GUNNISON, CO
Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado’s largest body of water with 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Let’s go fishing!!! Head down to the Gunnison Diversion Tunnel, a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, that routes water from the Gunnison River through the mountain to Montrose and other farming communities. Attend Ranger led hikes and Ranger campfire programs to learn about the area. Take a day trip to Crested Butte. Other activities include visiting Gunnison, kayaking, hiking, and bicycle riding.
Elk Creek Campground on the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Elevation 7,540 feet. Elevation: 7,500 ft.
16 miles west of Gunnison on US-50. (970)641-2337 Dump and water are available at the campground. $16/night for non-electric sites. Electric hookups in loop D only, additional $6/night. Loop D recommended for larger rigs. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made up to 6 months prior to your stay. Must be made 4 days prior to arrival. www.recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777.
N38.46778,W107.17583 – Click on link to see Google Map
GRANITE, CO
Kayak, fish, hike (Colorado trail), bike. Day trips to Leadville. 15 miles from Mt. Elbert, highest point in Colorado. 8900’ elevation.
Clear Creek Reservoir State Wildlife Area (SWA). Dispersed sites. Free. Room for 50 RVs along creek or in an open-sky area. Good interior gravel roads. Some fire rings, pit toilet.
From Granite, go 1.6 mi. south on US24, turn right (west) on Clear Creek Canyon Rd / CR-390, go 2 miles to the SWA on left (signed), just past reservoir. Colorado Fishing and Hunting License required to camp in this State Wildlife Area based on new law effective July 1, 2020. Please read the introductory information on this circuit for more details.
N39.021996,W106.281078 – Click on link to see Google Map
BASALT, CO
Chapman Dam Campground is a large campground about 30 miles outside of Basalt. There are a wide variety of campsites here at Chapman Dam Campground for everyone to enjoy. There is walk-in camping near the dam, tent and trailer camping near the lake, and campsites large enough for RVs in the meadow below the lake. The Frying Pan River goes right through the campground. This offers some good fly fishing if you don’t mind the willows.
This campground is higher in elevation and has not succumbed to the bark beetle infestation that is plaguing many of the great camping areas around Colorado. The campground is well wooded with pine and aspen. The area is covered with wildflowers. For wildlife viewing and convenience this is a great campground to enjoy.
Biking, Birding, Campfire Rings, Drinking Water, Firewood, Fishing, Group Camping, Hiking, Horseshoe Pit, Host, Interpretive Trails, Parking Area, Picnic Area, RV sites, Recycling, River Access, Trails, Trash Collection, Vault Toilets, Volleyball Courts, Wildlife Viewing, Dump Station
White River National Forest, Chapman Dam Campground. RESERVATION REQUIRED, RESERVE ON RECREATION.GOV .Picnic tables, toilets, drinking water. Cost for 7 nights, $ 102.50 with Senior or Disabled Pass. Elevation: 9,400 ft.
From I-70 exit 116, take Highway 82 south to Basalt. Then, Frying Pan Road for 29 miles.
N39.309382,W106.641012 – Click on link to see Google Map
MEEKER, CO
Maynard Magee, 303 522-7661 maynardmagee@me.com and Nancy Holmes, 208 630-4908 hiking.gypsy@yahoo.com
Wildlife viewing, Hiking, Kayak, Bike, Day trip to Dinosaur National Monument, White River Museum
White River National Forest, North Fork Campground. RESERVATION REQUIRED, RESERVE ON RECREATION.GOV Picnic tables, toilets, drinking water. $ 25 / night, half price with senior or disabled pass. Set in an Aspen grove overlooking the north fork of the White River. Elevation: 7,800 ft.
From Meeker, take CO-13 north for one mile, then turn east on County Road 8 for 32 miles. As of June 27, 20 sites are reservable. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=41063
N40.058578,W107.433459 – Click on link to see Google Map
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO
Carol Petty, 509-521-1242, cakacl@aol.com
Wildlife viewing, Hiking, Kayak, Fishing, Bike, Ski Resort chairlift rides
Rabbit Ears Pass Area, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest / Thunder Basin National Grassland, free dispersed dry camping. Elevation 9,400
21 miles east of Steamboat Springs on US-40. From junction of CO-14 and US-40, travel west on US-40 to Forest Service Road 312, large gravel areas north of US-40 off 312 approx 200 yards north of US-40.
N40.387391,W106.618064 – Click on link to see Google Map
WALDEN, CO
Lake Cowdrey State Wildlife Area, Hiking, Kayak, Fishing, Bike
Lake Cowdrey State Wildlife Area, large open area w hard gravel surface. Elevation 7,850 ft.
