Important logistics announcements for those camping at echo valley
Alright campers, here is the word as I have it right now. If you are planning on camping at Echo Valley, you must stop by the front office BEFORE you come to the Pavilion Area and pay your respects (and money) to Miss Judy. Tell her you are with the WAYALIFE group staying in the aforementioned Pavilion Area (there is only one). You will be asked to pay $15 per person per night. Cash is king in Echo Valley, so bring plenty to cover your stay and some extra for firewood ($8/bundle). If you have kids under the age of 16, they will stay for free (going to re-re-confirm this with Judy tomorrow). If you get there after the office closes, just catch her the next day or before you leave. Once you have paid Miss Judy, come over to our area, pick a spot, set up your tent, break out the cooler, and be prepared to laugh until it hurts!
But first...a word from the enforcer.
We have a very good deal going between our group and Miss Judy. We went above and beyond last time to make sure we created a very strong relationship with her, and we need to keep that going. So I ask you to follow a few simple rules. Yes, I said the "R" word. Rules.
1.) If you pack it in, pack it out or throw it away INSIDE the proper trash receptacle. Close does not count.
2.) Echo Valley recycles, so we need to sort our trash. They already have designated trash cans for the different types in our area, so all we have to do is pick out the right can for the specific trash.
3.) Follow the speed limit signs in the camp ground. We all drive Jeeps, so she will know exactly where to go if there are complaints. There will be no complaints. When in doubt, slow down. There are a lot of dogs there. Oh, and some kids, too.
4.) Do NOT bring in your own firewood. It is illegal to transport firewood across county lines in PA. Echo Valley sells and delivers firewood right to our fire pits. Price listed above.
5.) Pay your fair share for firewood when it is necessary. Cash is still king.
6.) We are fairly isolated in the Pavilion Area, but the port-o-jons are at the edge of our perimeter. Be prepared to dial both the volume and the word selection down a notch or 2 when you are outside the pavilion area. It's a family camp ground.
7.) Fires need to stay in the approved fire pits. We do not want to burn any pavilions, trees, fields, tents, people, kids, or God forbid...pets or Jeeps.
8.) If you are the last man standing around the fire, try to put it out if you can without burning yourself. Melted cooler ice (otherwise known as water) tends to work the best.
9.) I'm an appropriately trained and licensed concealed carry permit holder, as I am sure some of you all are, too. If you bring something, keep it concealed and an extremely well kept secret.
10.) ***SMOKERS NEED TO READ THIS CAREFULLY***
THROW AWAY YOUR CIGARETTE BUTTS IN THE TRASH OR BUTT CAN!!!
This is in all caps, because I had the dubious honor of picking up everyone's "Flicked" cigarette butts on Sunday morning the last time we were there.
I know, I'm a douche for posting rules. However, they are necessary to ensure we have the green light to come back again and again. I am working on a group discount for subsequent trips, so help me help you!
Other tips:
-The last time we were there, it rained cats and dogs. Be prepared for some rain. Even if the forecast is clear, come prepared.
-It is going to get cold at night. Make sure you have plenty of warm clothes and a good sleeping bag.
-I am going to bring an extension cord and my 2 gallon shop compressor so we can air back up at EV as opposed to waiting in line at Rausch Creek. It almost got ugly there last time between our group and some 4WD Conversion Van guys, so I'd like to avoid that whole scene.
-If you have a grill that you can bring (propane or charcoal) for the common group use, please post if you plan on bringing it. If you bring propane or charcoal, I will ensure some cash finds its way back to you from the group.
-Showers will be available at the campground, but the shower facility closest to our area will be closed. That means we'll have to hike or drive over to the other one (<5minute walk). Bring shower shoes with you. After all, it is a campground. You won't want any foot funk coming home with you.
-Head lamps are great pieces of gear. Remember to bring some spare batteries as well.
-Miss Judy sells ice for $2/bag. Same price as the Exxon gas station by Burger King. I would recommend you arrive with enough ice to get you through the night, as there is no guaranty Miss Judy will have it. Warm beer is a tragedy.
Thanks in advance for your cooperation. It is going to be a great weekend with some even better people. I am looking forward to meeting those I do not know yet and seeing those I do again!