Looks like I will camping at least one weekend during November at TRF in a motor home. any tips on RVs at TRF would be greatly appreciated. I have been going to TRF for many years, but this is my first to camp.
I don't have an RV, but as a tent camper....please use a quiet generator or if possible turn it off in the late hours of the night so we can sleep. :)
1. Choose your ground wisely where you park your castle on wheels
1a ( ensure your escape route back to the road is kept open and not blocked )
2. ensure your white water tank is full before you pull in TRF
make sure you drained your grey and black water prior to arrival (no place to dump)
3. bring extra water
4. bring a generater
5. better to camp with a group or clan than doing it on your own
once the prep work of RV is done prior and (the RV) you are in place and level
then the rest is fun
Be aware that some areas are "unofficially" claimed by the established clans/groups. Usually anything between rows 1 and 7 get claimed quickly Thursday afternoon.
That still leaves alot of area, but most of it is not suitable for RV/travel trailers (too sloped). Alonf the paved road is usually good, but avoid the River of Death that runs from the road by row 8 to the backside around row 4. During a good rain storm, the water flows deep and fast.
Avoid row 11, where the fire circle is located.
The wooded area beyond the gravel road across from row 1 has some good spots, some with tree cover.
All good points. Thanks guys. I will try to find a level, dry spot that wont bother anyone with my generator running at night.
Look forward to seeing some of you all out there.
R/F Meet & Greet... from just before the parade until a bit after... The Prince Of Wales pub.
I'll try to make that.
It's a bit of a long walk from the shop tho.
EASILY a good 10-15 yards...
Yeah but you gotta convince your evil boss to let you go. Maybe Savol can escort you. :)
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on July 17, 2011, 12:12:01 PM
R/F Meet & Greet... from just before the parade until a bit after... The Prince Of Wales pub.
I will be there!!!! Cant wait to meet you guys! Is this every weekend or just specific ones?
it is every week end right across the way from ravics shop.
did I Mention bring extra water!!!!! (again)
Prince of Wales pub is to the left inside the gate, just past the King's Feast Hall.
Parade passes by the POW about 12:10ish so if you are there right at noon, you should meet some of the people from here.
Quote from: ravic on July 19, 2011, 05:26:59 PM
Prince of Wales pub is to the left inside the gate, just past the King's Feast Hall.
Parade passes by the POW about 12:10ish so if you are there right at noon, you should meet some of the people from here.
Hang around for a bit after the parade ... on some days (especially All Hallows weekend) we do group pictures!
Here's a layout of the campgrounds, courtesy of our friend, Kilted Privateer...
(http://kiltedcowboy.com/net-pics/trf_camp.jpg)
Gives you an idea where the major clans put down roots... ;)
this is an awesome map. i am not sure where we camped last year but it was pretty decent. where is the bonfire? i want to make sure i dont pick a place super close to it!
ok, after pulling up google map and seeing more of everything i think that i am going to try and camp on the other side of McLotofus. That way we can enjoy the fun of the bonfire when we want but not be too too close.
Great map. This will help me plan a bit better before driving out and spending all day Friday trying to figure out where I want to go.
And I am not sure, but am I supposed to bring extra water? :D
Thanks again everyone.
There is no water in the camps. Bring whatever you think will be needing.
Quote from: April Marie on July 20, 2011, 10:45:26 AM
ok, after pulling up google map and seeing more of everything i think that i am going to try and camp on the other side of McLotofus. That way we can enjoy the fun of the bonfire when we want but not be too too close.
April, I'm not sure how often you've camped at TRF, but just be aware that all of that area is usually claimed by various clans, and while the grounds are supposed to be open to first come/first serve, there are some folks who can actually be pretty rude if they think you're trying to push your way into what they think of as "their territory"... It's not nice, and it causes much more drama than anyone needs out there, but it does happen. Not usually so much with the clans who post here on R/F, but there are a whole lot of others out there who have nothing to do with the forums here, and they can get a bit... testy... if you set up inside their "compound". If you want to camp closer in, you might look around here and see if there is a group to camp with... it will give you extra security, as well.