8 miles north of Waldren on paved State Route 125, take gravel road (County Road 39) westerly 1/2 mile to lake. Colorado Fishing and Hunting License required to camp in this State Wildlife Area based on new law effective July 1, 2020. Please read the introductory information on this circuit for more details.
N40.839171,W106.312374 – Click on link to see Google Map
GRAND LAKE, CO
Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, Granby, Granby Lake. Sightsee, hike, kayak, bike, off-road
Boondocking Location past Staging Area
Drive about 1.3 miles past the original location (Stillwater Pass OHV/Snowmobile Staging Area) and turn left onto the dirt road.
N40.22665,W105.91245 – Click on link to see Google Map
COLORADO 2020
Bonita Raders and Randy Smischny will be the Leaders for this Circuit, which starts on July 13th.
As of July 1, 2020, Colorado requires that you MUST have a hunting or fishing license to use a State Wildlife Area. The circuit has 2 SWA sites for a total of 13 days at the Walden and Granite gatherings. The most affordable option for staying at both gatherings is to buy a Colorado annual non-resident fishing license for $98. A 5-day and an additional days over 5 as needed passes are also available for those not planning to do both gatherings. Fishing licenses are sold at Colorado Walmarts and at other retail stores that sell fishing supplies. The circuit includes many lakes, so fishing will be an easy and relaxing activity to enjoy.
Volunteers are needed to host the locations. The group will be required to practice social distancing and to wear masks. If you are interested in joining the circuit please contact Bonita Raders at (225) 717-9219 or at radersb@yahoo.com. Randy can be reached at randy@smischny.us.
If a volunteer is willing to organize it, this circuit or another Sundowner could continue into New Mexico, Utah, or Arizona to meet up to the winter circuit.
EMPIRE, MI
Host Needed
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers miles of sandy beaches, bluffs that tower 450ft. above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes and unique flora and fauna. Hike the myriad of trails, enjoy nature and the breathtaking views or go bird watching. Nearby Glen Arbor offers unique shopping and art galleries.
Indigo Bluffs RV Park, 6760 W Empire Hwy (M-72), Empire, MI
Use address or GPS Coordinates. $30 -45/night. Call 231 326-5050 to make reservations.
N44.80877,W85.99321 – Click on link to see Google Map
2020 SUMMER CIRCUITS ARE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED.
Due to the guidelines to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus, this circuit is being temporarily suspended. We will be following the developments and any new guidance issued and will resume this circuit as soon as it is safe to do so. Please contact the circuit leader or the future events planners before making plans to join any of the circuits to confirm the status.
PAGOSA SPRINGS, CO
Turkey Springs NF, Pagosa Springs, CO
From Hwy 160 in Pagosa Springs, take a left onto Piedra Rd, CO 600, go 6.5miles, turn left onto Turkey Springs Road. Free dry camping, no facilities.
N37.328389,W107.12975 – Click on link to see Google Map
COWDREY LAKE, CO
Lake Cowdrey SWA, Walden, CO
From Cowdrey, go 2 miles S on Hwy l25. Entrance on west side of road. Free dispersed camping. 7945 ft elev, toilets.
N40.83914,W106.312444 – Click on link to see Google Map
LARAMIE, WY
Ric Turley 303 642-3106
Celebrate Jubilee Days. Visit Fort Sanders built in 1866, take a ride on the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, originally a wagon road built in the 1870s. Visit Ames Monument, the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site and the Historic Laramie Union Pacific Train Depot. Horseback riding at several local ranches.
Albany County Fairgrounds, 2934-2994 S 3rd St, Laramie, WY
Take US 287 into WY, go 59 miles and arrive at the Fairgrounds on the left. $30 FHU and $10 dry camping.
N41.28251,W105.59236 – Click on link to see Google Map
CARLOS, MN
Tom Wiering 320-304-2533
Nightly campfires, pool table available, horse shoes, hiking path and even Skeeter Slapping, Kayaking on Lake Alexandria, Bike trail of 154 miles. Visit the Runestone Museum in Alexandria, which houses artifacts found in MN that relate to Middle-Age Nordic explorers. Potluck or Burn your own.
Tom Wiering’s Place, 3259 Buckskin Rd NE, Carlos, MN. Weather permitting, Toms’ property can accommodate 15 to 22 RVs.
From MN-29 S, turn right onto Buckskin Rd NE, Tom’s place is the third place on the right. WIN signs will be out. Dump at Lake Carlos State Park within 1 mi of Tom’s house. $7.
