YUCAIPA REGIONAL PARK, YUCAIPA, CA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  This large regional park has spacious sites and good hiking, in the midst of an urban area.

Date of Stay:  December 11th and 12th, 2011.  Our first stay here was in March, 2011 – click here to see photos on that springtime review.

Weather During Stay:  Mild and sunny when we arrived; changed to rain the following day.

Site Description:  Our site is a large pullout along the side of the campground road.  A school is next to us at the border of the park, so it is quiet at night but some “kid noise” during the day.  All sites are paved, with large concrete patios surrounded by grass.  BBQ grill and sturdy picnic table at each site.  FHU with 50 and 30 amp electric.

The campground is gently rolling, with lots of green grass and trees (most are leafless this time of year).  Most of the 42 RV sites are pull-outs, but some are back-ins.  Not all are level, but most are quite long; all are fairly spacious.  Many of the pull-out sites have multiple utilities for groups of two or three. Several restrooms (with showers); plenty of trash cans.  Tent camping sites are available in a separate area. Dump site available.  All sites can be reserved at www.sbcountyparks.com/.  Maximum stay 14 days in 30.

Rate: FHU RV sites are $35.  Senior camping rates are available Monday-Thursday, $30.  We paid the senior rate for both nights, though the website says the senior rate only applies Monday-Thursday.  Maybe because there were so few campers here?  There is a fee to make a reservation, which is advisable at other times of the year.

Phone/radio/TV: Verizon service is good on both the aircard (3G) and phones.  Lots of trees mean you need to pay attention if your TV satellite is roof mounted.  On the antenna, we have four digital stations, all PBS.  NPR on 91.9.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain:  Rolling hills, lots of trees, green grass and lakes.  Elevation 2,600 feet.  This large, regional park is in a busy urban/suburban area, with the school next door and homes nearby. Views from the campground are of other campers, the surrounding hills, and the school.

Lighting/Noise: No streetlights here (a good thing), but the restrooms are brightly lit at night.  We were positioned so that wasn’t a bother.  Noise from the neighboring students during the day.  Sites near the front of the campground had considerable road noise.

Favorite Sites: All have some good, some not-so-good features.  As usual, we prefer perimeter sites to the interior sites.  The north end of the campground loop is quite open with very few trees; more sunshine and fewer satellite RV obstacles.

Hiking/Walking:  Walking the loop road of this huge park is pleasant.  A rather strenuous hike goes to the peak of the highest nearby hill, Mt. Zanja.

Comments: This park is a pleasant oasis in a busy urban area in the Inland Empire of California.  The campground occupies a small area of the park, which includes a large lake (with fishing), swimming beach, water slides, playground, and several large picnic areas.  I suspect this park is very crowded with day-users in summer.  Grocery shopping nearby; 18 hole public golf course ¼ mile away.

SANTA BARBARA ELKS LODGE, SANTA BARBARA, CA

Our Opinion: Recommend; a reasonably priced option in an otherwise expensive area.  This is an Elks Lodge - you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: December 9-10, 2011.

Weather During Stay: Cool, calm and sunny.  Highs in the mid-60’s, low’s in the 30’s.

Sites:  16 slightly sloped, well marked sites in a gravel lot adjacent to the lodge. All sites have 30/50 amp E and water, plus boards to use under your jacks.  All sites are back-ins, in two rows facing the center lane.  Sites are long enough for big rigs, with enough room for slides (though little else).  Dump available at the lodge. 

This is a well-designed RV parking area, with nearby, dedicated parking spaces for tows and towed (which won’t fit in your space).  Very well maintained. 

This is a busy lodge, and it is recommended that you call for a reservation (805/964-6858).  With a reservation, you know your site number in advance, which makes arrival and set up much easier - otherwise, you need to check in at the lodge to find out which sites are available before setting up.  According to the reservation form, the maximum stay is 5 consecutive days in 30 days, but it appears this can be negotiated.  Check out time is 1 pm.

Rate: $20 W/E (30/50 amp).   Dump at lodge is included.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard (4G) signal.  No obstructions to block TV satellite.  Several digital channels on the air antenna.  The lodge offers WiFi, but the signal in the RV lot was not working when we visited.  Local NPR on 89.5 and 90.9.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Small gravel lot surrounded by a privacy hedge. View is of neighboring rigs, lodge, huge trees, and distant mountains.  Quite appealing for an urban site.  Elevation is slightly above sea level.

