Ping Pam S

Question:

After the rain last night, I just took the day off, I hate mowing wet grass, and checked out the campgrounds. I had a good drive checking things out. Out on the refuge I saw the usual buffalo and long horn cattle, and had to stop at one point to let some long horns cross the road, mamas with the little babies. You don’t get to see the wildlife on post, of course, but I did have to slow down for a turkey hen to cross the road. Good / Bad news sort of thing. Bad news is that neither campgrounds accept reservations for tent camping. The people I talked to doubt that they’d be full, but both are first come first serve for tents. IMO, the campground on the Refuge is nicer. It’s located in a grove of trees, for one thing, while the one on post is pretty much out in the open. Also, the refuge has individual sites, while on post there’s just an area for tents and you can put up the tent wherever you can squeeze in. The one on post does have some good points, I guess especially if you have kids to entertain. Swimming area with a big water slide (and lifeguard), miniture golf, paddle boats, little store, resturant, etc. Both camps are on lakes, so, so is fishing. The one on post has a bait shop right there, but you have to remember to stop at a bait shop on the way to the Refuge. You need a state license to fish both, but can probably just buy a short 3-5 day license. I remembered to ask on post, and you can fish the lake at the campgrounds without buying the additional post license. Checkout is 3PM at both campgrounds, so since it’s first come/ first serve the best thing is to be there at three to pick your site. Course I don’t know what time you think you’ll be pulling in, and could probably arrange to head out there and pick a spot if it’s much later than 3. I picked up a brochure on the Refuge, and the tent fees are $6 a night. I forgot to get a brochure on post. IIRC, it costs $4 to get in the gate, which gives you access to the picnic and beach/swmming areas. Then, there’s an additional $4 to pitch a tent, and the miniture golf and boat rental fees are on top of that if you want. Here’s a couple sites: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge http://southwest.fws.gov/refuges/oklahoma/Wichita/camping.html Fort Sill – Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area http://www.sillmwr.com/letra.htm One thing I discovered today about the Elmer Thomas site is that you may not be able to get there following their directions, since the gate they mention was closed, at least for today. It might open up later on in the season, though. If you end up staying there, hopefully the gate will be open, otherwise you have to drive through the Ft Sill ranges on narrow twisting roads, through several low water crossings, black out areas, etc. It could be a part of the security measures, though, since once you get to the campgrounds there are no gates to keep you out of the regular part of the Post. — Steve Touchstone, faithful servant of Sammy, Little Bit and Rocky Home Page: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/index.html Cat Pix: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/animals.html

Response:

Checkout is 3PM at both campgrounds, so since it’s first come/ first serve the best thing is to be there at three to pick your site. Course I don’t know what time you think you’ll be pulling in, and could probably arrange to head out there and pick a spot if it’s much later than 3. I picked up a brochure on the Refuge, and the tent fees are $6 a night. I forgot to get a brochure on post. IIRC, it costs $4 to get in the gate, which gives you access to the picnic and beach/swmming areas. Then, there’s an additional $4 to pitch a tent, and the miniture golf and boat rental fees are on top of that if you want.

Thanks Steve.  I read this to Rob, bookmarked both sites, and discussed the pros and cons of both areas with him.  We agree that the wild life refuge sounds best for us as not only can we find it easier, but our friends can find us easier as well. I don’t recall how long a day Rob said the trip between Memphis and Lawton will be, hopefully, we will be there by three.  We’ll make an early start if at all possible.  Maybe we can work something out for us to get together for dinner at the camp ground.  Jim and I’ll cook spaghetti if you, Sherry, and her hubby can and will join us. Pam S. getting really excited about meeting everyone.

Response:

Sonya have her kittens yet? Kristi

Response:

Geez, I hope so, for Sonya’s sake! =o) Not that raising a family of kittens is restful for the mother cat. Melissa

Response:

Geez, I hope so, for Sonya’s sake! =o) Not that raising a family of kittens is restful for the mother cat. Melissa

I wonder why she doesn’t tell us?

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Geez, I hope so, for Sonya’s sake! =o) Not that raising a family of kittens is restful for the mother cat. Melissa I wonder why she doesn’t tell us?

Maybe she’s busy with a handful of kittens. Jill

Response:

[[ Geez, I hope so, for Sonya's sake! =o) Not that raising a family of kittens is restful for the mother cat. Melissa I wonder why she doesn't tell us?

Maybe she's busy with a handful of kittens. Jill]] From your mouth to God’s ears. Or should I say, "From your keyboard to God’s newsreader". ;o) I hope all is well and we’ve become a bunch of kitty Aunties and Uncles thanks to Sonya. Donna, Captain, and Stanley (who’ll gladly become Uncles and teach the new kittens how to investigate everything they set eyes on)

Response:

Sonya have her kittens yet? Kristi

Nope.  We’re still waiting for the kittens to get off the mother train.   She’s really uncomfortable and unhappy, and wants lots of comfort and love from us all.  Poor kid.  I wish she’d just have them and get it over with. Pam S. who has worn the carpet down in the hallway outside Mandy’s room

Response:

gold coast question

Question:

I am trying to pursuade my father who has health problems in winter due to our cold damp climate to spend a few months each year on the gold coast of Australia. Can anyone recommend somewhere warm, quiet, not too touristy, with inexpensive accomodation and a good transport system. My parents are keen trampers so somewhere near a national park or with good walking trails or friendly tramping groups would be helpful too! Thanks Kay