N46.009453,W95.327734 – Click on link to see Google Map
GOODRIDGE, MN
Jim Dahlen 218-689-6223
Tour Robotic Dairy Barn and possibly other factory tours of Arctic Cat, Polaris and Digikey. Kayaking at Ed Lake River and hiking and/or kayaking at Thief River Falls. Day trip to visit the Headwaters of the Mississippi River.
Free dry camping on a vacant lot near AC Tvedt Park, between Main St and Brandenberg St, off S. Guinan Ave .Option – weather permitting @ Jim Dahlens property 206 Urdahl Ave. N, Goodridge, MN
From MN-1 W, turn right onto MN-219 N, go 1.6 mi and turn right onto Vaughn Main St. E., turn right on Guinan Ave. Water is available. Dump is available near the corner of N Lindstrom Ave and Pennington St.
N48.14316,W95.80579 – Click on link to see Google Map
CASS LAKE, MN
Mississippi Headwaters (Itasca State Park) – possible kayaking from headwaters depending on river depth. Boat tour on lake feeding Mississippi Headwaters; Kayaking – local rivers and lakes; Bicycle Trails; Hiking Trails; Near Bemidji, MN – Bemidji is noted for being the first city on the Mississippi River; Golf – 9 hole in Cass Lake, multiple 18 hole courses in Bemidji Fishing – 400 fishing lakes within 25 miles of Bemidji; Paul Bunyan Playhouse – “Music Man”; Paul Bunyan Amusement Park; Geocaching; Birding.
Cedar Lakes Casino, 6268 Upper Cass Frontage Rd. NW, Cass Lake, MN
US Hwy 2, turn R onto Aspen Ave NW, then L onto Upper Cass Frontage Rd. NW. Casino will be on R. Go into Casino to Players Club and register and put paperwork in RV dash or window. No charge for dry camping.
N47.38362,W94.61565 – Click on link to see Google Map
ELY, MN
Visit the International Wolf Center, includes outdoor programs and live wolf exhibits. Tour the Dorothy Molter Museum, Dorothy, known as the root beer lady, brewed twelve thousand bottles every summer offering them to visitors stopping by during their trip in the Boundary Waters. Enjoy kayaking or hiking in the Boundary Waters Area. Try your luck at fishing for walleye or trout in pristine waters. Birding enthusiasts can find approximately 155 species of birds including owls, bald eagles, numerous waterfowl and song birds.
Fall Lake CG, Superior National Forest, 14197 Fall Lake Rd, Ely, MN. Reservations recommended after 2/22/20 @ recreation.gov. CG has some 1st come, 1st serve.
From Ely, travel north & east on Highway 169 to County Road 18 (Fernberg Rd). Travel 4.5 miles to Fall Lake Road. Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to the CG entrance. Elec. sites: $26 / night (Golden Age: $13). Water and dump on site. Modern restrooms with showers.
N47.94662,W91.72732 – Click on link to see Google Map
GRAND MARIAS, MN
Gunflint Trail; Fishing; Isle Royale National Park – boat trip if Lake Superior water levels high enough; Possible Kayaking near Lake Superior shore – depending on the weather; Kayaking in local lakes; Biking; Hiking; Golf (9 hole).
Judge CR Magney State Park Campground, 4051 MN 61, Grand Marais, MN
Turn Left into State Park from MN 61. Reservations required @ Reservemn.usedirect.com. Rates vary from $25 – 35.
N47.81819,W90.05262 – Click on link to see Google Map
SUPERIOR, WI
Amnicon Falls, WI, Maritime Visitors Center, St. Louis Co. Heritage Center, Great Lakes aquarium, Old Fire and Police Museum, Mill Hill Mall, Glen Sheen Mansion, Richard Bong Museum (air force hero)
Tristate Fairgrounds, 4700 Tower Ave, Superior, WI
From US-2W/US-53N, take the WI-13 exit toward Douglas County Z, turn Left into Co Rd Z/State Hwy 13N, after 4mi, turn Right onto S Co Rd A, go 1.3mi, turn left into Woodlawn Rd, go about 2 mi then turn right into Tower Ave, Fairgrounds will be on the Right. Park in the Northwest Parking Lot, You DO NOT need to call to make reservations. Dry camping is $10 a night and electric is $20. Water and dump is free.
N46.68206,W92.10263 – Click on link to see Google Map
APOSTLE ISLAND, WI
Thirteen Island Boat Cruise and see lighthouses and sea caves, ferry to Madeline Island State Historic Museum, fresh fish at Cornacopia, National Forest w/campground, kayaking, fishing, hiking, Iron River
Bad River Casino, US Hwy 2, Odanah, WI. Register @ smoke shop on East side of casino.