Lighting/Noise: This is a busy urban area, a few blocks off Hwy 101.  Traffic noise is noticeable day and night.  Moderate lighting.

Favorite Sites: Sites 9-16, which face the lodge, look a little longer and wider than sites 1-8.  It appears that sites are assigned based on the size of your rig.  

Hiking/Walking: This is a residential area with sidewalks.  Walk the neighborhood - and you can walk a few blocks on the main (pleasant) commercial street to Trader Joes and Vons.

Comments: The lodge’s printed reservation form mentions “Access to showers, gym & spa” ($10.00 per stay); we didn’t inquire about this, but would if we were staying longer.  Santa Barbara is an appealing seaside town, about 6 miles from the lodge.  Good beach walking and people watching there. 

OCEANO-5 CITIES ELKS LODGE, OCEANO, CA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  Fun location a few blocks from Pismo State Beach, a great walking beach also open to vehicles and camping.  This is an Elks Lodge - you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: December 5-8, 2011.

Weather During Stay: Lovely winter weather: cool, calm and sunny.  Highs in the low to mid-60’s, low’s in the 30’s.

Sites: 50 sites on level grass with W/E (30 amp) at sites.  Dump available as you exit the camping area.  Sites are back-in around the perimeter of the parking area, long enough for big rigs, but tight if all sites are filled.

Dave is the on-site host (805/305-7627) who assigns sites as you arrive (if he is there).  During the slow times, rigs are parked in every other site, providing space for slides, awnings, and rugs.  During busy times, what had looked like one nice spacious site becomes 2 very tight slots.  We saw slides interwoven when rigs had slides on both sides!  Dave will always do his utmost to find you a spot, but call ahead in summer.

Rate: $25 W/E (30 amp) includes use of dump station.  This is on the high side for Elks - Salinas (to the north) is $20/night for the same utilities; Santa Barbara (to the south) is $20/night for W and 50 amp E.  Napa, CA, with FHU and cable TV, is $20/night.   Private parks in the area charge $40 and up for FHU; the state park across the street charges $25/night for no hookups. 

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal.  No obstructions to block TV satellite.  Several digital channels on the air antenna.  Speedy, strong WiFi available in the RV area - get the password at the lodge.  Local NPR on 90.1.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Flat, level parking on grass with trees on the perimeter.  View is of rigs, lodge, and attractive residential buildings across the street.  Elevation: sea level.

Lighting/Noise: Little traffic noise at night.  The lodge building leaves outside lights on all night, and the lodge parking lot has tall streetlights that burn all night.  The orange lenses help, but it is quite bright all night.

Favorite Sites: Not much difference between sites; we choose to face the sun on these cool winter days. Dave, the on-site host, will point you towards the best space available when you arrive.  If the place is full, expect to squeeze into a long, narrow slot. 

Hiking/Walking: Walk three blocks to the west and you are on a fine, fine beach with good walking for miles – and dry camping for $10/night if you want to brave the sand (this photo – that’s not us!).  You can walk the beach all the way to Pismo Beach.

Comments: This lot is jammed in the summer, so don’t expect much personal space.  Per Dave, December is their slowest month, and we had plenty of room during this winter visit.  The fun town of Pismo Beach is a few miles north, a pleasant drive, with some good restaurants (try the BBQ ribs at Mo’s and fish and chips at Brad’s outdoor patio) and a pier over the ocean.  The lodge itself seems very busy.

SALINAS ELKS LODGE, SALINAS, CA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  This convenient stop along Hwy 101 borders a golf course.  Easy access in and out. Private; you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: December 2-4, 2011.

Weather During Stay:  Cool and clear, with highs close to 60 and lows in the 30’s.

Sites: Of the 28 sites provided with W/E sites (30 amp), 25 are usable at any one time (due to the layout).  Sites are on level dirt and gravel around the perimeter of a huge RV storage lot east of the lodge, adjacent to a golf course.  Sites face either south or west.  A few picnic tables are scattered around.

A host is in the site next to the dump station.  To access the dump station, you drive directly towards his rig and the little self-registration/information kiosk. A dumpster is located near the dump station.

Rate: $20 for W/E, $15 dry camping.  Additional $5 to dump.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal (4G).  No obstructions to block TV satellite.  Some TV stations (including two digital PBS stations) using the TV antenna.  Local NPR on 88.9 and 90.3.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Flat, level parking area with lots of BIG trees around the perimeter.  Elevation is not far above sea level. Views of many, many stored RV’s, lodge, parking lot, golf course.