Kay The Gold Coast is , by its very nature , a "touristy" place. The Coast is in fact about 30 miles long . I prefer the quieter areas around the Southport Broadwater in the north or the Coolangatta area in the south.  The Gold Coast is also quite a place for older people to retire. You really need to have a car I think to get around this area – although there are local busses and they also connect to the electric train line to Brisbane.  The Sunshine Coast north of Brisbane is also a very nice area and many people prefer it to the Gold Coast. When I was younger, i always preferred the Gold Coast myself (a bit more life and activity) but now as I age, I have become very taken with the Sunshine Coast.   Actually I think Noosa would probably suit your father very well — an absolutely beautiful place, a little upmarket – but the Noosa National Park is within easy walking distance of the main reesort area. Have a look at my website – it covers all the areas you could be interested in. Barry — My website at http://www.powerup.com.au/~baz is all about the area in which I live – From Brisbane to the Gold Coast, Queensland (and a bit more)

Response:

kay: i have to second what barry said … i used to live on the gold coast; by definition it’s a touristy place, but you can find nice spots along the edges (northern or southern parts of the coast, or inland). also, your folks will definitely want their own transportation.  while taxi service works pretty well there, mass transit is not at all like you’d hope for … there are busses which travel up and down the gold coast highway on a schedule, but the schedule is not particularly convenient (the gold coast highway isn’t exactly the speediest road in the world, and the busses stop *everywhere*). while i’ve never been to the sunshine coast, i’ve heard nothing but good about it. — # henry mensch / <henry at verve.org / pob 14592; sf, ca  94114-0592; usa #                          http://www.verve.org/henry/

Response:

I am trying to pursuade my father who has health problems in winter due to our cold damp climate to spend a few months each year on the gold coast of Australia. Can anyone recommend somewhere warm, quiet, not too touristy, with inexpensive accomodation and a good transport system. My parents are keen trampers so somewhere near a national park or with good walking trails or friendly tramping groups would be helpful too! Thanks Kay

Response:

Hi I am going to the gold coast in 3.5 weeks and i have the 3 park superpass, but what else is there to do?? Also has anyone got any info on the Surf Parade Resort?? wendy — VISIT MY SITE COLLECTIVE www.geocities.com/wendlle2000

Response:

Hello Wendy There are four big theme parks – Movie world – Dreamworld – Wet & Wild waterworld – Seaworld so you can visit the theme park not covered by the three park superpass. There are other smaller tourist traps, I mean places of interest for you to see as well.  You can also have a go at all the usual tourist watersports such as: – swimming at the beach – surfing – windsurfing – sailing – fishing Here is a link with some more information and ideas: http://www.reflections.com.au/GoldCoast/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi I am going to the gold coast in 3.5 weeks and i have the 3 park superpass, but what else is there to do?? Also has anyone got any info on the Surf Parade Resort?? wendy — VISIT MY SITE COLLECTIVE www.geocities.com/wendlle2000

Response:

shopping at pacific fair jupiters casino (if thats your thing) visit ripleys believe it or not draculas dinner and show Currumbin Sanctuary wine tours have fun… kath

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi I am going to the gold coast in 3.5 weeks and i have the 3 park superpass, but what else is there to do?? Also has anyone got any info on the Surf Parade Resort?? wendy — VISIT MY SITE COLLECTIVE www.geocities.com/wendlle2000

Response:

thanks kath i have a 12 year old with me so the casino would not be a good place to visit but thanks for the rest of the advice and i think the shopping place sounds nice! wendy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – shopping at pacific fair jupiters casino (if thats your thing) visit ripleys believe it or not draculas dinner and show Currumbin Sanctuary wine tours have fun… kath Hi I am going to the gold coast in 3.5 weeks and i have the 3 park superpass, but what else is there to do?? Also has anyone got any info on the Surf Parade Resort?? wendy — VISIT MY SITE COLLECTIVE www.geocities.com/wendlle2000

Response:

Infinity is probably up there with the things to do as well, especially for your 12 year old. Its right in the heart of surfers paradise. http://www.infinitygc.com.au/gold-coast-entertainment.htm have fun — Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Response:

Infinity is probably up there with the things to do as well, especially for your 12 year old. Its right in the heart of surfers paradise.

thanks for the tip – looks great, right up her ally!! I think we will definetly be paying this place a visit! wendy

Response:

if you want a nice relaxing day out, head to south stradbroke island, which is about a 30 minute catamaran trip from Runaway Bay Marina, which is only a couple of miles north of surfers paradise.   The day trip tours include lunch at the poolside bistro with live music (watch out for the wallabies though, they’ll help themselves to your dinner!), free use of canoes and paddle boats, free tractor ride over to the surf beach and free speed boat ride.  scenic flights over the island are also offered at extra cost) http://www.southstradbrokeislandresort.com.au/day.html also, if your stuck with things to do, the aqua duck adventure tours might be worth looking at.  It basically takes you on a tour of surferse paradise, both on terra firm and on water. http://www.aquaduck.com.au/ — Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Response:

Westin St. John

Question:

Has anyone stayed at the Westin on St. John? Any opinions, advice or suggestions gladly accepted. We are thinking about doing a week there in December. Thanks!!! D a n

Response:

Has anyone stayed at the Westin on St. John? Any opinions, advice or suggestions gladly accepted. We are thinking about doing a week there in December. Thanks!!!

We own a time share there.  It is a very nice hotel.   Nice pool but poor beach, compared to others on St John. If you can manage STEEP hills, SHARP turns and driving on the left, then rent a car for your stay.  Taxis are pretty good, but having your own car allows you do enjoy the island more.  Of course you can spend your time at the hotel if you want. If you would like a copy of my St John information write-up, send email. (I am experiencing trouble with email.  If it bounces, post your request here and I should see it.) —       Charlie Hammond — Hewlett-Packard Company — Ft Lauderdale  FL  USA       All opinions expressed are my own and not necessarily my employer’s.

Response:

Has anyone stayed at the Westin on St. John? Any opinions, advice or suggestions gladly accepted. We are thinking about doing a week there in December. Thanks!!! D a n

we have seen it — didn’t stay there.  Very expensive and lousy beach.   They do run shuttles to better beaches and into town.  I’d choose Caneel Bay given the option and too much money to spend.  At least it is situated in an area with fabulous beaches and snorkeling.  It is not as new and glossy as the Westin.

