April 10 - 12, 2015 “undisclosed location”
What an entertaining, social event! Wagon masters Larrie & Lynn Follstad were excited to host this hippie themed, desert adventure vintage trailer rally in Joshua Tree located in the beautiful Morongo Basin. Since 1947, this camping site has raised money through its weekly and annual events to help worthy causes in that area. There are 74 sites with 38 full hook-ups available for any event. Since the rally was not open to the public, we were able to enjoy the company of each other and our vintage trailers — sort of like our very own commune. Friday night brought a fun campfire where s’mores and a burning of the bras transitioned our minds into the 60’s era. We did not actually burn our own bras, Lynn brought a couple of huge bags which she had acquired (and she claims that none of them were hers). Mornings found many individuals converging at the clubhouse to enjoy a cup of joe with Sunday morning offering donuts.
On Saturday, trailerites enjoyed leisurely strolling through the entire encampment.
We took a short ride to visit the nearby historic Pioneertown in our sidecar. It was built as a setting for outdoor Western pictures in 1946 by cowboy actor Dick Curtis, Roy Rogers and the Sons of the Pioneers. A delicious lunch was enjoyed at Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneer Palace — a must stop.
Some of us took the time to motor through the Joshua Tree National Park beautifully landscaped with boulders, Joshua trees, creosote bushes, ocotillo and cholla cactus. Others found time to go antiquing in the various shops and flea markets in town. Since many folks were new to the area, sightseeing was definitely in order. The weather was gorgeous and the desert views [scenery] were really nice this time of year. We were provided with a delicious lasagne dinner Saturday evening. Many trailerites attended in their hippie and flower children attire. Such crazy laughter and creative costumes! Mike & Tia C. went all out and won the “hippie commune” site award. Patti H. won for Best “flower child” lady and Mike C. for “groovy dude” men with Andy B. coming in a close second. Many fun loving, spirited outfits were worn and enjoyed. It was all good natured fun. The staff and management at this location were the best! This was Larrie and Lynn’s first time as wagonmasters, and they were wonderful. 43 vintage trailers participated — some old timers and many newcomers. What a relaxing, fun weekend — a real desert adventure! Peace, love & groovy . . . [for more pictures, go to the photo gallery]