Another National Park Fee Increase!

So, have you heard the latest about Black Canyon National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area? Starting from January 1, 2024, they're tweaking their camping and boat launch fees a bit. It's been a while since they've done this – the campground fees haven't changed since before 2016 and boat launch fees have been steady since at least 2003.

So, what's new with the pricing? They're aligning the parks' fees more closely with what you'd find in nearby areas offering similar services. This isn't just a random increase; it's about keeping up with the times and ensuring that the parks have the funds they need for operations and tackling those backlogged maintenance projects.

Here’s the breakdown of the new fees, effective January 1, 2024:

- Curecanti Boat Launch Permits: $40 for a seasonal permit and $20 for a seven-day permit.

- Curecanti Camping Fees: $20 at Stevens Creek, Ponderosa, Dry Gulch, Red Creek, and East Portal Campgrounds. Elk Creek, Lake Fork, and Cimarron Campgrounds will be $24. Want electricity at Loop D in Elk Creek? That'll be $34.

- Black Canyon Camping Fees: $20 at North Rim Campground and South Rim Campground Loops A and C. Loop B at South Rim is set at $34.

These changes aren't just about adjusting numbers. They reflect the costs of keeping the parks in tip-top shape, matched to similar local sites, and help manage the rising operational costs. The good news? Most of the fee revenue is going right back into making your park experience even better.

Remember, these parks aren't just running on these fees. They get a good chunk of their funding from Congress, but the extra from these fees is super important for new projects and maintaining the existing facilities that make your visit awesome.

A bit of background on the decision process: the public had a say in this during a 30-day comment period in August on the Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website. This feedback is super valuable and helps the park folks understand what visitors want and need.

And here’s a cool fact: under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA), the parks get to keep 80% of these fees for projects that directly benefit you, the visitor. The remaining 20% gets shared across the National Park System. This money has already done some great things like trail rehab, campground amphitheater upgrades, and better boat launches.

Looking ahead, these funds are going to keep things running smoothly and add more cool stuff like better exhibits, more ranger programs, and handy park maps.

Visitors to these parks have a big impact on the local economy too. In 2022, visitors to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area spent a whopping $70.2 million in nearby areas. That's a lot of support for local jobs and economies.

For more info about camping and fun stuff to do at these parks, head over to their websites at www.nps.gov/blca and www.nps.gov/cure. It's all about making your park experience better, and these changes are a part of that effort. Happy camping and boating!

But Good News! Free Days Too!

🌲🏞️ Get Ready for Adventure Time in America's National Parks - For Free!

Guess what? In the previous section we talked Fee Increases, but now there is some good news.. It's time to mark your calendars and start dreaming up your next big adventure, because guess who's rolling out the red carpet for you, absolutely free of charge? That's right, America's stunning national parks!

Think about it - hundreds of awe-inspiring national monuments, breathtaking seashores, and places steeped in history, all opening their gates to you, no ticket needed. Now, usually, some of these gems do ask for a small fee, up to $20 if you're flying solo or $35 for a whole carload of adventure-seekers. But hey, that's a small price to pay for maintaining these natural and historical wonders, right?

And here's the kicker: this isn't just about saving a few bucks. Chuck Sams, the head honcho at the National Park Service, hits the nail on the head. He says, "National parks are more than just pretty places - they're a sensory explosion, a curiosity kindler, a deep-thinking zone, and a joy factory!" And with these special free entry days, they're making sure everyone gets a taste of America's beauty and history.

📅 Mark These Dates for 2024 Free Park Fun:

1. Jan. 15 – Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day surrounded by natural beauty.

2. April 20 – Kick off National Park Week in style.

3. June 19 - Juneteenth, our newest addition and a day to reflect and rejoice.

4. Aug. 4 – Get wild on Great American Outdoors Day.

5. Sept. 28 – Join in on National Public Lands Day.

6. Nov. 11 – Honor Veterans Day in the heart of nature.

Just remember, while the entry is on the house, if you're planning to camp under the stars or reel in a big one while fishing, those activities still have their own tags. And some parks have unique partnerships, like the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where a little fee gets you access to an incredible dig shelter, thanks to a team-up between the Park Service, the City of Waco, and Baylor University.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning, pack your bags, and set your sights on America's natural treasures. And don't forget to check out those park websites for all the nifty details. Adventure awaits! 🌟🏔️🌳

Van Life vs. Overlanding

So, you've probably heard a lot about van life and overlanding lately, right? I read an article from another publication and it got me thinking a bit… So here is my take on the comparison.
Both are super popular and they're all about hitting the road and enjoying freedom. But, they're actually pretty different when you get down to it.

Van Life: It's Like a Cozy Room on Wheels

Van life? It's pretty much what it sounds like. You take a van, maybe something classic like a Volkswagen Transporter or a roomier Mercedes Sprinter, and you turn it into this compact, cozy home. It's all about keeping things simple and minimalistic. You've got your bed, a little kitchen, sometimes even a tiny bathroom. It's awesome because you can bring all your home comforts with you, no matter where you go.

The cool thing about van life is how flexible it is. You can be in the city one day and out in the middle of nature the next. Your van becomes this little bubble that connects you directly with your surroundings. You get these amazing views right from your window!