There are some really awesome camping threads here in the TX forums, with some of the best advice you'll ever find, and you might really enjoy some of the stuff posted there... ;)
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 20, 2011, 04:12:29 PM
Quote from: April Marie on July 20, 2011, 10:45:26 AM
ok, after pulling up google map and seeing more of everything i think that i am going to try and camp on the other side of McLotofus. That way we can enjoy the fun of the bonfire when we want but not be too too close.
April, I'm not sure how often you've camped at TRF, but just be aware that all of that area is usually claimed by various clans, and while the grounds are supposed to be open to first come/first serve, there are some folks who can actually be pretty rude if they think you're trying to push your way into what they think of as "their territory"... It's not nice, and it causes much more drama than anyone needs out there, but it does happen. Not usually so much with the clans who post here on R/F, but there are a whole lot of others out there who have nothing to do with the forums here, and they can get a bit... testy... if you set up inside their "compound". If you want to camp closer in, you might look around here and see if there is a group to camp with... it will give you extra security, as well.
There are some really awesome camping threads here in the TX forums, with some of the best advice you'll ever find, and you might really enjoy some of the stuff posted there... ;)
Thank you so much Rani for that information. Yeah I was just looking at the map that was posted on here and didnt really think about others around. I guess I will just have to feel it out. I am planning on going Friday and setting up, most likely by myself, and will hopefully be able to find something that isnt already "claimed".
thank you again!
Well, I'm not sure who will be around for 1001 Dreams, but McLot is usually pretty welcoming, if you're sure you want to be in that area... so you might talk to Bonny Pearl about camping with them that weekend. You'd be in a great group, and they usually have room to squeeze in another tent. Depends on how many will be in your party. McLot is always a great party to begin with, though! It's a bit quieter over where I camp, and I will only be there for All Hallows, but by then you'll probably have something all lined up.
Rani we camp with Mclotofus, I use ear plug and have no problems great group
I haven't had to use ear plugs once, and I kind of appreciate being able to sleep without them. :D
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 20, 2011, 08:29:45 PM
I haven't had to use ear plugs once, and I kind of appreciate being able to sleep without them. :D
Rani
It's my Generator I use the ear plugs, it is righ outside my window, the people noise or music does not bother me
*H-O-N-D-A* ;)
Quote from: April Marie on July 20, 2011, 10:45:26 AM
ok, after pulling up google map and seeing more of everything i think that i am going to try and camp on the other side of McLotofus. That way we can enjoy the fun of the bonfire when we want but not be too too close.
Hi April,
On the Big 3 weekends McLot has been known to fill rows 7/8-10, starting from the gulley by the road, then about 80-100ft deep (think large wall comprised of travel trailers & vehicles, in box formation, tents inside). Safe Haven fills in about as deep as we do on rows 6/7. The clans behind us (looking from the road) are clans like Valhalla (and a couple other names that I am blanking out on righ now), but they are usually there every weekend. The established clans also make a point of getting people there early to land grab. So if you see folks setting up and they have a
crap-load of stuff, they are a large clan lol. Most everyone will be more than happy to let you know who is where though. :)
Bonny, I think April might be looking for a group to camp with... at least until she figures out the lay of the land. Do you think she might squat with McLot while she finds her way around? If she wants to, anyway...
(I guess I need to stop making plans for other people without asking them first, huh?) ::)
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 21, 2011, 04:20:48 PM
Bonny, I think April might be looking for a group to camp with... at least until she figures out the lay of the land. Do you think she might squat with McLot while she finds her way around? If she wants to, anyway...
(I guess I need to stop making plans for other people without asking them first, huh?) ::)
You're in Momma Hen mode, looking after all the new chicks... ;) :D
Lol thank u Rani. I'm not sure if anyone would like us to though cause there will be about 10 of us and I plan on setting up a little party to celebrate my 30th. I'll guess I'll just go Friday and feel out the lay of the land. I just wanted to be closer to a couple of T/R peeps so that I can meet u guys!
