Your Favorite "Stealth" Overnight Spot [Archive]

George

06-27-2010, 09:29 PM

In the midwest, abandon farm yards. Easy to spot, off the path, usually a wide parking area between the ex-house and ex-barn.

In the farther west, pretty much any field that isn't fenced off. Don't have to be too far off the road but out of sight is still good.

Areas with a wind farm, there's access roads to each turbine, pretty remote in a hurry.

State road maintenance areas, behind that huge pile of grey rock.

I've stealth camped about as much as anyone, only been "hassled" once, by an Orange County deputy. He eventually let me stay. Wasn't stealth enuff. :D

I have a couple faves, a full day's ride from home, one east off ol' US-70 in Eastern Arizona and one west, just past Salton Sea in SoCal. Stayed at each multiple times, never a bother.

Any "old" route that has been by-passed. Last stealth camp was ON old route 66 in Missouri, within sight of I-44. Note the double yellow line, no passing. :D
2973 2974

Motocentaur

07-03-2010, 06:11 AM

I know a cool spot near Watkins Glen, NY in the Finger Lakes - complete with waterfall.

I am taking a trip through northern New England next week, and I intend to stealth camp a bit just for something different. I thought I'd try fire trails or powerline cuts, if they are passable for the Concours . . .

I find myself trying to spot places that would be good for stealth camping whenever I am driving or riding around; practice, I guess!

bigTom

07-03-2010, 07:12 AM

Hmmm. I have a hard time calling George's favorite western spot stealth, it's in a ORV area, and I think I am even legal, there (If it's Federal, not state). But a pretty darn good spot:)

I found abandoned farm yards (look for the grass fields, it's called CRP program) and more than once a Cemetary...

My favorite 'undeveloped' site is up at Pine, AZ. It's NFS, with lots of wood and elk, Also the highway 188 area (Young, AZ) is also NFS.

My favorite 'free' spot is Hannigan Meadows NFS about 20 miles south of Alpine, AZ on the 191 (666).

Or, just where ever my tent is pitched tonight...

Mr. Guy

07-04-2010, 03:14 PM

Nice, but only 3 people stealth camp here? Really? ;) :D

Anyone else?

Guy

Motocentaur

07-04-2010, 08:58 PM

I'd be more likely to do it more often with the Ural, since it will go into places that I can't take the Connie.

Ironheadziggy76

07-05-2010, 07:22 AM

Here in Kentucky you have to be careful, one man's stealth camp spot is another man's stealth Pot patch. :p It's our state's #1 cash crop! :lol

Ironheadziggy76

07-05-2010, 09:13 AM

And just how do you know this Ziggy? Oh wait, I almost forgot, you did say once you had 40 private acres of prime growing land ... right? :D

G wizz

You didn't realize you had your camper setting on top of my underground bunker when you were here did you? :lol

Seriously though, a few years back KY's Daniel Boone National Forest was rated #3 in the US for it's illegal growing. :eek:

Trailace

07-06-2010, 05:34 PM

Nice, but only 3 people stealth camp here? Really? ;) :D

Anyone else?

Guy
I do it whenever I need to but don't have a favorite place. :p

Trekker

07-07-2010, 11:40 AM

I haven't yet..... think I could try this. Just never had the balls to try before. Now I think it's not such a bad thing.

Whosoever

07-07-2010, 08:43 PM

Here in Kentucky you have to be careful, one man's stealth camp spot is another man's stealth Pot patch. :p It's our state's #1 cash crop! :lol

Ziggy are you sure your not talking about your "favorite neighborhood" state, West Virginia! :)

Ironheadziggy76

07-07-2010, 10:45 PM

Ziggy are you sure your not talking about your "favorite neighborhood" state, West Virginia! :)

I've heard y'all have some issues also in your neck of the woods from a buddy of mine who rides ATV's up there.

It's some very beautiful country, I rode to the top of Black Mountain on an ATV ride a few years back.

nortonkicker

07-08-2010, 10:22 AM

Ironheadziggy76

07-08-2010, 10:36 PM

I understand you are probably talking about public lands, but I'd say to be REAL CAREFUL camping on someones private property. Public lands are a different story. If someone were to stop and ask me, I'd have no problems with it. But if someone thinks they are entitled to stop and camp on my property without asking, they will be facing tresspassing charges. These days, someone can come onto your property, get hurt, and then have the audacity to sue you "and win". I have people dump trash on my place, pull in on wet ground and rut my place up. NOT GOOD! I am as biker friendly as possible, but like most people I know, STAY OFF MY PROPERTY, unless you have express permission.

nortonkicker thanks for adding this, I wanted to, but I tend to rant about things. :p Well maybe just a little rant just to give y'all an example.

A couple of weeks ago two young men were riding their horses across my property instead of riding on the road that was five feet from them, and I happened be out in the yard when they stopped. After "parking" their horses in the middle of my wife's strawberry patch the younger one told me in a smart tone that the fertilizer bags that were there scared his horse and he didn't appreciate it.

I almost went off the deep end! :mad:

So I calmly started out by saying "Really" while I took a breath.

Then I told them, "I didn't appreciate them trespassing on my property, I didn't appreciate them setting there destroying my wife's garden, and I didn't appreciate them digging up my rain softened yard with their horses". How did they respond? "Well we ain't got no place to ride our horses at our house". I told them "Sorry, but that's not my problem, maybe you should have thought of that before you bought the horses". :rolleyes:

Had they asked me first, I would have told them sure, just don't tromp through the garden. I'm usually a nice guy that tries to be neighborly, but like nortonkicker I really don't like trespassers trashing and destroying property that I worked and paid for, for their entertainment. :mad:

I was brought up to always respect people's personal property, evidently it's not taught much now days as proven by these morons. :( People seem to think they are entitled to whatever they want, just because the want it.

I agree NOT GOOD on Private land without permission!

End of rant, Sorry...........

bigTom

07-09-2010, 07:27 AM

I've been caught twice on private property. Both times I explained what I had done (ridden too long, just in for an in and out, will leave it as least as good as I found it...and that I am just a good old boy from (Yuma, now).

Is why I like abandoned farm yards, I know where to pitch my tent with out harm, there. I get it, but I do it anyway:)

And unless they are harvesting or something, I'm gone before they get there...

Mr. Guy

07-09-2010, 03:27 PM

Yea, I was thinking public land, and my idea of "stealth" would also mean if someone came by after you left, they would never know anyone had been there.

Being a land owner myself, I understand the frustrations of trespassers. :mad:

Being an ol' country boy, I understand how not to tear up some one's land. And the importance of ALWAYS asking first.

Guy

SidecarMike

07-09-2010, 04:11 PM

Another plus to asking permission is that sometimes you meet some really neat people. Back in my minimalist Harley days, a friend and I stopped at a farm house in Kansas. The lady said a storm was coming and insisted that we park the bikes in a machine shed and bunk in the hay loft. Later on, she and her husband came out in the rain, with homemade sausage, fresh milk, and boiled potatoes. This beat the heck out of store bought jerky, twinkies, and warm beer.

Trailace

07-10-2010, 10:29 AM

Asking permission is a good thing if there is someone to ask. But most times when it comes to Stealth camping it's late in the day or night and nobody is around. When I do Stealth camp I'm up and on the road before most people are up.

Mr. Guy

07-11-2010, 10:21 AM

Really Rick,

YOU stop and sleep. :rolleyes: :D

LOL, Guy

Trailace

07-11-2010, 04:53 PM

Really Rick,

YOU stop and sleep. :rolleyes: :D

LOL, Guy

Yes more and more as I get older funny how that works.:(

ImRubicon

07-11-2010, 06:40 PM

I just never stealth camp . Been tempted but just feel if its someones land I wouldnt feel right if they did it to mine .
Also I traval heavy as in like a bigger tent and normally just get hotel if its late

Jetfixer

07-11-2010, 10:15 PM

I've never tried it either. I always have 2 or 3 camping areas mapped on the longer trips and play it by ear on which one to stay at before the day ends. That's never failed yet so I haven't really needed to stealth. Thanks for starting this thread, it's definitely helpful to see how those that have done it go about it. I hate learning things the hard way!

Mr. Guy

07-12-2010, 03:31 PM

Hi Jetfixer,

Been to Tinker lately?

It's not always a last ditch, find a spot type of thing. Sometimes it's just the challenge of finding an out of the way backwoods spot for peace and quiet thing. But I've only done it in the Ouachita National Forest, so I'm no expert.

Guy

n5odj

07-19-2010, 11:10 AM

If anyone wants to stay at my place for free, you're welcome. I live right outside Erwin, TN, just off I-26 south of Johnson City. Lots of good riding around here. I have a large yard (~2 acres) & you can set up your tent out front. I don't want campfires & you've gotta keep it quiet after 10pm.

Let me know you're coming by sending a message & I'll send directions.

Robert

Trailace

07-19-2010, 02:59 PM

Robert welcome to the site and thanks for posting about camping free at your place. You're right about great riding in Tennessee, always have good time when I'm in the area.

moe

07-21-2010, 03:25 PM

Hi folks, new to the forum. Have motorsickle camped several times. Places like Eureka Springs AR, friend's property in upstate NY. Friend's property in New Hampshire. Never have stealth camped as of yet but am constantly looking for ideas and needless to say this thread caught my attention! I've asked my friends and these are some of their suggestions in no particular order.

Most of these places are for late arrivals and always up and gone before dawn. No evidence that you were there is a golden rule. And being able to depart quickly is key, i.e., mostly bedroll flops or tarp ride on pull overs...

Behind churches. (claim sanctuary if confronted)
Truck only truck stops. (tarp over you and your motorsickle)
mom and pop cycle shops (let the air out of one of your tires in case the leos show in which case explain that you are waiting for them to open so you can patch your tire and be on your way).