Response:

Has anyone stayed at the Westin on St. John? … .. … I’d choose Caneel Bay given the option and too much money to spend. …

I agree, with two possible concerns: (1) I believe that Caneel Bay is significantly more expenseive that the Westin. (2) Caneel Bay may be a bit too "upscale", maybe even snobish, for some. I any case, the Caneel Bay property — much larger than the Westin — includes some of the most beautiful scenery and beachs on St John. —       Charlie Hammond — Hewlett-Packard Company — Ft Lauderdale  FL  USA       All opinions expressed are my own and not necessarily my employer’s.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone stayed at the Westin on St. John? … .. … I’d choose Caneel Bay given the option and too much money to spend. … I agree, with two possible concerns: (1) I believe that Caneel Bay is significantly more expenseive that the Westin. (2) Caneel Bay may be a bit too "upscale", maybe even snobish, for some. I any case, the Caneel Bay property — much larger than the Westin — includes some of the most beautiful scenery and beachs on St John.

I have another thing to interject – on paper it looks as though the two properties are equally expensive.  I think I’ve heard though that there is a significantly greater possibility of getting discounts from the rack rate at the Westin. So the Westin may not be as expensive as it looks if you are just comparing the published rates. grandma Rosalie

Response:

After SO MUCH consideration, we are thinking seriously about the Westin St. John….despite one bad report from an agent.  Has anyone had a RECENT first-hand experience they can share to either talk me into or out of this?  Everyone here has been of such great help…I really need you again!  thanks and please (as always) cc to my email.  Jeff

Response:

After SO MUCH consideration, we are thinking seriously about the Westin St. John….despite one bad report from an agent.  Has anyone had a RECENT first-hand experience they can share to either talk me into or out of this?  Everyone here has been of such great help…I really need you again!  thanks and please (as always) cc to my email.  Jeff

Jeff, I am spending a week at Westin last week of Feb., be glad to let you know how it was. Sandy

Response:

  After SO MUCH consideration, we are thinking seriously about the   Westin St. John….despite one bad report from an agent.  Has anyone had   a RECENT first-hand experience they can share to either talk me into or   out of this?  Everyone here has been of such great help…I really need you   again!  thanks and please (as always) cc to my email.  Jeff   Jeff, we were at the Westin in mid-January and loved it. The beach is   great, and the swimming pool is one of the biggest in the Caribbean. The   units were small, but we didn’t spend that much tim in the rooms   anyway.   The rates include tons of activities, like sailfish, and motorized floating   beach chairs, and paddle boats. There is a scuba shop and some great   snorkelling off shore.   The food was excellent. We especially enjoyed the beach cafe with the   breakfast buffet… best made-to-order mushroom omelette we’ve every   had. The Cocoloba gourmet restaurant is excellent for seafood.   Email if you have any specific questions.   Mary and Richard

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SOUTH DAKOTA CAMPING ADVISE

Question:

MY FAMILY AND I ARE PLANNING A TRIP THIS SUMMER TO MOUNT RUSHMORE. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON CAMPGROUNDS, LITTLE KNOW POINTS OF INTEREST, ETC. WOULD BO HELP-FUL. THANKS SIX KIDS AND A POP-UP

Response:

We stayed at rafter-J.  A buitiful campground a real close to t rushmore and other attractions. Eddie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – MY FAMILY AND I ARE PLANNING A TRIP THIS SUMMER TO MOUNT RUSHMORE. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON CAMPGROUNDS, LITTLE KNOW POINTS OF INTEREST, ETC. WOULD BO HELP-FUL. THANKS SIX KIDS AND A POP-UP

Response:

Response:

MY FAMILY AND I ARE PLANNING A TRIP THIS SUMMER TO MOUNT RUSHMORE. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON CAMPGROUNDS, LITTLE KNOW POINTS OF INTEREST, ETC. WOULD BO HELP-FUL. THANKS SIX KIDS AND A POP-UP

You could try staying in the Hot Springs ( http://www.hotsprings-sd.com ) area which is an easy drive to Mount Rushmore, the Mammoth site ( right in Hot Springs), The Wind Caves, and Custer State Park. Places we’ve stayed( and enjoyed)in Hot Springs: Hot Springs KOA; ( http://www.koa.com ) friendly owners, clean bath house, nestled in a trees far enough from the road to be pretty quiet, pool. Lake Larive Resort ( right up the road from the Evans Plunge hot springs pool); friendly owners, pond with paddle boats for rent, catch and release fishing, real nice bath house, QUIET, inexpensive, big common area. Angostura Reservoir State Recreation Area; just a few miles outside of Hot Springs, electric and non electric sites, no bath house in the area we stayed, thought it was kind of expensive for what you get, your definitely back to the plains. We also stayed in Rapid City at what I think is called the Magic Mountain RV Resort ( memory is failing) which was okay but definitely expensive. Give the Rapid City KOA a miss unless you’re fond of tightly packed, tiered gravel sites. We also stayed at the KOA on the road from Hot Springs to Crazy Horse right off the highway…it was noisy ( highway and neighbors) but had clean facilities. Don’t miss the attractions mentioned above; and while I wasn’t personally much taken with Mount Rushmore, it’d be a shame for the kids to miss it, and it is FREE! Write the State of South Dakota ( http://www.travelsd.com )and ask for their "tourist" brochure… we got some good hints. And, above all, have a great trip.