Quote from: dbaldock on July 21, 2011, 04:43:08 PM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 21, 2011, 04:20:48 PM
Bonny, I think April might be looking for a group to camp with... at least until she figures out the lay of the land. Do you think she might squat with McLot while she finds her way around? If she wants to, anyway...
(I guess I need to stop making plans for other people without asking them first, huh?) ::)
You're in Momma Hen mode, looking after all the new chicks... ;) :D
Well, maybe not ALL of them... :P :D
Quote from: April Marie on July 21, 2011, 05:09:56 PM
Lol thank u Rani. I'm not sure if anyone would like us to though cause there will be about 10 of us and I plan on setting up a little party to celebrate my 30th. I'll guess I'll just go Friday and feel out the lay of the land. I just wanted to be closer to a couple of T/R peeps so that I can meet u guys!
That's definitely going to be a consideration for any clan or group you camp with, then. You're probably right about finding a spot of your own... just try to be careful about where you choose, because seriously, some groups are way more territorial than others. There are also places where thievery can be an issue, as well. Over the next couple of months you should be able to figure out some decent areas, though, just by reading the camping threads. Good luck! You'll have to swing by all the R/F camps and say hi, also!
April, if you look at the map McShuggenah (-2) only camps Halloween weekend so that area should be open for the weekend that you're going. It's a big open area with no trees though so it can get hotter than some of the other spots but it's also a bit higher and doesn't hold the water that the areas around it do.
Camp SuperMegaAwesomeSauce is at 11.5 x B.5 under the 2 trees. Its's usually quiet back in there and plenty available spaces from the road back to the treeline.
Will if any small groups dont mind my generator, i would be willing to share power with anyone who needs it during the weekend of the 11th of Nov.
Plus my RV does provide some shade. :-)
Quote from: LadyJessica on July 21, 2011, 07:09:51 PM
April, if you look at the map McShuggenah (-2) only camps Halloween weekend so that area should be open for the weekend that you're going. It's a big open area with no trees though so it can get hotter than some of the other spots but it's also a bit higher and doesn't hold the water that the areas around it do.
It's nice & "quiet" down at that end... if you want to call the crossroad party, "quiet".
*PR being right across the road from McShuggenah*
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 21, 2011, 05:51:38 PM
Quote from: dbaldock on July 21, 2011, 04:43:08 PM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on July 21, 2011, 04:20:48 PM
Bonny, I think April might be looking for a group to camp with... at least until she figures out the lay of the land. Do you think she might squat with McLot while she finds her way around? If she wants to, anyway...
(I guess I need to stop making plans for other people without asking them first, huh?) ::)
You're in Momma Hen mode, looking after all the new chicks... ;) :D
Well, maybe not ALL of them... :P :D
Quote from: April Marie on July 21, 2011, 05:09:56 PM
Lol thank u Rani. I'm not sure if anyone would like us to though cause there will be about 10 of us and I plan on setting up a little party to celebrate my 30th. I'll guess I'll just go Friday and feel out the lay of the land. I just wanted to be closer to a couple of T/R peeps so that I can meet u guys!
That's definitely going to be a consideration for any clan or group you camp with, then. You're probably right about finding a spot of your own... just try to be careful about where you choose, because seriously, some groups are way more territorial than others. There are also places where thievery can be an issue, as well. Over the next couple of months you should be able to figure out some decent areas, though, just by reading the camping threads. Good luck! You'll have to swing by all the R/F camps and say hi, also!
I will and thank you so much for all of the information. I deal with jackasses all day every day so I should be able to handle them but I dont want to step on toes if I can help it! I am also planning to make a T/R flag to fly in my camp, with DeadBishop's approval of course, so that everyone can recognize the forum logo and hopefully find their way there Saturday to help me celebrate my birthday!