With all that said, flopping er stealth camping has its inherent dangers. The pyco whose pleasure is on the deliverance side of the spectrum. The teenagers whose fun entails rolling a sleeping biker. Yet we are after all the evil ones. Don't most folks assume a stealth camper, is a 1%er? Or any biker for that matter. That does work on our side cept when we stealth camp on a club's lands. :eek:

I recall one time when I was going to pitch a tent in Hot Springs, AR. Went into town to get some grub (think beer) and met up with a fine lot. Doc who runs the local biker rag put me up for the night as it was raining after I arrived and the temps were in the 50s. Guess they and he dug a trumpet riding solo from Florida eh? Doc says the next morning, "pay it forward brother".

All in all the key to stealth camping has to be being invisible. Getting your ride out of sight and not being seen or heard getting there. I've thought about pulling up into an unfinished house before, bedding down then splitting around 5am. I like the idea of pulling off the road then getting behind a pile of something like someone suggested one of those big DOT piles of grante or such. Not having an enduro type motorsickle, off roading is a bit unnerving after dark.

Like another member who posted to this thread, I like to put together a rough outline of my route and figure out what state camp grounds are along the way. Currently doing a ride to Dansville NY via Yellowstone. Got places in line for every 600 miles or so. However stealth camping is always an option for those times when you can't make it to your intended layover and can't find a hotel/motel or room. Riding solo and carrying camping gear affords an extreme sense of freedom. Hotel room? Heck I've got thermarest and tarp!

Safe camping!

DAS

07-21-2010, 05:47 PM

Stealth camped 6 out of 11 nights camping (plus 3 at my mom and dad's house) on a recent trip. Best was along a gravel road off US395 in eastern WA. Stars were spectacular.

bigTom

07-22-2010, 06:19 AM

I'm thinking 395 is in E Wash! Looks to me like you were between Lind and Connell some place, maybe about Ralston...Great spot!

aysrav

07-22-2010, 09:27 AM

Glad to see some action on this thread. Always looking for good new ideas. Here is a new book being offered by Aerostich (http://www.aerostich.com).

http://www.aerostich.com/urban-camping.html?utm_source=Aerostich+Email+List&utm_campaign=0f3dd06807-A_B_sl20100722&utm_medium=email

I think I may go for a copy. Looks like it could be interesting.

DAS

07-22-2010, 10:49 AM

I'm thinking 395 is in E Wash! Looks to me like you were between Lind and Connell some place, maybe about Ralston...Great spot!

Yes, eastern WA. You'd have to look hard and long to find a scene like that in western WA. Photo site is looking south along Dewald Rd., first exit south of Ritzville.

George

07-22-2010, 11:40 AM

:tent4: Just back from my summer trip. Camped many nights in June/July including 10 nights in a row before-during-after NatSTOC in Spearfish, SD. Attended three "official" ST events plus lots of other riding and visits around the country.

While chasing a couple 'nother guys thru Colorado I ran out of day-light and stopped at a favorite spot, Avalanche Creek Road, CO-133 a few miles south of Glenwood Springs. Not actually stealth as it's a National Forest free camp, but pretty remote and in bear territory. Got in late (10PM), rolling by 6:30 on 7-14.

Stopped for gas a few miles later and the other guys passed as I was filling up. Small world riding. :D

Once I get all my pics loaded 'n edited I'll post a link to the picasa album. Meantime, here's a preview.
3044 3045

Mr. Guy

07-22-2010, 06:59 PM

Hi Moe,

Welcome to the site. Great suggestions. I like the church one, makes me think of Quasimodo. P^

Yep, Colorado and National Forest go hand in hand.

Guy

bigTom

07-22-2010, 11:42 PM

These are from the NFS Arizona last weekend. Pretty good spot, all in all. A bit farther west than normal for me...

moe

07-23-2010, 10:16 AM

Hey Dan (DAS),

Beautiful stealth site albeit not too stealthy! Your camp location begs the question:

Have you or anyone ever been confronted on such a desolate road while bedded down? And if so there has to be good story to be told!

Seems to me that along side of a road, even a gravel road, being in plain site would be kind of risky. but then again sleeping lightly you would awaken when the vehicle pulls up to a stop and reply to any inquiries, "No, I am not here for the night, I'm just enjoying Ursa Major and Lupus and looking for falling stars! Star Gazing!"

The majesty of the night sky in remote areas where the stars are not washed out by city lights is spectacular!

quadancer

02-27-2011, 04:04 PM

I've been camping with friends these later years, but 20 years ago, my method was to look at the map and find water where I could be at least an hour before darkthirty. I'd hit a store for supplies and go camp. There used to usually be a dirt road or path along any creeks. I've slept on the banks of the Mississippi, up lovers lanes, and on a grassy plot on top of a dam. I worried more about drunken teenagers than bears and stuff.
Lock and Load, baby! :p
I'd say that nowadays, most every inch of the USA is owned and usually fenced. Ain't like it used ta be.

trapperdick

02-27-2011, 07:37 PM

I don't care who stays on my land,,,,,,,,,,,just don't leave a mess in the morning..........TD

kb5zcr

12-02-2011, 02:42 AM

The median on I-20 west of Shreveport La. About a mile or two west of hwy 59 in Texas is a great spot for some stealth camping. The median here is very wide and is actually a pine forest. If you get up in it there is no way anyone will see you. My Ural is perfect for this type of camping as it is olive drab and disappears in the pine. A few spots in this area are actually about 20 feet higher than the hwy which makes it extra hard for anyone to see you from the road. I tried to Mark iit on google maps but couldn't figure out how on this iPad.

papayolk

12-02-2011, 11:16 AM

The concept of stealth camp seems a bit odd to me. I have always just stopped and camped. National Forest, BLM, BoR, State endowment Lands... if it's public and not posted otherwise, one usualy may camp. Spoiled living in the west?

I've thrown my bag on the ground on wide spots on the road many times when young and fit, and have only ever been bothered by do-gooders asking if I need anything. Was up a wash from a highway one time and two mean looking Yahoos popped up packing guns and ask gruffly what I was up to. They ran cows on this allotment and some locals had been butchering some of their beef by moonlight. They had a right to be mad and check me out. I had a right to be there. They parted with a handshake.

So here's my tip. Trail heads. Usually not posted "no camping". Had this place to my self right off the highway. Even had a privy. Also, if in the big city their's always the corner of the Walmart lot where the over-night RVs stay.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mcewXV02Ltk/Ton24lSzOII/AAAAAAAACs4/R26btd31fFI/100_4639.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QIOkmR2AhV8/Ton5QyUm-TI/AAAAAAAACtA/rUQxORjCJLc/100_4641.JPG

George

12-02-2011, 11:29 AM

Stayed again at my ol' abandoned Route 66 spot in Missouri a couple weeks ago. It's a day ride from there to my sister's or my son's, and a day ride from Amarillo. I got my cross-country spots staked out. :D

Mr. Guy

12-02-2011, 04:16 PM

Papayolk,

That has got to be the slickest trailer I have seen in quite some time.

Guy

quadancer

12-02-2011, 06:31 PM

Oh SNAP! That is FUNNY!!!
Waitaminnit...what about those cops with the tear gas? Gas 'em back with our bear spray? ;)

RCLafnjack

12-02-2011, 08:33 PM

I've read other places where Rural cemetaries are another place you can stealth camp without to many issues.

G wizz

12-02-2011, 08:42 PM

I've read other places where Rural cemetaries are another place you can stealth camp without to many issues.

Ya ... if nothing else, it shouldn't be too noisy ... :rolleyes:

quadancer

12-02-2011, 09:48 PM

You can sleep like a dead man...

CheesyRider

12-03-2011, 02:04 AM

Neighbors are real quiet

ImRubicon

12-03-2011, 07:42 AM

Finally a place where others wouldn't be disturbed by my snoring
:tent4:

lytle1gw

12-03-2011, 07:12 PM

Oops I've been told my snoring will wake the dead so I better stay out of the cemeteries.:D

BeemMeUp

12-03-2011, 08:46 PM

My stealth camping is just setting up late and getting out early. My little popup works well for this. I don't knowingly stay on private property. Sometimes I just take a nap in rest areas or turnoff as long as it isn't posted no overnighting. If you have a camper, many of the Walmart stores allow staying overnight. I guess the creator of the chain was an avid RV person. I have never been bothered while camping in either state or federal forest lands. I stay in campgrounds for longer stays in an area.

kb5zcr

12-18-2011, 11:41 PM

Here is a good spot between Houston and Dallas.
Here is a link to it on Goggle maps.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&q=31.568933,-96.141089%20%28I-45%20S,%20Teague,%20TX%20%2075860,%20United%20Stat es%29

ImRubicon

12-19-2011, 11:47 AM

Im thinking I dont understand the stealth need as too many campgrounds and like the one between Dallas and Houston it not even that nice just a flat spot in the road with a few trees to hide you from others and a few trees to hide other that are sneaking up on you LOL
Im to paranoid to want that much alone and in TX we are allowed to carry. just would rather spend that few dollars for a toilet and maybe a shower to hit the road. Really is it worth that few dollars to sleep free ?
Is it worth the somewhat little risk to you and your stuff?
are you that poor a planner to not be able to finish the day around some camping place ?
do you need to really ride to the point you cannot go on and have to sleep right where you are ? because if that's a answer then you are already dangerous to others.

