Happy Vegan Campers

Days #268-270 of Our Epic Trip

7-26-2024
H: 62ºF L: 52ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

We drove to Cape Flattery, the most northwestern part of the lower 48 states; however, it was run by an Indian Reservation and they wanted $20 for a pass. So we found a beach on the mouth of the Sooes River at Bahobohosh Point. It was unoccupied and the boys had a blast running around and going in the warm tide pools.

Bahobohosh Point in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Sea anemone at Bahobohosh Point in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

We had an injury on the beach so it wasn’t all fun and games. Marcel rubbed his head against barnacles and the barnacles won. It didn’t stop him from having a great time exploring and chasing his brother.

Barnacle injury at Bahobohosh Point in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

After running on the beach, we decided to sit in our car by the ocean to enjoy some cell phone coverage (we have no service at our campground). A reservation police officer pulled up and asked if we had the pass. She said we could either pay the $20 or she would escort us off the reservation. So we were kicked off the reservation by police escort tailing us for 8 miles. In our defense, there was no clear signage on the major roads indicating the borders of the reservation. Plus, we were parked on the side of a public road with likely easement of 15-20 feet so I’m not sure how much authority this tribal police officer had in this situation. No matter – we were ready to leave anyway.

The road home took us by some beautiful vistas.

On the way back to the campground, we stopped at Ancient Groves Nature Trail which has 750 year old Western Hemlock and Douglas Fir trees. It was stunning and one of Daniel’s favorite places in the park so far.

Daniel with a large tree at Ancient Groves Nature Trail in Olympic National Park, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Ancient Groves Nature Trail in Olympic National Park, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-27-2024
H: 68ºF L: 51ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

We took the boys for a walk on one of the few trails dogs are allowed in the national park. The Spruce Railroad Trail is a paved trail which runs through the woods next to a beautiful lake. We passed mostly bikers with dogs in baskets or carts. It was extremely enjoyable and we ended up walking 6+ miles.

Spruce Railroad Trail in Olympic National Park, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-28-2024
H: 73°F L: 54°F
Cove RV Park, Brinnon, Washington

We met our neighbors who are from Holland. Apparently, it’s common for Europeans to travel to the US, rent an RV, and travel.

There is a family camping a few sites down with a Wolf Pup 17JG which is our camper model. We love our camper and so does the family we met. We shared our website so they could see some of the modifications we have done.

Today is a travel day! We are going south to stay in Brinnon, WA for one night.

Right Smart Cove in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Right Smart Cove

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $123.04
Camping memberships: $11.19
Food: $0

Miles driven: 255 (99.9 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 3

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Happy Vegan Campers are traveling the country and building a passive house! Any suggestions on places we should visit or questions about our house? Love our recipes? We’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment at the bottom of the page or send us an email: happyvegancampers@gmail.com

Days #263-267 of Our Epic Trip

7-21-2024
H: 67°F L: 56°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

Morning snuggles with the boys are always great. At our house in Michigan, the boys used to sleep in bed with us but, since the camper bed is smaller, there isn’t enough room for us to comfortably sleep with the boys. So after we wake up, the boys jump in bed for snuggles.

Marcel getting morning snuggles by Happy Vegan Campers — Marcel

We went back to Port Townsend, WA to do some more exploring. It’s a fun coastal town. We found a SUV covered in a replica of a city, Kalma – a store with a comfortable lounge area, and an underground area. We also found a very popular secondhand clothing store, Fancy Feathers. They have good prices on both trendy and unique clothing.

Artistic car found in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — ?

Comfy lounge area in store in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — ?

On the way home we drove past Bandy Farm Troll Haven. The area is covered in trolls and fancy woodwork. It seems popular for weddings and other events.

Barn at Bandy Farm Troll Haven in Sequim, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-22-2024
H: 63°F L: 56°F
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

It’s a travel day! We are going west to stay in a national park near Port Angeles, WA.

We drove by Lake Crescent on our way to Olympic National Park. It was such a pretty shade of blue and the water was warm!

Lake Crescent in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-23-2024
H: 69ºF L: 46ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

We are going to Forks, WA today! The Twilight books were set in Forks so I’m excited to visit the town.

We stopped at John’s Beachcombing Museum where a man has on display all the things he has collected on the beach since the 1970s. We didn’t actually go in the museum as the admission was $5 and it didn’t seem worth it.