Quote from: April Marie on July 22, 2011, 11:40:35 AM
I will and thank you so much for all of the information. I deal with jackasses all day every day so I should be able to handle them but I dont want to step on toes if I can help it! I am also planning to make a T/R flag to fly in my camp, with DeadBishop's approval of course, so that everyone can recognize the forum logo and hopefully find their way there Saturday to help me celebrate my birthday!
*Nudge Nudge* I would go with R/F... It might be more recognizable (o:
I still have to do some work on that map with lady Jessica's new sat view. Hopefully I'll have time to do that this weekend. The images on the site should auto update when I make the changes.
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on July 22, 2011, 01:05:23 PM
Quote from: April Marie on July 22, 2011, 11:40:35 AM
I will and thank you so much for all of the information. I deal with jackasses all day every day so I should be able to handle them but I dont want to step on toes if I can help it! I am also planning to make a T/R flag to fly in my camp, with DeadBishop's approval of course, so that everyone can recognize the forum logo and hopefully find their way there Saturday to help me celebrate my birthday!
*Nudge Nudge* I would go with R/F... It might be more recognizable (o:
Thank you!
We took an RV once. WATER! You can't bring enough. We had 40 gallons for showers and ran out on day one! Very irritating. Also, if you're a newbie to RV's, find out how to turn on the gas water heater BEFORE you leave the rental place.
Quote from: BobSmith on July 28, 2011, 07:53:59 AM
We took an RV once. WATER! You can't bring enough. We had 40 gallons for showers and ran out on day one! Very irritating. Also, if you're a newbie to RV's, find out how to turn on the gas water heater BEFORE you leave the rental place.
;D Did I say again Water?? 40 gallons in an RV is just enough to piss the ladies off,
Guys -> baby wipes, a bottle of water good to go, done
ladies 15 minute shower X2 and you tank is empty
Whether you're in a tent or an RV - You can't shower like you're still in your home sweet home. Unless of course you intend to bring hundreds of gallons of water with you.
Personally, I feel that much water uses up the space I need for the important things on a campout - like Rum, Shiner Black, Guinness, etc (o:
Camping takes on a whole new angle when you have a toddler and a pregnant wife. Suggestions?
Quote from: Breandan on July 28, 2011, 08:24:47 PM
Camping takes on a whole new angle when you have a toddler and a pregnant wife. Suggestions?
Take up drinking
The pregnant wife portion won't be too bad depending on how far along she is. The biggest issue for her may be how close a privvy is. In which case I suggest having one very close. Like, in the tent.
The toddler is another story. Ours was about 15 months when we brought her camping at faire for the first time. I can't remember if we brought her portable crib or if she slept with us. Either way, lots of water, use those crystal light flavors if yours is fussy about drinking water. You typical assortment of toddler gear and either a wagon or stroller. Something to keep the sun off of her.
I really can't think of any issues that we ran into. Back then she didn't sleep too well so we always had to keep an ear out for her which meant staying close to the tent at all times. Taking turns checking on her. That sort of thing. Now shes a rock when she goes out. And she puts herself to bed most of the time.
Not sure that this was helpful at all but long story short, it can be done (o:
And bring a whole LARGE package of the alcohol free, fragrance free baby wipes... the refill size.
Oh, and if you do bring your own porta-privy for the tent... make sure it has a locking lid. :o heheh
Fíonna is almost 16 months old, so she'll be 18 months by Opening. She's camped out there once before when she was WAY young, so environment doesn't worry me, I'm more concerned about keeping her from running off or getting under foot while at camp without leashing her. Not to mention keeping her entertained. Tiff is 13 1/2 weeks along, so she is JUST starting the second trimester. She'll be nearing the end of it by Opening, if that gives you any ideas. I am considering getting a giganto-tent and bringing futon mattresses for all of us :)
Quote from: Breandan on July 29, 2011, 02:20:57 AM
Fíonna is almost 16 months old, so she'll be 18 months by Opening. She's camped out there once before when she was WAY young, so environment doesn't worry me, I'm more concerned about keeping her from running off or getting under foot while at camp without leashing her.
Not being a parent, I don't know how practical this is but how about putting ankle bells on Fionna? You could get them at any belly dancer shop. This would allow you to hear her as she moves, keeping her from sneaking away.