I have read a lot of these posts and haven't seen a good reason to stealth as for those that try to stay off private prop thank you \for not trying to give a worse name to riders in general.
If you people chose to do this I don't think bad of you I just dont understand why
I would and have ridden with stealth campers and just wouldnt camp where they do.
Too many IF'S

G wizz

12-19-2011, 12:53 PM

Im thinking I dont understand the stealth need as too many campgrounds ... would rather spend that few dollars for a toilet and maybe a shower to hit the road. Really is it worth that few dollars to sleep free ?
Is it worth the somewhat little risk to you and your stuff?
are you that poor a planner to not be able to finish the day around some camping place ?
do you need to really ride to the point you cannot go on and have to sleep right where you are ? because if that's a answer then you are already dangerous to others.
I have read a lot of these posts and haven't seen a good reason to stealth And as for those that try to stay off private prop thank you

Too many IF'S

Good point ... I like the way you think ... P^

Peacekeeper

12-19-2011, 04:06 PM

Funny thread, Ive camped in HD dealership lots, Wal-Mart lots, National forest out west, not so much east. Even camped in a gas station store entry way while it was closed and got woke up by an Albuquerque, NM patrolman who ran our ID and bikes. Back in the late 70s and 80s it was easier, today you need to be aware of your surroundings. To many 2 legged preditors sneaking around any more.

quadancer

12-19-2011, 07:27 PM

I'd like to do some stealth again simply because this country used to be free and open. I think it's a shame that I'm "forced" into paying someone a profit just because I want to cook, eat, and sleep with my own dang gear. If I gotta pay, I really want THEM to bring me supper.:p
That said, there are always those who will abuse any privelege and leave a mess, burn down someone's property, or simply **** where they shouldn't. :mad: I'm just not one of those people.

kb5zcr

12-19-2011, 09:21 PM

I think it's fun. I like to stealth camp. Try searching for stealth camping in Google and you will find all kinds of info on it. It is a whole sub group of the camping crowd.
Remember when you were a kid and used to sneak around and it was fun being hidden from those around you, well this is kinda the same.
I have plenty of money to pay for a camp site, and if I end my day and will be spending my time in camp then I usually do pay for a spot, but if it is late and I only want to toss out my bedroll and get some sleep and maybe heat up a quick coffee the next morning then stealth is a good choise for me.
It brings up childhood memories for me to stealth camp and I am always keeping an eye out for good spots.
By the way, I don't camp on private property, I much prefer the public forest areas or Army Corp of Engineers land around Texas lakes.
To each their own I guess.

shnev

12-19-2011, 09:52 PM

I have found this thread very insightful. I will have to try this "Stealth Camping" to gain a little more insight. If I do it on a whim, I will wind up feeling guilty that I may be on private property, or breaking some kind of local ordnance.

I will have to give this a try.

quadancer

12-19-2011, 09:55 PM

I think you also have to worry about predators in the camp sites - at least out in the woods alone, you're more likely to be alone, right?
Lock and Load, baby!

Ironheadziggy76

12-20-2011, 06:20 AM

RCLafnjack

12-20-2011, 07:02 AM

Well I haven't Stealth Camped yet, but I'm planning on doing so on my trip next year. I'm reading these posts with great interest..

Nice, but only 3 people stealth camp here? Really? ;) :D

Anyone else?

Guy

G wizz

12-20-2011, 08:34 AM

One thing I've picked up on reading this thread is location. I've noticed most of the folks who regularly stealth camp seem to live in the western to mid western part of the country. In what little I've traveled out west there seems to be a lot more "wide open and less populated" country, where for the rest of us, we tend to have more population per square mile.

Not only that but many land owners east of the Mississippi don't take kindly to others trustpassing on their property, reguardless if it's posted or not ... :well
You stand the chance of looking up at the end of a shotgun barrel in the middle of the night, with the words "Move along there, Sonny" echoing in your ears ... :eek:

G

quadancer

12-20-2011, 09:01 AM

Or maybe more like "Wucheew dewin'? You inna heappa trouble boy!" :mad:

ErikR

12-20-2011, 10:10 AM

Or maybe more like "Wucheew dewin'? You inna heappa trouble boy!" :mad:

Sounds like this guy.....
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t307/erikramsted/Sheriff_J_W__Pepper_by_Clifton_James_2.jpg

snowclem

12-20-2011, 11:14 AM

I hadn't done any camping, stelth or otherwise, until this last couple of years. I managed 4 nights of stelth camping this fall. 1 night at a National Forest campground and 3 nights at a marina in Maryland during an Oyster Festival. The festival had been done before and it was with permission. The NFC night was because the company that was running the campground left me a note that struck me the wrong way. When I had arrived at the campground I found this site that was reserved for Thur thru Sat night. Since it was Tues night I figured it would be OK, so I went looking for the office, which was located further into the park at another campsite. I found the site, but there wasn't anyone around, so I went back and set up. Later I went to town for gas and supplies so that I could get an early start the next morning. When I got back to the campground there was a note at my campsite stating that I was set up on a reserved DOUBLE site and that they had my license plate # and I would have to pay for it or they would track me down and I would be subject to a fine that could be up to $5 LESS than they were going to charge for the dbl site for 1 night.:confused: So I spent a few minutes considering and backtracking my movements within the park in my mind, and decided that I would test their security. I had backed the wing into the campsite both times and had the Pac-it-rack on (which covers my plate) the rest of the time. I doubted, even if they had security cameras at the unmanned gate, that they would be able to track me. So far, so good.;)

Richard

quadancer

12-20-2011, 06:00 PM

They didn't do anything wrong there - it's business, but cool you got away with a stay.
Most times I camp I leave the site in better shape than when I got there. They should pay ME!

ImRubicon

12-20-2011, 11:24 PM

To many 2 legged predators
to quote someone Maybe few and far between but sooner or later you will need somethin you dont want to pull out , why ask for it ?????
campgrounds are less trouble

rathackman

12-21-2011, 08:04 AM

No real favorite stealth places as I live and spend most of my road time in the west where there is endless public lands to camp on for free....I have friends who live on BLM land fulltime in vehicles of one sort or another. They just be sure to move every 14 days.

My interests now are south of the border and I just got back from 3 weeks on the Baja which started out on the bike but ended up in the van...a long story. It was good though and I will go back once it warms up a bit on the rig. This time to the mainland. I am only missing two states in Mexico to complete that part of the ol' bucket list, so will do those I think. I have been traveling Mexico and south for a few years now.

In Central America there are very few campgrounds so the best places I have found are in the parking lots of ruins, etc. restaurants, and when pressed by time or raining hard, a cheap hotel.

The thing about stealth south of the border is that you be in what seems like the middle of nowhere and then find out that you are camped in the middle of the trail home from the fields and people walk by your camp in the middle of the night or really, really early in the morning.:confused:

Just a quick shameless plug for New Mexico State Parks but if you come through here you can camp for $8 a night in the primitive sites and they are all very beautiful and there are a lot of them.

kitesurfer

12-24-2011, 02:28 PM

this is kinda sorta stealth. this was at deals gap, actually part of the campground but i seriously don't think anyone knows about it. it's up the dirt road by the campground meadow, behind the new showers a couple yards. there are more than a dozen good spots on that little trail. the trail is a good road but to get off it to the 'flat spot' might require a vstrom type bike. i didn't mind a 20' cfarr of my gear at all. it's very quiet and peaceful after dark.

Aldawg

12-28-2011, 01:26 PM

G wizz

12-28-2011, 02:04 PM

And 1 time I slept in a 24hr carwash, it was late and raining buckets. I did'nt even remove my riding gear, I just sat down and leaned back, before I knew it the sun was up, the rain had stopped, and I was buying coffee next door. Nobody washes their car in the rain :D

Good point ... P^

BeemMeUp

12-28-2011, 02:37 PM

I've done a bit of stealth camping in New England, and N.Y. Mostly in the woods out in the middle of nowhere, and a couple of times in a cemetary. And 1 time I slept in a 24hr carwash, it was late and raining buckets. I did'nt even remove my riding gear, I just sat down and leaned back, before I knew it the sun was up, the rain had stopped, and I was buying coffee next door. Nobody washes their car in the rain :D

Carwash facilities are excellent stopovers during rain. I too have kicked back and feel asleep waiting out the rain in the same way. I shared a meal with three other riders in an Iowa carwash. We pulled out our stoves and shared the contents of our food lockers/coolers. Not the best surroundings but it was out of a heavy rainstorm that lasted several hours. Some local cops checked up on us several times. They even had a cup of coffee with us. :storm1:

quadancer

12-29-2011, 03:15 PM

Really makes your day when you get the cops on your side, doesn't it?
We were working in our cones in an abandoned gas station lot and the cops came by and told us we could also join the motor cops on their course on some Sundays. They sort of "looked the other way" on us being on some private property, as we were obviously not hurting anything but a few of our cones, of course.

LarryinSeattle

01-05-2012, 06:10 PM

If you are a member of the GWRRA, they publish the Gold Book, which has a listing of folks who offer camping, trailer help....tools for people on the road. I have met some very interesting people while camping in their yard.

trapperdick

01-05-2012, 07:59 PM

I'm a mason,,,,I'm sure if I put up behind a Masonic Hall I wouldn't be sent to jail, I'm also a member of the American Legion, another place that I think I'd be welcome........TD

kdf9511

01-05-2012, 09:46 PM

I'm a mason,,,,I'm sure if I put up behind a Masonic Hall I wouldn't be sent to jail, I'm also a member of the American Legion, another place that I think I'd be welcome........TD

Hmmm.....I hadn't thought about parking behind a temple.

kitesurfer

01-06-2012, 04:43 AM

this stealth spot is on the banks of the AMICACOLA RIVER in the north georgia moun tains. located off ga53 on amicacola church road--turn at the bridge. there are no designated spots, no drinking water and no toilets. the county sheriff does patrol it. it will always be just as it is now because of the way it was "willed" to the county.

lytle1gw

01-06-2012, 06:42 AM

Whats the yellow sign on tree above her head say (park boundary?)?

quadancer

01-06-2012, 09:02 AM

Seems like a well-trodden campsite, big enough for a truck and trailer - or an RV - so I wonder how "stealth" it is. I'll check it out next ride up that way.

G wizz

01-06-2012, 09:38 AM

Whats the yellow sign on tree above her head say (park boundary?)?