From Bessemer, MI, take US Hwy 2 West for 33 miles, Casino will be on the right. $20 for Hookups (with use of pool, hot tub & wifi), $10 for dry camping.
N46.59284,W90.64854 – Click on link to see Google Map
WAKEFIELD, MI
John Lynch
Bike or hike the Bell Isle Trail. Hiking to local waterfalls. Kayak nearby lakes (rentals available). Visit mining and logging museums and Copper Peak, the biggest ski flying jump in the USA. Kayak, rock-hound swim, and or picnic along the shore of Lake Superior. On 8/1, visit Mercer, WI for the annual Loon Festival that includes music, food, arts and crafts and the famous loon calling contest. BBQ at Jack’s house in Ramsay. Fish fry at the VFW and Pizza at Ore House. Lots of other possibilities.
Eddy Park Campground, 316 Chicago Mine Rd, Wakefield, MI
Eddy Park is located on the north east shore of Sunday Lake, along Hwy M-28. $25/day W&E and $125/week (7 days for the price of 5). Reservations are recommended, call Sue 906 229-5131 Ext 1002 after Feb 24. Camp Host at 906 224-4481.
N46.48508,W89.93744 – Click on link to see Google Map
HOUGHTON, MI
Take the ferry to Isle Royale National Park for hiking, kayaking and scuba diving. Tour the Quincy Mine and the Coppertown Mining Museum to learn all about the history of the area where mining was king. Stop by Sheldon’s Bakery for an old miner’s favorite dinner – a pasty (pasties are filled with meats and vegetables). The ghost town of Delaware including the Delaware Copper Mine. Travel along scenic highway 41 and stop at the Jampot for an afternoon treat. Tour the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum to learn about the area’s interesting rocks and minerals. Breakfast at Suomi Diner is a must. Boat tour of the lighthouses. Visit Houghton College for Rock Museum (free).
Hancock Recreation Area, 2000 Jasberg St, Hancock, MI. Reserve after May 1 @ cityofhancock.com. use yellow box link on Left side of home page.
From US-41 in Houghton, take a slight left onto Shelden Ave, immediately turn right onto Portage Canal Lift Bridge, in .5 mi turn left onto Quincy St, remain on Quincy St. until you come to Hancock Recreation Area on the left. Reservations can and should be made now. Reserve at cityofhancock.com (use yellow box link on Left side of home page.) $25/day for electric. Restrooms, showers and laundry available.
N47.131013,W88.615784 – Click on link to see Google Map
MARQUETTE, MI
Tom Young 480-526-1726
Bike or walk in Presque Isle Park, enjoy ice cream at Jilbert’s Dairy, tour pit mine and processing factory, and watch taconite being loaded into ocean liners. Great kayaking in nearby lakes & rivers, waterfalls, bike or backpack on Grand Island, Picture Rocks boat tour, & hikes.
Ojibwa Casino, 105 Acre Trail, Marquette, MI
From Marquette go east 11 miles on SR 28. Watch for sign to turn right on Kawbawgam Avenue to Ojibwa Casino. Parking in the overflow section. Free.
Alternative parking at the Marquette Fairgrounds, call 906 249-4111 to make reservations. 2 miles South of crossroads Hwy 480 & M 553. $20 drycamping.
N46.48119,W87.24281 – Click on link to see Google Map
SAULT STE MARIE, MI
Tour Locks, hike Voyageur Trail, Geocache, explore St. Joseph Island, Bushplane Museum, guided museum tour. Ride the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, a one-day wilderness train tour takes you 183 kms north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario over towering trestles and along pristine northern lakes and rivers, to the Agawa Canyon. The Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site consists of the two oldest stone buildings northwest of Toronto. 200 years old, these buildings have witnessed the growth and transformation of a small Ojibwa encampment into a Northern Ontario hub. Located in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, the museum welcomes visitors year-round to explore the three floors of exhibit galleries that depict the heritage of Sault Ste. Marie. Displays include traveling and locally curated exhibits.
Kewadin Casino, 2186 Skunk Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. Register in casino.
N46.477501,W84.321930 – Click on link to see Google Map
ALPENA, MI
Susan Hutton, 912-599-0964
Dancing Thursday – Saturday at a nearby bar, July 4th festivities in Alpena include a 5K, 1mi run, the 18th annual Thunder Bay Maritime Festival, the 8th annual Cardboard Boat Regatta, a parade and fireworks. Bike the Alpena Bi-Path that spans 18.5 total miles throughout the city of Alpena, and offers views of Lake Huron, Thunder Bay River, and local historic landmarks.