Lighting/Noise: The night lighting is unobtrusive.  Noise from highway 101 and the small municipal airport across the street was noticeable during the day, along with the thwacks of golf clubs on balls.  J  Very quiet at night.

Favorite Sites: No difference in sites.  Pick whichever area is the least crowded.  Fewer than half were occupied when we stayed, so each rig had plenty of room - they would be typically crowded if all or most were filled. 

Hiking/Walking: No good walking at the lodge, but hiking is available within about 8-10 miles by car.

Comments: This is a very convenient location for traveling Elks, with easy access off of Hwy 101.  Monterey is less than 20 miles away, a very scenic drive; Santa Cruz is a little farther.  The golf course adjacent to the lodge is open to the public.

CAL EXPO RV PARK, SACRAMENTO, CA

UPDATED to reflect the improvements we found during our one month stay in April, 2012.

Our Opinion: Neutral. This is where we stay when we come to Sacramento; for us, it is the best of several choices in the area.

Date of Stay: We have stayed here for a month or longer once or twice a year since 2003. The usual limit is 30 days out of any 60 day period, but exceptions can be made with the managers approval (submit a written waiver).

Weather: We usually stay at Cal Expo during spring (April/May) and late Fall (November). Weather during those periods is generally pleasant, though you can get a surprising hot spell anytime! 

Sites: 200+ FHU (30 and 50 amp) sites, back-ins around the perimeter, pull-throughs in the center rows. The park consists of two lots. The lot near the office is paved and somewhat sloped (many large MH’s end up with their front wheels off the ground or on blocks to level).

A larger, mostly gravel, lot is best suited for big rigs.  We park on the edge of that lot, on “the slab”, separated from the gravel sites by a strip of grass and trees.  The slab is concrete; these back-in sites are very level, though quite tight.

No picnic tables at sites. Limited shade. Reasonable water pressure and good voltage. When this park is full, it is tight, with parking for tows and towed at a premium.  When the park is not full, the sites feel pleasantly spacious without immediate neighbors.  During our recent stay, several of the sites in the gravel area were designated for visitor’s car parking.  Nice improvement.

What used to be a no-dog grassy area has been converted into a small, pleasant, off-leash dog run.  Restrooms and a small laundry facility share a building with the office.

Rate: We pay the monthly rate, $595 for 50 amp FHU. Daily rate is $35, typical for the area.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones signal; aircard on Broadband, 5 bars. No cable TV.  Several TV stations on antenna, including 2 digital PBS channels, 6-1 and 6-2. Two local NPR stations. WiFi is available, and now reaches to all sites.  We used it all month with very few problems, quickly fixed.  Excellent improvement.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: This is a big, mostly flat, parking lot, located at the edge of the California state fairgrounds 20 feet above sea level.  Patches and strips of grass and trees on the perimeter. Views are of other rigs, trees, the levee along the Sacramento river, the fairgrounds racetrack, and the fairgrounds maintenance buildings.

Lighting/Noise: Bright, streetlight-style security lighting at night. Noise is typical urban traffic, daily fairgrounds maintenance crews and the racetrack announcer during nighttime races.

Favorite Sites: We choose the level sites on “the slab“ at the back of the park. With a strip of grass behind and a line of trees in front, they offer more shade in summer and we consider them the prettiest of the 50 amp sites, though very narrow.

Hiking/Walking: Excellent! Walk miles in any direction on the American River bike path or the trails in a greenbelt area adjacent to the river and just outside the park‘s fence. You can walk to movie theatres, Arden Fair Mall and other shopping, to restaurants. No lack of walking opportunities here.

Comments: Location, location, location.  Convenient to all kinds of shopping and services, the central location makes a very convenient home for us when we re-visit our ex-hometown, friends, family, and medical providers. Don’t come expecting a resort or a “camping experience”.  Cal Expo is an urban experience, with the welcome amenity of the wonderful American River greenbelt just outside the fence. 

REDDING ELKS LODGE, REDDING, CALIFORNIA

We’ve used the Redding Elks Lodge many times in the past as we travel I-5.  This was a two-night stay, long enough to stock up at the Redding Costco before heading north and to take a couple of walks along the river.  Nothing has changed since our visit in 2009 (click here to read our full review from that visit).

