T@Baker wrote:Welcome, Jane. What part of IL are you heading for? I'm in Wayne County, a straight shot east of St. Louis. I camped New Year's Eve weekend at Rend Lake, and am considering Carlyle Lake next weekend. If you come across I64, you'll pass Carlyle Youngest daughter "may" join me this trip.
Don't know about the rest of you, but here lately I'm getting odd remarks from women about camping solo. They feel it's dangerous, blah, blah. I tell them fear will not keep me from going, doing, seeing, and enjoying this great country. I hope I'm not being stupid. I camp with a dog(s), and have the panic button for my Jeep in the event I feel someone is "hanging" around outside my tear. At one time I carried Mace (or a substitute), but have long since lost it.
Heck, a friend of mine has an aunt that, while in her 70s, made the yearly trip from CA to IL in her motorhome to visit the family. My mom and I camped all over in her MH with my 3 young kids. What's up with all of the "Oh, you're brave to do that" stuff. Do you all hear that...ad nauseam?
Crystal.....I know Wayne County....my ancestors are from Bedford Township and lived in Rinard and Cisne. My Dad grew up in Flora in Clay County. I am headed for Vandalia where I went to high school and also for Decatur where my cousin lives. He and I are going to spend a day in Galesburg where our mom's grew up. I am thinking of camping at Ramsey Lake, but am interested in Carlyle Lake too. Where do you camp there?
Are there any gatherings around there during the year?