Think it says ... No Trustpassing ... Keep out ... :eek:
Next door neighbors probably didn't want people pooing in their woods ... Can't say as I blame 'em ...

kitesurfer

01-08-2012, 07:55 AM

i have no idea what it says...too high for me to read. i've been camping there since early 90's. read about it on a whitewater canoe board. i usually pull in around midnight and out after breakfast, unless i'm paddling that river. when first given to the county, it was un-improved woods. over the years, various work parties from locals and canoe clubs have improved it to include pic nic tables, fire rings and a boat launch. if you are awake when the deputy comes through, he will stop for a chitchat with no searches or harasment...just let's you know to not trash the place--leave it better than you find it. i have never had a theft issue or good ol redneck issue there. it's safe. it's appx 10 miles from dawsonville fa.

kitesurfer

01-08-2012, 07:56 AM

Think it says ... No Trustpassing ... Keep out ... :eek:
Next door neighbors probably didn't want people pooing in their woods ... Can't say as I blame 'em ...

neXt door neighbors are a few miles away and is a MONESTERY.

TPadden

01-08-2012, 09:06 AM

....You stand the chance of looking up at the end of a shotgun barrel in the middle of the night, with the words "Move along there, Sonny" echoing in your ears ... :eek:

G

You've been watching too many movies: I haven't even heard of anyone running into ANY problem worse than a friendly wave or words to the effect of " You break down and need any help, Pops?" :). Even Rangers have been friendly when I camp right outside their park.

The people who stealth camp have mostly moved past recreational camping to travel camping. Recreational campers are correct that there is little reason to hobo camp because they know where they are going, what route they will take to get there, and what time / where they will stop for the night. Travel campers may not even have a destination, have little idea when or where they will stop, have put in a long day, spent most of it lost but are making good time, and are just looking for a (free) place to flop. :cool:

My favorites are boat launches / ramps :).

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-k_PE4nS2hXw/Twm1zuYpQ6I/AAAAAAAAGAU/n5zZj8JuWko/s576/IMG_0467-1.JPG

G wizz

01-08-2012, 09:58 AM

You've been watching too many movies: I haven't even heard of anyone running into ANY problem worse than a friendly wave or words to the effect of " You break down and need any help, Pops?" :). Even Rangers have been friendly when I camp right outside their park.

Yah? Well, I see you live west of the Mississippi there, pardner ... You're probably accustom to the wide open spaces of the west ...
Things are a little different in some places after ya cross over the river ... people are packed in a little closer here, and some DON"T like uninvited company on their property ... :eek:

TPadden

01-08-2012, 11:24 AM

Yah? Well, I see you live west of the Mississippi there, pardner ... You're probably accustom to the wide open spaces of the west ...
Things are a little different in some places after ya cross over the river ... people are packed in a little closer here, and some DON"T like uninvited company on their property ... :eek:

I also live in Florida and that picture is from Mississippi, EAST of the river :). I spend half of my time east (one kid in Virginia). Hobo camped from New England to Key West and all over east of Big Muddy; still no Bubba or Minuteman with an attitude .......

G wizz

01-08-2012, 11:38 AM

I also live in Florida and that picture is from Mississippi, EAST of the river :). I spend half of my time east (one kid in Virginia). Hobo camped from New England to Key West and all over east of Big Muddy; still no Bubba or Minuteman with an attitude .......

Yah? And how long ago was that ??? Couldn't have been recently ... Back twenty - thirty years ago things were different.

TPadden

01-08-2012, 11:59 AM

Yah? And how long ago was that ??? Couldn't have been recently ... Back twenty - thirty years ago things were different.

Not sure why we're arguing; but I rode and camped over 50,000 miles last year; a lot of it in the east. It's a big place and even New York has a lot of empty space (and some boat ramps) when you avoid Interstates.

I call what I do Hobo camping because I don't try to be necessarily "stealthy" but I don't camp in neighborhoods. My experience on the few occasions I even talked to anyone is: a friendly attitude goes a long way,

As a cop I had to treat everyone with suspicion, now I don't. That said there is no substitute for common sense. :)

greybeard

01-08-2012, 12:15 PM

Your attitude when someone approches will usually dictate the direction the conversation will go that said greet with a smile and if you are not welcome be ready to apoligise and leave gracefully

G wizz

01-08-2012, 01:39 PM

Not sure why we're arguing; but I rode and camped over 50,000 miles last year; a lot of it in the east. It's a big place and even New York has a lot of empty space (and some boat ramps) when you avoid Interstates.

Geesh ... Didn't know we were arguing ... :confused:
It looks like we arn't even on the same page. I'm talking about trustpassing on private property, and here you are, setting up a tent at boat launches ... Like comparing apples to oranges ...
It's just a difference of opinion ... You go ahead and do what you want, I'll do the same ... ;)

P.S.
My dog meaner looking than your dog ...

TPadden

01-08-2012, 02:09 PM

Geesh ... Didn't know we were arguing ... :confused:
It looks like we arn't even on the same page. I'm talking about trustpassing on private property, a.........
P.S.
My dog meaner looking than your dog ...

I'm the one on the same page as most of the other 8 pages of replies. No one has yet posted about trespassing. All the replies I've read are about camping for free on either public land, public right-of-way, unfenced land, or what appears to be abandoned property without "no trespassing" or "no camping" signs.

In some cases (depending on state and local law) even camping on fenced, posted "no trespassing" private property isn't trespassing until you are physically asked to leave, by the property owner or his agent, and then refuse (California).

No one (particularly me) is advocating doing anything illegal. :o

lytle1gw

01-08-2012, 02:19 PM

TPadden

01-08-2012, 02:37 PM

...... Best to just ask before.

Refer back to: there is no substitute for common sense. :)

G wizz

01-08-2012, 02:38 PM

In Illinois private land owners do not have to post their property, you have to have written permission or the landowner can have you arrested.

Michigan is the same way ...

TPadden

01-08-2012, 02:45 PM

Michigan is the same way ...

Not correct. Not sure about Illinois but in Michigan for trespass you have to either fence or post your property, or physically tell the person to leave and they refuse (as long as they are not dumping, or destroying trees, etc.). Here's the Michigan Penal Code concerning trespass:

750.552 Trespass upon lands or premises of another; violation; penalty.
Sec. 552.
(1) A person shall not do any of the following:
(a) Enter the lands or premises of another without lawful authority after having been forbidden so to do by the owner or occupant or the agent of the owner or occupant.
(b) Remain without lawful authority on the land or premises of another after being notified to depart by the owner or occupant or the agent of the owner or occupant.
(c) Enter or remain without lawful authority on fenced or posted farm property of another person without the consent of the owner or his or her lessee or agent. A request to leave the premises is not a necessary
element for a violation of this subdivision. This subdivision does not apply to a person who is in the process of attempting, by the most direct route, to contact the owner or his or her lessee or agent to request consent.
(2) A person who violates subsection (1) is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than 30 days or by a fine of not more than $250.00, or both.

TPadden

01-08-2012, 03:20 PM

In Illinois private land owners do not have to post their property, you have to have written permission or the landowner can have you arrested. Although most will just ask you to leave, but then there are the soreheads out there. Best to just ask before.

Not correct for Illinois either. I'm not posting to be argumentative but to point out that most people really aren't familiar with trespass laws. Without any physical damage to property most trespass laws are fairly similar and not as stringent as most people think. In Illinois prior notice is required or refusal to leave after notice.

Illinois Penal Code (720 ILCS 5/21‑3) (from Ch. 38, par. 21‑3)

Sec. 21‑3. Criminal trespass to real property.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (a‑5), whoever:
(1) knowingly and without lawful authority enters or
remains within or on a building; or
(2) enters upon the land of another, after receiving,
prior to such entry, notice from the owner or occupant that such entry is forbidden; or
(3) remains upon the land of another, after receiving
notice from the owner or occupant to depart; or
(3.5) presents false documents or falsely represents
his or her identity orally to the owner or occupant of a building or land in order to obtain permission from the owner or occupant to enter or remain in the building or on the land;
commits a Class B misdemeanor.

G wizz

01-08-2012, 03:34 PM

There are SOME people that do as they please ... No wonder there are so many land owners that have come to the conclusion that the only way they can keep unwanted "guests" off their land is to have to fence it and post it.
Too many goof balls getting hurt on private property where they had no busines in the first place, reguardless if is posted or not, then going and sueing the land owner.

TPadden

01-08-2012, 03:37 PM

There are SOME people that do as they please ...Too many goof balls getting hurt on private property where they had no busines in the first place, reguardless if is posted or not, then going and sueing the land owner.

We agree :D.

Tom

G wizz

01-08-2012, 03:52 PM

We agree :D.

Tom

Boy ... I'm sure glad we agreed on something ... ;)
I was beginning to wonder there for a minute ...

TPadden

01-08-2012, 03:57 PM

Boy ... I'm sure glad we agreed on something ... ;)
I was beginning to wonder there for a minute ...

I'm sure we also agree motorcycles and camping are good :D!

G wizz

01-08-2012, 04:10 PM

I'm sure we also agree motorcycles and camping are good :D!

... P^ ...

quadancer

01-08-2012, 05:35 PM

In Illinois prior notice is required or refusal to leave after notice.

Illinois Penal Code (720 ILCS 5/21‑3) (from Ch. 38, par. 21‑3)

Sec. 21‑3. Criminal trespass to real property.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (a‑5), whoever:
(1) knowingly and without lawful authority enters or
remains within or on a building; or
(2) enters upon the land of another, after receiving,
prior to such entry, notice from the owner or occupant that such entry is forbidden; or
(3) remains upon the land of another, after receiving
notice from the owner or occupant to depart; or
(3.5) presents false documents or falsely represents
his or her identity orally to the owner or occupant of a building or land in order to obtain permission from the owner or occupant to enter or remain in the building or on the land;
commits a Class B misdemeanor.[/QUOTE]

Seems like I read that very same code for Georgia. You have to post it or actually tell someone to leave if you don't want them there. You definitely can't "sue" someone for trespass if one or the other isn't done.

TPadden

01-08-2012, 06:15 PM

Seems like I read that very same code for Georgia. You have to post it or actually tell someone to leave if you don't want them there. You definitely can't "sue" someone for trespass if one or the other isn't done.