Redding has many choices for RV’ers, including at least one RV park that participates in Passport America (1/2 price).  Although $20/night seems high for an E/W/cable TV/WiFi site (we just paid $20/night in Napa for FHU with cable TV and WiFi, in what seems a more desirable location), we continue to patronize the Redding Elks Lodge because it is friendly and easy – pull in, take any open site, pay using a payment envelope or at the bar.   This lodge’s RV parking is heavily used, so we try to arrive before 3 pm to be assured of a site.  Elks only.

ANZA BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK, BORREGO SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Rave.  Reasonably priced, convenient RV campsites in California’s largest state park.

Date of Stay: February 27 and 28, 2011.  Not recommended in summer!

Weather During Stay:  Sunny, mild days; cold nights.

Site Description:  This review applies specifically to the section of the campground designed for RV’s, sites 1-52.  Roomier, no-hookup sites are available in other sections of the campground, and in other sections of this huge state park.

The RV sites are all FHU, with 30 amps.  Voltage and water pressure are good.  With the exception of 10 “pullout” sites along the edge of the perimeter road, all sites are designed as long, paved pull-throughs.  Each as a substantial picnic table and some desert landscaping.
We were in site 39.  Though the reservations clerk and the Reserve America site (which California state parks use for their reservation system) showed our site as suitable for a rig no longer than 35 feet, we had PLENTY of space for our motor home and Jeep.
Roads are paved and easy to navigate in a big rig.  Though most sites appeared reasonably level, there are some that would be challenging for a big motor home, with considerable front-to-back slope.

Rate:  $35/night for FHU.  14-day limit.  Reservations strongly suggested for weekends during high season (Jan-March), but sites appeared to be available without reservations early in the day on weekdays.

Phone/radio/TV:  Strong Verizon signal here for both phones and aircard.  WiFi is available at the visitor center, a half mile walk.  Our site had no obstacles for our roof-mounted satellite TV dish.  Air antenna had a couple of stations.  NPR on 89.3.

Elevation/landscape/terrain:  Anza-Borrego is California’s largest state park, a landscape of arid mountains and cactus.  Great views of the desert!  Elevation in the campground is 600 ft. or so.
Lighting/noise:  Very dark and quiet at night.

Favorite Sites: We like the sites on the northern edge of the campground, but there is not much difference in the pull-through sites - unless yours happens to directly face the restrooms or one of the pullout sites along the perimeter road.  We would NOT take or reserve a perimeter pull-out; the ones we saw were not suitable for big rigs (24-29 and 49-52).

Hiking/Walking: Walk a paved trail .6 mile to the Visitor Center, or head off to the west up Palm Canyon on either the Palm Canyon trail or the Alternate Trail.  A short overlook trail also leaves from the campground area.  Wonderful hiking with a chance to spot Bighorn Sheep (Borrego).

Comments:  The state park staff here was unusually friendly and accommodating, allowing us check in early since the site was empty, and to drive our Jeep in (rather than towing it in) without charging us a separate day use fee for the Jeep (it is surprising how many places are sticklers about that!).  Wish we had been able to stay longer.

BORREGO HOLIDAY HOME MOBILE HOME AND RV PARK, BORREGO SPRINGS, CA

Our Opinion: Neutral.  A small, friendly, well-maintained mobile home and RV park.

Date of Stay: February 24-26, 2011.

Weather During Stay:  Sunny, cool days; cold nights; breezy.

Site Description:  Originally a mobile home park, this palm tree shaded property has spaces for 60 +/- RVs around the perimeter.  Roads are paved and rather narrow for big rigs and the office is in an inconspicuous spot.  Travel slowly!

All sites are back-ins, on gravel; most have a palm tree on each side and shrubbery at the back.  Sites are FHU, some with 30 amps and some with 50.   Few sites appeared level, but both motor homes and trailers made do with leveling blocks under tires and jacks. 

Our site (51, on the east side of the park) was barely long enough for our 38’ motor home (we backed into the shrubs), though we had sufficient room for our slides.  We had to park our Jeep in the parking lot at the end of our street, an inconvenient distance.  Sites on the south and west sides of the park are larger, with space for a towed or tow vehicle. 

Our site had 50 amps, with voltage on the low side (our EMS kicked off due to low voltage in the cold morning hours).  Water pressure was low, too - we augmented it with our freshwater pump.  The park has an appealing pool and spa, and a clean laundry room with 3 washers/3 dryers. 