John’s Beachcombing Museum in Forks, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Next we went to downtown Forks. We stopped at the sign which was shown in the Twilight movie.

Daniel with Sitka tree in Forks, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Forks sign from Twilight movie

Kristin and Forks sign in Forks, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Forks sign from Twilight movie

Next we went to La Push, WA. The views from First Beach were gorgeous.

Views from First Beach in La Push, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-24-2024
H: 64ºF L: 47ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

We met our new neighbors who are a group of college friends from the United Kingdom.

We are going to the Hoh Rainforest which is a temperate rainforest and part of 1.3 million acres of rainforests in the area. Apparently, the contiguous United States has several rainforests – we love learning new things! We went to the Visitor Center and then walked the Hall of Mosses trail. It was very pretty and we even saw some young Coho salmon in a creek.

Hall of Mosses trail at Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park by Happy Vegan Campers

Next we stopped at a two-track and walked the boys off-leash up the mountain, enjoying the peaceful quiet, trees and fern covered forest floor… until we saw a lot of bear poo. After a quick google search to make sure it was bear scat, we noisily retreated.

Peter and Marcel enjoying some off-leash time on a two-track in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

We stopped to look at the Hoh River on our way home. It was breathtaking. I keep hoping to see a bear or other large animal by the rivers we pass but no luck so far.

Hoh River in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-25-2024
H: 61ºF L: 45ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

We explored some small towns on our way to Port Angeles, WA. We stopped at the Salmon Cascades on our way out of the park. It’s a pretty little waterfall with crystal clear turquoise water.

Salmon Cascades in Olympic National Park in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Trail to Salmon Cascades in Olympic National Park in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

We drove through Pysht, Twin, Shadow, Disque, Joyce, Ramapo. The towns did not offer much. In fact, some were nothing but forest or a single house. We stopped at Pillar Point Recreation Area and walked out to see what treasures we could find with the tide low. There were a lot of barnacles and a few crabs.

Pillar Point Recreation Area in Clallham Bay, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

One thing Daniel and I love about each other is that we can be spontaneous with each other. If we see something we want to check out, we turn around and check it out. There has been so many things we have found that were a spur of the moment decision which turned out to be awesome adventures.

When we got back to the camper, Daniel talked with the group of college friends camping next to us who are from the UK. One woman works for the UK at the United Nations and is involved in providing relief aid to Gaza. We’ve met some interesting people on our trip. We got home kind of late and they were so kind to offer us some corn on the cob while we waited for our dinner to cook.

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $144.77
Camping memberships: $18.65
Food: $140.18

Miles driven: 550.4 (197.3 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 3

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #258-262 of Our Epic Trip

7-16-2024
H: 73ºF L: 53ºF
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

Today is a travel day! We are taking the camper on a ferry and staying on Discovery Bay.

We stopped in Coupeville, WA on our way to the ferry. Part of the movie Practical Magic was filmed in this cute town. This movie has been on my favorites list for a long time.

Coupeville, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Coupeville, WA

On the ferry ride we thought we saw dolphins swimming. With some of the coastal towns having bells to ring if you see a whale, we have been hopeful to see large marine creatures especially whales.

Daniel on the ferry in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Camper on ferry

View from ferry in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Camper on ferry

7-17-2024
H: 70°F L: 58°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

We had the laziest of lazy days. We sat in the clubhouse, took the boys for a walk (they’re doing great with their Gentle Leader head harnesses), finished a movie, and made dinner. That’s it. We were able to extend our stay at the campground. It has been booked up due to the Lavender Festival this weekend but they must have had some last minute cancellations. This area is the lavender capital of the US.

7-18-2024
H: 67°F L: 56°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

We explored Port Townsend, WA today and, wow, we really like this small town. It has friendly hippish vibes. We started at a vintage store and then walked down a residential street where we encountered Kathy and her wonderful gardens. She offered to give us a tour of her gardens that surround her house which was built in 1872. Her green thumb and plant knowledge were very impressive.

Kristin with Kathy in her garden in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Private garden in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Next we went to Aldrich’s grocery store upon the recommendation of Kathy. It was a really cool store with a loft area to sit and relax. They offered coffee and a very friendly and enthusiastic cashier.

Aldrich’s grocery store in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Following Aldrich’s, we stopped at Uptown Pub and had a couple happy hour drinks. Afterwards we went to the lower section of the town where they had a free concert in the park. We then saw the movie Thelma at an old restored theater. We definitely like this area and are perusing real estate to see what the market has to offer.