Bear bells would work too but might be a bit much for a tiny lass.
Hee, hee, hee, hee, hee! Fionna just might give you a real experience, depending on how free she feels.
This old Grannie was, more than once in her toddler years, tethered to a pulley on a clothes line to keep me from visiting the neighbor's raccoon and various other non-domestics.
My son at 3 slipped out at a KOA with another little boy and was turning on all the unused water spigots, running just fast enough that I couldn't catch him and turn off the spigots before they got more turned on. At 5 he was running toward the end of a dock when I caught up with him, switch in hand. I watched as each my kids at about age 18 months climbed on the toilet, to the sink, and opened the medicine cabinet – only once - before I stopped them. As a test of the new plastic, child-proof aspirin bottles, I gave my son, aged 2, a bottle with 1 pill inside. He couldn't open it with his hands. I told him I really, really had a headache and needed that pill. He put it on the floor, lifted his foot with hard soled shoe, and smashed the bottle with one stomp, picked up the lone aspirin and handed it to me.
For a child of 18 months, you probably have 4 options: 1. watch her constantly; 2. confine her to an area (play pen, portable fencing, etc.); 3. tether her physically (leash, halter, etc.); or 4. let her roam around and trust that nothing will happen. For many people it works fine. Just depends on what you feel comfortable with and how resourceful Fionna is at getting into trouble.
Personally, I would use play pen except when she was within grabbing distance. Ever hear the phrase, hand or hair?
Thank goodness my grandkids are old enough where they reach for my arm, not for their safety, but to keep me from drifting off our path.
Polly PoPo
(aka Grannie)
Quote from: KeeperoftheBar on July 29, 2011, 06:57:04 AM
Quote from: Breandan on July 29, 2011, 02:20:57 AM
Fíonna is almost 16 months old, so she'll be 18 months by Opening. She's camped out there once before when she was WAY young, so environment doesn't worry me, I'm more concerned about keeping her from running off or getting under foot while at camp without leashing her.
Not being a parent, I don't know how practical this is but how about putting ankle bells on Fionna? You could get them at any belly dancer shop. This would allow you to hear her as she moves, keeping her from sneaking away.
Bear bells would work too but might be a bit much for a tiny lass.
We actually did this for Elissa. We had a string of bells that we put around her waist. Now we load her up with glow sticks.
Bring her favorite toys if she has any. We had so many people who camped with us that our daughter rarely walked around. It seems someone was always holding her. She loved to be read too. One of the greatest pics I have is our friend Cory, shaved head, big scary skull tatoo, sitting by the fire pit reading to Elissa. It's one of my "Only At Faire" pictures. Love that one.
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on July 29, 2011, 03:15:26 PM
We actually did this for Elissa. We had a string of bells that we put around her waist. Now we load her up with glow sticks.
Bring her favorite toys if she has any. We had so many people who camped with us that our daughter rarely walked around. It seems someone was always holding her. She loved to be read too. One of the greatest pics I have is our friend Cory, shaved head, big scary skull tatoo, sitting by the fire pit reading to Elissa. It's one of my "Only At Faire" pictures. Love that one.
Aww... That's too cute.
Thanks for this thread and all the information on it! We will be camping for All Hallows (entertaining invites from any willing clans for hosting) at a minimum. We purchased a new travel trailer a couple of months ago and are very excited about being able to use it for camping at TRF.
We planned to come check out the campgrounds on opening weekend to get a lay of the land so to speak.
I plan on camping again this year. More for safety from the random drunk stops from the cops and the danger from all the drunks thinking that they can drive after drinking all day and for all the fun at night. This will be my third year to do this. camping at TRF is just so much funner than trying to get there for cannon of the day of the fair and driving 2 hours back home. Plus I'm not worried about being so tired the next day for the drive back up. I have a huge tent to my self and I bring 55 gallons of water to shower and cook with. I like to be not far from the gate but just far enough from the parties so I can find my way back to bed. I camp alone but make friends with others fast so I am really never alone. Hopefully I can meet most of y'all there.
