We got it set up quickly even in the dark, with the second white tent offering steep deflecting sides over the rain fly. I just barely had time to tie and peg everything down before ravishing wind and rain hit us. Mommy and Itsy Bit were inside arranging cots and sleeping bags. I got soaked while finishing last tie downs! Itsy Bit was quite upset at the rain and thunder and lightening. But we got through the night in quite good order. There was very little rain on the tent floor next morning. Cots and sleeping bags were dry! Hurrah! Our first real test of the new storm configuration. We were very pleased with the results.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Dry after the Storm Torrent
The calm after the storm the next morning was quite peaceful. The fog lifted off as the morning ensued for a beautiful day.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot State Park Early Morning
There were not many folks at the Pinchot State Park this visit. We had a well-drained, beautiful site at the right hand corner of the swim beach. There were some early morning swimmers but I was able to get an undisturbed view of the beach before they arrived.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot SP Swim Beach at Dawn
I looked forward to seeing the herons again after our last visit and true to form, they patrolled the environs routinely.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Heron Patrol at Dawn
Later in the day, it felt as if we had the swim beach to ourselves. It was a beautiful day, the water temperature was delicious, and the clean, sandy bottom was soothing. It was very relaxing after the storm-filled night.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot SP Swim Beach
Out littlest, Itsy Bit, was well-equipped to enjoy the depths of the swim beach!
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Itsy Bit's Goggle Face
A popsicle-shaped floatie was a gift to Itsy Bit from a family friend. This picture was sent via smartphone to the gifter to inform of its use across the national vistas.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 A Popsicle Floatie
Life in camp was very relaxing. Campfire at night and in the morning. One must use local wood and not import any from another state. Swimwear and towels drying on the line. Notice the dog relaxing at tent-side.
We learned after the fact that pets were not welcome in the sites close to the water front. We surmised perhaps due to potential water contamination from pet doo-doo. We even had the chance to meet a college intern measuring water contamination after storm runoff. So they conduct routine water quality and temperature measurements.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot Camp Life
It makes sense and we had not considered the issue until traveling with a new pet this trip. Once aware, we kept her in her kennel and walked her in approved areas.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Dog Stuff
The site had excellent gravel and drainage. Although it made pegging the tent down a bit more difficult, it wasn't impossible with the steel pegs.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Drying Out after the Storm
I marveled at the abstract nature of the shore-side water plants. There were slight ripples from the water insects and fish that I tried to capture on film.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Abstract Water Plants
Parking for up to two cars was available at each site right proximal to the tent setup. We had a beautiful view of the lake at Site 114. It may well be the best site available. We felt so lucky.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot State Park Site 114 Beachside
After a long day of resting and swim activity, the sun quietly drew back over the distant hills.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Gifford Pinchot SP Sunset
After a swim-filled day and a full tummy after camp dinner, Itsy Bit was quick to sack out at the evening campfire.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Itsy Bit Sacks Out at Campfire
And the last light at the camp site before turning in.
Copyright James E. Martin 2015 Last Light - Day is Done
