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Dogs and 4WDs (2 Questions)

16 years ago

I have never camped in the U.S. and will probably use cabins rather than tents when I start. IÂm retiring in a 2 years time and want to travel through the U.S. visiting National Parks, etc. I have a large dog (well behaved) who will travel with me (canÂt afford to kennel her during long trips, nor would I want to). I understand that the National Parks discourage folks bringing dogs and only allow them on leashes in places where cars can go, and I understand the reasoning.

Does anyone have experience of traveling with dogs and know if the cabins (basic not luxury) will "accommodate" them? I always travel with her collapsible metal crate, so, if I have to leave her inside for a few hours I can crate her, if necessary.

Question 2 - IÂm just about to buy a new vehicle with my nature travels in mind. IÂm told that in most National Parks a 2WD will suffice as most roads are paved. As I may not always be in the Parks, would I be best advised to invest in a 4WD vehicle? IÂd be interested to know whether you seasoned campers drive 2WD or 4WD vehicles.

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Comments (10)

jen_
16 years ago
I love my 4WD but you would probably be fine without if you stick to paved roads. If you want to get off the beaten path and go down some logging roads go for the 4WD.

It will take some research but you could find some places that have cabins and allow dogs. Not too many though. Some state parks do but not many in cabins. What about some sort of small trailer that you can pull? You'd get the best of both worlds.
ellsasha
Original Author
16 years ago
Jen, thanks for the trailer suggestion, that may be a solution. Like your dog (from Cabin post) mine too, is a rescue who I've had for 2 years. She was an enormous challenge, (I foster for an animal protection group), and she had been passed around from owner to owner because of her "disorderly" conduct. It took 9 months to train her and establish trust, now we are partners for life, so, I'm carefully structuring my retirement plans to include her. I may well end up getting a 4WD just in case I find some of the gravel roads more difficult than expected, although I would like to avoid the higher gas consumption, insurance, and possibly higher maintenance costs associated with a 4WD. I'm still deciding...
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bajasouthbound
16 years ago
At Ray's Hacienda de la Habana, in Mulege, Baja California Sur, dogs are welcome.

Here is a link that might be useful: Ray's Hacienda de la Habana
tplife
16 years ago
Current technology has cut the difference in mileage between 2 and 4-wheel drive vehicles considerably. There are a lot of good systems out there, we bought a uber-low mileage BMW X3 which has X-drive, the state-of-the-art 4X that can transfer 100% of the power to one wheel if needed. And you don't need to be off-roading to appreciate all-wheel drive. I'd recommend a subscription to Consumer Reports for the April 2008 issue or the "big book" to help you get a reliable vehicle at Net invoice/Net rebates/Net dealer holdback pricing. Happy travels! National forests are National parks without the crowds, rules and PC policies.
ron256
16 years ago
A new 4WD will come with a dog don't they? They talk less then a wife and eat cheaper! So take the dog.
But give the State(s) and National park services a call on the dog and availably. Probably on the web to.
tplife
16 years ago
LMAO! I believe if you're as careful about choosing a wife as you are a dog, you wouldn't need a dog. I have a cat. :-)
ron256
16 years ago
I have a cat. :-)
========================
That explains a lot.
tplife
16 years ago
I have a cat. :-)
========================
That explains a lot.

It sure does - About how good I am at choosing a wife!
:-) LMAO!
ron256
16 years ago
About how good I am at choosing a wife!

A WIFE? Ho, your state must permit same sex marriages.
Cat owner, or was your name LAMO?
tplife
16 years ago
Some people just don't get it.

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb296/firetender69/12thABATERALLY033-3.jpg

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