Thunder Bay RV Park, 4250 US 23, Alpena, MI. This is over Independence Day weekend. Reserve @ 989-354-2528 Kregg or Debbie. Say you are with the WIN group.
From Alpena, head south on US-23, campground will be on the right. $30 FHU, Bathroom and showers available and Pavilion. Dump available. No dry camping allowed.
N45.014835,W83.464716 – Click on link to see Google Map
MACKINAW CITY, MI
Travel across the beautiful Mackinac Bridge to St. Ignace and to the historic Mackinac Island. There is a boat trip to the island and biking on the eight-mile loop on the only state highway in the United States with no vehicular traffic, or explore the interior on foot. Sample the famous Mackinac fudge and admire the horse drawn carriages. Drive over the famous bridge to Mill Creek Discovery Park. View a demonstration of a recreated saw mill from the 1700s take a ride down the zip line or try out the climbing wall. Kayak the Carp River.
Mackinaw City Campground, 13496 Mackinaw Hwy, Mackinaw City, MI 231-436-7550. Reserve after April 1, 2020. Some 1st come 1st serve.
From US 31N, turn L onto Mackinaw Hwy, go approximately one mile and the campground will be on the right. Rate is $20/night. Reserve after April 1, 2020. 1st come 1st serve. E &W available, but depending on the number on the circuit, some may need to dry camp. Dump and vault toilets available.
N45.74841,W84.73205 – Click on link to see Google Map
PETROSKY, MI
Hop on the ferry to Beaver Island, walk the beach at Fisherman’s Island State Park, pick up some fresh smoked whitefish for dinner, and end the day with an ice cream cone and a walk on the waterfront. Tour historic lighthouses and get a glimpse of what life was like for the lighthouse keeper and his family. Visit the Harsha House and the Charlevoix Depot Museum to understand the rich history of this area. Day trip to Petoskey for rock (fossilized coral) hunting. There will be a day trip to Mackinaw City from Charlevoix
Odawa Casino, 1760 Lears Rd. Petoskey, MI 49770 Free. Dry Camping. Shuttle available to casino from lot.
N45.351322,W84.977599 – Click on link to see Google Map
GLEN HAVEN, MI
Mary Welch
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers miles of sandy beaches, bluffs that tower 450ft. above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes and unique flora and fauna. Hike the myriad of trails, enjoy nature and the breathtaking views or go bird watching. Nearby Glen Arbor offers unique shopping and art galleries.
David Henry Day Campground, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI
From M-22, turn left onto M-109 N, turn right to stay on M-109 N, go 5 miles and turn left onto DH Day Campground. $20/night dry camp, Sr. Pass discount for $10/night. Dump and water available at the park. Reservations recommended may be made online 6 months in advance at www.recreation.gov. This campground has no sites over 35’.
N44.89948,W86.0202 – Click on link to see Google Map
MUSKEGON, MI
Sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets. Muskegon State Park with hiking, biking and the Blockhouse tower for viewing the ocean. Windmill Island Gardens with an authentic working Dutch Windmill. Visit the Ludington Maritime Museum. Day trip to Holland SP and the Dutch town of Holland, MI.
PJ Hoffmaster State Park Campground, 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445. Phone 231 798-3711
From Oct I-96 and US-31, go 5 mi S on US-31, then 2.5 mi W on E. Pontaluna Road. $33 for 30amp, $37 for 50amp. Dump available. Reservations recommended may be made online 6 months in advance at www.midnrreservations.com
N43.138604,W86.273925 – Click on link to see Google Map
Michigan Wisconsin and Minnesota Circuit 2020
2020 Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota
This circuit travels up the west side of Michigan, following Lake Michigan and on around to the east side of the state to Lake Huron. From there it will cross the beautiful Mackinac Bridge to reach the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We will travel west across the Peninsula visiting several stops along Lake Superior and crossing into Wisconsin for a couple of gatherings before venturing into Minnesota. There will be ample opportunities for biking, hiking, kayaking, exploring and sightseeing. This circuit needs a circuit leader. The number of participants will need to be limited due to size of available stops along the way. A 2nd group may follow the 1st if we have enough interest. Please note where reservations are recommended and make them as far as possible in advance to ensure your spot.
Circuit leader: Jenell Jones, jenelljones15@gmail.com, (817) 455-4911 Please email her if you are planning on joining this circuit!
