Our First Trailer Camping Trip!
Introduction:
We’ve always been drawn to the idea of trailer camping, but the idea of towing a trailer was a whole new challenge. When we decided to embark on our first-ever trailer camping trip, we had no idea just how much beauty and adventure awaited us. Our destination: Bridgeport, California, where we stayed at the serene Paradise Shores Campground and explored the surrounding natural wonders. Along the way, we discovered hidden gems like the Travertine Hot Springs, the eerie Bodie Ghost Town, spontaneous biking near Mono Lake, and had the perfect opportunities for night-time photography. Here’s the story of our unforgettable journey, complete with plenty of pictures to take you along!
Towing Our First Trailer: A Learning Experience
Before we even reached Bridgeport, we had to learn the ropes of towing. For first-timers, towing a trailer is a completely different experience than driving with a car or SUV alone. It was nerve-wracking at first, but by the time we hit the road, we were feeling more confident.
We took it slow, making sure to check the weight distribution, tire pressure, and mirrors before hitting the highway. Thankfully, the drive to Bridgeport wasn’t too far, and we were able to navigate the mountain passes with little trouble. The whole process—setting up camp, backing the trailer into the site—was a new adventure, and we learned a lot along the way. There was a lot of trial and error, but as the days passed, we started to feel right at home in our little mobile home.
Arriving at Paradise Shores Campground: A Lakeside Paradise
Our home for the next few days was the Paradise Shores Campground, nestled along the edge of Bridgeport Reservoir. This site was perfect for a family getaway, offering a mix of nature, peaceful views, and a variety of outdoor activities.
The lake itself was crystal clear, surrounded by rugged mountains, and the sunsets were nothing short of breathtaking. The campground was well-equipped, with amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and walking trails nearby. We took advantage of the beautiful weather and spent our evenings cooking dinner by the campfire, gazing at the stars, and enjoying the tranquility of the lake.
Soaking in the Travertine Hot Springs: A Natural Oasis
A short drive from our campsite led us to one of our favorite discoveries of the trip: the Travertine Hot Springs, just outside of Bridgeport. These natural hot springs are tucked away in the Eastern Sierra, offering an intimate and relaxing soak in several hot pools.
The pools are surrounded by stunning scenery, including panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. We had a few quiet hours soaking in the warm waters, watching the steam rise against the crisp mountain air. The best part? It’s free to visit!
Exploring Bodie Ghost Town: Stepping Back in Time
Our next stop was a visit to the Bodie State Historic Park, an old mining town that was once a thriving community in the late 1800s. Today, Bodie stands as a well-preserved ghost town, frozen in time, and walking through the town felt like stepping back into history.
The abandoned buildings, rusty mining equipment, and weathered storefronts paint a haunting picture of the past. We spent hours wandering the ghost town, reading plaques about the miners’ lives, and imagining what it must have been like when the town was in full swing. The whole experience felt like a living museum, and we couldn’t help but wonder what stories the town had to tell.
Spontaneous Biking Near Mono Lake: Unexpected Adventure
On a whim, we decided to take a spontaneous bike ride near Mono Lake. Located just a short drive from Bridgeport, Mono Lake is a saline soda lake known for its striking tufa formations and otherworldly landscape.
We biked along the backroads of the lake, taking in the breathtaking views. It wasn’t planned, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. The quiet serenity of the area, combined with the oddity of the landscape, made for an unforgettable experience.
Nighttime Photography: Capturing the Magic of the Sierra Nevada
One of the things I was most excited about was the opportunity to capture some nighttime sky photography. With minimal light pollution, Bridgeport and its surrounding areas are perfect for stargazing and photographing the night sky.
Although I’m still learning, I took the opportunity to practice capturing long-exposure shots of the stars, the Milky Way, and the occasional shooting star. The mountains and reservoir made for a beautiful backdrop, and I’m excited to continue improving my skills in night photography. The experience was a perfect reminder of the importance of taking time to appreciate the night sky, even if I didn’t capture a "stunning" shot—just being under the vast night sky was enough.
Final Thoughts: Our First Trailer Camping Trip
Our first trailer camping trip was everything we hoped it would be and more. From towing the trailer for the first time to exploring hidden gems like the Travertine Hot Springs and Bodie Ghost Town, this trip gave us so many memories to cherish. We learned a lot along the way—about the trailer, about each other, and about the beauty of slowing down to appreciate the world around us.
I can’t wait for our next adventure. If you’re considering trailer camping, my advice is to take it slow, be patient with the learning curve, and let the journey unfold. You never know what unexpected beauty you’ll find along the way.