Generally most trespass laws are similar. You can almost always be sued for anything; I'd say you most likely wouldn't be arrested or successfully sued. :eek:

As a rule I don't hobo camp on private property and stay outside fence lines. ;)

Tom

lytle1gw

01-08-2012, 08:25 PM

Hunters and trappers must obtain permission from the landowner or tenant before entering his land regardless of whether the land is fenced or posted.This is from the DNR, and camping is under their jurisdition. According to the warden in this area a ticket for trespass would be issued upon request from the landowner or tenant.

G wizz

01-08-2012, 08:41 PM

quadancer

01-08-2012, 10:47 PM

I think a camper set up for the night, campground neatly arranged, attitude upstanding, no guns or carcass racks in sight and such, would hardly fall under any problems with the law, unless asked to leave and refused. At least down here, I've not been able to find anything about being ticketed for tenting.
OTOH, if you were on my land, digging open holes, making a fire near trees, littering, drinking a lot...I'd ask you to leave and you'd better be doing so quickly.

G wizz

01-09-2012, 12:09 AM

OTOH, if you were on my land, digging open holes, making a fire near trees, littering, drinking a lot...I'd ask you to leave and you'd better be doing so quickly.

Anyone with an ounce of respect for another persons property wouldn't have set up camp on private land in the first place, without asking permision first, reguardless if it wasn't posted, or unfenced.
Caught doing things like you described above. you sir, shouldn't need to "ask" them to leave, You would have every right to tell 'em to get the hell off you land ... NOW!!! And don't come back...

Ironheadziggy76

01-09-2012, 06:25 AM

Let me give you an example of "stealth" camping here in Kentucky, and maybe you will understand why some of us east of the Mississippi are a little more concerned about stealth camping. My wife's grandparents have both passed away a few years back and their home and small farm is, or was being used by the family. The farm is used for family hunting and putting out a garden. The house was used for when out of town family came in to visit if they wanted to stay there. A young couple of stealth campers would break in to "play house". At first it was just them "sleeping" :rolleyes: as you would notice the bed had been unmade, and for some reason the young lady would leave her underwear behind. :confused: We knew it belonged to someone else as the wife's grandmother in the end was bedridden and no one can remember her wearing a thong! :p We fixed the broken window, cleaned up the mess left, tossed the sheets and bedding after reporting it to the local law enforcement. Then they or some of their friends came back and started stealing anything that wasn't bolted down. Long story short, in the end the house was completely destroyed, drywall ripped off the walls and ceiling anywhere the thieves though there might be a piece of copper wire, etc. Thieves believe it or not are fairly smart, they had there own little network set up where they had someone at home listening to a police scanner, and calling them when the police were on the way, we actually saw it in action, but we already had photos of them and their cars. Some of the other thieves are also incredibly stupid, as on more than one case they were looking down the barrel of a loaded gun and took off running. One left an ATV that he was riding, which turned out to be stolen. If nothing else hopefully the wife's uncle got someone their quad back, as the state trooper who came out looked at the VIN and said that was one of the cases he was working.

Let me give you a warning if you are stealth camping in Kentucky. The land owners are not the only ones you should be worried about. Kentucky is ranked #4 in the nation for Meth production, so if you find a place that looks nice and stealthy, you can bet you aren't the only one who has found this prime location. I would hate to hear of a rider getting knocked in the head, or robbed at gunpoint of his $25,000.00 touring bike and all his gear because he was too cheap to pay $15.00 for a camp site. People around here are getting fed up with Meth heads and thieves, it's only going to be a matter of time before people just start shooting them. I've already heard the old timers around here telling of them shooting big holes in vehicles parked on their property as a warning to not return. Our elderly grew in a different time and they don't have, or care about any feelings of "entitlement" by the trespasser. Some political groups scream they want to "Take our country back", here folks are just concerned over "their" property that they have worked their whole lives to maintain.

Just about everyone I know around these parts would give a stranger the shirt off of their back if they needed it, as the old saying goes. Like myself, if you ASKED anyone around here if you could camp, nine times out of ten they would tell you sure, but camp close to the house for your safety, and probably offer you a shower and dinner. If you don't ask, nine times out of ten you would be asked to leave, most likely at gunpoint.

Around here it's more of a respect toward personal property as others have stated. It's like, "Hey you drove your truck to work today, what's wrong with someone coming over to your house and taking YOUR bike for a "stealth ride". They'll fill it up with gas, and wipe the dust off when they're done. They'll have it back at your house before you get home from work, and it will be cleaner than when they picked it up. You should be happy that someone detailed your bike. :lol

G wizz

01-09-2012, 08:24 AM

Ironheadziggy76

01-09-2012, 09:55 AM

Sorry to sound "preachy" and I hope I didn't hurt anyone's feelings but as they say, "It is what it is".

LarryinSeattle

01-09-2012, 10:28 AM

I don't have a dog in this fight as I get permission where ever I camp, but I do sleep with my .38 in my tent..... right next to my pillow.

I will say this, the GWRRA produces the Gold Book. In the Gold Book there is a complete listing of all GWRRA members who would provide tools, trailer, camping spot.... assistance on the road, that kind of thing. I have called ahead and met some of the nicest people ever and been offered camping spots, extra bedrooms and a hot bowl of soup and often breakfast.

You meet the nicest people on a Honda. :)

.

TPadden

01-09-2012, 11:33 AM

...... I have called ahead and met some of the nicest people ever and been offered camping spots, extra bedrooms and a hot bowl of soup and often breakfast.

You meet the nicest people on a Honda. :)

.

No fight, just a differing on understanding the concept of stealth/ hobo camping and the reason for doing it. Perhaps only those that do it understand the concept and reason why they do it.

For anyone that can afford a motorcycle and taking a trip, stealth camping isn't because the rider is necessarily cheap. It's more about wandering without a plan or detailed iternary. Here's the problem with your recommendation as simply as I can put it; THERE IS NO WAY TO CALL AHEAD WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU WILL BE WHEN. As soon as you call ahead you are on a schedule.

Some people plan a trip in detail; some people just head west telling their kids in California (or east to visit their kid in Virginia) they MIGHT visit sometime in October :).

When I wander, sometimes I get tired and want to set up a campsite around 5PM and can take the time to find an established campsite. Sometimes I call friends ahead and visit with them a while. Sometimes I reserve a room at a motel and attend a motorcycle event. MOST OF THE TIME I just enjoy the travel and don't want to stop until I get tired in the middle of nowhere. That's when and where I look for a place to flop. I've been doing it for years all over the country, never had a problem. :) To be honest I've had more problems at KOA's. :eek:

Tom

LarryinSeattle

01-09-2012, 12:06 PM

No fight, just a differing on understanding the concept of stealth/ hobo camping and the reason for doing it. Perhaps only those that do it understand the concept and reason why they do it.

For anyone that can afford a motorcycle and taking a trip, stealth camping isn't because the rider is necessarily cheap. It's more about wandering without a plan or detailed iternary. Here's the problem with your recommendation as simply as I can put it; THERE IS NO WAY TO CALL AHEAD WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU WILL BE WHEN. As soon as you call ahead you are on a schedule.

Some people plan a trip in detail; some people just head west telling their kids in California (or east to visit their kid in Virginia) they MIGHT visit sometime in October :).

When I wander, sometimes I get tired and want to set up a campsite around 5PM and can take the time to find an established campsite. Sometimes I call friends ahead and visit with them a while. Sometimes I reserve a room at a motel and attend a motorcycle event. MOST OF THE TIME I just enjoy the travel and don't want to stop until I get tired in the middle of nowhere. That's when and where I look for a place to flop. I've been doing it for years all over the country, never had a problem. :) To be honest I've had more problems at KOA's. :eek:

Tom

It is not hard to wander when you are showing up to camp in someone's yard. It is not like they are planning to have you for supper on a certain night. I kind of pick an area that I want to explore.... I look at the towns in the book and call some of the members who advertise that they can host camping.

It actually gives you more time to wander, when you know that you have a place to camp close by, but it is only 10:00 am in the morning. Using the GPS to get there...... after wandering is good.

I travel and camp often times solo, but when I do have my girl friend along, it does require more planning.

TPadden

01-09-2012, 12:14 PM

It is not hard to wander when you are showing up to camp in someone's yard. It is not like they are planning to have you for supper on a certain night. I kind of pick an area that I want to explore.... I look at the towns in the book and call some of the members who advertise that they can host camping.......

Then may I suggest you start a thread on camping in fellow motorcyclist hosts yards ......:D. This thread has been hijacked long enough :) (mostly my fault) :(.

LarryinSeattle

01-09-2012, 12:29 PM

Then may I suggest you start a thread on camping in fellow motorcyclist hosts yards ......:D. This thread has been hijacked long enough :) (mostly my fault) :(.

Your style of wandering works for you and I admire that spirit of freedom.

Most of the motorcyclist I know plan a little in advance. I was just offering a method of finding a place to camp without paying a camping fee. I know if I am going to be in northern Arizona sometime during my wanderings. If I have made contact with a GWRRA member and I am welcomed there.... I will find a way to allow them to host. Not unlike friendly forum members and I belong to a few Goldwing forums.

"Stealth camping" evolved from touring bicyclist in Europe where it is more accepted. It has morphed into stealth living on the street in vans and whatever. The same kind of thinking.... traveling without setting any roots. I like the idea and the freedom it represents.

I am more into it than my girl friend is. She likes a bathroom and a hot shower. I like it when she likes it. :)

TPadden

01-09-2012, 01:39 PM

Your style of wandering works for you and I admire that spirit of freedom.

Most of the motorcyclist I know plan a little in advance. I was just offering a method of finding a place to camp without paying a camping fee. .....

Understood; trying not to get too far off topic I'd also say my experience is that accepting a stranger's hospitality is not without it's social obligations for the camper.