Rate:  Though the rate sheet shows $30/night for the east side lots, we paid $82.50 for three nights, $27.50/night.  Maybe we used had a discount of some kind??  Quoted prices range from $30/night to $35/night for the largest sites.

Phone/radio/TV:  Excellent Verizon signal here for both phones and aircard (blazing fast).  I believe WiFi was available, but we didn’t use it.  Our site had no obstacles for our roof-mounted satellite TV dish, but that would not be the case in all sites.  Cable TV available only through the cable company for long-term stays.  Air antenna had a couple of stations.  NPR on 92.5.

Elevation/landscape/terrain: This rectangular park, with palm trees and mature landscaping, sits on a slightly sloping desert hillside at around 600 ft. elevation, surrounded by the arid mountains of Anza-Borrego State Park.   Near views are of palm trees, neighboring rigs and mobile homes; distant views are of arid mountains.  It would be a pleasant oasis in the desert with a bit more space!

Lighting/noise:  Our site was comfortably dark at night.  Very quiet at night.

Favorite Sites:   We would opt for the larger sites on the west and south sides of the park (none of which were available when we checked in.

Hiking/Walking: Head out into the desert from any site and walk south to intersect a broad trail that goes into town.  Many, many good hikes in the surrounding state park, California’s largest.

Comments:  This is one of the friendliest parks we have ever visited - both the staff and the other renters.  Everyone seemed happy to be there!  Staff was busy all the time sprucing the place up.  We liked the mature landscaping… but a windblown palm frond did fall onto our rig from quite a height.  Fortunately, no damage.

I suspect we might have given this park a “recommend” rating if we had been in a larger site – it has a lot going for it (location, pool, friendly staff and residents).  Maybe next time!

SANDS RV AND GOLF RESORT, DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA

Our Opinion: Neutral.  Since we don’t use many of the common area offerings, it’s a little high-priced for us.  Friendly and appealing, though.

Date of Stay: December 16 through 24, 2010.

Weather During Stay:  One of southern California’s worst winter storms on record brought rain and some flooding to the area.  Our last two days were sunny and pleasant.  This area gets VERY windy at times.

Site Description:  With 521 sites, this might be the largest park we have stayed in.  All sites are back-ins. Some sites are occupied by park models or RV’s that probably aren’t going to move again.  Lots of “seasonals” here, but most sites and rigs are nicely maintained. 

Sites are reasonably sized, with hedges between the sites providing privacy.  A quarter of the sites would be too sloped for us to use, another quarter appear very level, and the remainder slope to some degree.  We (and many other rigs) used boards to shore up our passenger side to help level the rig.

I believe that all sites are FHU (30/50 amps).  A small number of sites have “hot” cable TV, ready to hook up, but most sites either have no cable TV hookup or are set up for long-term rental - contact the cable company for service. 

Roads are paved and reasonably wide, sites are gravel with concrete pads for a tow or towed vehicle.   No picnic tables, trees here and there (lots of palms, not a lot of shade).   One central trash area for this huge park!

While the RV sites are average, the common areas are a cut above.  Nice swimming pool (seemed a little on the small side for the size of the park), two Jacuzzis, plenty of indoor space with a shuffleboard table, several pool tables, computers, a couple big screen TV’s, comfortable seating - very, very nice.  A 9 hole golf course (extra fee, of course) tennis courts, fitness center, and an appealing dog run round out the common areas.

Rate:  We stayed on a special deal only available to first-time visitors: pay the normal weekly rate of $215 and get two additional days for free.  The “special” price (under $25/night) seemed reasonable for what was offered - not sure if we would go back at full price.  I don’t know the monthly/seasonal rates, but they are likely very reasonable if you like a park offering these amenities.

Phone/radio/TV:  Strong Verizon signal here for both phones and aircard.  WiFi (TengoInternet) is included, but we didn’t use it.  Our site had no obstacles for our roof-mounted satellite TV dish worked, and the air antenna picked up some channels.  Instant-on cable TV is an extra $3/night or $15/week - we didn’t bother.   NPR on 89.3 (or was it 89.5?).

Elevation/landscape/terrain: Around 600 feet above sea level, the Coachella Valley has arid mountain ranges on three sides.  It is obvious from the hundreds of wind mills in the area that that this area (especially Banning Pass) gets a LOT of wind, so be prepared.  Local views are of neighboring rigs; distant views are of arid mountains (sometimes snowcapped). 

Lighting/noise:  Our site was comfortably dark at night; the low level park lighting makes it easy to see when walking or driving, but not intrusive.  Very quiet at night (except when the coyotes get going). 

