Saturday, June 11, 2011

The Camping Trip That Almost Wasn't

Spring camping is the best. This spring, we went to a campground in an area we've never been - Wheeler Gorge near Ojai, Calif. Denis found it and we thought early April seemed like an ideal time to be in nature.

For the most part, that is true. Less dust and waaaaayyy less bugs. But, man, it was COLD. And it rained most the week leading up to the weekend, prompting us to contemplate canceling many times. Denis and Cassidy took a chance and drove up on Friday, braving the cold and possible elements. We followed along early Saturday.

It was cold, but so beautiful. And it was nice to actually need the campfire! We had a great, kick-back weekend exploring the campground and the river that ran through it.




Denis was kind enough to help me cross the river. In return, he got a freezing cold foot when I caused him to lose balance and step in the water. Whoops. Thanks, Denis!
Sometimes, the shortest distance between two places is a straight line... not a zig zag across slippery boulders protruding from a very cold, fast-moving stream. To head back to camp after a hike, we decided it was best for the adults to suck it up and deal with freezing feet to get the littles back across the stream.



Back at camp, Denis made up for an early, cold morning. Cassidy, looking quite sneaky, was very funny pretending to trick her dad ... but was really kind to let him rest!

Kevin introduced us to the game of Molki. It involves throwing wood at wood for points.
Later in the day... another hike...

...to a stream and a waterfall





We did some picking up of trash near the stream. Riley found this stylish treasure:



Dinner that night was pie irons - grilling pizza fixings (and other delicious stuff) in the fire for camp-style paninis.
And then, of course, s'mores:


Then the kids played the most pathetic, yet hysterical, game of Telephone ever:


Bonus Waterfall Shots From Kevin:

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