Response:

Don’t forget to follow all the road sign warnings.  There are a number of tunnels on state roads that will not allow an RV passage, and the road leading to them is too narrow to turn around.  Ask at your campground office for a map showing which roads you must not take. Happy Trails Gus Weber – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – MY FAMILY AND I ARE PLANNING A TRIP THIS SUMMER TO MOUNT RUSHMORE. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON CAMPGROUNDS, LITTLE KNOW POINTS OF INTEREST, ETC. WOULD BO HELP-FUL. THANKS SIX KIDS AND A POP-UP

Response:

Don’t forget to follow all the road sign warnings.  There are a number of tunnels on state roads that will not allow an RV passage, and the road leading to them is too narrow to turn around.  Ask at your campground office for a map showing which roads you must not take.

Oh yes!  Needles Highway in Custer State Park.  BTDT in a truck camper.  If I breathed the walls of the tunnel fogged up.  We managed to get out unscathed, but the story, circa 1990, gets retold at many campfires. <VBG Janet The Road Princess (I only edit and spell-check for profit) fix the return address, please

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Don’t forget to follow all the road sign warnings.  There are a number of tunnels on state roads that will not allow an RV passage, and the road leading to them is too narrow to turn around.  Ask at your campground office for a map showing which roads you must not take. Oh yes!  Needles Highway in Custer State Park.  BTDT in a truck camper.  If I breathed the walls of the tunnel fogged up.  We managed to get out unscathed, but the story, circa 1990, gets retold at many campfires. <VBG Janet The Road Princess (I only edit and spell-check for profit) fix the return address, please

THANKS TO ALL WHO RESPONDED. THIS WILL GET ME STARTED AND I WILL BE ABLE TO PLAN ACCORDINGLY. GOD BLESS…. EIGHT KIDS AND A POP-UP

Response:

The mouth"Larrie Malobenski" said:

WHAT????

Response:

GROWN-UP!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The mouth"Larrie Malobenski" said: WHAT????

Response:

(RVnKen) writes: The mouth"Larrie Malobenski" said: WHAT????

Sweetheart, when you type in caps it’s considered shouting.  It’s against newsgroup and email ettiquette.  Larry should have been kind enough to explain his comment.  I apologize on his behalf. Janet The Road Princess (I only edit and spell-check for profit) fix the return address, please

Response:

Omni Cancun

Question:

Howdy My wife and I are planning a week at the Omni Cancun in late April. Any comments on the hotel, the beach, sightseeing, downtown area, etc., would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. Greg and Kathy

Response:

You are staying right next door to the hotel where my wife and I stayed last year.  The Omni is situated in the "Hotel Zone" which is a long strip just off the mainland with the ocean on one side and a lagoon on the other.  See http://www.cancun-webs.com/map.htm       The beach on the ocean side is magnificent.  Gorgeous clear water.  Waves big enough to be fun & great for body surfing, boogie boards, etc.  Across the street is the lagoon.  Most hotels offer paddle boats, sailboats, kayaks, etc for use on the lagoon.  On the lagoon side of the street near your hotel are a couple of friendly convenience stores.   Buses run up and down the street costantly so you never have to wait to go up to the shopping area or Centro (downtown). There is a shopping center on the ocean side at about #74 on this map that has an ATM where you can get cash in pesos.  There are also several banks in Centro with ATMs.  Whoops! I see your hotel has its own ATM.  Just check to see what fees you are paying.  Get and spend pesos.  Do not use dollars. The locals prefer their own currency.  They will give you a better price in a negotiating situation and you will always lose out on a currency exchange. Across the street from this shopping center is a restaurant named La Disteleria, which has a tequila museum inside.  We ate there a couple of times & the food is excellent.  Try it.  Take the bus not cabs.  If you must take a cab be clear on the price to your destination before you get in or don’t get in.  Do NOT buy silver in Centro or the Flea Market.  It is NOT silver.  When you negotiate start at 40% of the requested price and settle at 50%. There are many sidetrips you can take while there.  My wife and I went to Chichen-Itza for a day.  It was fascinating.  Apple arranged that trip and stopped at a place where you could buy locally made jewelry, pottery, etc. We also took a day long snorkeling excursion.  They will offer you more stuff to do than you will be capable of. Centro has the stores and restaurants where the locals shop and eat.  The shop owners will be after you and your money as you walk around, & you will be approached constantly.  It bothers some people.  I had fun with it & it contributed to the fun. North of your hotel towards Centro there is a rather extravagant shopping mall.  I’m not a shopper, but even I enjoyed walking around exploring its offerings.  Not far from there are the clubs like Senor Frogs, Daddy Rock, Pat O’Brien’s, etc.  We found a small jazz club in Centro that is more my speed. You will have a great time.  Your hotel looks beautiful.  There are plenty of restaurants, clubs, shopping.  The beach & ocean are breathtaking. You’ll have a great time. By the way, my wife & I are returning for a week in early April. Email me directly with any questions.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Howdy My wife and I are planning a week at the Omni Cancun in late April. Any comments on the hotel, the beach, sightseeing, downtown area, etc., would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. Greg and Kathy

Response:

Campgrounds info. near MI Thumb area wanted?

Question:

I have not been to Lakeport or Algonac, so no recommendations there.  Of the three remaining Tawas will have the most to do for a full week.  However, odds are you won’t be able to get a reservation at this late date.  Port Crescent may make you feel clostrophobic, and unless you want to get to know strangers very well, get a site on the outside at Sleeper. There may be some other options you want to consider which meet you distance requirement.  Warren Dunes is on southern Lake Michigan.  Nice campground, great beach.  Pokagon State Park in Indiana is wonderful, especially for kids.  Maumee Bay State Park in Ohio is on Lake Erie, just outside of Toledo.  We’ve been there several times, and it is wonderful.  The park is new.  I believe its only been open for 5+ years.  They have a beach on Lake Erie with water shallow enough for the little ones, and will be warm by that time.  They also have a man-made lake and beach, with shallow water.  They have paddle boats for rent, ponds to fish in right behind the camp sites (my then 8 yr old daughter spent every morning by the pond fishing for catfish – and caught quite a few!).  If you would rather have a cabin, they have nice A frames – complete with cable, air conditioning, a screened in deck and fully outfitted kitchen.  Since it is a resort park, they have concessions set up at the beaches with food, etc., and also have a hotel, restaurant and golf course.  You are also about an hour from Cedar Point – which could fill the Disneyworld wish.  The Toledo Zoo is very nice as well.  The park also has a nature center and nice trails – both nature bike/walking. We have seen allot of deer and peacocks at the park. The campground is very nice.  All the sites are level, with concrete pads, and thick grass (my lawn should look so good!).  The sites are open, but have large shrubs which provide privacy between the sites.  The bathhouses are clean and well maintained.  There are naturalists which run programs for kids every day of the week.  They do not take reservations, but you can phone ahead to reserve your site.  Sunday’s and early in the week are the best days to get in.  You are going the week before 4th of July week, so the campground will begin to fill VERY early.  You may want to buy an extra night before you arrive just to be sure you get a site.  In other words, if you are planning on arriving on Friday or Saturday, call Thursday and reserve from Thursday through your departure date.  Your equipment does not need to be on site.  If you are planning to arrive Monday, call Sunday.  The loops are set up like thermometers – long with sites on both sides, and a circle with sites on the ends.  Ask for a site next to a pond. All things considered, I would recommend Maumee Bay over the parks you are considering.  I think you’ll find it has more to keep the kids entertained. This is the Ohio State Park link: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/default.htm

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Lakeport State Park, Lakeport, MI. 2. Algonac State Park, Marine City, MI. 3. Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, MI. 4. Albert E. Sleeper State Park, Caseville, MI. 5. Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, MI. Any personal info. on these parks would be appreciated. Likes, dislikes, best sites, things to do, etc.. My wife and oldest are going on a GS outing to Chicago in last week of June and I thought I would take the 8 and 5 yo (girl/boy) camping that week. They both voted for Disneyworld, but I wanted to keep it close to home. 2 hours or so. I realize it will be too cold to swim, but I like the beach location for walks and collecting things. Any I missed? — Bill & Sharon Girls12 & 8, Big Boy 5 00 E-150, 99 Niagara, Canton, Michigan

Response:

Bill, That time of year will be chilly no matter which park you choose. Your best bet would be Tawas Point State Park.  There are trails and beaches both on the Lake Huron side and Tawas Bay side.  There is the Tawas Point Lighthouse that is open for tours.  Tawas City is nearby and has a nice selection of tourist stuff with food and shopping Sleeper State Park in Caseville is nice in the summer time.  Although the campground is across M-25 from the beach.  Port Crescent State is just north of Caseville.  It is long and narrow along the beach.  There are spots along the water that are nice, the rest are nothing special. I have not been to Lakeport or Algonac. Book early if you want to get into Tawas Point.  They recently upgraded the facilities and it books up fast. Enjoy, Dave – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Lakeport State Park, Lakeport, MI. 2. Algonac State Park, Marine City, MI. 3. Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, MI. 4. Albert E. Sleeper State Park, Caseville, MI. 5. Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, MI. Any personal info. on these parks would be appreciated. Likes, dislikes, best sites, things to do, etc.. My wife and oldest are going on a GS outing to Chicago in last week of June and I thought I would take the 8 and 5 yo (girl/boy) camping that week. They both voted for Disneyworld, but I wanted to keep it close to home. 2 hours or so. I realize it will be too cold to swim, but I like the beach location for walks and collecting things. Any I missed? — Bill & Sharon Girls12 & 8, Big Boy 5 00 E-150, 99 Niagara, Canton, Michigan

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Lakeport State Park, Lakeport, MI. 2. Algonac State Park, Marine City, MI. 3. Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, MI. 4. Albert E. Sleeper State Park, Caseville, MI. 5. Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, MI. Any personal info. on these parks would be appreciated. Likes, dislikes, best sites, things to do, etc.. My wife and oldest are going on a GS outing to Chicago in last week of June and I thought I would take the 8 and 5 yo (girl/boy) camping that week. They both voted for Disneyworld, but I wanted to keep it close to home. 2 hours or so. I realize it will be too cold to swim, but I like the beach location for walks and collecting things. Any I missed? — Bill & Sharon Girls12 & 8, Big Boy 5 00 E-150, 99 Niagara, Canton, Michigan

