Date:         Tue, 3 Jul 2001 10:03:05 -0700
Reply-To:     pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Subject:      Enroute Camping
Content-type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

Based on the premise that if you look and act like the rest of the sheep ...
they'll think you're just another sheep.

Much has been written on the list regarding "stealth" camping over the
years.  The advantage of the vanagon is that it doesn't look like an RV
unless of course you have the top up.  We all know about the Wal-Mart policy
regarding overnighting in the parking lot.  BPOE (elks club) often will  let
one overnight at in  a lodge parking lot.  In smaller towns, asking politely
at the local constabulary (sheriff or police station) regarding permission
to overnight on the street or in a parking lot will illuminate the local
customs.

One very important aspect is that you will just be staying the night, sunset
to sunrise, and then moving on.  Make this clear in your inquiries.

National Forests often have an "enroute" camping philosophy that will allow
you to "overnight" in any area that is not specifically marked as "No
Camping".  These philosophies change with the fire danger situations.  Check
locally.

Bureau of Land Management areas are literally "your land".  Overnighting and
"camping" is generally allowed anywhere in the area.  Check with your local
BLM folks to ascertain the local guidelines.  Depending on conditions, they
may have some restrictions.

Church parking lots are often just fine too, but you should inquire.

On many state highways and even interstates there are vista points that are
not marked "no camping" or "no overnight parking"  After dark in, before
dawn out, generally presents no problem.

Official truck stops or truck plazas usually have parking and overnighting
areas where the professionals park their offices.   Your CB will help you
find the good ones.  They also have hot showers for use, usually at no
charge.

Be as inconspicuous as you can.  Nothing outside the van.  Curtains drawn
but front curtains not installed.  I leave a 6-8 inch gap in the rear
curtain.

Your choice of personal protection and a bright flashlight should be easily
at hand.  Lock all the doors.  Do not open any window or door except to a
uniformed L.E.O. who has shown you their photo id at your polite request.
If asked to move on by anyone else, politely do so. Do not open doors or
windows, just power up and drive off.  (remember, the top is down).
Minimize any conversation, politely and quietly move on.  Assemble your kit
and thoughts somewhere down the road.

If asked to allow a search of your vehicle, politely refuse and ask why such
a search is necessary.  Ask if you are suspect in a crime.  If the answer is
no, you might politely state that you are not inclined to discuss your
affairs with a  peace officer at this time, accept whatever citation is
written and move on. (illegal parking is an infraction and does not justify
a search).

Do not overnight in any "rest area" under any circumstances.  Kristin taught
us a heavy lesson.  If you don't feel "safe" in your intended overnight
location, you aren't.

cheers,

pensioner