Spokane, WA to Portland, OR to Oceanside, CA and return route yet to decide.

[Ray Hancock]

My wife and I are planning to drive our 1977 Dodge Dreamer 23' Class C (USRV Dreamer), South to visit our son & family in Southern CA. One planned stop in Portland to visit my cousin on the way. We'll head down the coast and see what we can see mostly on the 101. We're planning 5 days down, 5 days visit and the return trip is open (I'll send my wife home via Alaska Airlines to take care of her horses). The trip will start on July 20th and I'll probably leave Oceanside, CA  heading north on about August 1st.

On my trip home I'm planning to take a couple of weeks and explore the American Deserts (during the hottest time of the year). I'm interested in mining, gems, prospecting, ghost towns, abandoned sites to explore (good thing I worked outside most of my life). I may even write up a story about it to share (depending on motivation). I'm retired and have time to do this, just me and my dog. I'm also considering towing a 1990 Nissan pickup, input on that would be appreciated as well.

On the trip I hope to visit side road, primitive, VFW's, Eagles, State Parks, National Parks for overnight parking, looking for recomendations on that. We have never done this before. We have traveled the major routes down and back in the past driving the hot rod and staying in motels. This time I'd like to get off the main routes and see some country and spend as many nights as possible in some nice remote, scenic, quiet areas. Probably along the 395, 95, 93, 15 and backroads. What I hear from you will determine which route. Also let me know where you're planning to be and I'll try to stop and say hi.

Simply looking for some input, tell me what your experiences have been and what I can do to best enjoy my drive. Share with me those exciting places you have visited that I may visit as well.

Thanks

Ray & LeeAnn

USRV Dreamer

[Russell E Johnson]

As for towing your 1990 nissan pickup, if it has an automatic and is 2 wheel drive you have to disconnect the drive shaft, 4 wheel drive you need to put it on a trailer.  If it is a manual, just put tranny in neutral and motor to your hearts content.  But check the owners manual for towing advice, it is the final authority.