I posted info on the trips forum, but that doesn't get much traffic. I thought I'd post it here where more attendees will likely see it. Here's the trip info:
APRIL 21 UPDATE
CAMPSITE INFO: Fort Ancient Camping Area #2
Take 15 east (running parallel more or less to Bert T. Combs Mtn. Parkway) out of Slade. Take your first left (you'll go a few miles) onto Rt. 39. Now go past the parking lot on your right which services Gray's Arch, Rough Trail, Pinch-Em Tight & Sheltowee Trace. Next parking lot on left is Archaic, next comes the stone walled scenic view/photography pull off, next lot on left about 30-50 yards is Fort Ancient.
There is no fee to use this campground. It is primitive camping. There is a privy. There is no water so you must bring all your water with you. The camp area is right next to the parking lot so it is easy to bring in.
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Spending Mother's Day weekend in RRG is becoming a tradition for me and my sons, Calvin and Hobbes (13 and 8 ). Because it is planned as a kid-friendly trip, the planned hiking miles are relatively low. This is a good trip for beginners and for anyone with children as well as for anyone who likes to get together with TTers. (There is always that magical time of the day when the little ones are put to bed and the adults can gather round the fire.)
This is a fantastic time of year to go. The morels are out. Everything is budding and starting to get lush. It's not too hot or too buggy yet. But it's warm enough for the kids to splash in the happy creek. They also had fun playing with the giant millipedes that were seen occasionally on the trail.
My plan is to base camp and day hike from there, with plenty of lounge-around-the-camp time to allow the little ones chances to explore on their own schedule.
You are welcome to join us with or without kids.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This would be a great trip for those of you with SO's who are hesitant to camp or backpack. The camping will be a step up from car camping in that we will not be in a campground per se. It's primitive camping with a privy, no water. The RRG is extensive enough that for those who are willing and able, they can do a substantial hike during the day and meet back at base camp at night where the rest of us will be waiting. For those who are not up to the hike, there are plenty of things to see via car. And it is pretty darn comfy to just hang out in camp as well.
Trip Planning Info:
Web site for more info:
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/districts/cumberland/redriver_gorge.shtmlYou will need to have a car pass in your vehicle to park in RRG. You can buy these at the Shell station in Slade. Last time I checked the Shell station is open until midnight EST. If I remember correctly, they are $5 for a 3-day pass. You also can purchase maps there as well. You may also be able to call the Stanton District Office (of the Daniel Boone National Forest) for information and maps at (606) 663-2852 .
WEATHER FORECAST:
http://www.weather.com/outlook/health/airquality/tenday/USKY1339?locid=USKY1339&from=search_10dayFYI Link to 2007 trip: Here's a link to the 2007 trip:
http://www.thebackpacker.com/trips/trip/1187.php