Camping

Our family went camping just up on the rim near Wood's Canyon Lake. It was so fun to relax and enjoy each other's company.

We left to go camping on Sunday. Before we set up our campsite, we went to an awesome scenic spot that overlooks the valley below. It was so beautiful spot to snap some photos. After we set up camp, we toured Wood's Canyon Lake and went for a little nature hike. The kids had a great time exploring the rocks surrounding the lake. At the end of our hike we learned that there is a bald eagle nesting area nearby. We talked to the Park Rangers about it for awhile, and learned a little more about the eagles in the area. The hike to see the eagles was steep and we didn't bring water with us, so we decided against it. We had a campfire that evening and roasted marshmallows or should I say burnt our marshmallows. The kids love to put them in the fire and let them burn. I don't think half the marshmallows ever get eaten.

On Monday, we spent the morning taking pictures of the animals surrounding our campsite. There were many chipmunks, a squirrel, and too many ravens. It was fun following the animals to get the perfect shot. There was a big storm that came after lunch. It poured and hailed for a good hour. We huddled under a canopy, but the campsite was starting to flood and we were trying not to get muddy. We decided to go for a drive and see the other lakes in the area. It was fun to take a picture of Woods Canyon Lake while raining. When we arrived at Willow Springs Lake, we noticed that it was just barely sprinkling. We went and toured the lake and wondered why we didn't come earlier and avoid the mess at the campsite.

On Tuesday, we went on a fun hike. The trail was marked with blue diamonds and the younger kids lead the hike by following the diamonds. It was so fun to hike with the family. Later the afternoon, we returned to Willow Springs lake in a different spot. The kids put their feet in the water and cooled off their feet off. We stopped by the Mogollon Visitor's Center and played in a meadow near the edge of the rim. The kids found some dandelions on the rim. It was so fun to listen to their wishes before they blew the petals, especially Angela. We had a great time camping!