Desert Truck Camping

[Geterdone]

We are still looking for more recommendations for heading SW to do some winter desert truck camping..Arizona, NM, etc are all on the possible list....we reviewed a blog called "Two Happy Campers" and got some insites there. We specifically need to know about cell service (Verizon), refueling sites for diesel and propane, food supplies etc. Any safety considerations we should be aware of and or stuff to pack we would not normally have along East Coast. So please send your thoughts...also carrying firearms...AR, handguns etc.

thanks,

steve

[whizbang]

We found that T-Mobile has good coverage along major highways and most towns. Verizon is probably similar. You might have dead zones depending how far you get off the beaten path.

Both states are firearm friendly.

A shocking amount of the boondocks aren't boondocks, just somebodies backyard --- fenced off for ranching or somebody's 5 acre weekend getaway home.

Even small remote towns have gas stations and mechanics. Our Jeep blew a fuel pump is Salida, CO (population 5,200). The local mechanic had it fixed overnight (parts were shipped same day from Denver). If you are unfortunate enough to break down in a hick town, the parts you need will probably be available out of Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, or El Paso. Just figure on spending the night.

Good luck. Have fun, and, post a trip report with pictures.

[Homeless_by_Cho]

Edd505 wrote:
What are you looking for? I live in NM - PM me and I can give you some ideas for boon docking BLM land.

Why not list them here so we all can benefit?

LeRoy

[Geterdone]

We have a propane generator, 100w solar panel, refrigerator and we would like to see some of what Arizona and NM offer in way of camping at parks or boondock. We are both in our late 60's, just do not want to wander into isolated places without knowing what we are getting into incase of breakdown or any emergency. We have a new RAM 4wd truck carrying our camper. So we are honestly open to go anywhere one might recommend. We are comming from W.Pa. We have access to military facilities, I am retired Army.

thanks

[Edd505]

What are you looking for? I live in NM - PM me and I can give you some ideas for boon docking BLM land.

[SidecarFlip]

Speaks for itself. Be careful where you get your water from and from what. Why I drink bottled water on my NM hunts (in the boonies).

[azrving]

SidecarFlip wrote:
NM... Handguns and long guns are fine. I hunt in NM regularly. Never been an issue there. Gun friendly. Cannot speak for Arizona don't hunt there. Watch the water in southern NM. Drink bottled water or risk Montuzma's revenge.

Been there, did that.

Tell us more about that.

[Kayteg1]

I love AZ camping for scenery, but you are far away from civilization very often.
The main road between Las Vegas and Phoenix has cell coverage only from time to time. Buying fresh bread is not that easy neither, but views of Saguaros are spectacular.
Say more what exactly you plan to do?

[SidecarFlip]

NM... Handguns and long guns are fine. I hunt in NM regularly. Never been an issue there. Gun friendly. Cannot speak for Arizona don't hunt there. Watch the water in southern NM. Drink bottled water or risk Montuzma's revenge.

Been there, did that.