Albert Sleeper is a wonderful state park. One of the best, and the staff actually know who they are working for. It is across the road from the beach, but there is an overhead crosswalk. If you stay there, north east of the park, just up the road, there is a store with hand dipped ice cream cones. I figure the walk there burns up enough calories that I have one every day when we are there. <G Port Crescent is just 9 miles north east of Sleeper, and is on the beach. The sites are tighter and the park is harder to get into. I much prefer Sleeper. Tawas Point is a nice park, right on the point just north of Tawas City. Very clean and nice, but ALWAYS FULL. I prefer Sleeper. Just a little north of Tawas, and 5 miles west of Oscoda, Old Orchard county park right on the Foote Dam pond of the AuSable river, is our favorite park in the State. This park has 3 miles of lake/river frontage, and is sectioned by camping style. There is a point into the lake where only tents and pop ups are welcome. Another section with plenty of water front sites is for dry camping at reduced rates. The west section is all "modern", with water and electric available to all. (30 amp service) There is a very nice beach area, a store, row boat and peddle boat rentals, etc. Most of the streets are paved. I highly recommend a float via canoe, kayak, or tube from the Foote Dam to Oscoda on the river. You are very apt to see bald eagles, and most of the river bank is pristine. Consumer’s Energy owns most of the land and "loans" the park land to the county (s) on the condition that all money from the park (s) stays in the park (s). It won’t be too cold to swim there the last week of June, while the Great Lakes won’t be fit for man nor beast yet. West from Old Orchard, on River Road, there are, in order, a scenic overlook famous for Bald Eagles, the Canoer’s Memorial, Iargo Springs, (complete with over 300 steps which take you down to so many springs flowing out of the side of the hill that all you can hear is the rushing water) (this place is so awesome that it can’t be properly described, but you will ever more understand the phrase "bubbling springs"), the Lumberman’s monument and the Monument Campground (National Forest), and then M-33 which will take you to Glennie and the Alcona Dam pond. The same conditions exist at Glennie and the Alcona dam pond. From Grayling to Oscoda, the AuSable river is mostly in it’s natural state, and very pure and clean. We love that area. Some of the most beautiful scenery in the state can be viewed from the high banks of the AuSable river at scenic overlooks. Especially one about 2 miles west of the Alcona County Park (which is on the Alcona Dam Pond). This overlook is so high that you can see the river WAAAAAAAAAY off in both directions, and the canoers look like ants. If you can catch that one on a sunny morning when there is still dew on the trees, it is almost magical. If you are really robust and ambitious, there are steps all the way down to the water. Oh…….the Alcona County park has a section of full hookups, if that means anything to you. There are also county parks all over the thumb on lake Huron, which are very RV friendly. Most of them are VERY nice, and pretty reasonably priced. We prefer inland water because it isn’t so cold as the great lakes, though Albert Sleeper is our favorite *State Park* for summer camping, as compared to Sleepy Hollow for spring and fall. Lon

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1. Lakeport State Park, Lakeport, MI. 2. Algonac State Park, Marine City, MI. 3. Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, MI. 4. Albert E. Sleeper State Park, Caseville, MI. 5. Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, MI. Any personal info. on these parks would be appreciated. Likes, dislikes, best sites, things to do, etc.. My wife and oldest are going on a GS outing to Chicago in last week of June and I thought I would take the 8 and 5 yo (girl/boy) camping that week. They both voted for Disneyworld, but I wanted to keep it close to home. 2 hours or so. I realize it will be too cold to swim, but I like the beach location for walks and collecting things. Any I missed? — Bill & Sharon Girls12 & 8, Big Boy 5 00 E-150, 99 Niagara, Canton, Michigan

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Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Question:

We were there in November with the Norwegian Sea, and yes, it is absolutely beautiful. Great beach, fun paddle boats, and while we didn’t snorkel, seemed many were really enjoying the experience. Plenty of beach chairs for all. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It shows the beach and shoreline, and sure looks gorgeous.. one only wonders if it is an accurate depiction of the place.  After all, these are promotional images!

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Does anyone have any pictures of Great Stirrup Cay?

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I don’t have any pictures but can ancwer any questions as I have lived there. I worked for NCL for many years and it was one of my assigned work areas.

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There’s a photo I found buried on the NCL website. Go to http://www.ncl.com/hires and there you will find a variety of categorized marketing shots.  The Great Stirrup Cay photo is under the Misc. group. It shows the beach and shoreline, and sure looks gorgeous.. one only wonders if it is an accurate depiction of the place.  After all, these are promotional images!  I can only hope that it is, as I’m expecting to spend the day there in mid March.. Andy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any pictures of Great Stirrup Cay?

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Does anyone have any pictures of Great Stirrup Cay?

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I don’t have any pictures but can ancwer any questions as I have lived there. I worked for NCL for many years and it was one of my assigned work areas.

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There’s a photo I found buried on the NCL website. Go to http://www.ncl.com/hires and there you will find a variety of categorized marketing shots.  The Great Stirrup Cay photo is under the Misc. group. It shows the beach and shoreline, and sure looks gorgeous.. one only wonders if it is an accurate depiction of the place.  After all, these are promotional images!  I can only hope that it is, as I’m expecting to spend the day there in mid March.. Andy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any pictures of Great Stirrup Cay?

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We were there in November with the Norwegian Sea, and yes, it is absolutely beautiful. Great beach, fun paddle boats, and while we didn’t snorkel, seemed many were really enjoying the experience. Plenty of beach chairs for all. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It shows the beach and shoreline, and sure looks gorgeous.. one only wonders if it is an accurate depiction of the place.  After all, these are promotional images!

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Open boat

Question:

A bunch of the folks that hang here are also open boaters!

Do inflatable kayaks qualify as open boats?  Or do open boats have to hold water that sloshes over the side, or when it rains?

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You ain’t been taking learning to right proper now, have you Barnett?

Naw, aint to wurry,ER… larnin is fer thems that don’t already knowds it !   :    tisk-tsk! B"yeehaw"W

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NO

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Is there an open boat newsgroup?

I remember a bunch of years ago when this newsgroup was mostly open boaters plus about 40% ww kayakers. Popularity in other forms of paddle boats increased and their adherents found their way here. After awhile open boaters posted less and less. An attempt to find a new home resulted in rec.boats.paddle.touring but a long and unpleaseant series of postings about sponsons (sea kayak, I think) has pretty much left that group decimated. Invariably this type of discussion will result in postings by kayakers of all flavours such as: we’re boaters too, I also paddle an open boat, we’re all just boating, etc. etc. I think the time is ready for rec.boats.paddle.open (or Canadian) Those of us that paddle open Canadian canoes for touring, tripping, white water, on the ocean, lakes or rivers — know the difference. Sincerely, Carey Robson Past President — Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia Master Instructor www.CanoeBC.ca

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up with: Is there an open boat newsgroup? I remember a bunch of years ago when this newsgroup was mostly open boaters plus about 40% ww kayakers. Popularity in other forms of paddle boats increased and their adherents found their way here. After awhile open boaters posted less and less. An attempt to find a new home resulted in rec.boats.paddle.touring but a long and unpleaseant series of postings about sponsons (sea kayak, I think) has pretty much left that group decimated.

