Dunes newbie questions

[ijeep]

We are planning on making our first ever dunes trip this weekend and I have a few questions for you all.

We are planning on tent camping. I assume by the number of toy haulers and RV's out there that I will probably only want to do this once! Do you all have any advice regarding tent camping?

What does everyone do with all of their stuff (lawn chairs, BBQ, etc.) while they are are out riding?

Does everyone lock their bikes up at night?

Can all of the needed permits be purchased out at the dunes?

Do I need to have my license plate attached? I am talking about the one that came with my title, I am not street legal.

Thanks! I'm sure I will come up with more[?]

[ShanMan]

1) While RV's are a very nice perk, there are still many who tent camp. I suggest making sure that if possible, you use your vehicle as a wind break (the wind comes predominantly from the west). Some people even bring a few sheets of plywood to block the wind that would otherwise get under your vehicle between the wheels.

2) Most people leave their camping stuff out, and generally strike up a casual friendship with their temporary neighbors, who often will offer to sort of keep track when around and you are not. Vice-versa is true as well of course. Sort of a watch program.

3) We always lock up the bikes using a 20' long, 3/8 dia. cable lock. The piece of mind is worth the price of the cable and padlock. (our bikes have never been messed with...knock on wood)

4) Either weekend passes ($25 or $30) or season passes ($90) are available on site either at the kiosks at the enterances or at the on-site ranger stations.

5) You do not need the physical plates attached, although you do need to have them and/or your registration paperwork either on you or at the very least, at your camp site. What is absolutely manditory is a whip on ANY vehicle that goes on the sand..including your truck if you so choose to drive it in the sand. Some people make copies of their registration paperwork, place it in a zip lock bag, and keep it on the bike, quad or rail at all times just to be safe.

Hope this helps you out a bit, and that your firsat trip is a good one!

ShanMan (Shannon) - '98 Honda CR500

Mrs. ShanMan (Bridget) - '03 Yamaha Blaster

[jwalk1]

I agree with Shanman.

Although I have pretty strong feeling toward tent camping. There are those who do, do it. I beleive they are in the minority. If you tent camp my advise woul be to have a "FEW" shots before bed, this will keep the noise level down to a "Dull Roar". It can be very loud out there dependng on where and when you go. Loud enough to iumpair your sleep capabilities.

It just makes good sence to lock your stuff up at night. I'm hipicritical because I don't. but,, I really should there a lot ofo ohv stolen out there every year

We leave our stuff out, never had a problem hopefuly never will.

Do not need your license plate, please bring a copy of your registration not hat you'll need it but good to have anyway.

Jack Walker

***CEO: of D.A.R.E (DS's Against Raptors Everywhere)***

In Quad We Trust.
01DS650 (sand yacht)

[RathrBdunin]

Don't be afraid to tent camp -- Or tailgating as we used to do. Just bring everything you would normally bring for "camping" . Your stuff will be fine. I suggest Buttercup as a first dune trip for the following reasons.

1. will not get stuck in the sand camping.
2. bathrooms right in camp area.
3. dunes right at your door step.
4. incredible dunes that offer all types - mild to wild to learn on.
5. easy to get to & find spot.
6. GREAT DUNES !!!

you should have your registration papers on your bike - No plates - Make sure you stop at the pay booth & get permits.
Have fun -- don't worry about all the "trailer people" Most all of us that have been duning for years started by tailgating. The inclosed trailers are nice - but sometimes looking back -- I sure did more riding than now... We used to ride all day & most the night. The biggie is being able to get out of the wind if it kicks up. This weekend should be outstanding weather & conditions.
Have fun & don't worry about tenting it --- Just have fun, that's what everyone is there for.

If you decide you want to Hit Buttercup - Your welcome to camp with use old time duners....





RathrBdunin