Road Trip to Oregon - Mono Lake (Day 1)
Come along with us on our road trip to Oregon, starting with our first stop at the stunning Mono Lake. In this blog, we'll tell you about the challenges we faced and the moments we triumphed, and you'll get to see the breathtaking view from our campsite. Of course, we'll also explore the unique Tufa formations of Mono Lake.
A little about Mono Lake
Mono Lake, situated in the beautiful Mono Basin of California, is not just a stunning natural wonder, but it's also super important for migratory birds. The lake has these special geological formations called tufa towers, which are made by spring water rich in calcium. These towers make the place one-of-a-kind and unlike anywhere else. The water in the lake is alkaline, and that's great for lots of bird species, so it's like a paradise for birdwatchers and people who love nature.
Mono Lake is also known for its spooky beauty and peaceful surroundings, which create an unforgettable experience for visitors who love being in nature. Even though there are some challenges to preserving the lake, you can still explore the tufa towers, go on scenic hikes, and enjoy boating on its calm waters.
Our Experience
The Search for the Perfect Dispersed Campsite
PSA
When you're getting ready for your a dispersed camping stay, it's really important to do research and plan in advance. Think about things like where you want to camp, what facilities are available (if any), and how crowded it might be. It's a good idea to read reviews and ask other travelers for info about the campsites to make sure they're good and suitable for you.
Sometimes, your first choice might be unavailable, so it's good to stay open to other options. And when you're camping, be sure to follow the local rules and remember to leave the place as you found it, so it stays beautiful for others too.
Overcoming Challenges
No matter how much you plan, finding the right campsite can be tricky, but don't give up! We initially chose a spot that turned out to be hard to get to and not very comfortable - the ground was too sandy and uneven, not to mention the lack of overall space we could use for camping. The view wasn't even that great. So, we looked at the map and found a potentially better spot at a higher elevation.
When we got there, the best spot was already taken, but we kept exploring on foot. Eventually, we discovered a hidden gem—a secluded spot with an amazing panoramic view of Mono Lake. It was perfect! The feeling of finding the right spot after a long day of searching is unbeatable. Being flexible and open to exploring new places can lead to unexpected camping successes. Embrace the journey, turn challenges into adventures, and you might just find your own special camping paradise!
The Panoramic View from our Spot
Our campsite near Mono Lake was really special with a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the lake and its beautiful surroundings. Since we're car campers, we set up our sleeping platform quickly, and then we got to enjoy the amazing view with the trunk of our car open. We also took some photos of a spectacular sunset over the mountains.
Click on any photo below to see it in full size
Exploring the South Tufa of Mono Lake
The South Tufa of Mono Lake is just amazing! You'll see breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains around it, and it'll leave you feeling in awe. The whole experience is so special, and you'll be captivated by the natural beauty of this unique place. Exploring the tufa formations with the peace and quiet of Mono Lake was such a memorable experience.
Click on any photo below to see it in full size
Looking Forward to Day 2 in Oregon
After completing Day 1 of our road trip to Oregon, we were just blown away by the beauty of Mono Lake. It was an adventure with its ups and downs, from searching for the perfect campsite to finally enjoying the breathtaking panoramic view from where we settled in. This experience is something we'll always treasure and remember fondly.
In the late morning, we finished up our time at Mono Lake and started our journey to Crater Lake, Oregon. It was going to be a long drive, around 8 hours, but we were super excited about what Day 2 of our road trip had in store for us. Keep an eye out for our Day 2 episode, coming up next week!