Brother, please come see me @ Booth #157, Creatyve Lyfe Booksellers.
You will find there are quite a few of us at TRF.
James Huckabay, MM
Clear Lake #1417
Spring #1174
I will try. You know the fair is big and the shows are many. I will mark the shop on the map. I'm a man of few words till I get to know someone then I'm like a fountain that just wont stop or I'm told to stop talking.
Someone brought to my attention that there are some people on Craigslist who have wooden pallets that they will give you if you can carry them away.
While this is not ideal for everyone, if you have a truck and space, you can use these to get some things off the ground. Throw an old carpet on them and you can place your generator, electric fan, electric heater, boots/ice chests, etc. on top of that. Then if it rains, they won't be standing in water.
That's such a clever idea, Doña. If only I had more than my tiny Ford Focus... Somehow I don't think it would work very to strap 'em to the top of my tiny car. :D
We used to use old pallets with carpet (or something of the sort) quite often under our tents to keep them up off the ground. It works well to keep them a bit warmer and dryer. Though i would suspect it would only work well for small tents unless you have a large truck to haul a lot of pallets around. lol
Dennis is doing something sort of similar- only we are using the puzzle shaped rubber mats you see for kids (theyve been just sitting in the garage FOREVER) with some carpet over them. Hoping it will at least help with the warmth factor, since I get cold easily and with the Diabetes, its not always easy to get warm again.
Quote from: Lishy on October 09, 2011, 06:28:33 PM
Dennis is doing something sort of similar- only we are using the puzzle shaped rubber mats you see for kids (theyve been just sitting in the garage FOREVER) with some carpet over them. Hoping it will at least help with the warmth factor, since I get cold easily and with the Diabetes, its not always easy to get warm again.
Sounds like a job for a group-hug or a cuddle-pile... ;) :D
Sunday's downpour was not for the faint of heart lol. Campground was flooded in several areas, but there were those that took advantage of the water and were surfing the gulleys on their air mattresses lol. It was fun to watch that and cheer them on. :D
We spent most of Sunday afternoon at the POW. The faire actually closed early! We were bummed about that b/c it had finally started to really clear up around 5:30 and they shut it down at 6:00 :(
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on October 10, 2011, 11:24:50 AM
Sunday's downpour was not for the faint of heart lol. Campground was flooded in several areas, but there were those that took advantage of the water and were surfing the gulleys on their air mattresses lol. It was fun to watch that and cheer them on. :D
We spent most of Sunday afternoon at the POW. The faire actually closed early! We were bummed about that b/c it had finally started to really clear up around 5:30 and they shut it down at 6:00 :(
No kidding? Probably due to drowned cast members (Not Literally People).
We swam out of the faire around 2 or 3. Then packed up some stuff and headed for higher ground (aka - Home). Came back in on Monday to pack up everything else. Camp was super soggy on sunday (o:
Yep, makes me kind of wonder about that 'Rain or Shine' talk...
*edit this is regarding tickets not cast*
TRF has only been closed ONE complete day in 37 years. That was in 1998 & only because the road was flooded, not the faire. I've actually spent worse days out there. Was working in the Agora once when it filled up to become Lake Agora.
I thought it was strange Ravic. There was a bad weather spell a few years ago that seem worse than what we just experienced. Closing weekend in '08 I believe.. maybe '07. It was freezing, raining and they stayed open through to fireworks... :-\
Lake Agora, lol I like that :)
I think I recall that weekend. That may have been the weekend we lost an arbor due to the non stop showers. Had to go buy new poles as the weight of the canvas holding water had collapsed several of them.
07... sleet, rain... temp dropped down to the low 40's/upper 30's.
The back gate office has a poster commemorating the Mini Ice Age of '07.
I'm glad they let us go at 6 but I didn't quite see why they shut everything else down.
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 11, 2011, 05:35:22 PM
07... sleet, rain... temp dropped down to the low 40's/upper 30's.