SOUTH BEND, IN
Basilica of the Sacred Heart, University of Notre Dame, Studebaker National Museum, East Race Waterway, Military Honor Park, RV/MH Hall of Fame (Elkhart), Hall of Heroes Super Hero Museum (Elkhart), Pete’s Simonton Lake Tavern (Elkhart)
Elks Lodge, 3535 McKinley Ave, South Bend, IN. Electric sites $25. Dry camp– donation.
US-31 N to South Bend. In South Bend US-31 becomes S Michigan St.Continue to US-20 Business/E. Colfax Ave (right turn) stay on US-20. US-20 will turn onto McKinley Ave then continue to Elks Lodge, 3535 McKinley Ave, on left side of street.
N42.167881,W83.483139 – Click on link to see Google Map
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Hall of Fame Museum, Indiana War Memorial, Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum – Soldiers & Sailors Monument, Scottish Rite Cathedral, Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Indiana State Capitol, Central Canal
Speedway Moose Lodge, 4917 W. Vermont St, Indianapolis, IN
Take I-65 N toward Louisville, drive 131.1 mi and at Exit 110B take ramp left for I-70 W toward St. Louis, drive 4.3 mi, at Exit 77 take ramp right and follow signs for Holt Rd, 0.2 mi turn right onto S Holt Rd, 0.7 mi turn left onto Rockville Rd, 1.1 mi turn right N Lynhurst Dr, 0.5 miles turn right onto W Vermont St, 0.3 mi arrive at Moose Lodge, 4917 W Vermont St on right.
N39.771939,W86.243463 – Click on link to see Google Map
LEXINGTON, KY
(Cancelled due to restrictions on camping in the area)
The Kentucky Horse Park is the only park in the world dedicated to the relationship between people and their horses. The Park has museums, parades, walking tours and horseback riding available. In Lexington, tour the Mary Todd Lincoln House, the Kentucky Aviation Museum, and The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky is a 100-acre greenspace located on the campus of the University of Kentucky in the heart of Lexington.
Kentucky Horse Park Campground, 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511 Phone – (859) 259-4257. Reservation recommended. Reserveamerica.com. Rate is $35 for electric site. 10% senior or AARP discount applicable.
From I-65 take Exit 93 for Blue Grass Parkway toward Bardstown/Lexington for 71 miles, take Exit 72A for US-60 E toward Lexington, use the right lane to take the KY-4 N/New Circle Rd ramp to I-75/I-64. Take exit 8 for US-25 toward Georgetown/Lexington. Use left 2 lanes to turn left onto US-25N/Georgetown St. Turn right onto Berea Rd, turn right onto Nina Bonnie Blvd, then turn right onto Campground Rd.
N38.14198,W84.51349 – Click on link to see Google Map
MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK, KY
(Cancelled due to restrictions on camping in the area)
The mysteries of the underworld beckon at Mammoth Cave NP, but that’s not all, in addition to the many cave tours, you can hike, bike, kayak, enjoy a campfire program, and more.
Mammoth Cave Campground, 1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND – Reservation recommended. Recreation.gov /B or C loop. $10 with Senior Pass.
From I-65 take Exit 48 (Park City). TL on SR-255 (becomes Park City Rd), follow until it joins Mammoth Cave Pkwy, TL, follow to Visitor Ctr. CG is 1/4 mi past Ctr.
N37.18284,W86.09733 – Click on link to see Google Map
FRANKLIN, TN
Nashville Area, Fontanel Mansion, Ryman Auditorium, Johnny Cash Museum, Lane Motor Museum, The Hermitage (home of Andrew Jackson), Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Elks Lodge, 485 Oak Meadow Drive, Franklin, TN
On I-65 N toward Nashville to Exit 65 take ramp right for TN-96 toward Franklin/Murfreesboro. 0.3 miles turn left onto TN-96/Murfreesboro Rd, 0.3 mi turn left onto S Royal Oaks Blvd, 0.5 mi turn left onto Oak Meadow Dr, 0.4 mi arrive at Elks Lodge on the right.
N35.903632,W86.826720 – Click on link to see Google Map
CORNITH, MS
Civil War Interpretive Center, Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain, Corinth Contraband Camp, Corinth National Cemetery, Crossroads Museum, Battery Robinett, Corinth Coke Museum
Cornith Gun Club & RV Park ($20 night), 314 Cr 604, Cornith, MS. Each person needs to call and make a reservation at Cornith Gun Club & RV Park 662-287-8223 (Chip Worley) State you are part of WIN group.
From the intersection of US-45 & 72: go west approximately 4.5 miles to CR-604. Turn left (south) onto CR-604. Park is 1.2 on the left.
