Expert: Steve Summers - 11/16/2004

Question
Hi, may I ask a question?
I plan to buy a new camper trailer?
I wonder if I can use the tent (or popup) trailer to go to any place I like?
For instance, Yosemite and Yellowstone NP , there r bears. Is it safe or forbidden to use that there?
I plan to cross north America ( from CA to Banff , boston , FL, grand canyon )
Is it better to attend some club(camper) ? could u give me some suggestions?
thanks


Answer
Hi Kuo-Syn,

You can use a tent trailer and go anywhere, as long as you plan on going during the spring, summer, or early fall. In the winter, it is too cold to use a tent trailer.

It is safe to use a tent trailer in Yosemite as long as you keep ALL your food in the food lockers/bear boxes (see http://www.nps.gov/yose/bears/lockers.htm#camp). We have camped in Yosemite for many years, and we have had no problems as long as we use the bear boxes.

If you are crossing North America, you should start in the spring in the south (like southern California), then go north to Canada, then during the warmest part of summer. Then you can go south down the east coast and go back west if you want. It may be better to visit the Grand Canyon at the beginning of your trip, while you are in CA.

I can recommend a book, if you want to stay off of the major highways. It is called "Road Trip USA", and it is full of good information. (http://bookcomplex.net/1566913969.html) Also, you may want to get a Fodor's guide to North America.

Have fun,

Steve