For the 4th of July, we headed out to our favorite camping spot in California, San Mateo Campground. We were a little concerned we wouldn't be able to go, as there was a fire just on the edge of the campground just days before. Fortunately, and thankfully, the amazing California Firefighters were able to get it under control before our arrival.
Ray + Etta - Ready to go!
(It was early in the day and over 100F already.)
On this Trip with TNT: Hazel & Honey.
Once again, Hazel is obliviously happy.
Honey is tucked in and ready to go too!
We know the AZ to CA drive (and back) very well....
We were a little concerned about the air quality in CA, due to the many fires.
This view made us a little more concerned as we entered CA.
Hazel said to just chill - it will be fine.
She was right!
The smoke cleared long before our destination
We were excited to get set-up and enjoy that fresh CA air,
and beautiful temperate weather.
We bought Hazey and Honey camping chairs.
They seemed really appreciative of them.
Well, that was until a pup their size walked by and Honey went zooming off to greet him. She never does that! Fortunately, we were right there and the pup was friendly. We did learn to keep a tether on her now, just in case.
Plotting to run!
Who are we kidding, the dogs run the show.
One of our all-time favorite Beaches, T-Street in San Clemente is just down the road from this campground. The main reason we chose it. We were able to set-up, relax, and still get to the beach before sunset. Sunset on T-street is pure magic.
Dogs loved it too.
My happy place - So Cal Beaches....
Yes, we both miss them a lot.
It was so funny our dogs were locked in a staring contest with these two cuties. Eventually, we they were all able to sniff and greet. There was much joy.
Magical evening.
bonus: the temps!
A few pics around the campground.
Dog socialization. Everyone staying there had dogs and was so friendly. The owner of this little cutie has been coming to this campground for 30 years!
The bathrooms are so/so. They have warm water, but not up to my hygiene standards.
Our site
random hazel pics
This journey also included a visit to my Mom's place. She has been holding on to a few of my paintings for about 5 years. :/ She took them for safe keeping when we moved to Hong Kong, so it was about time we picked them up and freed some space for her.
California Freeways are always interesting.
She lives about 2-2.5 hours away from San Clemente.
However, the drive does take us through our home town area, which means favorite food spots!
One place we always go when we head out that way is called T.O. Meatlocker.
It is so good! Even our pickiest, doesn't like meat very much kids loves this place!
It looks like a little hole in the wall as you drive by, but trust me - this place should not be passed by!
My Mom lives about 20 mins from there, so we were able to bring lunch to her and her husband.
They have been remodeling their backyard and it was so lovely!
If you look closely you can see me sitting with my Mom.
The dogs love to visit Grandparents!
It was awesome!
The next day was the fourth and we enjoyed a low key time with the pups at our site.
We went for a short hike.
Chilled and Todd grill-mastered us up yummy eats!
Honey claimed Dad's chair for a bit.
It was actually nice to be away from the hoopla this once.
The next day we stopped at Pedro's Tacos for Breakfast Burritos.
Seriously, if you are ever in San Clemente, CA - You MUST get these!
We usually get them and the head to T-Street and eat them while enjoying the view.
Ok, so there is a pier there, but apparently dogs aren't allowed on the pier. OOOPS.
Just because Todd is cute with the pups.
...and because reality calls we were off and back to the desert!
ScoreCard:
Wifi: Yes
Connections: Partial (water/electric)
Bathroom/Shower: Both, questionable, but the water is warm. You do have to purchase tokens.
Trash: collected at dumpsters throughout campground.
Location: On the rolling hills with 1 mile hiking path to the beach. It feels like camping!
Staff: friendly
Pets: Welcome (limit 2)
Spots: Back-in
RV/Tent: RV and tent (group options too)