I feel by accepting a strangers offer of hospitality my obligation is to provide some return friendship, entertainment, and conversation. It just doesn't feel right to show up after sunset, accept the offered hospitality, and get back on the road as soon as I wake up in the morning.

Once I've had a cup of coffee in the morning (impossible to refuse) and I start talking it might be afternoon before I get on the road again ......:o

Friends I've already cultivated and family understand that I may be using them as a place to overnight flop but to do that to a stranger isn't my style. :(

Tom

LarryinSeattle

01-10-2012, 12:00 AM

Understood; trying not to get too far off topic I'd also say my experience is that accepting a stranger's hospitality is not without it's social obligations for the camper.

I feel by accepting a strangers offer of hospitality my obligation is to provide some return friendship, entertainment, and conversation. It just doesn't feel right to show up after sunset, accept the offered hospitality, and get back on the road as soon as I wake up in the morning.

Once I've had a cup of coffee in the morning (impossible to refuse) and I start talking it might be afternoon before I get on the road again ......:o

Friends I've already cultivated and family understand that I may be using them as a place to overnight flop but to do that to a stranger isn't my style. :(

Tom

GWRRA members and forum members usually understand the deal. Some travelers like to chat, some need to make time. All of them get a thank you card in the mail from me for their hospitality.

They often times offer to be tour guides for an afternoon ride..... as they know their area and they like to ride motorcycle.

It works for me.... since this is a thread about "stealth" or free camping spots.... I thought I would share what has happened for me for the last two years of moto camping.

It is satisfying to get invited back or that when they plan a visit to my area, that I can reciprocate.

Ironheadziggy76

01-10-2012, 06:22 AM

Yep, I've done my share of hijackiing as well. Just let me say this, I'm not trying to pass judgement on anyone, I'm truly concerned for the well being of my fellow MotoCampers! Just please be careful out there!

Festus

01-10-2012, 07:09 PM

That was great Ziggy ... P^
Ya hit the nail square in the head with that post, Hopefully you got across what I've been poking at all along ...
A little respect for another persons property goes a long way ...

G

I agree , Good explanination Ziggy !! Out here in the western part of the country things work the same way. Just because there is a long way between places doesn't mean that landowners don't care. I hate looking at the business end of a gun.

Mark

TPadden

01-10-2012, 07:49 PM

I agree , ......I hate looking at the business end of a gun.

Mark

....... and have we heard from one stealth camper that that has happened to outside of the movies, and even then it would more likely be a chainsaw :rolleyes:.

I think not only have you non-stealth campers hijacked the thread you've pretty much killed and buried it under the guise of looking out for our safety. Thanks P^.

Tom

Kimswang

01-10-2012, 08:02 PM

Nuff said...... We are not stealing land, just pitching a tent for a few hours....

TPadden

01-10-2012, 08:47 PM

Back on topic .......

I've also had good luck flopping anyplace there is a picnic table as long as I don't see a sign stating no camping - one pic is west; one east; I'm sure you can guess which is which :D.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zpSN7uI7vdI/S5Zz-WyD5ZI/AAAAAAAADEU/oCch99QG5Wg/s640/Ca%2525201105%252520008.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8gDG4RvtuE/Tf7BVHLwpfI/AAAAAAAAFiM/DBPeXgRTHzw/s640/P1000614.JPG

quadancer

01-10-2012, 09:12 PM

kdf9511

01-10-2012, 09:18 PM

I have been thinking about this and everyone who mentions getting a visit from the law, I bet if you explained to the officer that you were just too tired to go on and wanted to sack out for a couple of hours to be safe they wouldn't have too much trouble with it. As long as you were on public land.

I remember when driving from Orlando Fl to Hannibal Mo on my way to Chicago IL one time pulling off in a closed strip mall to catch a few winks and having the law knock on the window. I told him that I was tired and just catching a few winks inorder not to fall alseep on the road and he just said have a nice trip. Though the fact that when he woke me up and asked for ID I handed him my Navy ID without thinking might have had something to do with that.

quadancer

01-10-2012, 09:31 PM

Will that excuse work with a tent set up, fire going, supper in the pot and your hammock strung up? :tent3:

lytle1gw

01-10-2012, 09:36 PM

Maybe if ya was in front of a sporting goods store, tell them your there as a demo.:D

kdf9511

01-10-2012, 09:41 PM

Will that excuse work with a tent set up, fire going, supper in the pot and your hammock strung up? :tent3:

Well maybe not witht that much stuff setup....but it might without the fire.

TPadden

01-10-2012, 09:50 PM

Well maybe not witht that much stuff setup....but it might without the fire.

Not a problem .......;)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RvlEmRNxhKw/Tw0Gd5FKDiI/AAAAAAAAGAY/0OMErz1Kchk/s720/9-14-2011%25252011-11-9_011.jpg

TPadden

01-10-2012, 10:04 PM

Here's another spot I've used a couple times; outside the fence line of Government property. It's an outlying field for helicopter's near Pensacola.

I've camped several times outside other Government fences, never a problem, even after 9-11. :)

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5lbhODyyRoQ/ScQc8f9YE2I/AAAAAAAAA9A/NQd0p0FVTpw/IMG_0180.JPG

TPadden

01-10-2012, 10:46 PM

I have been thinking about this and everyone who mentions getting a visit from the law,....

My only visit from the law EVER was on a Yakama Indian Reservation. I'd pulled a ways off the road and went a little way down a dirt road. After they checked my ID they said "You're not bothering anybody" and left. :)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vGhkNQdouIQ/TGF9xLv1hVI/AAAAAAAADtU/Vw-2rb56cU8/s640/IMG_0699.JPG

Kimswang

01-11-2012, 10:39 AM

My only visit from the law EVER was on a Yakama Indian Reservation. I'd pulled a ways off the road and went a little way down a dirt road. After they checked my ID they said "You're not bothering anybody" and left. :)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vGhkNQdouIQ/TGF9xLv1hVI/AAAAAAAADtU/Vw-2rb56cU8/s640/IMG_0699.JPG

LEO's with common sense?? Save the moment, doesn't happen too often...:mad:

Ironheadziggy76

01-11-2012, 11:02 AM

....... and have we heard from one stealth camper that that has happened to outside of the movies, and even then it would more likely be a chainsaw :rolleyes:.

I think not only have you non-stealth campers hijacked the thread you've pretty much killed and buried it under the guise of looking out for our safety. Thanks P^.

Tom

Tom, let me be the first to apologize for looking out for your safety! :rolleyes: You are correct, no one has posted about being asked to leave someone's private property. As far as things happening outside the movies, here ya go, two guys just riding and minding their own business here in my state.

http://www.maysville-online.com/news/local/article_051d0ae6-32be-55a3-8c37-f0aee97a0bae.html

I will refrain from intruding into Guy's thread any further. :rolleyes:

TPadden

01-11-2012, 11:15 AM

Tom, let me be the first to apologize for looking out for your safety! :rolleyes: You are correct, no one has posted about being asked to leave someone's private property. As far as things happening outside the movies, here ya go, two guys just riding and minding their own business here in my state.

I will refrain from intruding into Guy's thread any further. :rolleyes:

Ziggy,

Too late; you refrain from hijacking by pointing to that pointless (relative to stealth camping spots) road rage incident and getting further off topic????? :p

I tried REAL hard to get the conversation back on topic and I'm trying harder to forgive you and accept your apology :please1:...... but it just doesn't seem sincere ..... :lol2

Tom

snowclem

01-11-2012, 11:32 AM

While I don't want to make this worse, I do want to thank Steve for posting that link. I had seen the video a while back and had not heard of the outcome until now. I think you guys need a meet and greet.P^

Richard

ImRubicon

01-11-2012, 04:23 PM

I sort of wonder what would happen if you stayed in a park that doesn't close up at night, not city parks, but you see those outbound ones sometimes with baseball diamonds and stuff. Probably asking for a visit from the po-po, but if you hid well enuff...
I still think of it as stealing or treaspassing at the least and you should and might get a fine at least and couldnt really argue much :rolleyes:

Nuff said...... We are not stealing land, just pitching a tent for a few hours....

So If I camped on your front lawn without letting you know then it would be ok as you were not using it at the time I stopped and pitched a tent ? :cool:

Back on topic .......

I've also had good luck flopping anyplace there is a picnic table as long as I don't see a sign stating no camping - one pic is west; one east; I'm sure you can guess which is which :D.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zpSN7uI7vdI/S5Zz-WyD5ZI/AAAAAAAADEU/oCch99QG5Wg/s640/Ca%2525201105%252520008.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8gDG4RvtuE/Tf7BVHLwpfI/AAAAAAAAFiM/DBPeXgRTHzw/s640/P1000614.JPG

This is one of the few that might be ok as seems to be public land and if not posted then its a maybe ok ??? P^

I just see using my land just because Im not there to say yes is the same as me using your toilet when you are not there . just isnt right and if on my land you might wake up with something ointed your way if caught. Some places even have squatters laws so people may be even more touchy. Those who say it isnt hurting anything , how does the people who own the land know that as they just come up on you.

On the other hand If some one asked I would most likely let you crash in the yard with water and maybe a little chat after a cold one but if treaspassing all bets off as I dont know you .
Welcome to todays world and saving mine family and land

TPadden

01-11-2012, 07:00 PM

I still think of it as stealing or treaspassing at the least and you should and might get a fine at least and couldnt really argue much :rolleyes:

So If I camped on your front lawn without letting you know then it would be ok as you were not using it at the time I stopped and pitched a tent ?...