Free concert in Port Townsend, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-19-2024
H: 73°F L: 52°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

We attended the Lavender Festival in Sequim (pronounced ‘Squim’), WA today! There are quite a few lavender farms in the area. We visited two farms, one for sale and one which had U-Pick lavender and berries. Next we went to the festival in Sequim where they have live music all weekend (yodeling while we were there, how fun!) and vendors. I was happy to see a booth selling very popular handmade items (pot holders, bags, microwave bowl koozies) to raise money for an animal shelter. They said it was their biggest fundraiser. I also had fun talking to a man who hunts for rocks.

Lavender farm for sale in Sequim, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Lavender farm

Peninsula Friends of Animals fundraiser at the Lavender Festival in Sequim, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Lavender farm

7-20-2024
H: 69°F L: 55°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

Since it’s Saturday we stayed at the camper most of the day. We find it’s really nice to avoid crowds by doing things during the week. We did laundry and took the boys for a walk. We found a road that goes down to the ocean and it was horribly steep. We were definitely out of breath by the time we climbed back up the hill. We also saw a giant slug, a Pacific banana slug, which is the second largest terrestrial slug in the world growing up to 9.8 inches long.

Banana slug in Diamond Point, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Cruise ship off coast of Diamond Point, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $82.45
Camping memberships: $18.65
Food: $23.23

Miles driven: 183.1 (82.8 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 1

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #255-257 of Our Epic Trip

7-13-2024
H: 80°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We went to North Cascades National Park today. We recently read that the park is one of the most beautiful but has lower visitation rates compared to other parks. We hiked Pyramid Lake Trail: 4.2 miles with a 1500 foot elevation gain. A sign said it was an “unmaintained climber’s route”. It was definitely steep and rocky. It was a breathtaking trail through woods and streams. It smelled divine like sweet and spicy cedar with a little smokiness.

Pyramid Lake Trail at North Cascades National Park by Happy Vegan Campers

The trail followed a stream in some places. We had to walk through the stream a couple of times too. The water was so clear and inviting.

We finally made it to our destination: Pyramid Lake. It was more like a pond but it had crystal clear water and plants growing on logs floating in the water.

Next we drove to Diablo Lake. The water is turquoise because of “glacial flour” which is a fine rock particles suspended in the water which refracts sunlight. It was absolutely gorgeous.

Diablo Lake at North Cascades National Park by Happy Vegan Campers

See more pictures and videos of our trip to North Cascades National Park

We ended our adventure day with a drive to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest to try to get closer to Mt. Baker. It was getting darker as we drove on a dirt road in the park. It seemed the perfect place and time to see Sasquatch but, alas, no such luck.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest by Happy Vegan Campers — Mt. Baker

7-14-2024
H: 84°F L: 56°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We all needed to rest after our adventures yesterday. The boys slept most of the day. The boys also got a much needed a bath.

7-15-2024
H: 66°F L: 54°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We had an adventure day! We started on Whidbey Island, Washington. We walked across the bridge at Deception Pass and saw seals in the water. It was quite windy on the bridge and it was obvious the water beneath the bridge was moving really fast.

Deception Pass on Whidbey Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

We drove to the small town of Langley which is supposed to be the most charming small town in Washington. It was very cute and we enjoyed walking by the water. We have noticed that a lot of small towns on the ocean have bells to ring if a whale is spotted.

Langley, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Dog washing station

Next we went to Washington Park in Anacortes, WA where you can walk on the earth’s mantle which is typically about 20 miles under the earth’s surface. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see the mantle.

Earth’s mantle at Washington Park in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Daniel on the earth’s mantle at Washington Park in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

The park was really pretty with a one-way winding road through the peninsula and terrific views of the ocean.

One-way road in Washington Park in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Washington Park in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

On our way home, we passed by the La Merca Breakwater where a boat built in 1917 was scuttled in 1966. You can see the bow and side of the old ship behind the boats in the marina. We also saw a boat that must have sunk and been pulled out of the water.

