Usually we publish our travel journal entry the day after we leave a spot - both to provide a complete summary and also as a means of keeping our security (all this tech carried around in a relatively insecure box called an RV). However we’re in a spot we really like and are probably going to re-up for another 3 nights to make it a full week. I’ve already shot over 125 photos which is a pretty good indication of our interest in a particular place.
Right now that place is Rockhound State Park in Southern New Mexico. What’s to like?
- The weather. We’ve had a couple of perfect sunny and mid-70 degree days and more of the same in the forecast. Overnight temps are mostly above freezing and our combination of electric heater and heated mattress pads serves us in comfort while keeping the propane furnace turned off.
- The views. With craggy mountain bluffs to the east and a valley view of at least 8-10 miles to the west I don’t think we’ve had a prettier inland spot. When other RV’s leave this park we can follow them on their way out for at least 5 miles. I’ve especially been enjoying experimenting with long exposure photography - the mountain bluffs and amazingly clear starry skies are great backdrops for some nighttime photos.
- The sunsets. Yes, beautiful enough to deserve their own bullet point. I’ve learned the post-sun-disappearing color lasts much longer here than in other places. The first night I took some photos of the sun going down and once it was gone put the camera away, figuring the show was over. A half-hour later I looked out and wished I had stayed in position. The second night I didn’t even really start taking photos until that point and the additional few clouds really gave the sunlight and color something to reflect off of.
- The rockhounding. Miranda especially is enjoying taking the hikes around the park and looking for interesting rocks. Today the kids & MsBoyink will venture back to the park visitor center to learn more about how to find good ones, and stay safe while doing it (being from Michigan we are definitely naive about desert critters like snakes and spiders).
- The cost. New Mexico State Parks are a deal at $14/night. We have electric and water hookups so only need to worry about filling our gray water tank too soon before having to leave.
- The connection. Our aircard is hooking up well so I’m able to get some work done. The workcamper/host asked what service I had (Verizon) then pointed to some antennas on top of the mountain peaks. My AT&T iPhone is seeing 3-5 bars of E service as well.
- The proximity of infrastructure. The city of Deming is only 15 minutes away so if we need gas / laundry / propane / car wash / groceries they are all there. We did most of that yesterday in one swoop so hope to not have to again. We’re seeing the cost of gas creep up so need to be ever more mindful of conserving it and combining supply runs.
We’re not exactly sure when we’ll move again or where we’ll go when we do, so for the time being this is home. If you are traveling in the area - come find us!
Great shot of your home under the stars!
You are making me long for the southwestern desert. NM state parks must be one of the best deals out there.
A long day trip but just north check out the Gila Cliff dwellings (and hot springs) if you get up north of Silver City. City of Rocks SP also has star parties at their observatory, never been though.
You might consider visiting Catalina State Park north of Tucson if you move west. The park is at the base of the Catalina Mtns in the Sonoran Desert. It has a remote feel to it but you also have access to urban amenities in a nice part of town just outside the gates. Endless hiking and mountain biking inside the park with paved bike paths just outside. This is one of our favorite spots. We had good Verizon 3G here.
Gilbert Ray County Park on the other side of Tucson is also quite nice, more remote, sites right next to saguaros, and just 5-ish miles outside the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum, Saguaro National Park, and Old Tucson. Love it there too. Had a fantastic free guided hike right at the County Park by a volunteer naturalist and also at the National Park a few miles down the road. Many sites might be too small here for the bigger rigs but there are some longer sites too. Good Verizon 3G here also. LOVE the Sonoran Desert.
If you go into northern NM, well, there is LOTS to do up that way too! but ‘nuff ramblin’...
Looking forward to following along on your adventures through your blog.
Enjoy!
Hey Jim - thanks for checking in here.
We just found out there is a star party here on Saturday night so we’re planning to attend that. We might still head up to City of Rocks though. You’re at least the 3rd person to rave about the Sonoran Desert so that’s definitely high on our list.
Wow! Amazing scenery! Yeah, I can understand why you want to spend some extra time there.