I have been browsing state and forest service campgrounds in Washington, trying to figure out where we would be able to stay with a 13-foot trailer. Which kinds of campsites are suitable for a short trailer and a fairly short car? Some of the campsites say they aren't designated for RV's but have room for 2 cars. Can you use those and back the trailer into one space and put the car in the other? I assume some of this would have to do with whether we need hook-ups (do we always need electrical hook-ups?).

And just generally, is there a good way of determining where we can stay and where we can't?

We just go to the campgrounds with the idea that we can use just about any site, and that is with a somewhat bigger trailer and car. We equipped our trailer with enough battery power and a water system that works well. I think the decisive factor is whether you require electric hookup or not, and many sites not designated for RVs seem to be that way because there is no power available. A smaller trailer can easily be equipped for camping in virtually any site.

Good to know! I have no idea yet how often we will need electric hookup. I would love to have some solar capability at some point.

Hi Amy,

Welcome to the group.

We love our little 13. To keep the weight down we do not have a refrigerator, air conditioner or furnace. We don't even have the water tank and pump. Just carry water jugs for what we need. In place of the ice box / refrig we have storage space.

Our electric needs are very little. We use a light for about an hour in the evening, and if it is hot the fantastic fan gets run. If it is cold weather camping then we try to find electricity so we can use a cube heater.

We like being little because we can find spots other people can't use. Not "needing" electricity makes life much more flexible.

Good luck with your hunt. Do visit one of the gatherings. We looked for a year before we were comfortable with what we wanted. Going to gatherings really helped us make that decision.

Nancy

AMY---- welcome... Explore the term "boondocking" We do not have any electrical or water tank or fridge (icebox either) Icechest goes out the door upon parking... We do have a propane light in both trailers. Cold weather we use a Mr Heater (and live with the condensation) Any place that one can park a car is good enuff. That's the luxury of a 13 footer. Larry

i could not have said this better, i have an ouside "car" battery that will light up the scamp and works about all summer on a full charge and i too have no frig, furnace or use the water... I find that Most tent spots are great for me unless its one that you have to walk in to away from the parking pad... Have a great time..

Valerie