La Merca Breakwater scuttled boat in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Salvaged boat in Anacortes, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $0
Camping memberships: $11.19
Food: $3.05

Miles driven: 396.3 (122.4 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 1

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Idaho Campground Reviews

We had heard that Idaho was a great state but… wow! There is so much natural beauty here from lava tube caves to river gorges. The people we have encountered have been friendly. We definitely plan on coming back to Idaho.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Bruneau, ID • ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ • Electric/water

Grey water receptacle at Bruneau Dunes State Park in Bruneau, Idaho by Happy Vegan Campers — Sites 1-32

We stayed at this campground for seven nights. We paid $30.02 per night with a senior discount. The dunes are the tallest in North America and they are very pretty. We had views of them from our campsite (site 83). You can rent a sled or snowboard from the campground office for some adventure on the dunes. The campground is well maintained and, while it is not full hookup, there are grey water receptacles scattered among the sites. The reservation website indicated the campground was full during our stay but there were actually very few people here (maybe due to 100ºF temperatures?). The restrooms are older but they were kept clean. The observatory is open on Fridays and Saturdays during warmer months and tickets are $5. We really enjoyed seeing the stars. (June 2024)

Twin Falls, ID: The Snake River Canyon is definitely worth the drive and offers several activities like kayaking, zip lines, golf. You can also watch BASE jumpers fly off the Perinne Bridge.
Boise: What a neat city! It’s clean and provides ample opportunity for activities of all kinds. We enjoyed the Freak Alley Gallery and Boise Depot.
Bruneau Canyon: Beautiful canyon out in the middle of nowhere. Make sure your car is fueled and you take some water.
Shoofly Oolite: Left over from when the area used to be Idaho Lake many years ago.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: Very neat landscape with exposed lava everywhere. We attended a full moon walk guided by park rangers.

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #251-254 of Our Epic Trip

7-9-2024
H: 88°F L: 58°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We rested after our long day in Canada. Daniel set up drainage for our dishwasher and I made some food for the adventures we have planned tomorrow. Then we took the boys for a walk and continued training using the Gentle Leader and Halti head harnesses. This was the first time they walked for more than a few minutes without one of them trying to take the head harness off.

Daniel and Peter on a trail by Happy Vegan Campers

7-10-2024
H: 70°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We are spending the day on San Juan Island. We had to get up early to take the ferry over to Friday Harbor. It was a one hour ride to our destination. We stayed in the car with boys because we were sure how they would do on the ferry. By the end of the ferry ride both were asleep.

Peter on ferry going to Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Peter on ferry

View from ferry dock at Anacortes Ferry Terminal by Happy Vegan Campers — Peter on ferry

We started our exploration of the island by going to Fourth of July Beach. We had the beach mostly to ourselves which allowed us to let the boys off-leash. Peter had fun going in the water to check out the seaweed. I collected some rocks.

Peter on Fourth of July beach on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Mt. Baker

Fourth of July beach on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Mt. Baker

Next we visited the American Camp National Park where both the British and American military interacted on friendly terms including celebrating Fourth of July. According to the National Park Service, the British and Americans “in 1859 agreed to a joint occupation of San Juan Island until the water boundary between the two nations could be settled”. This standoff became known as the Pig War which was literally started over a pig and was ended when the US/Canadian boundary was determined by Kaiser Wilhelm I of Prussia. The story of the Pig War is pretty interesting.

View from American Camp National Park on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Building on right is oldest on island

We drove around the island and saw some beautiful views such as a freighter in the mist and a cool looking barn. We even saw a bald eagle.

Barn on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Bald Eagle

San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Bald Eagle

Next we went to Roche Harbor, a small historic town and marina. We walked around the little village and then on the docks. It’s a very cute area with a lot of history. At one time they ran the whole area on generators which are still present. They also had very large lime kilns where they processed the lime from local quarries. We enjoyed walking through the small but beautiful garden near the marina. The Hotel de Haro was built in 1886, has one foot thick log walls, and was raised half an inch in 2013 for a concrete pad to be poured.

Lime shoot at Roche Harbor on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Lime kilns

Garden at Roche Harbor on San Juan Island, Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Lime kilns

Our boat ride back was beautiful. There’s something fun about a ferry ride that makes me want to run among the cars and up and down the stairs like a little kid.

7-11-2024
H:76°F L: 53°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We went back to the cute town of Mount Vernon today and we saw a duck in a stroller. The white duck appeared completely chill taking in the sights of the town with his/her doting parents.

We also spoke with Ken, a witch and owner of In Good Spirits. He’s a neat guy who is following his passions. We encouraged him to consider switching to a whole food, plant-based diet for optimal health. We also asked about the best ways to cleanse any negative energy from our Tennessee property. He said land is very healing and our property is probably not holding onto anything negative from the previous owner.