N34.912844,W88.628568 – Click on link to see Google Map
FRENCH CAMP, MS
Tour French Camp Academy, lunch available; drive to Tupelo visit Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
Natchez Trace Parkway, Jeff Busby Campground, Ackerman, MS (1st come 1st serve)
I-55 north towards Memphis. At Exit 105A take ramp right and follow signs for 105A / Natchez Trace Parkway. Take exit and drive approximately 92 miles on Natchez Trace Pkwy. Turn right into park and follow road to primitive camping area. Free primitive campsites, 9 miles N of French Academy.
N33.417076,W89.26902 – Click on link to see Google Map
VICKSBURG, MS
Downtown Vicksburg view the Vicksburg Murals. Blue Scenic Drive Tour, Red Scenic Drive Tour. Visit Vicksburg National Military Park and USS Cairo. Tour Old Warren County Courthouse, Coca Cola first bottled here (museum). There are many historic homes in area.
Elks Lodge, 1366 US-61 S, Vicksburg, MS
Drive approx. 65 miles N on US-61 from Natchez. Elks Lodge on right.
N32.295035,W90.894207 – Click on link to see Google Map
NATCHEZ, MS
Forks of the Road Slave Market, Historic Natchez Cemetery, Natchez-Under-The-Hill, Natchez Visitor Reception Center, House on Ellicott Hill, Longwood Plantation. Walking Tour: Rosalie, Old Adams County Jail. There are many historic houses and plantations to visit.
Moose Lodge, 455 John R Junkin Drive, Natchez, MS
Take I-10 East toward Baton Rouge 45.5 mi, at Exit155B take ramp left for I-110 N toward Metro Airport / Bus. District 8. 8 mi at Exit 8C, take ramp right for US-61 N/Scenic Hwy toward Natchez, 80.0 mi turn left onto US-84 W / US-425 N/John R Junkin Dr, 1.1 mile arrive at entrance road to Moose Lodge, 455 John R Junkin Dr on right.
N31.541613,W91.399981 – Click on link to see Google Map
BREAUX BRIDGE, LA
Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival 5/4-6th, Cajun dance lessons, and entertainment of all kinds. Cost is $20 for three-day admission. Music. The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival has become one of the largest gatherings of world-famous Cajun, Zydeco and Swamp Pop musicians and plays host to over 30 bands on three stages during the three-day festival. Music fills the air from morning into the night at Parc Hardy! Saturday morning Zydeco Breakfast at Café Des Amis. Arrive at 6:30-6:45 am to ensure seating.
Parc Hardy Park, 1290 Rees St., Breaux Bridge, LA
I-10E Exit 109 take LA-328/Rees St. towards Breaux Bridge. About 1 mile turn right onto E. Doucet Dr, continue to Parc Hardy Festival Grounds. Parking area on left. RV parking $50. for the weekend. Do not arrive before 10 am Friday
N30.285158,W91.899441 – Click on link to see Google Map
WESTLAKE, LA
Overnight stay. Visit Isle of Capri Casino
Isle of Capri Casino, 102 Westlake Ave., Westlake, LA
From I-10 E take Exit 27. This will be Perkins Ave/Isle of Capri Blvd. Follow it to casino backparking lot (close to fence). Free parking.
N30.236488,W93.249523 – Click on link to see Google Map
HOLLY BEACH, LA
Known as one of the most accessible beaches in all of Louisiana, Holly Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, crabbing and fishing opportunities. Peveto Woods Bird & Butterfly Sanctuary, Wetland Walkway, and Sabine Pass Lighthouse and the Cameron Ferry. Sabine National Wildlife Refuge is the oldest and largest of three national wildlife refuges along the Creole Nature Trail. Established in 1937, this refuge of almost 125,000 acres conserves both freshwater marshes and salt marshes and the creatures that live in them.
Holly Beach – Public Access
From Port Arthur take TX 82 east, continue on LA 82 east for 36 miles, turn right on Teal St, then turn right on Porpoise Avenue.
N 29.76993,W93.45934 – Click on link to see Google Map
HOUSTON, TX
Tour NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston Museum of Natural Science (lots of exhibits). Trip to Galveston to see Bishops Palace, tree sculptures, Gulf beach walk and Strand National Historic Landmark District.
Pasadena Moose Lodge, 3919 Pansy St., Pasadena, TX
From US-59 take E Sam Houston Turnpike S about 25 miles to Fremont Parkway Exit. Left on Fremont Parkway and go about 1/2 mile, turn right on Pansy. Park at side of building. Donation.
N29.652823,W95.162702 – Click on link to see Google Map
SAN ANTONIO, TX
San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, visit the Alamo, do the San Antonio River Walk. Lots to see and do.
