In case you're thinking that SoCal camping is all warmth and sunshine, here is a shot of us last weekend in the mountains near Idyllwild, CA (Riverside County).
The forecast said low 50's and a good chance of rain for the first night - then it was supposed to be warming and partly cloudy. Instead we got 35 degree nights and 45 degree days - and 20 hours of alternating rain, snow, hail and sleet - and lots and lots of wind. Day one and two we huddled inside the 23IKSS and were very thankful for all the extra space.
We hosted meals for our camp mates (total of 5 adults and 4 kids) and it was a madhouse full of fun!
But it sure was nice when the storm passed through and we were able to get everyone outside to play.
And this is what makes it all worthwhile!
The Roo did great, but I must say that the this trip reinforced my thoughts on the silly furnace vent set up in the 23IKSS. We ended up removing the cover from the bathroom vent so the air would blow straight out into the kitchen area with the door open, and then we ran the rear bunk fan to help push warm air across the trailer.
We had on PUGS but not reflectix (left it at home!) and the heater capability was pretty marginal in these conditions. It took 2.5 hours of running the furnace full blast to get the trailer from 47 to 65 degrees one morning.
We ran down two full batteries (even charged them for a couple of hours on a friend's eu2000) and went through more than a full tank of propane over three days/nights.
Our 200w solar set up did us no good as we didn't see the sun much until it was time to pack up.
All and all, it was a fantastic trip - in spite of the weather! And now we know what preparations to make when we head out for fall/winter camping later this year.
Lovin the new Roo 23IKSS!
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