From the Driver's Seat: Nothing Is Perfect II - Summer Camping

I never intended for the "From the Driver's Seat" to focus on the negative aspects of this lifestyle; however, for those that my be interested in choosing to travel for an extended amount of time, I feel as if I should include all truths associated with doing so. During the summer camping season, I have found a distinct change in the overall camping experience. Some I would consider to be bad luck, but when certain issues occur on a regular basis, good or bad luck no longer applies.

As I have mentioned many times, we prefer to disperse camp as much as possible. In general, the campsites are larger, which, in theory, make them more private. Campground etiquette is to stay clear, as best you can, of other sites. We have found that some people will walk right by another's camper if it's more convenient to do so, instead of walking around. We have experienced people looking into our camper window as they pass just feet from us. 

Another benefit of camping in remote areas is the tranquility. Views for miles and hearing nature in all its glory is definitely a highlight. That is, until all you can hear is a nearby generator. With today's technology of solar panels and batteries, a generator seems outdated. If you need it for emergency power, that's one thing. But running a generator consistently is total overkill. We have moved locations on numerous occasions, but the echo can carry further than you would think. Why camp remotely if you plan to make all the noise associated with a populated area? While on the subject, I must mention that generator usage is not just in remote areas. We have stayed at organized campgrounds that offer electric hookup for a nominal charge. We have seen some campers forego the upcharge to have electric and instead run their generators. With today's gas prices, it would cost them more in the end, but you will see it happen over and over.

At some areas, there are signs at the entrance stating the rules, and they are generally the same in most places. "Common sense," in my opinion, should be listed on the rules.

One of the rules is to leash or have dogs under control. This particular rule is broken more than followed. I must say that I love dogs, but that doesn't mean I want a wet dog jumping on me with muddy paws. Also, I understand that it is a dog's nature to protect it's turf. The problem arises when you take a walk and you are greeted by aggresive dogs charging toward you with no owner in sight. Another scenario is that the owner is there, but states the dog is friendly. The dog may be friendly toward the owner, but the dog's growl is telling the walker differently. Lastly, when roaming feely, dogs don't know campsite boundaries. Doing their "business" right outside your camper with the owner being unaware, is extremely annoying. If we wanted a dog, we would own one ourselves. One last experience I had was grabbing something out of my truck at night. I was greeted in the dark by a 70-80 lb German shepherd just feet from me. I firmly shouted for the dog to go home, but if the dog didn't obey, I would have been in a serious situation. I am not sure why leashing a dog is so easy to do, but ignored so often.

Look at the tranquil picture of our dispersed camping spot.

Now imagine someone pulling into the area next to it and running a loud generator for several hours or, even worse, all night!

Or, letting their dog out of their truck, and the dog runs directly to your camper barking aggressively.

Generally speaking, camping can mean different things to different people. I personally enjoy the freedom of being a part of nature and being sure to leave no trace. Being able to enjoy the wide open spaces and peace and quiet is what I believe is a major part of the camping experience. Taking a sunset walk or hearing the lapping of water from a lake, river, or ocean, is a fringe benefit of this lifestyle. However, loose dogs, generators, and people invading my space can change everything. There has been more than one occasion where we have questioned our lifestyle choice after some of these experiences. I would find it a shame to end our dream prematurely due to others not following the rules or etiquette. The rules are there for a reason, so everyone can enjoy the camping experience.