Re: Camping in the desert

[Lisa M.]

I'm thinking of heading down to the desert over Christmas/New Years vacation. I've never been to Death Valley or Joshua Tree Nat'l Monument. Any recommendations for campgrounds and "must see" sights would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Donna D.]

Lisa, here's a fairly recent topic started by John Perry:
Joshua Tree National Park

[Bigfoot Mike]

Lisa,

I have to share my two favorite places.

• Zion National Park
• Scotty's Castle

Scotty's Castle is Nestled deep in an oasis-like canyon in Northern Death Valley National Park and is a very interesting place to visit. It has some great history. We have been there several times. It is NOT like a European Castle it is more like big Spanish Hacienda with some quirky features.

Zion National Park would be a longer drive but well worth it. We went several years ago around New Years and it had snow on the Bright Red Hills. Oh man, it was a sight to behold. If you can't make it this time, put it on your to do list.

I hope this helps,
Mike

[David & Leslie]

Hi Lisa - we second Mike Sanders' recommendation to visit Scotty's Castle - it is amazing how much "ahead of it's time" some of the features are. Also, "Scotty's" story is a real hoot - WHAT a con artist!

We like camping at the Park Service CG at Furnace Creek, too. Have a wonderful holiday getaway! L 'n D

[Byron Kinnaman]

I've been wanting to go to Scotty's Castle for quite awhile. If you go to the web page and click on house tours, there's a black and white picture. The guy in that picture is a very good friend, Jim. He was my "best man" when Anne and I got married. I fear I've waited too long he's now working in Baker City, Oregon. Closer, but I still haven't gotten over there.

From what I understand the staff like to dress in period costume for the tours. Lesley (Jim's wife) is a great costumer.

I hope the current staff does the same kind of job Jim and Lesley did.


P.S. When Jim was giving tours, I was mentioned during his tour. Dang, would have liked to see that.