Along Lakeshore Trail in Fairy Stone State Park, VA.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Our night’s sleep was interrupted by a BIG storm which soaked the outside rugs, firewood, and even the chairs which were under the awning.  Poor Ranger, afraid as he is of storms, spent time huddled in the tiny bathroom area, pressed up against the toilet.  This morning, the rain let up, but we have had a day of overcast skies and cool temperatures.

After sleeping late and having a big breakfast, we were able to get in a short hike, 2.5 or 3 miles, in between rain showers.  We headed down toward the lake and picked up a trail that led to the dam at the end of the lake.  The leaves are just starting to change color and there were lots of bright yellows, along with some red dogwood or sumac.  Ranger was full of energy and enthusiastic about finally getting out of the RV. 

We planned to meet up with a woman up the road who wanted to go to the 3:00 program at the visitor’s center; however, the rain picked up again and we have spent the past hours relaxing inside, reading.  So nice not to be tent camping when conditions are like this!  

Starting our trip

Friday, Sept. 28, 2012

Our annual fall camping trip began somewhat badly.  We left home in mid-morning for what should have been a fairly easy 4.5-5 hour drive to Fairy Stone State park.  On Route 360 in Chesterfield, all traffic stopped, and we were told that the road would be closed for about an hour.  An alternate route was suggested; that turned out to be a narrow road with overhanging limbs, one of which whacked the top of the RV hard, leaving scratches.  Back on our way, we watched the clouds gather and by Danville we were in pouring rain.  Fortunately, it did not last too long, and we arrived at the state park around 4:00.  A friendly campground host provided a hiking map and some suggestions of trails we might like. 

We had light rain showers throughout the evening, but with enough stops between that we were able to enjoy a campfire.  

Next trip:  The mountains! We'll be heading for the western parts of Virginia and North Carolina, starting on Sept. 28.  First stop is Fairy Stone State Park.

Starting to get the lists ready and packing done....and trying to get ahead on stuff at work in order to be gone for a week.