Date:         Wed, 28 Aug 2002 11:17:31 EDT
Reply-To:     Randrhulbert@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Rachelle Hulbert <Randrhulbert@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Montana trip-thank you to all
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

Hello again,
We just got back from our trip from Lakeport, CA to Missoula MT in our 1982
Vanagon Westfalia.
 Thank you for packing lists, directions and encouragement.
 The van ran great and we were a little worried because we had only owned it
for two weeks and it had a slight oil leak.
The trip took 22 hours.  The way we went was:  From I-5 at Redding we took
295 N.  Then 399 North at the CA , OR border.  Then HWY 20 to 95 N at Ontario
.  Then 13 North ( the cut-off) and 12 on in to Missoula.
I would highly recommend the route.  It was the most direct and the highways
were not too curvy.  The scenery was amazing.  We followed the Salmon River
Through Idaho and it was breathtaking.
If you are ever on Hwy 12 before Lucille going North in Idaho, you have to
stop at an RV Park right on the Salmon River.  It's called Riverfront
Gardens.  I am not into RV parks at all, but this one is an exception.
You can drive right on to their manicured lawns and pick your own site.  You
don't have to check in, they will find you.  Most sites were untaken that
were feet from the hill that sloped down to the rushing Salmon River.
The bathroom/shower is your own private room and it feels like you're at
home.  Beautiful painting on the wall.  Burgundy rugs.  Blowdryer.  Body wash
provided.
This place is all about going the extra mile to create comfort for their
guests.
The gardens on the property are extensive with Chinese goldfish ponds and
bridges and plants adorning the campsites.
The owners have a beautiful home that looks like something out of Sunset and
they have a charming gift shop in one of the rooms of their home.  Alot of
love and personal feel here.  And it's only 22 dollars a night for full hook
up.  Our VW looked right at home here.  And campers are welcome also.
In closing I'd like to share my husband's humorous remark to other RV owners
we met along the way:"Someday we'll grow up to be an RV"
Although I never want one!  VW's are much more fun, practical and it only
took us $75. to get to Montana(one way)!
Love and friendship to all of our fellow Vdubbers.  Rachelle