7-12-2024
H: 78°F L: 50°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We had a relaxing day at the camper. Daniel worked on scheduling more campsites. We can schedule campsites 2-6 months in advance. Some campgrounds are so popular that they require Daniel to be ready to schedule at 8am on the dot. I’m so grateful Daniel handles all the logistics of our travels.

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $0
Camping memberships: $14.92
Food: $163.44

Miles driven: 136 (35.3 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 0

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #247-250 of Our Epic Trip

7-5-2024
H: 80ºF L 52ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We were up late last night so we just wanted to hang out and do stuff around the camper. It was nice to just enjoy the forest. We have been working with the boys on using a Halti head harness (or Gentle Leader for Marcel) so our walks will be more enjoyable. Peter doesn’t like it but is getting used to it quickly. Marcel bucks around like a wild dog or freezes. It will be worth the effort to help the boys feel comfortable with their head harnesses.

7-6-2024
H: 80°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We started our day with exploring Mount Vernon. We went to a farmers market and walked around downtown. We stopped at In Good Spirit and talked to a witch, Christina. She explained the difference between witchcraft and Wicca and told us about some of the things she has done as a witch. We love meeting people from all walks of life.

Mount Vernon Washington Farmers Market Happy Vegan Campers — Farmers Market at Mount Vernon

I had an eye exam today and picked out new glasses. I never thought I’d wear glasses full time but my eyes won’t tolerate contacts anymore. And… I need bifocals.

7-7-2-24
H: 84ºF L: 57ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

One thing we have come to notice about this area is that the people are not very friendly. There are actually terms for it: Seattle Stare and Seattle Freeze. As we have traveled and considered alternative options to our property in Tennessee, we have realized we have some criteria: a no income tax state, 20+ acres, great view, close to a big grocery store, forested area with big trees and, now, friendly people. You just can’t beat the friendliness of southern people. So as much as we love the evergreen forests blanketed with ferns and moss in Washington, Tennessee’s friendliness continues to make it our chosen state.

7-8-2024
H: 81ºF L: 59ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

We’re going to Canada today! We almost didn’t get through border security. Apparently only five states offer the enhanced IDs which allow you to cross the border in a car or boat and Tennessee is not one of them (we thought the REAL ID was the same thing). The Canadian border agent seemed a little exasperated, like she has had to explain this many times to Americans, but she finally let us through. Then we realized she may have pulled one over on us knowing we may not be able to get back into the US.

This area of Canada has a heat advisory today… it’s a high of 85°F. Those silly Canadians.

Our first stop was Queen Elizabeth Park where we walked through two botanical quarry gardens. The gardens and views from the park were wonderful.

Flowers at Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers

View from Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers

Daniel and Kristin at Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers

Next we went Granville Island and walked around. There were pricy shops and galleries and it was a very tourist-centric area. There were also marinas, one included houseboats which were cool to see.

Granville Island in Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers — Houseboat

Houseboat at Granville Island in Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers — Houseboat

Capilano Suspension Bridge was on our list but the tickets were $75 ($54.17 USD) each so we passed on that experience. The amount of people there was astounding. The frugal woman in me was cringing but the entrepreneur in me was wondering how much people would pay if we put a suspension bridge on our Tennessee property…

Next we stopped at Cypress Lookout. You can see Mt. Baker from the lookout.

View from Cypress Lookout near Vancouver BC by Happy Vegan Campers — Mt. Baker in background

Then we drove Squamish, BC and walked on the trail at the Squamish Spit & Estuary. It was so beautiful! We walked next to a big river amongst the evergreens and mountains. There were gorgeous wildflowers everywhere.

Flowers at Squmish Spit & Estuary in Squmish BC by Happy Vegan Campers

After a delicious buffet at Pizza Castle and Indian Curry (all vegan), we headed back to the US border. It’s never a good thing when the border agent rolls his eyes at you but we eventually made it back into the states and our cozy camper.

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $0
Camping memberships: $14.92
Food: $97.85

Miles driven: 314.8 (99.2 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 0

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #242-246 of Our Epic Trip

6-30-2024
H: 74ºF L: 58ºF
Tall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

We love our new campground! Big trees, lush vegetation, quiet… it’s perfect. It even rained last night – the quiet type of rain with sprinkles and occasional big drops falling off a tree. I’ve missed the drama-free northern rains. Storms in the southern- and middle-states were mostly over-the-top dramatic with high winds and tornadoes.

