Who pooped in the van?
Never ever is that a question you want to have to ask.
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We were in a rental adventure van, bouncing along on a dusty washboard road just east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. We had been scurrying about a field of granite boulders in search of arches, which we found. But they are not the highlight of this story. The poop isn’t the highlight of the story either. Well, maybe it is. But at the very least, it was a somewhat pivotal moment.
Herc hadn’t pooped in two and a half days. He has not-pooped on an adventure before, but usually just for a day. But there I was in the middle of day three, exploring out beyond the popular areas, circling and circling and mumbling about poop. “C’mon Hercy, time to do some pooping. How about this bush? It looks perfect for backing your little booty into! No? What about this one? Yes, I know we passed it three times already and you peed on it twice, but I just need you to poop. I’ve seen you eat all your kibbs, so I know you have stuff to deposit!”
After an eternity – rough estimate – I aimed us for the van and wondered if there were any vets in Lone Pine. The leash caught on something. Ugh, what now?! I spun around and saw Herc leaving a giant number two. Finally! I’ve never been so excited to see poop! “Herc you are such a good fella! I am so proud of you! Good boy! Good boy!!” We pranced back to the van and started our bumpy journey to base camp.
Sniff sniff.
No.
Someone must have farted.
Sniff sniff.
More farts?
Sniff.
Dang.
Really hounds? It’s only Friday and had this van until Wednesday.
Cool Whip had the most smug look on her face. For once, she was the innocent one. Herc just looked out the window.
Settling In at Basecamp
Back at basecamp I shook out the bedding, sprayed disinfectant everywhere, and aired out the van. Thankfully, it was an easy cleanup and I knew it could have been worse. Much, much worse. So, I cracked open a drink and settled into my camp chair. We were “home” and that made everything okay.
I was surprised how quickly I felt at home in our rental rig and location. Because one night for each was all it took to feel that cozy sense of belonging. Skipping down the sandy road to see our vibrant van seemingly pop out of nowhere amongst the rocks brought on an internal hug.
Finding Sites for Camping in Alabama Hills
The locations I’d originally pinned on a map as potential basecamps were all occupied when we arrived – camping in Alabama Hills is popular. I, of course, panicked a bit. Had I not prepared properly? Or, had I grossly misjudged our options? And what if I couldn’t find any parking spots? Unnecessary worrying. The more I explored, however, the better options I found. I found more seclusion, better views, and nicer roads. Patience is key, Kris, which is what I must remember.
Our camp was tucked well into the boulders with a circular entryway. So, I’d never have to back in awkwardly. By parking in just the right spot, we could settle around the campfire with a bit of privacy. Which really meant the dogs would not get worked up by any vehicles driving past. Peaceful, calm, and undisturbed.
And surrounded by these magical, wonderful boulders bubbling out of the earth with rounded corners and gently creased folds. Surfaces are textured just enough to grip your feet without roughing them up. An epic geological playground. Each day we scrambled over and meandered around these boulders, weaving in and out of the granite hallways. Never the same route twice, though we did find a few favorite destinations for the rising and setting of the sun. It was a welcoming coziness in this jumble of rocks.
Learn more about Alabama Hills.
Exploring California’s Alabama Hills with Your Dog
Dog-Friendly Camping in Alabama Hills: What to Pack
Dog-friendly travel doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are a few of my favorite things to pack for a camping trip with the dogs.
Travel Dog Bowls
Leave the heavy, rigid dog bowls at home. Look for lightweight, packable bowls that save space and won’t break. I like no-spill bowls for water and collapsible bowls for food.
Dog Bed
Skip the big, chunky dog beds unless your pup needs the orthopedic advantages. Travel dog beds usually include waterproof or water-resistant materials. Also, they can be packed down to save space.
Waste Bags
Sounds like a no-fun item, but waste bags are essential when camping in Alabama Hills. Here in the desert, it takes longer for waste to decompose, and in a highly trafficked area like this, it is even more important to keep from adding to the damage and protect the environment. Always follow leave-no-trace principles to protect these special places.