When I read, "we want to put the generator farther away from us so it is not as loud" what I am really reading is, "you want to put your generator closer to me so I hear it more." ;). I recall the guy who had his Honda running about 50 yards away from his trailer and about 10 Yards away from my RV all night long. It worked well for him.
As was stated, for light loads, just add a cheap solar system and save yourself some money and me (and you) the noise when I'm parked next to you. Even just 200w may do the trick and save you time, money, noise levels, and will also be safer without all that extra gas to carry. This advice applies to using either the portable or the onboard generator. Solar is always better for noise reduction and eventually cost as well.
On a side note, keeping a $1000+ portable generator behind a one dollar lock with a key that 90% of us have worries me a little bit.