Happy Vegan Campers campsite at Tall Chief Campground in Fall City Washington — So peaceful

7-1-2024
H: 74ºF L: 58ºF
Tall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

We ventured out to explore the area. We had passed by several cute towns on our way to the campground so we wanted to check them out. First stop was Snoqualmie Falls. It’s a big, beautiful water fall which has been used for hydroelectric power for over 100 years. We enjoyed views from the top and then hiked down to the river past the tubes for the power plant.

Happy Vegan Campers Snoqualmie Falls Washington

Happy Vegan Campers Snoqualmie Falls Washington hydroelectric power

Next we went to two small towns – one right on the river and the other bordered by railroad tracks with old engines and other equipment on display.

Snoqualmie Washington railroad park by Happy Vegan Campers

One thing we have noticed about the area is how big the roses are. We found a rose “bush” that was at least 9 feet tall.

Snoqualmie Washington roses by Happy Vegan Campers — Very tall roses

7-2-2024
H: 69°F L: 51°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

We are traveling north to stay at a campground near Mount Vernon for two weeks. We have done a lot of traveling lately so we are excited to stay in one spot for a while. Our campsite is gorgeous – we angled the camper so we are looking toward the back at the forest.

We had Chocolate Dip tonight with apples we got yesterday. I got a Lemonade apple and Daniel got an Opal Sweet apple. Both are supposed to taste like lemon. We found they had a very mild taste but they did have a sweet lemony flavor.

Lemon flavored apples in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-3-2024
H: 71ºF L: 49ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

We hung out at our camper this morning and noticed a lot of people gawking at our campsite. Sometimes if we have enough space we like to park the camper so we have more privacy. Daniel put himself through medical school by driving a semi truck so he is really good at maneuvering the camper into just about any spot. I guess people can’t figure out how we got the camper into the position it’s in.

Happy Vegan Campers campsite at Thousand Trails Mount Vernon — View from campsite

These beautiful flowers are all over!

Wildflowers in Washington by Happy Vegan Campers

7-4-2024
H: 76ºF L: 49ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

Happy Fourth of July!! It’s also our wedding anniversary and Peter’s birthday/gotcha day! Peter was adopted in 2016 as a young adult so he is at least 9 -10 years old.

Today is a perfect 76°F, sunny (but our campsite is in the shade) and uber relaxing. We cooked food together and took the boys for a walk.

Happy Birthday Peter by Happy Vegan Campers — Birthday boy!

Sunshine in trees at Thousand Trails Mount Vernon in Bow Washington by Happy Vegan Campers — Birthday boy!

We ended the night with fireworks. We drove to Mount Vernon and there were so many big fireworks it was hard to know where to look.

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $22.26
Camping memberships: $18.65
Food: $76.31

Miles driven: 177.6 (90.5 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 3

Campground Recommendations

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Days #239-241 of Our Epic Trip

6-27-2024
H: 80°F L: 61°F
Snake River RV Park, Huntington, Oregon

Today is a travel day! We are heading northwest into Oregon to stay for one night in Huntington.

We have been excited to see Hells Canyon but we thought it was about a 3.5 hour drive from where we are staying. Luckily, the owners of our campground, Cliff and Jeanette, told us that the beginning of the canyon is just outside of town! We drove on a small road, Snake River Rd., next to the river and saw beautiful vistas. There were lots of BLM boondocking areas on the road.

Happy Vegan Campers Hells Canyon Huntington Oregon — Boondocking next to stream

We highly recommend visiting Idaho and Snake River. It is a beautiful state and the river goes through gorges and canyons that offer spectacular sights. The river is also the border between Idaho and Oregon. Boise was clean and active. Add Idaho to your bucket list!

6-28-2024
H: 81°F L: 52°F
Wagontracks Campground RV & Storage, North Powder, Oregon

Daniel was invited to be an ambassador for American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) to work with medical schools. It is something he is really passionate about so we are excited that he has this opportunity.

We are traveling to North Powder, OR today for another one night stop. The campground owner, Steffi, was very warm and welcoming. She told us her family, the Ashwood’s, came to the area in 1879 on the Oregon Trail.