Favorite Sites:  Not a lot of difference in the sites, except some back up to the desert perimeter or one of the washes that run through the park (we were told that these cost more).  The BIG difference we noticed was how level the sites were - some are very sloped.

Hiking/Walking:  Walk the big park twice for 10,000 steps.  Otherwise, drive 10-20 miles for area hikes, or 45 miles to Joshua Tree National Park.

Comments:  Not the sort of place we usually stay, but it is quite appealing if you like large parks with lots of activities.  Two grocery stores within a couple of miles. 

PLACERVILLE ELKS LODGE, SHINGLE SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  This is a newer lodge with large, level RV parking in an appealing, hilly setting.

Date of Stay: October 20 through 26, 2010.

Weather During Stay: Pleasant fall weather with balmy days and cool nights (70‘s and 40‘s) - and one huge rain storm over the weekend.

Sites: Eight 30 amp E and water sites, one 50 amp and W site.  Sites are graveled, wide, and level.  All sites are back-ins. Space available for dry camping, but it is quite sloped. NEW: As of 2012, there is now a working, on-site dump.

Rate: Recently raised from $15 to $17, with W and E at sites. 

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon signal for phones and internet.  Tall oaks may obstruct TV satellite in west-facing sites.  Several TV stations on antenna, including the three major networks and PBS.  Local NPR on 90.9 and 91.3.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Flat, level parking area in a hilly landscape at 1,390’ elevation.  Views of large oaks, lodge and local light commercial businesses.

Lighting/Noise: Light road noise.  A dog-grooming and pet-boarding facility next door is sometimes noisy during the day.  Night time lighting is moderate,  high, bright “streetlight” type lighting that is more or less intrusive depending on where you are parked.

Favorite Sites: Most sites are the same, though site 6, facing west, has 50 amps.  Site 7 is shorter than most of the other sites, the only site not suitable for a big rig

Hiking/Walking: Head south over the hill to access little used paved roads in an undeveloped area.  A California state park, Folsom Lake, is 10-15 miles away with good hiking and biking. 

Comments: A much-better-than-average Elks RV parking area convenient to shopping and services, to Sacramento, and to small, historic, Placerville. Very friendly and active lodge.

INDIO ELKS LODGE, INDIO, CALIFORNIA

UPDATED DECEMBER 15, 2011 (FEE INCREASE).

Our Opinion: Recommend, but best before winter “high season“, when the parking feels quite crowded.  Private; you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: December 11 and 12, 2009 and December 13-16, 2011.  

Sites: 54 sites, 4 (back-ins along the back wall of the lodge) of which are FHU.  The remaining 50 sites have water and 30 amp E.  All sites are reasonably level, about half on asphalt (all back-ins) and half on gravel (back-to-back sites, which you can pull through if not crowded).  Sites are sufficient for big rigs, but are very “cozy” when all spots are filled – just enough room for slides and a slightly extended awning.  (In the photo below, we have an empty site on both sides of our rig.)  No picnic tables. Dump station on site.

 Rate: For 30 amp E and W, $25 for the first night, $20/night for subsequent nights.  FHU sites are $5 more per night. Less for dry camping – $10?

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal.  WiFi available in the parking area; get the password from the lodge. Local NPR on 89.3 FM.  No obstructions for TV satellite.  Several local TV stations available on antenna.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Flat, level parking on gravel and asphalt in a large lot behind the lodge.  This is mainly a residential neighborhood, very quiet. Views are of other rigs, the lodge, and palm trees.   Elevation is not much above sea level.

Lighting/Noise:   Subdued night lighting and little noise at night.

Favorite Sites: In the center of the parking area, there is a little green “park” with grass and a few trees.  If you can snag one of the two sites that put the park on your door side, they give you a little extra space.

Hiking/Walking:  Not much in the area unless you enjoy neighborhood sidewalks.  Good hiking in the nearby arid mountains.

Comments: This is a bargain in a pricy area.  We like to stay for awhile to soak up warmth, hike the arid mountains, eat at good restaurants and ogle the beauty of this super-wealthy area.  Plenty to do around here; close to every kind of shopping including Costco and Trader Joes.

SKYLINE WILDERNESS PARK, NAPA, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  A rather rustic, reasonably priced campground in a large regional park in California’s premier wine-making region.

Date of Stay: Our fourth stay - mid-October, 2009

Weather During Stay:  A mix of mild weather, with sun, fog and showers.