But, it's not all perfect. Space is a big issue. It's not ideal if you're traveling with a family or for a long time. And setting up your van can be pricey. Plus, finding a place to park in the city? That can be a real headache.

Overlanding: It's All About the Adventure

Now, overlanding is a bit different. It's more about the journey than where you're going. People who do this usually have these tough 4x4s or trucks, all decked out for off-road travel. It's all about being self-sufficient and finding those hidden, rugged paths.

Overlanding is hardcore. You're crossing deserts, climbing mountains, all that adventurous stuff. Your vehicle is your lifeline – it's got tents, camping gear, sometimes even a shower. It's a deeper dive into nature, more isolated than what you'd get with van life.

But, like van life, overlanding has its downsides. Comfort can take a back seat, literally. Sleeping in a tent isn't always cozy. And you need to be ready for anything – being far from towns means you've got to handle any vehicle issues yourself.

Choosing Your Path: Best of Both Worlds?

So, van life or overlanding? It really depends on what you're into. If home comforts and flexibility are your thing, van life could be your jam. But if you're all about off-road thrills and getting away from it all, overlanding might be more your style.

Some folks actually mix the two, converting a 4x4 van for a bit of both worlds. It's about finding that sweet spot that fits your adventure style.

At the end of the day, whether you're cruising in a van or tackling tough terrain in an overland rig, it's all about your own journey. You get to choose how you explore and what kind of adventures you want to have. The road is yours, and it's full of possibilities!

The Smart Battery To Rule Them All?

The REDARC Smart Battery Monitor is a high-tech solution designed to deliver unrivaled accuracy in monitoring battery levels, enhancing the adventure experience by eliminating guesswork. Key features include:

1. Unrivaled Accuracy: It is up to five times more accurate than leading competitors, ensuring that battery time estimates are trustworthy and precise.

2. Effortless Setup: The device can be easily set up with just three connection points. Its intuitive app allows for quick monitoring, displaying all battery details with a single touch.

3. Rock-Solid Connection: Incorporating the latest Bluetooth 5.1 technology, it offers reliable connectivity over distances up to 137ft, which is about 1.5 times further than what competitors offer.

4. Durability: Rigorously tested, the Smart Battery Monitor is built to withstand rough conditions. Its Australian manufacturing adds to its reputation for durability.

5. REDVISION App Integration: The accompanying RedVision app provides vital information such as state of charge, charge remaining, and current flow, all accessible with a simple swipe.

6. Easy Installation: The monitor can be quickly installed in any 12-volt power system, making it a user-friendly choice for keeping track of battery health.

Overall, the REDARC Smart Battery Monitor stands out for its precision, ease of use, robust connectivity, and durability, making it an ideal choice for adventurers who rely on accurate battery monitoring.

YouTube Creator Spotlight

"Kelly has consistently proven to be a remarkable content creator, captivating audiences with his unique style and dedication. Having followed his work for an extended period, it's evident that Kelly possesses a steadfast commitment to regularly producing high-quality content. A standout aspect of his work is his editing skills, which perfectly align with his distinctive style, adding a layer of professionalism and engagement to his videos.

One of the most appealing aspects of Kelly's channel, @adventurebuilt, is his approach to gear reviews. Unlike many others, Kelly's reviews are concise and to the point. He efficiently dives into the details, providing viewers with quick yet comprehensive overviews of various gear. This approach is highly appreciated in a digital world often cluttered with lengthy and unnecessary content. Kelly's ability to cut through the noise and deliver exactly what his audience needs is a testament to his understanding of his viewers' preferences and his expertise in content creation.

Kelly's channel is not just a source of entertainment; it's a valuable resource for anyone interested in gear and adventure. His straightforward, no-nonsense reviews are a breath of fresh air in the online content landscape, making @adventurebuilt a must-watch for enthusiasts and casual viewers alike."

National Forest Trail Closures

The following list was taken from the NFS websites. It is your individual responsibility to check and ensure this or any other data is up to date and accurate for the area in which you are traveling. This information is for planning purposes only..

1. San Bernardino National Forest: There are new road closures as per Forest Order No. 05-12-00-23-06. These include Forest Road 2N47 from the 15 freeway East to the intersection with Forest Road 3N22 in the Front Country Ranger District, Forest Road 2N13 in the Mountaintop Ranger District, and Forest Roads 4S02, 5S11, and 7S02 in the San Jacinto Ranger District【6†source】.

2. National Forests in North Carolina: In the Appalachian Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest, Twelve Mile Road in Haywood County is mostly blocked due to a mudslide, and Forest Service Road 288 is flooded. Though these roads are not officially closed, travel on them is discouraged【7†source】.

3. Pisgah National Forest: A significant portion of the Appalachian Trail in Pisgah National Forest is closed due to a 1,193-acre fire, which is currently 0% contained. This closure is a result of worsening drought conditions【8†source】.

4. Angeles National Forest: The Williamson Rock Area in Angeles National Forest is closed from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023【9†source】.

5. Tahoe National Forest: Seasonal road and trail closures have been extended through June 15, 2023【10†source】.

These closures are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest updates directly from the respective forest service websites or contact local ranger stations before planning a visit.

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