We also went to the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretative Center. We got into the museum for free since Daniel has an America the Beautiful Pass. The museum was in a cool building and had nice exhibits with information on what it was like for the Oregon Trail travelers although there was a significant amount of taxidermy. Within the park there are actual ruts of the Oregon Trail and we were excited to be able to stand on them.

Happy Vegan Campers North Powder Oregon — North Powder, OR

Happy Vegan Campers North Powder Oregon post office — North Powder, OR

While letting Marcel out it the middle of the night, I saw the Milky Way and a rainbow around the moon as a train passed by next to the campground. It was magical.

6-29-2024
H: 82°F L: 48°F
Tall Chief RV Campground, Fall City, Washington

We had a wonderful stay at Wagontracks Campground RV & Storage. Steffi, the owner, was so kind and friendly and we felt we experienced good ol’ customer service.

We are traveling into Washington today. We decided to make this a really long travel day so we got up early to hit the road. We did five charging stops and ten hours of driving. We passed by some really cute towns we plan on checking out during our stay in this area. It was a long day but we got to our next campground with plenty of time to set up and make dinner.

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $86.13
Camping memberships: $11.19
Food: $0

Miles driven: 674.2 (467.9 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 2

Campground Recommendations

Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

Days #235-238 of Our Epic Trip

6-23-2024
H: 100ºF L: 63ºF
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

We really needed a down day so we stayed in the camper all day. It was super hot today. We did work with an insurance agent, Shelli Dodson, at Sequatchie Valley Insurance LLC to get better rates on our car and camper insurance. And, wow, we got much better rates going with Erie Insurance. They only operate in mid- to south-eastern states but they have great reviews and are worth it if you are in their area of operation.

6-24-2024
H: 98°F L: 65°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

We decided to have a light but adventurous day. We found some things on Google map nearby that looked like they were worth checking out. We started by driving out to the middle of nowhere to the Bruneau Canyon Overlook. We drove miles of dirt roads and had a confused GPS but it was worth the effort to see this beautiful canyon with a roaring river.

Happy Vegan Campers Bruneau Canyon Overlook Idaho

Next we went to Shoofly Oolite, also out in the middle of nowhere on a dirt road. According to signs at the site: Oolite is sedimentary limestone composed of tiny ooids, which form when calcium carbonate precipitates in concentric layers around individual grains of sand. Wave action washed the oolites back and forth in the shallows of Lake Idaho. The Shoofly Oolite is one of the largest freshwater lakebed oolites known in the world.

It was really hot so we didn’t hike all the way up to the formations but we enjoyed our walk.

Happy Vegan Campers Shoofly Oolite in Grand View Idaho

6-25-2024
H: 98°F L: 61°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

We stayed at camper most of the day. We recently got a steamer basket to go in our pressure cookers and we love it! It makes steaming veggies so quick and easy while preserving their nutritional value. Daniel said they are the best steamed veggies he’s ever had. I use the method recommended by Michael Greger, MD on nutritionfacts.org.

6-26-2024
H: 96°F L: 72°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

We drove to Boise, ID to do some exploring. We had a storm move past us over the valley while the sun was still shining. Everything had a golden hue.

Happy Vegan Campers flattop mountains with storm Bruneau Idaho

We stopped at a potato hotel. Dolly the cow was the greeter. We found a treat dispenser full of sweet feed so she was eager to come see us and get her treat. The potato hotel traveled around the country before being retired in a field outside of Boise. It’s actually really cute on the inside. See pictures at the Airbnb listing.

Happy Vegan Campers potato hotel in Boise Idaho — Potato hotel

Happy Vegan Campers Dolly the cow at potato hotel in Boise Idaho — Potato hotel

Freak Alley Gallery was a cool and relatively clean alleyway full of graffiti art.

Happy Vegan Campers Freak Alley Gallery in Boise Idaho

We stopped at High Note Cafe for a drink and nachos. We had heard that Boise is a great city and we agree. It was clean, vibrant, friendly, and very active for a Wednesday afternoon. Activity opportunities abound in and outside the city.