So get it back to life: post interesting messages, start new threads that make people want to participate, and mail the old regulars that timmy has left RBP.T. Why start up yet another newsgroup when RBP.T is still free? Invariably this type of discussion will result in postings by kayakers of all flavours such as: we’re boaters too, I also paddle an open boat, we’re all just boating, etc. etc. I think the time is ready for rec.boats.paddle.open (or Canadian)

Hmm, since RBP has been seeing less traffic than UK.RBP in the last couple of months, I think that splitting it up further into RBP and RBP.Open-Boat would draw the new Open-Boat group as well as RBP below the critical mass of posters. Not an option that would get my vote. Besides, I fail to see why the white water open boaters would enjoy having a newsgroup all of their own. they seem to fit in really well in the regular RBP crowd. Personally, I don’t think that RBP.T suffered much worse from the sponson moron than RBP did. It seems that many posters from RBP left for Boatertalk and other moderated forums and mailinglists, but some still hang around here, even though they post less frequent. Wilko — Wilko van den Bergh                    quibus(a t)europe(d o t)com     Eindhoven         The Netherlands            Europe —Never take a no from someone not empowered to give you a yes— http://wilko.webzone.ru/

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Wilko’s right….see Wilko , I said it ! It wasn’t easy but I said it … you’re right . Open boaters not only DON’t need a separate forum but WE ARE needed in this forum to keep the deck boaters of the group from ‘drifting’ out of perspective. ~    BW

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with: Wilko’s right….see Wilko , I said it ! It wasn’t easy but I said it … you’re right .

Barnett, it must have hurt like crazy, but I appreciate the sacrifice y’all made! Open boaters not only DON’t need a separate forum but WE ARE needed in this forum to keep the deck boaters of the group from ‘drifting’ out of perspective.

That must make things very difficult for you, Barnett! Unless you have a split personality, that is. http://wilko.webzone.ru/barnettw.jpg Wilko — Wilko van den Bergh                    quibus(a t)europe(d o t)com     Eindhoven         The Netherlands            Europe —Never take a no from someone not empowered to give you a yes— http://wilko.webzone.ru/

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Open boaters not only DON’t need a separate forum but WE ARE needed in this forum to keep the deck boaters of the group from ‘drifting’ out of perspective.

I’m sad for all the open boaters who have never been here and therefore don’t know the size or speed of a BIG HONKIN’ rain drop. I’m AFRAID to leave.  jb

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Open boaters not only DON’t need a separate forum but WE ARE needed in this forum to keep the deck boaters of the group from ‘drifting’ out of perspective. ~    BW

What about a deck boater with only one blade in the water? Dennis

Response:

What about a deck boater with only one blade in the water?

Well I don’t know about the other kayakers here, but I can’t remember ever having more than one blade in the water when kayaking (excepting when I tried hand paddles). -Paul

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   What’s it gonna’ take to get some of you folks to come to Open Boat Nationals??    Next years race is in Canada….and will be as fun as usual. Craig http://community.webtv.net/juskanuit/juskanuit "just canoe it"

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"Craig Smerda" wrote    What’s it gonna’ take to get some of you folks to come to Open Boat Nationals??

Good company, good cheer, and running water    Next years race is in Canada….and will be as fun as usual. Craig

I’m planning to be there! It’d be great to see some of the rbp O Boaters at the O Boat ‘Nationals’: Yo Barnettttt:  why not come up here and learn Northern Hick, eh? Of course we’ll need the queen of river photographers Julie. And Paddleman to take the blackmail footage. And of course Darthy could come up and show that his Skeeter ain’t just a toy boat. And Mothra, howbout the light side for a change of scenery? Just to mention a few of rbp O Boaters. Could be quite a party! Eddy "O" Rapid — AKA Parham Momtahan

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Is there an open boat newsgroup?

Check out paddling.net   quite a few open boaters there, log on and intro urself. see ya there, paddle on…

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you have a split personality…….

Wilko, I can’t take responsibility for the deeds of my EVIL twin….. actually he’s uglier than me. BW

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Dennis, most yakers aren’t known for having any ‘ blades in the water’. BW

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Parham, I’ll damn sure go if’n the water’s had time to soften up a bit ‘fore we git thar …. Is this thang held up thar during the week of summer ? Miss Jullie will probably be in some place like the Upper Rodesian rain forest photog’ing horny purple shit bugs… but we shud ask’r enyway. Paddleman has reetired to pipes and footstools and occasional geriatric porn movie producshun …. BUT the Darth man shud be reday as i ain’t never seen his tanks go dry. Don’t think I’ve ever saw the Moth lady plyin the enlightened waterways … but it would be fun if we wuz to get Wilko there…. get him drunk and dress him up as a openboater and take pictures uf him ! Course I dunno if we could stuff all them legs into anythang but a 19 ft Grumman. Well at least it’ll give us soumthang to think about over the winter. )   Barnett ‘I’m havin good thoughts now’ Wil.

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What about a deck boater with only one blade in the water?

Is that another way to say you’re one Moose Drool short of a float trip? I’m floating Yankee Jim on Thanksgiving, and if your deck boat can’t hold all of your stuff, I can haul it in my open boat. Curt

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Of course we’ll need the queen of river photographers Julie. And Paddleman to take the blackmail footage. And of course Darthy could come up and show that his Skeeter ain’t just a toy boat. And Mothra, howbout the light side for a change of scenery? Just to mention a few of rbp O Boaters. Could be quite a party!

That would be fun!  I had quite a good time paddling with the MOB (Missoula Open Boaters) last summer. – Mothra

Response:

That would be fun!  I had quite a good time paddling with the MOB (Missoula Open Boaters) last summer. – Mothra

Speaking of which, the MOB just got back from a foray into creeking in Washington.  The carnage level was red-lined and I for one have become a disciple of triple digit gradiants and waterfalls. BTW, which boat is the superior creeker?  The Phantom, Ocoee or Viper 11.  All three made the trip and now we have something else to argue about when the rivers freeze out here this winter. obdave in montana

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Is there an open boat newsgroup?

