take FR 24 north out of the Cave Creek area for 33 miles until you reach the Bloody Basin junction. Turn east on FR 269. This road is not maintained and requires a vehicle with high ground clearance, but fantastic desert scenery makes the bumps less noticeable.

More info: Cave Creek Ranger District, 602-488-3441

Seven Springs
Tonto National Forest
A perennial, crystal clear stream, towering sycamore and cottonwood trees are all ingredients that lend themselves to form a pristine summer getaway for desert dwellers. The stream is too shallow to present a danger to children above the age of toddler, so the sound of laughing and splashing along the shores of Cave Creek is a constant serenade. Several short trails originate from the campground.

Don’t miss it: A small and secluded sandy beach about a half mile upstream is one of my favorite spot to while away a sunny afternoon. Tying up a hammock in the heavily wooded campground and reading a good book is another attractive alternative.

Directions: From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road north for 24 miles to reach the campground.

More info: Cave Creek Ranger District 602-488-3441