Happy Vegan Campers Boise Depot in Boise Idaho — Boise Depot

Happy Vegan Campers old hotel in Boise Idaho — Boise Depot

Stats

Expenses:

Tow vehicle fuel: $0
Campsite: $120.09
Camping memberships: $14.92
Food: $105.13

Miles driven: 281.9 (94.7 kWh)

Number of people asking about the Tesla pulling the camper: 0

Campground Recommendations

7-26-2024H: 62ºF L: 52ºFSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-27-2024H: 68ºF L: 51ºFSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-28-2024 H: 73°F L: 54°FCove RV Park, Brinnon, Washington

Stats

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7-21-2024 H: 67°F L: 56°F KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-22-2024H: 63°F L: 56°FSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-23-2024H: 69ºF L: 46ºFSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-24-2024H: 64ºF L: 47ºFSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-25-2024H: 61ºF L: 45ºFSol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

Stats

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7-16-2024H: 73ºF L: 53ºFKM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-17-2024 H: 70°F L: 58°F KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-18-2024 H: 67°F L: 56°F KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-19-2024 H: 73°F L: 52°F KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-20-2024 H: 69°F L: 55°F KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

Stats

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7-13-2024 H: 80°F L: 55°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-14-2024 H: 84°F L: 56°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-15-2024 H: 66°F L: 54°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

Stats

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Contact Happy Vegan Campers!

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7-9-2024 H: 88°F L: 58°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-10-2024 H: 70°F L: 55°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-11-2024 H:76°F L: 53°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-12-2024 H: 78°F L: 50°F Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

Stats

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7-5-2024H: 80ºF L 52ºFThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-6-2024H: 80°F L: 55°FThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-7-2-24H: 84ºF L: 57ºFThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-8-2024H: 81ºF L: 59ºFThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

Stats

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6-30-2024H: 74ºF L: 58ºFTall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

7-1-2024H: 74ºF L: 58ºFTall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

7-2-2024H: 69°F L: 51°FThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

7-3-2024H: 71ºF L: 49ºFThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

7-4-2024H: 76ºF L: 49ºFThousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

Stats

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6-27-2024H: 80°F L: 61°FSnake River RV Park, Huntington, Oregon

6-28-2024H: 81°F L: 52°FWagontracks Campground RV & Storage, North Powder, Oregon

6-29-2024H: 82°F L: 48°FTall Chief RV Campground, Fall City, Washington

Stats

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6-23-2024H: 100ºF L: 63ºFBruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-24-2024H: 98°F L: 65°FBruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-25-2024H: 98°F L: 61°FBruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-26-2024H: 96°F L: 72°FBruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

Stats

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7-26-2024
H: 62ºF L: 52ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-27-2024
H: 68ºF L: 51ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-28-2024
H: 73°F L: 54°F
Cove RV Park, Brinnon, Washington

7-21-2024
H: 67°F L: 56°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-22-2024
H: 63°F L: 56°F
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-23-2024
H: 69ºF L: 46ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-24-2024
H: 64ºF L: 47ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-25-2024
H: 61ºF L: 45ºF
Sol Duk Campground, Port Angeles, Washington

7-16-2024
H: 73ºF L: 53ºF
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-17-2024
H: 70°F L: 58°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-18-2024
H: 67°F L: 56°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-19-2024
H: 73°F L: 52°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-20-2024
H: 69°F L: 55°F
KM Resorts – Diamond Point Resort, Sequim, Washington

7-13-2024
H: 80°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-14-2024
H: 84°F L: 56°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-15-2024
H: 66°F L: 54°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-9-2024
H: 88°F L: 58°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-10-2024
H: 70°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-11-2024
H:76°F L: 53°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-12-2024
H: 78°F L: 50°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-5-2024
H: 80ºF L 52ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-6-2024
H: 80°F L: 55°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-7-2-24
H: 84ºF L: 57ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

7-8-2024
H: 81ºF L: 59ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, Washington

6-30-2024
H: 74ºF L: 58ºF
Tall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

7-1-2024
H: 74ºF L: 58ºF
Tall Chief Campground, Fall City, WA

7-2-2024
H: 69°F L: 51°F
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

7-3-2024
H: 71ºF L: 49ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

7-4-2024
H: 76ºF L: 49ºF
Thousand Trails Mount Vernon, Bow, WA

6-27-2024
H: 80°F L: 61°F
Snake River RV Park, Huntington, Oregon

6-28-2024
H: 81°F L: 52°F
Wagontracks Campground RV & Storage, North Powder, Oregon

6-29-2024
H: 82°F L: 48°F
Tall Chief RV Campground, Fall City, Washington

6-23-2024
H: 100ºF L: 63ºF
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-24-2024
H: 98°F L: 65°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-25-2024
H: 98°F L: 61°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho

6-26-2024
H: 96°F L: 72°F
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Bruneau, Idaho