Through the Redwood Forests

Day Three: Brookings

This afternoon is all about a be-here-now moment at Harris Beach State Park. We are parked on a bluff looking at the beach, on the a cusp between Oregon and California. We are just back from a beach walk with dogs, then lunch - fish and clam chowder of course, (does fish and chips count as Chanukah food?) and exploring the town of Brookings. It did not take long.

A Pacific storm has rolled in. The world is all in shades of grey and white. I am sitting in the camper, watching the ocean and the sky through broad, rain streaked windows, sipping hot sweet tea made in our little kitchen and listening to Mozart on the speaker system.

And Rosco is asking for a walk. It can’t be all perfect, but this is close.

We arrived here yesterday, from Grants Pass, driving through Redwood forests, crossing into California and back into Oregon. Though we had researched RV parks, (essentially large parking lots on the Port of Brookings Harbor Marina) with great views, we happened upon the State Park sign. Better.

This campground is a on the Nehalem State Park design, lots of trees, oceanside and good facilities. I plan to take advantage of the excellent shower before we take off again tomorrow –  $26 a night.

When we arrived at our camp site we had to wait for three handsome young bucks, with tiny new antlers, to move out of our spot, and watch us from across the road.

We spent the afternoon on the rocky beach and tide pool, and walking in the park. The weather was mild and grey. Though some of the rocks formations are in shades of red.

We lit our first Chanukah candle on our camping menorah. Sunset is 23 minutes later here than in Portland.  Just for this it’s worth traveling south.

After dark, several campers around the park turned on Christmas lights. It made for a lovely last walk before bed for all of us .  On a side note, I am constantly surprised that for some people, campers and camp sites are long-term homes.

Day Four: Harris State Park, Humboldt Lagoon, Mad River Rapids RV park,  Arcata California

This was a travel day. The weather is lovely; surprisingly mild and pleasant.  This morning I stepped onto the back step in my bare feet, expecting cold metal and found it just right. Slept well after the lovely afternoon of storm watching, a hot shower and a rainy evening spent watching a movie (Moonlight and Mystery) from the Blu-ray player.

Coffee, oatmeal, dishes, batten down, walk. The ocean is calmer than yesterday, the air is soft, the world still in shades of grey. Looking to the south there is a line of strong bright light in the sky.  This is an Oregonian’s idea of a beautiful day.  Head south– through the Redwood Forest, along the Coast heading for Eureka. The beach is beautiful and mild - 58degrees with a high surf - huge crashing waves and white water. But its so nice out.

This art is carved into the beach wall. Ancient artifacts no doubt.