Overland Expo 2010 Scouting Mission

[1leglance]

Please note this scouting trip was from the perspective of those with mobility issues and to let them know what they grounds would be like and the campgrounds in the area...

With a sudden cancelation of weekend plans the choice was made to shoot south and scout out the location for the 2010 Overland Expo. It turns out we weren’t the only scouts on site! This small Native American was keeping a sharp lookout on the grounds or was sharply secured to the ground, I wasn’t sure which.

The Amado Territory Ranch was easy to find (it is called “Inn” on the highway signage) and as we entered I noted a large expanse that might be used for camping or vendor display. Either way it was flat, fairly smooth and will be easy for those with mobility issues or chairs to cross.

The only part that might give pause is the gravel parking area between the expanse out front and the main building. The gravel was well compacted as the distance across isn’t far. Plus the entire complex seems as well setup for accessibility as something that was built in the pre-ADA days can be.

 

[1leglance]

I was a bit concerned when we parked and notices the beautiful porch and steps. But once we entered and introduced ourselves the staff was super cool about showing off all the accessible features and their willingness to make accommodations.

On the side of the porch they have installed a wheelchair ramp and offered to let someone enter through the kitchen if they didn't wish to travel around the porch to the front door. That is a tasty short cut!

 

[1leglance]

They have tried to make all the walkways aesthetic yet mobility friendly as a balance. I noticed no harsh edges or drop offs which is nice even for me as an amputee. The outer patio was in the process of setup for a birthday but it was easy to move around and the doors were nice and wide.

The onsite steakhouse also had a ramp positioned to access its rear patio and the grounds were well groomed with an eye towards those with mobility issues.

The have even gone so far as to make sure the wheelchair entrance to the garden/walkway/art studios is kept open for chair users. A very nice touch.

I am not sure what the exact plan is for the event other than we will be there without a doubt. The complex is large and I am sure every inch will be needed as the 2010 Overland Expo is sure to be much larger than last year. I did notice an empty field/lot across the road and I can easily see that space being put to use as overflow parking or wild camping!

 

[1leglance]

Since we were in the area I wanted to check out what else might be of interest to visitors and to stay at a campground close by. On the map I noticed a Smithsonian Observatory and Visitors Center that seemed worth a look. Plus there was a dirt road connection to get us there.

The visitor's center is only open Monday through Friday which is too bad as it seems like they have some pretty cool toys inside. There was a sign posted mentioning a night viewing program so maybe we will have a chance to get up there again soon.

Right outside the visitor's center is a nice picnic area with accessible restrooms, tables and a nature path that isn't too tough to travel.

 

[1leglance]

But dirt was calling to us and the closest campground seemed to be Bog Springs and according to my 2 gps programs and my paper map we could get there by dirt. Who could resist a chance to head into those mountains?

Even though the way became must more interesting (the Nitto Trail Grapplers loved this V-notch) and the desert fought against the Sportsmobile it was the ever present “Private Property” gates that forced us to turn back. Often times I wonder if it really is private property when there is a road shown on every map I can find but when traveling alone in an area with posted signs references smuggling I am not one to force the issue. There was however plenty of Arizona State Trust Land and National Forest to camp on, but in singles, nothing that looked like it could handle more than a couple of rigs in one place.

 

[1leglance]

We did end up at Bog Springs shortly after dark but the nice morning gave us a chance to hike around and check the place out. Many of the 13 sites were wheelchair friendly if not perfectly smooth and the bathroom was in great condition. Please note the bear boxes for food and trash if you plan to stay in the area. We don't need any becoming a disabled explorer of a bear's stomach!

As the day was young and the dirt was calling we ventured on through Box Canyon to Patagonia Lake...but that is a story for another telling. I will leave you with encouragement to attend Overland Expo 2010 regardless of your mobility ability. If you are disabled come on out and get a ride in the WAVE, check out the gear solutions and meet great people. If you aren't disabled then come on out and check out all the great vehicles, see the cool gear, and meet great people. And as anyone who travels the back roads and byways can tell you there are plenty of new and interesting things to see. Like this rig just waiting for someone to convert that VW under it to a Synco 4wd!

 

[1leg]

Nice Write up Lance...

BTW I will be at EXPO this year :victory:

 

[jcbrandon]

Thanks for the thorough recce, Lance. Much appreciated.

Threadjack:
If I'm not mistaken, that strange VW-based van was built from plans published in Popular Mechanics in the late 1960s or very early 1970s. I remember reading about it in the magazine and saving the article for years.

I'm really looking forward to Overland Expo 2010. Anyone else made a scouting trip?

 

[1leglance]

Roseann really did a great job picking the location when you think of all the tough criteria she had.
It has a remote feel yet is easy to get to, it has plenty of public land around, the staff seemed top notch and the grounds had plenty of fun quirks.

I am really looking forward to the event as many of us that went last year know what to expect and that will take the pressure off Roseann and those who are new will go crazy at the rigs, presentations and people to meet.

Jerry it will be great to have more disabled folks who are already out there setting the example.

J thanks for the VW info...it had a real Buck Rogers TV show vibe, cool but scary. I can only imagine it on a syncro platform painted balck and scaring locals in the desert southwest

 

[Woodsman]

Good to see the rig out there getting a little dirty.

 

[DesertRose]

Fantastic report, Lance - so glad you feel it's going to be a good venue. I was little worried about mobility, but did not at least most of the areas have wheelchair access.

Graham at Overland Training is working on designing the overland skills 'stations' out on Forest Service land. These will be a great way to expand our teaching.

The community around the event site is excited about hosting us - when anyone decides to do a recce, be sure to have lunch at one of the restaurants, or stay at the inn, and tell them you're coming to the Overland Expo!

Happy holidays everyone!

 

[1leglance]

Oh yeah I forgot to mention we ate at the Cattle Call resturant in the little 4 building "village/town" nearby...The crazy cool looking Longhorn Grill across the street looking a bit too interesting for the family. I will have to see if I got a pic of either.

I am very excited about the event after having attended last year. It will be bigger and better I am sure.