I am a retired cop and can't believe the opinions here; I thought cops saw things in black and white. At LEAST look at the pictures if you can't take the time to read and point me to ONE that even remotely looks like someone pitched a tent on someone's front lawn. :rolleyes:

Just Federal public land in this country is more than 700 million acres, and yes, city parks, most city ball parks, rodeo grounds, public boat ramps, right-of ways, etc. are PUBLIC lands that may or may not allow camping. :cool:

This is my last time requesting you start a new topic discussing safety, morality, legal implications, or whatever floats your boat elsewhere .........:please1: :please1: :please1:

G wizz

01-11-2012, 07:11 PM

Oh Boy ... :ph1: Now we find out we're having to deal with an opinionated ex cop.
No wonder he has to have that last word ...
Then again, like other things, everyone has to have an opinion ... :rolleyes:

TPadden

01-11-2012, 07:13 PM

quadancer

01-11-2012, 08:13 PM

ImRubicon

01-11-2012, 10:23 PM

I have to agree with him. I didn't see anyone posting about invading any privately owned land, just public. I wouldn't and I don't think anyone here would hit fenced property or obviously private places without asking.
So the discussion remains as intended; viable sleepovers where one can enjoy the priveledge of spending a night without paying fees, dealing with kids and dogs, or nosy neighbors. Not like we're raping the farmer's daughter.

Some have posted about crashing on unknown land and in Texas someone owns just about every square foot it seems like . The best answer was the one that he uses picnic tables and non posted no camping areas or public lands.
Private land should be a off limits . I did like the one post about in-between the interstate lanes in the south as sometimes there is a lot of space in there like more than enough to sleep pretty much un noticed.
Most of us see it as some of you not all , dont seem to care if its on someones land which most seem to think its wrong to use something that is not yours without asking , is this the me generation? I mean is it ok to use something just because someone that may own it is not using it at the moment ?
what about others rights and respect for others ? Most the stealth campers seem to do it to save a buck. Someone pays for that land you are sleeping on and sometimes it us like in fed lands which means you also which is fine its the abandoned farm house that someone pretty much owns besides you!
Does it do any harm maybe only the same harm as loud pipes or doing a wheelie down the interstate I dont really see that much difference other than some of you says its ok only because you want to do it . Makes us all look bad to those that dont understand motorcycles camping or travelling .
All to save a few dollars. Whats the difference of sneaking into a park to crash after the hosts go to sleep and then leaving early. oh and maybe take a shower because its not really stealing ... juts trying to get some to look from the side of those who may own the land.

I like the ideas here about BLM lands and public lands and some are really good ideas. We have a few Corp of Eng. here and they charge for pretty much all their land I have seen around here so private choices seem to be the main answer

kdf9511

01-11-2012, 10:45 PM

ImRubicon

01-11-2012, 10:50 PM

I know I have been tempted a few times to roll out the sleeping bag in a Picnic Area in Texas. There are a ton of them on 281 between Whitata Falls and Where I turned off on 46 to go to New Braunfels. That was one nice thing about making that run. Plenty of places to stop and stretch and light a smoke. I will miss that now that I won't be making that run once a month anymore.

That is a nice ride as I used part of it to get back this way. yeah I have napped in those areas but I try to stay alert as its not like a fast cat nap at the interstate rest area locked safly in your car , but then not as much traffic either

quadancer

01-11-2012, 10:55 PM

Just seems to me that there's as much in this thread of where NOT to camp as where TO camp, the original intention, but I guess for every pro there's a con.
As for being "cheap", before I EVER stayed in a campsite, I'd sacked up all over the east coast in the 70's, hit the beach many times and never gave the first thought about money.
I had freedom.
For me, it's not just saving hard-earned money, it's rebelliousness against the tide of greedy paws that nowadays defer us to pay for every little thing short of air; things that always used to be free. I understand the place for it where public protection is paramount, and I understand where extra amenities are proferred as a choice. I understand that there is much less land to park on now.
But leave me my choices, or make me an outlaw.
Whatever.

kdf9511

01-12-2012, 12:31 AM

That is a nice ride as I used part of it to get back this way. yeah I have napped in those areas but I try to stay alert as its not like a fast cat nap at the interstate rest area locked safly in your car , but then not as much traffic either

There was hardly any traffic the few times I thought about sacking out there at 2 or 3 in the morning. I have laid out on the tables and caught a few winks but never pulled out the bag, just the pillow. Parked in the back in the dark I don't think anyone even noticed me.

kitesurfer

01-12-2012, 05:53 AM

i like this forum normally. but some of the post on this thread read like they come off a gold wing forum! rudeness and attitudes should be checked at the door. that being said...if i wake up in the morning and there's a tent in my front yard with a bike next to it, i'll wake him up, ask the situation...if the guy just needed a place to sleep and has a good attitude, i'll bring him in for a cup of coffee and maybe a shower. but if i see a tent, trash, beer cans, a smoldering fire, i'll cut on the sprinklers and call the cops.

lytle1gw

01-12-2012, 06:15 AM

Think Its time this thread disapeared before it gets out of hand.

RCLafnjack

01-12-2012, 07:50 AM

Sometimes I'm amazed at how we have a habit of turning a fairly innocent threads into battlegrounds. I guess the anomonity of posting on the internet gives the illusion of some kind of power to say what one want about anything one feel like saying. We stop thinking about what is helpfull and move right to the flame throwing.
I'm not saying we shouldn't debate a topic, but there is a point when it goes from a debate to a pissing match.

just say'n

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l121/bambis_darkside/SelfSlapAnimated.gif

Aldawg

01-12-2012, 01:45 PM

No, please don't close this thread, it's good to see both sides of the coin. I belong to other forums (some bike, some adventure, some camping) and when this topic is discussed, it is almost always identical to whats happening here.

Mr. Guy

01-12-2012, 07:21 PM

Hi All,

I've got to admit there has been some very spirited discussion here, but as the OP on this thread I have 2 things to say:

(1) Can't we all just get along? ;) :D

(2) It was never my intention that anyone should trespass on private property. It was more my intention to have a discussion about the oddball, out of the ordinary places you may have caught a nights sleep.

About the only place I can say I've "stealth" camped is in National Forest. Perfectly A-okay in any book. But I have heard of people catching a few winks in rest stops, truck stops, highway right-of-ways, ETC.

Anybody else have a story of an oddball place they've spent a night that was both legal and maybe even ethical, just not someplace most people would pick?

Thanks, Guy

VRider75

01-13-2012, 12:54 PM

What's all this talk about saving the natural racehorses... what about the little ponies...

Roseanne Roseanneadana

quadancer

01-13-2012, 11:05 PM

What's all this talk about violins on tv? What's the matter with violins...

Roseanne Roseanneadana

WingnutMike

01-13-2012, 11:49 PM

Anybody else have a story of an oddball place they've spent a night that was both legal and maybe even ethical, just not someplace most people would pick?
Thanks, Guy

Back in the 70's- early 80's I stayed at all kinds of places just by simply asking permission. I've camped behind small town restaurants and stores,Churches,Community centers,Barns,behind gas stations and I even spent a few nights in empty local jails just by asking a cop or sheriff for a suggestion on a place to stay the night. Back then most folks would offer dinner,a shower,breakfast or at least a cup of coffee. You could just about tour the country with only a few dollars in your pocket for gas because folks would offer food,laundry,pretty much anything you needed and the conversations and stories exchanged were priceless. I won't go into detail of what the home alone wives or sneaky daughters had to offer.Times have changed. Now most folks want to call the law about a suspicious person just because you asked where you might stay for a night.

G wizz

01-14-2012, 05:01 AM

Times have changed. Now most folks want to call the law about a suspicious person just because you asked where you might stay for a night.

There is a reason for that ... Too many times these suspicious caractors are scoping out the territory ... Whos to say if it's your house or the next door neighbors that will be broken into by someone asking for directions, or a place to stay ... Reguardless if it's a guy on a motorcycle or in a new cadillac.
You hear about it all the time ... someones not home and their house gets ransacked or worse yet, torn apart for the copper piping and wiring.
Becouse of things like that, land owners are suspisious of strangers.
Like you said ... Times haved changed ...
People don't like getting robbed, and they're watching out for it ...
Those that are out "stealthing" ... reguardless if it is to save a buck, or for the fun of it, have to keep this in mind, when they throw down their bed roll ...

lytle1gw

01-14-2012, 06:05 AM

Yep but there is still a lot of free camping offered by Nat forest, county parks and city parks. Not to mention other motorcycle riders that will let you stay at their place. My favorite is Land between the Lakes, its not free but for 25 dollars gets a backcountry permit that is good for a year, and lets you have more choices to camp in Ky and Tn than you could every imagine.P^

bigTom

01-14-2012, 06:07 AM

Those that are out "stealthing" ... reguardless if it is to save a buck, or for the fun of it, have to keep this in mind, when they throw down their bed roll ...

I gotta tell you, if anybody sees me with my bike loaded, they will know for sure that I am not going to load up the copper in their house:) I'd like to buy coffee cup reminders, but I never have room to carry even one....

Let's be brutally honest here. I have never, ever, not even one time, just pitched my tent at random. Never in anybody's yard (that didn't know I was there), never mind in some position that could frighten or concern the locals...In fact, I tend to 'shy away' from people when I stealth camp.

I have, however, pitched my tent on grassy spots near roads, cemeteries, church yards, NFS (my favorite) land, BLM land, State Land, dead end roads, abandoned farmsteads (you can tell them because of no house...several times I have pitched my tent in the lee of grain tanks...).

If I am really trying to make time, I often nap or sleep at rest areas. Generally on a picnic table, as I am too large for most benches...Once in TX, I pulled my bike into a Kiosk when it was raining. About an hour later a Trooper woke me to see just what I was up to. I explained what I had done and why, and in just a few minutes I was down the road. Nicely refreshed.

Generally speaking, if you have to explain to folks what you are up to, and don't get nasty or make a mess, they will give you a pass. YMMV.

quadancer

01-14-2012, 09:21 AM

haven't seen a lot of homebreakers riding around on expensive bikes loaded for bear and pulling a trailer lately. Seems like a no-brainer there.

My one hitch to stealth nowadays is the wife - if it ain't gonna be some evidently secure, isolated, public landed spot designed for overnight visitation, ain't gonna happen...and even that would take some argument.

