When the journey becomes the goal, not the destination.
For outdoor enthusiasts, camping offers the ideal venue to be in touch with nature.
So we thought.
These days reservations are needed almost everywhere, and parks are crowded. It can be frustrating to make an effort, and sometimes it is with fingers crossed that a Walmart parking lot, will not home for the night.
It seemed like yesterday we tossed a tent in the back of the Trooper II and introduced our daughters to hiking, state parks, beaches, and s’mores. When we lived in Spain, in the 90’s, our vehicle of choice was a truck and truck camper so we could travel throughout Europe. With retirement came an RV while we traveled the US. And finally we landed in Yellowstone to work for a few years.
Today we find pleasure in getting off the grid and finding out of the way places to explore. With a 4-wheel drive Jeep there are very few places we cannot get to. Now with a tent on the roof, we can stop at our leisure.
Overlanding is extremely trendy right now. It takes you closer to the river’s edges, mountain foothills, beach dunes, and away from crowds and civilization.
If that’s what you crave.
With the capability of the 4×4 and a roof-top tent, the journey becomes the goal, not the destination.
The tents are compact, folding nicely onto a roof rack, leaving more room in the vehicle for extra gear or people.

This looks like a good spot to cross-country ski, look for wildlife, or just simply be.

As we move along on our journeys, campgrounds are not out of the question, especially with views like this at Glen Canyon.

Mornings, and evenings are always nice with a few friends who enjoy getting off the grid as well.

And there is always time for coffee.
Cheers to the great outdoors.

Like anything, there are pro and cons.
Pros:
- It feels like a grownup treehouse, where you have stellar views.
- Wildlife is less of a threat when you are on the roof.
- It is durable, warm, and most come with a thick foam mattress for comfort.
- It is easy to set up and break down
- Camp anywhere.
- Fits on most vehicles
- You have everything with you
Cons:
- Mounting the tent is difficult because of the weight.
- Breakdown – While easy to do, it can be inconvenient if you want to spend a few days in one place.
- Bathroom in the middle of the night. Going down a ladder when tired can be daunting.
Wind Kisses, Donna
The roof top camper sounds good except, as you say, negotiating in the middle of the night. Glad you enjoy exploring and sharing with us Donna. Thanks for joining in 🙂 🙂
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Thank YOU.
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It looks fun. I might my days of travel in my VW camper!
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oh yes…A VW camper was the way to go a few years back. Every once in awhile we see one and think how fun it must be. Thanks Brad.
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Having spent a youth waking up in too too wet tents I’m liking this ‘up’ idea.
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Hahaha. Yes, when our kids were young we lived in the pacific NW. I can relate. For me it was more of the crittery things.
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Oh…camping near a lake in Wisconsin. Our cheap tent’s zipper broke. Mosquito-rama. Once they got in the tent our body heat combined with the August heat kept them biting all night long. I was crying at the end.
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A nightmare. I can hear the buzzing in my ears. I hope you had a ceremonious bon fire for the tent before you left.
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Actually, I decided to cut the bottom of it off and that became our ground tarp for following tents.
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Awesome. I am proud of you that you stuck it out. We had a little chipmunk get into our car one time when we were tenting. It was cute, but I am sure it had a stomach ache for days.
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I think those roof top tents are fascinating! But, I am not really a camper. We were considering a couple of National Park visits next June. I’m changing my plans. A couple of the big parks seemed to have a lot of the lodging already reserved, and it looked like ALL of the campgrounds were already filled! Oh my goodness! Our May trip this year was fantastic. But then again, we booked it over a year ago. Time for plan B…
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Yes. I have heard that some national parks are even requiring reservations. They are so crowded because people can finally get out. Some friends of mine came to Sedona to visit. I have never seen Sedona so busy. Trails were almost like amusement parks. Can’t fault folks. I’m glad people realize the value of nature in their lives.
Yes book ahead. You can rent little rVs . Salt lake is a big hub for that, but yes if you can’t find places to stay…wait.
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We went to Sedona last May since our park visits were cancelled. It was wonderful, people were just getting out and about. Not crowded. I know now to plan ahead, I’m a planner. I guess we are not the only ones exploring more of nature on our vacations!!
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yes. we love exploring as well. My friends were caught off guard. I am glad you enjoyed Sedona. It is a magical place. Donna
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