Sites: The campground has a mix of FHU and W/E sites, all on gravel, all reasonably level.  None of the sites are very spacious, though most are long enough to (barely) accommodate a 40’ motorhome, with slides and awnings.

The campground map shows 19 FHU sites, but one appears to be unusable.  Two of the FHU sites are pull-throughs.  Eight of the FHU sites are back-to-back; the remaining 8 FHU sites are back-ins along the edge of a little cul-de-sac.  Many of the FHU sites have shared utility boxes, two sites per box - first camper in gets their choice of the 20, 30, or 50 amp outlet.

The 20 water and electric sites (30 amps) are a mix of back-ins and pull-throughs, and feel a little less crowded than the FHU sites.  Tents have a separate, very spacious, grassy area.

Roads and all sites in the campground are gravel.  Trees scattered throughout the campground and around the perimeter provide shade in some sites.  All sites have picnic tables. Restrooms and showers are available (get a key when you check in). 

Rate: $27 per night for FHU; $25 per night for W/E.  If you are a senior (age 62, I believe), ask for the senior discount - $2 off per night.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phone and aircard signals.  Few obstacles for rooftop-mounted satellite TV.  PBS stations available on TV antenna.   NPR available on 88.5 (and probably several others).

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Level parking on two tiers in a large, hilly regional park.  Lots of trees and shrubs surrounding the campground.  There is a native plant garden on one side of the campground and a dog run on another side.  Views are of other campers, huge oak trees, and forested rolling hills.  Elevation is close to sea level.

Lighting/Noise: Although there are streetlight-type lights on tall poles in several spots in the campground, they aren’t turned on at night (YAY, though it is probably for budget reasons).  Very dark and quiet at night.

Favorite Sites: No real favorites here - they are all similar except for the utilities.  If we are staying a short time, we pick a W/E site - cheaper and less crowded.

Hiking/Walking: This is where Skyline Wilderness Park shines.  It is HUGE, a regional park with miles and miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.  Don’t like hiking?  Take a lovely, easy stroll through the large, fenced native plant garden, or find a seat at a picnic table under the huge oak trees.  A frisbee golf course seems to get lots of play, too. 

Comments: The Napa Valley is a “world-class” destination, and this park is a relaxing, mellow base camp.  A reasonably priced municipal golf course is a few miles away, as are Target, Raley’s, etc.  Chain and independent restaurants abound.  Call 707-252-0481 to reserve a site (no specific site reservations can be made – but you are guaranteed a site with a reservation).

EUREKA ELKS LODGE, EUREKA, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Recommend.  Private; you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: September 8-11, 2009.

Weather During Stay: Sun and fog, cool nights, overcast mornings.

Sites: Twenty-four back in sites have 30 and 50 amps, FHU (yes, sewer too) and cable TV.  All are suitable for big rigs, but they are quite narrow.  Your slides will fit, but not necessarily your awning.  Sites are gravel; some are more level than others.  We needed blocks under our rear jacks in site 8.

The RV parking area is down a hill next to the lodge, away from traffic noise, but in easy proximity to Hwy 101.  Very secure.  No dry camping allowed; if all the RV sites are filled, head to Redwood Acres, the fairgrounds, and come back early the next morning!

Rate: $20 for FHU, including cable TV and WiFi. 

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal.  No obstructions to block TV satellite.  Lots of cable TV stations, so we didn‘t check antenna reception.  Local NPR on 90.5 FM.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Level parking in a bowl - heavy bushes and tress on one side, a hillside on the other. Elevation is near sea level. Views are of the row of rigs across from you, green trees, and the side of the lodge.

Lighting/Noise: Quiet at night; reasonably unobtrusive lighting.

Favorite Sites: Doesn’t make much different, as all sites are narrow backins.  Pick your row based on whether you want morning or afternoon sun (assuming there IS sun).

Hiking/Walking: No good hiking without driving, but there are many, many nice hikes and beach walks within a short drive.  This photo shows the wetlands at the Arcata Marsh, 15 miles north of the Eureka Elks.

Comments: This was our second stay here.  As before (June of 2006), all 24 sites were full every night.  The price is right for full hookups, and the location convenient.  If the RV parking is this full next time we come, though, we might drive on out to the Redwood Acres Fairgrounds simply to have a bit more space (check with them first to see if they have an event going on).  They have FHU for $25/night.