San Antonio Elks Lodge, 15650 Market Hill, San Antonio, TX
The Lodge is just off the 1604 Freeway W off of I-10. Dry camping on grass covered field. Donation $. Also, five hook-ups available. Water & dump on site.
N29.590749,W98.621768 – Click on link to see Google Map
2020 BANDERA, TX TO INDIANAPOLIS, IN THRU KENTUCKY
We will start in mid-April after the Singles International dance rally in Bandera TX. Starting with some stops in TX, highlights will include Breaux Bridge Crawfish festival LA, following the Natchez Trace, through MS & TN stopping at Mammoth Cave MS & Kentucky Horse Farm in Lexington, KY. We will end in South Bend IN around mid-June in time to begin the summer circuit through Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. This circuit needs a co-circuit leader. The number of participants will need to be limited due to size of available stops along the way. A 2nd group may follow the 1st if we have enough interest & a circuit leader. Please note where reservations are recommended and make them as far as possible in advance to ensure your spot. Contact Circuit leader, Milan Esser, if you desire to join this circuit.
CAREY, ID
Spend Labor Day in Sun Valley and experience Wagon Days. Explore Craters of the Moon National Monument. Visit the Silver Creek Preserve and take a free audio walking tour. Kayak Silver Creek. Tour the fish hatchery and go fishing. Bike the trails from Bellevue to Sun Valley. Check out the Bow and Arrow walking bridge near the Lions Park in Hailey. Visit Sawtooth National Recreation Area and take a drive up Hwy 75 to visit the quaint town of Stanley ID.
Hayspur Fish Hatchery, Carey, ID. Manager is Greg Anderson -Phone (208) 788-2847.
From Carey, junction of Hwy 20 and 26, go West on US 20 about 11 miles and turn right on Fish Hatchery Road. Donation.
N43.335838,W114.146172 – Click on link to see Google Map
IDAHO FALLS, ID
Visit the Museum of Idaho, the Idaho Potato Museum and the Japanese Pavilion on a Island in the Snake River that honors Idaho Fall’s sister city of Tokai-Mura. Walk or bike the Snake River Greenbelt. Take a ride on a llama at the Wilderness Ridge Trail Llamas. Take in a minor league baseball game with the Chukars. Check out the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho and the ARTitorium on Broadway.
Elks Lodge #1087, 640 E Elva St, Idaho Falls, ID (208) 522-6371
$10/night for 4 sites with 20AMP, need to verify is drycamping is permitted. City dump available nearby. Additional RV Parking at the South Tourist Park, 2800 S Yellowstone, Idaho Falls. 16sites at $15/night.
N43.50364,W112.02028 – Click on link to see Google Map
WEST YELLOWSTONE, ID
Explore and enjoy all the wonders that Yellowstone has to offer; there are too many to name. Take a walking tour of West Yellowstone and visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and the West Yellowstone Visitor Center for information on the Park and Ranger talks. Visit Earthquake Lake, kayak in Hebgen Lake and on the Madison River.
Bakers Hole Campground, (406)823-6961, West Yellowstone, MT
Three miles northwest of West Yellowstone on US 191. $16/night; some sites have electric (30 and 50 amp); senior discount applies. First come, first served.
N44.539012,W110.330562 – Click on link to see Google Map
JACKSON, WY
Teton hiking, kayaking, sightseeing and shopping and eating in Jackson. Great biking from the campground to Jackson and to Jenny Lake.
Gros Ventre Campground, 100 Gros Ventre Campground Rd, Kelly, WY
From Moran, take US Hwy 191S, go 23 miles, at the traffic circle take the 3rd exit onto Gros Ventre Rd, go 4.6mi and turn right onto Gros Ventre CG Rd. Try for last loop to left. Dump & water available. $29 or $14.50 with Senior Pass per night for dry camping. This campground is first come, first served, and fills early
N43.6155,W110.6656 – Click on link to see Google Map
RIVERTON, WY
Visit Hot Springs at Thermopolis. Bike the Wyoming Heritage Trail, a 22-mile rail trail from Riverton to Shoshoni, WY. Visit the Riverton Museum with exhibits on the Wild, Wild West and Mining. See artifacts and artwork of the Northern Arapaho at the Casino. Visit St. Stephens Mission or take a Hot Air Balloon ride.
Wind River Casino, 10269 Wyoming 789, Riverton, WY 82501 307 856-3964
From Riverton, go 2miles south on WY-789, arrive at Casino on the right. Dry camping free in parking lot, Electric available in Campground for $25.
N42.996854,W108.383993 – Click on link to see Google Map