We loaded up the Wolf Creek for the second time this spring and headed out for Mormon Bend campground on the Salmon River, just east of Stanley, ID. It is a favorite of ours because of the paved (not dusty, ever) campground loop and the river access. There are lots of nice National Forest campgrounds along the Salmon and they are typically under-utilized this time of year. We towed our ATV in our enclosed utility trailer and left home with a full water tank. I prefer to run the softened water from home through the system when I can, even if it means running a bit heavier and using more fuel. Soap goes a heck of a lot farther and water use is optimized.
We left Boise and traveled the mountain road (21) over through Idaho City and Lowman which is a really twisty route, but stunning views were to be had on every curve. If you got the time it is a nice trip. I like the Sawtooths a lot more than the Tetons because you are closer and the crowds are less of a problem.
It turned out that going to Stanley was NOT on everyone else's radar this Memorial Day. Few people in any of the less popular CG's, which left us the pick of the best. We like the Yankee Fork area anyway due to the prospecting, rock collecting and trail riding possibilities. This time of the year the fishing is usually a bust because of the spring run off.
Temps were in the low 60's and it was fairly rainy, but we liked it anyway and managed a nice ride on Sunday. Saturday we spent panning out some concentrate from previous outings that we brought along. Cloudy days are great for telling real color from the fakers. I managed to read a Patterson Alex Cross novel and another by one of Clancy's progeny. Overall too many mosquitos out for our liking so the bug house was mandatory (glad we brought it!).
We continue to be amazed at how well thought out and comfortable our camper has been for us. We really love the mid bath and three sided views of the dinette and kitchen. The bath is a tight fit for me but I make it work okay (I'm 6'3" and 260 lbs.). The tank capacities seem to be a good ratio for a long weekend or week long trip. With appropriate water conservation we can do fine. Having a campsite latrine for the ole number two makes a big difference. Two Centennial deep cycle group 27 batteries easily made it four days without any issues and remained strong. Not having to run heat makes a big difference too. We probably burned up half of a propane tank running the fridge, water heater and the range, if that much.
Overall I can't wait for retirement and the chance to spend a lot more time camping our way throughout the west. Lord, I hope I make it!
Ranger Tim
2006 F-350 Super Crew King Ranch SRW Bulletproofed
2016 Wolf Creek 840
Upper and Lower StableLoads