NAPA ELKS LODGE, NAPA, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Rave. Nicely sized FHU sites in a quiet, convenient area of Napa. Private; you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: Late August, 2009.

Weather During Stay: Warm days, cool nights, overcast mornings.

Sites: Of the 12 FHU sites (mostly 30 amp E, but a few 50 amps), most are suitable for big rigs and one is occupied by a host’s rig. Sites are back-to-back in two rows, reasonably wide (room for slides and awnings) on level gravel, with a small concrete picnic table and benches at each site. No pull-throughs.

The RV parking area is behind the lodge, away from traffic noise, with a combination-controlled access gate. Very secure. Dry camping is allowed in the large parking lot in front of the lodge only if all the RV sites are filled.

Rate: $20 for FHU, including cable TV and WiFi.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal. No obstructions to block TV satellite. Lots of cable TV stations. Local NPR on 88.5 FM.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Level parking with trees on two sides of the area and nice landscaping. Elevation is near sea level. Views are of the back of the lodge, trees, a walking trail adjacent to the Napa River (on the edge of the lodge property) and nearby homes.

Lighting/Noise: Very quiet and dark at night.

Favorite Sites: The host is in one of the end sites on one of the rows; the other three end sites are a tiny bit short (though we have seen big rigs in them). We preferred the sites that are not on the row ends. No reservations here, so take your choice when you arrive - after getting the gate combination from the bartender.

Hiking/Walking: A combination lock on the gate at the back of the lodge property offers access to a 1.2 mile walking trail. Turn left on the trail to walk a short distance to Trancas Avenue and a grocery store. Lots of good hiking in the Napa Valley, including Skyline Wilderness Park at the south end of the city.

Comments: The Napa valley is a world-renowned destination. This appealing lodge parking gives us the chance to enjoy it at a reasonable price with great amenities. What’s not to like? There is a Nob Hill grocery store within walking distance, as is the Wal-Mart. Farmer’s market Tuesday and Sunday during the summer (until the end of October) at the Wine Train parking lot about a mile south. Trader Joe’s is approximately one mile west on Trancas, a nearby cross-street.

REDDING ELKS LODGE, REDDING, CALIFORNIA

Our Opinion: Recommend. This is our usual stop for an overnight or two when traveling the I-5 corridor. Private; you must be an Elk to stay here.

Date of Stay: May 20, 2009.

Weather During Stay: Hot. High close to 90 degrees, cooled quickly as the sun set. Low around 55 degrees.

Sites: 20 RV sites on reasonably level asphalt on the perimeter of the large parking lot. Each site has 50/30/20 amps and water. All are suitable for big rigs, but parking is very tight if all the sites are occupied - room for slides, but not awnings. All sites are backins.

There are a couple of picnic tables here and there, and a convenient dump station. Dry camping is allowed only if all the sites are occupied.

Rate: $20 for electricity, water and cable TV. Dump included in camping fee.

Phone/radio/TV: Strong Verizon phones and aircard signal. No obstructions to block TV satellite. Several TV stations using the TV antenna, and cable TV is at each site. Local NPR on 89.7 and 90.9.

Elevation/Landscape/Terrain: Flat, level parking with large trees in the lot and around the perimeter. Elevation is 550 feet. The lodge is next door to a senior center; views are of lots of cars in the lot (at times), other rigs, the lodge and the senior center.

Lighting/Noise: The lodge is far from any busy streets so, unless the lodge is rented for an event (we suffered through an all-night party during one stay), it is quiet at night. Occasional trains run fairly nearby. Bright night lights are on 3 foot tall pedestals behind the sites - could be worse!

Favorite Sites: They are all similar. About half face west (hot, hot, hot in summer); the other half face north. No reservations here, so take your choice from what is available when you arrive.

Hiking/Walking: Excellent walking is the reason we stop in Redding. The lodge is on the banks of the Sacramento River, with a wonderful walking/biking trail (this photo) that goes miles in either direction. Walk east along the river about 1 ½ mile through parks and greenspace to the famous Sundial Bridge (not this photo) at Turtle Bay, with it‘s lovely arboretum. Great!

Comments: This lodge is well away from I-5, in a convenient and appealing residential location. The river and walkway is a high point for us, but the lodge itself is also very pleasant, with a huge lawn sloping from the lodge down to the river. Their large swimming pool was closed for repairs on this trip - too bad. We have done a sightseeing daytrip from here to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Truly a convenient stop with plenty to do in the area.