Wimmins got no sense of adventure, I tells ya! :rolleyes:

G wizz

01-14-2012, 10:23 AM

haven't seen a lot of homebreakers riding around on expensive bikes loaded for bear and pulling a trailer lately. Seems like a no-brainer there. :rolleyes:

I'd imigine if you were out "riding around on expensive bikes loaded for bear and pulling a trailer", you wouldn't be out doing any "stealthing" nor stealing either.
You'd most likely be setting up camp in a campground ... :tent8:
Duh ! ... Talk about a no brainer ... :rolleyes:

quadancer

01-14-2012, 10:27 AM

How that heck ya think I PAY for all this expensive gear??? :D

Hey, I ate crap and stayed home to get me a Harley - the camp stuff was a gift from the VA.

VRider75

01-14-2012, 10:31 AM

I've often thought stealth camping under land bridges would be ok... there are some great areas along I-15 between Las Vegas and St. George, Utah that always looked interesting when I've ridden through there... I've checked a few out and seen remnants of past campfires... but never spent a night...

Mr. Guy

01-14-2012, 10:47 AM

haven't seen a lot of homebreakers riding around on expensive bikes loaded for bear and pulling a trailer lately.

You and I and most people here understand that, but many in the general population see a guy on a bike and "The Sons of Anarchy" pops into their minds. Most times a smile and "Hi, how ya doin" will get them over it. And yes, times have changed and I think city camping is out most places. But there's still some good places to grab a quick place to sleep.

Guy

TPadden

01-14-2012, 11:01 AM

How that heck ya think I PAY for all this expensive gear??? :D

Hey, I ate crap and stayed home to get me a Harley - the camp stuff was a gift from the VA.

..... and for me it has nothing to do with money and everything to do with how (often and for long distances) and why (freedom from planning, schedule, and stress) I choose to travel by motorcycle. :D

I've been fortunate and lucky enough to make more $$$ in my 13 years of retirement than I ever made when I worked. :o

G wizz

01-14-2012, 11:08 AM

I've been fortunate and lucky enough to make more $$$ in my 13 years of retirement than I ever made when I worked. :o

Yah .. I've heard some cops wern't paid well ... :rolleyes:

TPadden

01-14-2012, 11:30 AM

Yah .. I've heard some cops wern't paid well ... :rolleyes:

Tripple dipping in retirement - 12 years as a LEO, also 20 years in the USMC, and wife did her 20 in the Navy. Every day was a holiday, every meal a banquet :). ........ Life's better when you stealth camp ;).

G wizz

01-14-2012, 11:35 AM

This will really get you going - also 20 years in the USMC, and wife did her 20 in the Navy. Every day was a holiday, every meal a banquet :). Tripple dipping in retirement ....... and hitting the AMT every year by stock trading. Life's better when you stealth camp ;).

Yah? ... Well, what ever trips your trigger ... :)

TPadden

01-14-2012, 11:39 AM

Yah? ... Well, what ever trips your trigger ... :torch1:

Not sure what I did to "trip your trigger" but whatever it was, I say again: "Have a nice day" :)!

Tom

G wizz

01-14-2012, 11:55 AM

Not sure what I did to "trip your trigger" but whatever it was, I say again: "Have a nice day" :)!

Tom

Lighten up !!! It was a complament ...

snowclem

01-14-2012, 12:00 PM

George,

You need a little work on your communication skills. I didn't read it as a compliment either. Not my business, but I know you and in person, you don't come across as being as abrasive as you do on the forum. Just sayin.

Richard

TPadden

01-14-2012, 12:01 PM

Lighten up !!! It was a complament ...

Well then .... Thanks :).

Perhaps that's another reason I like to Stealthcamp; if there isn't a beer in my hand, I do better in "lightening up" when just left alone :o :o :o.

Tom

G wizz

01-14-2012, 12:10 PM

Sorry folks .. Guess with this winter weather setting in, I'm getting a little cranky ... Cabin fever maybe?
I'll be better come spring ... P^

G

TPadden

01-14-2012, 12:16 PM

Sorry folks .. Guess with this winter weather setting I'm getting a little cranky ... Cabin fever maybe?
I'll be better come spring ... P^

G

G,

You aren't the Lone Ranger. Part of my personality is I enjoy a spirited dispute more than a discussion where everyone agrees :o .

The quickest way to get me to change my mind is to agree with me. No harm, no foul, no hurt feelings :).

Tom

VFR

01-14-2012, 12:17 PM

George,

You need a little work on your communication skills.

+1

I don't recall anyone except you posting about stealth camping in someone's front yard. In fact, I don't think that qualifies as stealth....

The thread is about using public areas for the most part and/or asking if you can camp on private areas.

Perhaps you might want to just skip this thread and move on to something else.

Just Sayin'

Oops, forgot....Have a nice day.....P^

bigTom

01-14-2012, 03:00 PM

You aren't the Lone Ranger. Part of my personality is I enjoy a spirited dispute more than a discussion where everyone agrees

I agree with Tom. Nothing makes him crazier:)

Hey, BTW, I gots a Duc, too! A baby Duc....

TPadden

01-14-2012, 03:11 PM

I agree with Tom.

I was wrong and am rethinking my position :eek:!

Tom

G wizz

01-14-2012, 03:29 PM

+1

I don't recall anyone except you posting about stealth camping in someone's front yard.

Strange ...:think1: ... I don't recall myself saying anything about camping in someones front yard. Not even in their back yard either, for that matter ...

iacornfed

01-14-2012, 05:09 PM

Well Iam new here. My wife and I stealth camp a lot in our mini van or when we pull our enclosed motorcycle trailer. We pull over at a Walmart or Sam's club lot and spend the night. Go in and buy food and use the toilette. We have stayed at truck stops many times. They have reasonably priced showers and provide the towels. My wifes favorite is flying J. We have been to all four corners of this country and parts of Canada and have never had a problem doing so. I was told told to move on once in a Silverdale, Wa. mall parking lot. Out west you can obtain free public lands maps and plan to camp accordingly. That being said camping on our bikes we usually stay at a campground or someones home that we Know.
I am a C.M.A. member and know alot of people all over this country who will let a fellow brother stay at their place.

quadancer

01-14-2012, 08:01 PM

Sorry folks .. Guess with this winter weather setting in, I'm getting a little cranky ... Cabin fever maybe?
I'll be better come spring ... P^ G

"GETTING" cranky??? :eek:

Someday I wanna meet you in person to see just what the actual personality is - you are generally abrasive on the forum, but I know it's all in fun and I ain't thin-skinned. Sometimes you probably should put one a' these in there: :D

cornfed: how do you stay at truck stops? As an old ex trucker, I don't recall many clean spots in the parking lots, and I hear with the 'new breed' out there, they smell badly of old oil, grease and piss, even some guys leaving their pee bottles behind that get run over. I wouldn't think it would be a very peaceful stay either, and of course nowadays there are the hookers, drug dealers and opportunistic theives that plague them.

G wizz

01-14-2012, 08:09 PM

[QUOTE=quadancer;57592]"GETTING" cranky??? :eek:

Someday I wanna meet you in person to see just what the actual personality is - you are generally abrasive on the forum, but I know it's all in fun and I ain't thin-skinned. Sometimes you probably should put one a' these in there: :D QUOTE]

Say quadlifter ... That's a good idea ... P^ ... I'll try to remember that ... :D

Wouldn't do ya any good to meet me... I wouldn't be able to hear what your were saying to me, and you'd just think I was rude 'couse I didn't answer you back ... :eek:

G

quadancer

01-14-2012, 08:59 PM

I guess we'd just have to stand there and TEXT each other, but then we'd be back on page one...;)

Mr. Guy

01-14-2012, 10:11 PM

Wouldn't do ya any good to meet me... I wouldn't be able to hear what your were saying to me, and you'd just think I was rude 'couse I didn't answer you back ... :eek:

G

Not quite true, but you do have to speak up pretty LOUDLY around George.

A good guy to hang out with and as the saying goes "mostly harmless". :D :rolleyes:

lytle1gw

01-15-2012, 05:48 AM

Glad to know I'm not the only one with trouble hearing, but then my wife says its selective hearing. Huh!:D

Ironheadziggy76

01-15-2012, 06:38 AM

Part of my personality is I enjoy a spirited dispute more than a discussion where everyone agrees :o

That's good to know, I shut up because I thought I was making you mad. You have to look over me, sometimes I do come off as a smart azz. I guess I sometimes use sarcasm as a way of trying to lighten the moment. In the earlier post when I said I was concerned about your safety I was being serious. What I meant was if you were traveling in my part of the country. Having worked for the KY DOT for years I've come in contact with some seriously crazy people while working on the roads here in my small part of the state, as I'm sure you have being a former LEO.

Let's face it, most of us that have been on here a while are experienced travelers and campers, that know where and when to camp. I was mainly posting a lot of what I posted for the "lurker" that is too shy to join, or that's just getting started motocamping. I do tend to go overboard sometimes with the safety and landowner issues, but I'm just trying to be honest about things that have happened to friends and family.

My buddy G may come off a little gruff on here, be he is a great guy. He's just a straight shooter, he says what he means. That's one of the many things I like about him. P^

Whosoever

01-15-2012, 07:04 AM

HAAAAAAAAAAA! I've not had a dog in this one.........started to say fight....but chose a better word. I love this forum....it is without a doubt the best thing I read pretty regularly. Here we have folks who feel passonately about a subject....get a little sideways and start throwing rocks and barbs.....then BINGO! Admit they have stepped overboard or perhaps got too passionate and APOLOGIZE! That's good....that's really good.

I've only met Wizz on a couple of Campouts. I find him an honest man...and one who is really dedicated to this thing we love to call "motocamping". He's worked hard for those of us who have attended campouts in both Tenn and Michigan. I appreciate that a lot. And, I am sure when the rest of you "regulars" here on the forum get to meet him you will appreciate what he does also! P^