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Topic: Need advice for first trip out to Big Bear, CA with possible snow (Read 11 times) previous topic - next topic
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Need advice for first trip out to Big Bear, CA with possible snow
Yahoo Message Number: 99139
Hi,
 We are the proud new owners of a 1983 Lazy Daze 22¹ rear lounge motor home that we purchased a few weeks ago.  I¹ve gone over the RV making several small repairs and we have 6 new tires and we¹re ready for camping!  I booked a reservation at Serrano campground in Big Bear, CA for next weekend.  We¹re familiar with Serrano having camped there 2 summers ago.  However, last trip we were tent camping and drove up in our SUV.
 This time we¹ll be in the RV and they are predicting light snow this week and certainly through next weekend.  Here are my questions for anyone who has camped Big Bear in inclement weather (and sub-freezing) conditions:

1. Will we need snow chains for going up/down the mountain?  When do we put  them on or take them off?  
2. Should we hook up to external water?  How do we keep the faucet and hose  from freezing?  Should we just fill the internal tank and not stay connected  to external water?  
3. We¹re contemplating taking our 20 lb. dog up with us.  Can anyone who
 travels with pets give us some tips on doing so successfully?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

David & Lisa Poole

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Re: Need advice for first trip out to Big Bear, CA with possible sno
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 99150
"I booked a reservation at Serrano campground in Big Bear, CA for next weekend.
1. Will we need snow chains for going up/down the mountain? When do we  put them on or take them off?
2. Should we hook up to external water? How do we keep the faucet and  hose  from freezing? Should we just fill the internal tank and not  stay connected to external water?
3. We¹re contemplating taking our 20 lb. dog up with us. Can anyone
 who travels with pets give us some tips on doing so successfully?

David & Lisa
 I would call ahead and see if the campground will be plowed. Big Bear is getting a lot of snow right now. Conditions should be very icy by the weekend.
When the conditions are bad, the Highway Patrol sets up checkpoints where they will require chains. They will turn you back if you do not have chains.
IMO, if chains are required, I'm heading toward a warmer climate.
The desert is a short distance away and is the preferred winter camping choice unless skiing is on the 'to do' list.

Fill your water tank and use it. The campground water supply will likely be turned off due to freezing conditions. Your holding tanks may freeze but they will thaw out on the drive down the mountain.

We do not have a dog so someone else can answer the dog question.

Have fun! Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Need advice for first trip out to Big Bear, CA with possible sno
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 99152
Quote
1. Will we need snow chains for going up/down the mountain?  When do
we put

Quote
them on or take them off?
You will need chains WITH you. If the CHP or Sheriff requires you install them, that is when you do so. If your new tires are all-season or M+S, you will have more traction and ground clearance than most 4X4 vehicles in snow, but if the wheels spin - you have no limited-slip, so you will be stuck. Be aware too that the 4bbl carb will not work as well at altitude or in the cold as fuel injection systems you may be used to. It is easy to flood trying to start, and in exteme conditions you may have to pull the doghouse to manually open the choke valve.

Quote
2. Should we hook up to external water?  How do we keep the faucet
and hose
 
Quote
from freezing?  Should we just fill the internal tank and not stay connected to external water?
Yes, the latter.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
 
Re: Need advice for first trip out to Big Bear, CA with possible sno
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 99160
>

I have a125lb Doberman, a 56lb Corgi (dogs) and a 14lb cat... They travel with us even in cold weather... No problems:))

Have fun!

Ellen

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