You’re quite correct in thinking we’ve never been here before. In fact we didn’t know it existed and had not intended to stop here. IF I’ve learned anything these past few days it’s the value of being flexible (in mind… the body’s not that flexible anymore :-) and not making too many firm (as in paid in advance) reservations along our intended route. It turns out most would have had room for us if we’d only called the night before seeking refuge.
So, with new lesson in mind… when we stopped at our intended site for last night, we were struck by several observations. First impression: McConnell State Recreation Area was beautiful; rustic sites in a forest setting along side a tributary of a larger river, and lots of birdsong. Who could ask for anything more? That’s when a seedy looking character opened the latrine door of the washroom facility next to where we had stopped, and proceeded to pull up his sweatpants while he wandered out to the pickup truck and buddy who was waiting for him. Not sure what was dragging on the ground when they drove off, but the truck didn’t sound all that healthy. Once they’d left, we took another look at the place and realized a few facts. 1) There was no one else there. The place was absolutely empty. 2) There had been no one on duty and no park host or phone number at the entrance… you know, to call if you have a problem. 3) There was no power at any of the ‘rustic’ sites and, therefore, no opportunity to prevent frostbite overnight with our little heater. And, finally, 4) the only living creature larger than a bird present was a rather large, farm dog who had already spotted Maddie in the truck and apparently had no intention of leaving. He actually was sort of stocking us as we cruised slowly around the circle of empty sites.
You guessed it. We decided to high-tail it out of there and find somewhere a tad more civilized for last night. We might try there again some time. It really is beautiful but just not for us this time.
Down the road we moseyed and about 12 miles south of there we discovered the Merced Elks RV Park, one of the very few Elks RV Parks allowing non-members to stay. The people were very nice, the site is wonderful (we love flat or almost flat sites for our one-nighters. We don’t have to unhook the truck unless we want to.) and we were able to set up our chairs and enjoy warm sunshine for the first time since last summer. Yahoo!!!!
Today, is cold but sunny so far and the sun is supposed to stay out for the rest of the week. We are happy. We head out shortly to get ourselves down to the Orange Grove RV Park in Bakersfield. We’ve been there many times before and word is the oranges are ripe. The RV sites are situated inside an orange tree grove and guests are invited to help themselves…. Yummy. Will sign off now. We are fine and hoping all is well with each of you. Have a good and warm day. CJ 😎🌝
