Continuing with Eve and John Burtons request (see “You Asked For It” March 16th entry), this week we will look at a road RVs should not be on. RVers expect bad roads when traveling to forgotten and out of the way places, but would you expect a poorly maintained (strong emphasis on poorly, very weak emphasis on maintained) road leading into or exiting a National Park or Monument in the United States? I grew up believing National Parks and Monuments were created to showcase the very best America has to offer. After a recent and enjoyable visit to Lava Beds National Monument, I totally agree that this area is worthy to be controlled by the National Park Service. The park is historic, contains unique geological formations, is educational and very scenic. Great campground too! However, after leaving the monument by the southeast exit (not the way I entered) the Park Service should be embarrassed by the condition of the road leading from the park. The road which was probably last surfaced during the Eisenhower Administration is in dire need of repair. It is so far gone, the pothole patrol is waving the white flag in surrender! If I was hosting a foreign official or out of town guest, this is the last place I would bring them for a favorable impression. If you will be visiting Lava Beds National Monument via a RV, do yourself a favor and enter from the north. If however, you will be driving a vehicle worthy of say the Baja 1,000, knock yourself out and enter from the Southeast. Negotiating crummy roads, just part of the RVing adventure.
Dave Helgeson’s many roles in the RV industry started before he even had a driver’s license. His grandparents and father owned an RV dealership before the term “RV” had been coined, and Dave played a pivotal role in nearly every position of an RV dealership. He and his wife Cheri launched their own RV dealership in the Pacific Northwest. The duo also spent 29 years overseeing regional RV shows. Dave has also served as President of a local chapter of the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), worked on the board of advisors for the RV Technician Program of a local technical college, and served as a board member of the Manufactured Home and RV Association. Dave’s reputation earned him the title of “The foremost expert on boondocking,” bestowed by RV industry icon, the late Gary Bunzer (The RV Doctor). When he’s not out boondocking, you’ll find Dave in the spotlight at RV shows across the country, giving seminars about all things RVing. He and Cheri currently roam in their fifth travel trailer, with Dave doing all the service, repair and modifications to his own unit.
Leave a Reply