Yep, '07. It was a day for the die hards lol.
Quote from: Strange on October 11, 2011, 05:49:58 PM
The back gate office has a poster commemorating the Mini Ice Age of '07.
I would love to see that!
Quote from: FaeHollow on October 11, 2011, 06:01:48 PM
I'm glad they let us go at 6 but I didn't quite see why they shut everything else down.
I can see letting y'all clear out, especially those of you that braved the heavy rain. It was just sort of a bummer that we couldn't do some shopping. It was perfect for that since it was less crowded.
They have closed early a few other times but it's rare.
it got shut down by DPS in November of 1998 because of a mandatory evacuation due to flooding. I remember the troopers telling us to pack it up or get hauled off. It sticks in my memory cause that was the day I got married to my first wife out at faire... should've been a hint ;)
I posted a tale about one of the incidents of that day on my FB page (http://www.facebook.com/notes/breand%C3%A1n-%C3%B3-ciarra%C3%AD/tales-of-the-renaissance-festival-part-three-the-atlantean-tent-and-flying-drunk/301727843176065) :D
Quote from: Breandan on October 11, 2011, 10:10:05 PM
it got shut down by DPS in November of 1998 because of a mandatory evacuation due to flooding. I remember the troopers telling us to pack it up or get hauled off. It sticks in my memory cause that was the day I got married to my first wife out at faire... should've been a hint ;)
I posted a tale about one of the incidents of that day on my FB page (http://www.facebook.com/notes/breand%C3%A1n-%C3%B3-ciarra%C3%AD/tales-of-the-renaissance-festival-part-three-the-atlantean-tent-and-flying-drunk/301727843176065) :D
Omg Breandan, I laughed so hard when I read that. I can only imagine how amusing it must have been to witness. :D ;D
Quote from: FaeHollow on October 11, 2011, 06:01:48 PM
I'm glad they let us go at 6 but I didn't quite see why they shut everything else down.
Well, "dusk" has always been an arbitrary time... Closing at 6pm, ~15 years ago, was the NORM. None of the shops had any exterior lighting, and most had no significant interior lighting to speak of, either. Closing time, depending on how big the crowds were, was typically somewhere between 30-60 minutes before sunset. By the time it was getting dark, we were closed.
As I recall, the whole phenomenon of the fair staying open later - with the masque and ceilidh (remember those?), the shops getting better lighting, and the fireworks - this was all to help alleviate some of the agony of getting out of the parking lot by slowing down and spreading out the exodus at the end of the day. I kind of remember some grumbling when the change was made, because it lengthened everybody's day by a couple of hours.
So the EXACT closing time of the park has ALWAYS been, to some extent, related to how many people were in the park. So on a day like Sunday, with a total attendance of around 7500 (as opposed to 28K on Saturday), it is not surprising that the park closed at 6pm. By that time, the vast majority of our patrons had left!
Haley, read the others, they're worse :D
Part One (http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=301714853177364)
Part Two (http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=301721776510005)
More coming as I get time ;)
So exactly how early does one need to arrive on Friday to get a decent spot? We'll be doing the drive from Wichita and its about 9 hours just curious exactly how early of a day its going to be haha.
Quote from: azchris on October 12, 2011, 10:21:57 PM
So exactly how early does one need to arrive on Friday to get a decent spot? We'll be doing the drive from Wichita and its about 9 hours just curious exactly how early of a day its going to be haha.
depends on which weekend. I normally get in around noon - 1pm don't normally have any problem even on the three big weekends. Of course by 3pm things can be a little tight.
Well, I'll be at the gates this Thursday.
Hi guys!
Like my intro thread says, I've been lurking around here for a few weeks, reading about you guys' take on this year's camping since I heard about the burn ban.
Which, I might add, it is a damn good thing that I randomly came across the announcement, as we drive from Lafayette, Louisiana and would have been quite flummoxed when we got there and found that we needed an electric rig this year!
In any case, this thread is the one that finally made me sign up, maybe I can get an answer from someone who lives near the faire.