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A bunch of the folks that hang here are also open boaters! Leslie (Dagger Rival) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is there an open boat newsgroup?

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However, most openboaters are quiet, demure paddlers not wanting to expose their deckboat brethren (and sistrens) as whitewater impostures. Ah, this is how it should be least the "run" on openboats would make real paddling too expensive. So take care, Leslie, that not too many cats are let out of that bag! Barnett

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And some of us are mostly Open Boaters who are sometimes spotted in a yak (but that’s just for retirement planning purposes Eddy "Purple Ocoee" Rapid — AKA Parham Momtahan

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Retirement should be an adventure…. and an opportunity to "see beyond"….  a quest, if you will,  to see how the unfortunate amoungest us have lived. Barnett "I ain’t all the way there yet" Williams

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Retirement should be an adventure…. and an opportunity to "see beyond"….  a quest, if you will,  to see how the unfortunate amoungest us have lived.

Yeh right. You mean the ‘lower’ classes Indeedy, couldn’ve put it better myself.  You write good, man! You ain’t been taking learning to right proper now, have you Barnettt? Barnett "I ain’t all the way there yet" Williams

Keep on the light side! Eddy "sitting high and proud, unless in a yak" Rapid — AKA Parham Momtahan

Response:

where to find fun paddle boats on the net

Question:

Hi, last holiday i made a paddle-boat-tour with a special kind of boat i am now searching for on the net. Description:     – it’s completly made of one plastic body      - for one or two persons.      - the boat is thought for short trips (in the sea)      - you are sitting in the boat like in a kajak but there is no hole in the boat to sit in. the seats are         integratet in the plastic form of the boat (you are sitting on the boat body).     – you are paddling like in a kajak Would be great if you could give me a hint whats the boat called or where to find it on the net. Thanks Phippe

Response:

Phippe wrote – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi, last holiday i made a paddle-boat-tour with a special kind of boat i am now searching for on the net. Description:

Campgrounds in Carmel, CA Area?

Question:

Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  I know there is one in Felton but that is a bit far. I’d prefer a state campground but a reasonable commercial would be OK. Thanks for any help

Hi Bill, Laguna Seca Recreation Area is run by the Monterey County Parks Dept. It is in the park that surounds world famous Laguna Seca Raceway. Nice camp sites and resonable price for that area. If you call ask for Joanne and tell her Jan from the Shelby Club said to call. I think they have an 800#. Another great one is Carmel by the River RV Park in Carmel Valley. Close to Carmel and backs up to the Carmel River (duh). That is horse country/rural, secluded and nice. Sorry but don’t have the phone #s in front of me. A good online guide should have them. Jan Eric Orme

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BTW, I think the Carmel by the River RV Park allows pet orangutans but no dogs or cats! It’s a local thing. Jan

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Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  

We are cruising the calif. coast and we are in the Carmel area right now and we have stayed at many of the campgrounds. Right now we are in a wonderful little park that has full hook ups including private line for phone or modem. It’s right on pinto lake in Watsonville which is between Carmel and Santa Cruz. This place is kid and dog friendly but no tents are allowed. The price of 24$ includes modem and hook ups. Be sure to request a phone line when making reservations. If you’d like one night free you can email me and I will email you the necessary info. If you like peace and quiet at night this is the quietest place we’ve stayed. There’s also paddle boats, row boats, play ground, volley ball net and horse shoes. They have a web site which doesn’t really show how pretty this place is at www.pintolake.com. Kindest regards, Laurie

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Try Sand City. jh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  I know there is one in Felton but that is a bit far. I’d prefer a state campground but a reasonable commercial would be OK. Thanks for any help

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Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  I know there is one in Felton but that is a bit far. I’d prefer a state campground but a reasonable commercial would be OK. Thanks for any help

There is a county park just on top of the hill overlooking the bay I don’t remember what it was called, has power and water. Wade

Response:

Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  I know there is one in Felton but that is a bit far. I’d prefer a state campground but a reasonable commercial would be OK. Thanks for any help

Response:

Bill, There are several possibilities for state parks. 1.    26 miles south on rout 1 is Pfeiffer Big Sur state park.  It is a beautiful area.  The twenty six mile drive is one of the most beautiful in the country. 2.    35 miles north is Sunset State beach. In the case of both of these state parks, make reservations as soon as possible.  You can make them on line at http://maps1.reserveamerica.com/static/ca4.html.  Scroll down the page for the alpha listing. There is a county park called Mount Madonna County Park which I enjoy.  It is 17 miles away on route 152 between Watsonville and Gilroy.  It is a large park with trails and an enjoyable environment.  Campgrounds are nice.  I believe you will be able to get in this park if the other two are full, but call ahead.  I like this one better than Sunset. This the info on it:  PHONE: 408-842-2341. LOCATION: Watsonville, California 95076.  10 mi ne on SR 152 (Poleline Rd). TERMS: pets allowed, but a fee is charged ($1), check-in after noon, check-out by 1 pm, 14 day maximum stay, 32 foot RV length limit, Rental Additional vehicle fee, $4.50. Youth group area, $28. FACILITY: 117 total sites, 117 RV/tent sites, 3093 acres, nearest hospital 20 miles in Gilroy, nature trails, flush toilets available, fixed dump station, visitor center at the campground. SERVICES: 24 hour attendant on duty. RECREATION: youth fishing 12 & under, horse trails. Al Kessler

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any suggestions for campgrounds in the Carmel area.  Wife is taking a seminar down there and have never camped in the area.  I know there is one in Felton but that is a bit far. I’d prefer a state campground but a reasonable commercial would be OK. Thanks for any help

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