RV TRIP WITH A BIRDING THEME

April 16(in)-April 20(out), 2018

Area: Rodeo, NM (East side of Chiricahua Mountains)

Stay: Rusty’s RV Ranch in Rodeo, NM

Wagon-masters John & Peggy Smith

Sidekicks: Larry & Nancy Bern

 Description:

This is a repeat of our April 2016 Trip to the area around Portal, AZ—one of the best birding spots in SE AZ. Portal is very close to Rodeo, NM where the RV Park is located. There are a number of rare birds down there that are pretty much absent from the rest of the USA. Serious birders from all over the world come to this little corner of AZ to see these rarities. To increase our odds for good sightings, the trip is timed for peak birding season.

 This outing is aimed at those who are “birders” or think they would like to know more about this interesting pastime. There will be experienced birders on the trip to help beginners find and ID birds. We will also go to the George Walker house in the ghost town of Paradise and possibly drive up to Rustler Park and over the mountains down to Pinery Campground. From there it is a short hop to the Chiricahua National Monument. The scenery in the entire area is magnificent. Binoculars and cameras are a must! It is a nature photographer’s dream.

 There is only one “restaurant” in the area, so we will plan on a mix of potlucks and “do it yourself” meals. The campground is well maintained and is very spacious. While they take other payment options, we find that we do best with a group rate and single payment from the Club. More details on that later.

 Pets will be allowed to come on the trip, but cannot go on the various bird walks as they could interfere with the spotting of birds. But there are also hiking and photography opportunities for those interested, and pets can go along on these walks.