Camp dates: July 27-29, 2018
Even though the weather was forecasted to be dry and 100F/38C for all three days, we decided to hit the road for a quick weekend camping trip. The Lance has been sitting idle for nearly three months, and also beckoned us to go. We decided to go to Ft. Richardson, which is a mere 75 minutes away and a park we had not yet camped.
Given the brutal heat, finding a shady spot would be paramount. Towards that end, we decided the more heavily-treed west loop would be our target site. \240In our opinion, campsite 21 is the best, followed by campsite 20. Unfortunately, both of those had tenants, so we settled into campsite 22. This site had its own picturesque charm, being snuggled into the base of the rock wall. A nice 200 yard path conveniently takes you up to the bathhouse next to campsite 7 for a quick jaunt to relieve oneself, if desired. \240All campsites have picnic tables and fire rings. \240One note about campsite 23; although it does provide excellent afternoon shade, the pad is narrow and the electric/water pedestal is on the street side of the pad. \240Something that may be a deal-breaker for some.
On to the historic aspect of the park. There are a few buildings still standing in the old fort which you can wander through in a self-guided tour of the history and use of this place. It was an enjoyable 3.3 mile round trip walk from our campsite as we leisurely visited all the buildings...the interpretive center, officer’s house, enlisted barracks, hospital, morgue, bakery, guard shack, armory, the old bridge, and the commissary. Also there is the train depot erected later. There is a large parking lot at the interpretive center if you would rather drive. We also walked the multi-use trail back to our campsite. For those so inclined, the multi-use trail heads out of the park and takes you to the lake some 9 miles distant by trail. \240A good option for a mountain bike trip to be sure.
There are many deer and their spotted fawns roaming the park, and sighting them was almost effortless as they are plentiful. We saw raccoons, armadillos, and birds too, along with a population of feral felines.
There are wind turbines to the west of the park, visible from the upper level, but not close enough to disturb the peaceful ambiance of the park.
Park map. Our campsite 22 in blue, the shadiest campsite 21 in green.
Sir Lancelot set up in our tree-lined campsite 22, with the rock wall behind.
They have period-specific garb that we donned to represent the past. \240I would have hated to wear that coat in the summer!
Just a funny sign close to the primitive camping trailhead.
