Trip Report, Summer Campout 2007, by Brian McMinn This was my second outing with the club and it did not disappoint. I was able to talk my wife, Thu, into joining me for her first camping experience on this trip. It was a good thing that we arrived Friday afternoon because the campsites were all filled that evening. I have to say that John Ruiz found a great site for camping. My wife and I pitched our tent on a hill above the Stanislaus River and soaked our feet in the water to cool off after the drive through a hot valley. Those that camped were John Ruiz and kids (Hope was home with one sick child), John & Lisa Skier and their future son-in-law Joshua, Loro Paterson and Sierra, Tom Vella, Ellen Layendecker, Darrel & Kathy Kroeker, and Mike & DeDe George.
The trail ride Saturday started at the Sourgrass Day Use Area and followed the river. There were six rigs on the ride: John R. (XJ), Tom V. (CJ7), John S. (YJ), Loro P. (Bronco), Brian Geranen & his Brother-in-law joined us for the day (TJ), and my wife and I (TJ). The trail was a little rockier than what I am used to at Hollister Hills. It made for an interesting drive with a trail crossing that was a little challenging. This is a trail worth returning to someday. After three hours driving out and back we stopped for lunch in the day use area.
The afternoon drive took us over some very dusty logging roads. After about an hour of chase the dust cloud my wife and I decided to turn back due to concerns about my wifeGÇÖs alergies.
The eveningGÇÖs potluck was a great spread of food and there was plenty for all. The fire lasted deep into the night by my wife and I turned in early so we could break camp Sunday morning and get out ahead of traffic. Overall it was a good relaxing time. I look forward to next years campout.