Every year, we try to leave as early the day before the faire as we can. Every year, we get to the campgrounds around midnight. So this year, my party has decided that we will leave before sunrise to get to the campgrounds as early as possible on Friday the 21st, and I think we might actually make it happen this year.
I'm just wondering how early is too early? We've noticed lots of camps in the same place when we go multiple weekends, but we don't know if they get there really early or leave their camps up through the week? We like to camp with our backs to the woods, and we usually don't have much trouble finding a spot, but we want to get there early enough to get to know some of you guys; when we get there as late as we usually do, we end up crashing from the drive.
So I guess my question is, how do you locals do it?
The big clans usually have someone in line by Thursday to claim their area. Other than that the gate opens Friday either at 10 or whenever the line gets long enough to cause traffic issues lol.
If you get there before about 4ish you won't have trouble finding a place. The later it is on Friday the harder it is. Especially on the big three weekends.
*Get there early and bring plenty of rum is generally my motto.*
Laird Nasty & I are the land grabbers for McShuggenah and we plan to be in line by 9am Thurday morning, for AHE... :o 8)
*I only take vacation once a year and this is it!* :)
I only hope that 3 cases of beer and 25 bottles of loki will be enough...
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 06:53:05 AM
Laird Nasty & I are the land grabbers for McShuggenah and we plan to be in line by 9am Thurday morning, for AHE... :o 8)
*I only take vacation once a year and this is it!* :)
I only hope that 3 cases of beer and 25 bottles of loki will be enough...
Yeah we are considering actually driving down on Wednesday, finding a parking lot near like Madisonville or something and then hitching on in early Thursday morning. Either that or leaving around 3ish Thursday morning. Either way we want to be at gate by 9-10 at the absolute latest! It takes about 5 hours pulling the camper, so either way we should be there early with you guys.
Sweet! That means we can start early! Party time! ;D
Woot!
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 07:51:40 AM
Sweet! That means we can start early! Party time! ;D
Woot!
Riot can't party TOO hard as she and i have a friend to pick up from the airport at midnight Thurday night. That being said I'm hoping to be at the campground by 3:30 ish in the afternoon.
Quote from: xed on October 13, 2011, 02:14:52 AM
Hi guys!
Like my intro thread says, I've been lurking around here for a few weeks, reading about you guys' take on this year's camping since I heard about the burn ban.
Which, I might add, it is a damn good thing that I randomly came across the announcement, as we drive from Lafayette, Louisiana and would have been quite flummoxed when we got there and found that we needed an electric rig this year!
In any case, this thread is the one that finally made me sign up, maybe I can get an answer from someone who lives near the faire.
Every year, we try to leave as early the day before the faire as we can. Every year, we get to the campgrounds around midnight. So this year, my party has decided that we will leave before sunrise to get to the campgrounds as early as possible on Friday the 21st, and I think we might actually make it happen this year.
I'm just wondering how early is too early? We've noticed lots of camps in the same place when we go multiple weekends, but we don't know if they get there really early or leave their camps up through the week? We like to camp with our backs to the woods, and we usually don't have much trouble finding a spot, but we want to get there early enough to get to know some of you guys; when we get there as late as we usually do, we end up crashing from the drive.
So I guess my question is, how do you locals do it?
What Teach said...on the flipside...AHE weekend there's a crew that comes in from Baton Rouge and i believe that they leave right after work or at noon on Thursday and normally get into the campgrounds by 1 or 2 am. Unofficially the grounds open on Thursday but they don't want to announce it. Another thing you should/could do is check out the Who, when where post. The first post at the bottom has a map of the campgrounds so you know where you clans go.
http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php?topic=15110.0
Quote from: LadyJessica on October 13, 2011, 10:00:06 AM
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 07:51:40 AM
Sweet! That means we can start early! Party time! ;D
Woot!
Riot can't party TOO hard as she and i have a friend to pick up from the airport at midnight Thurday night. That being said I'm hoping to be at the campground by 3:30 ish in the afternoon.
But only one of you has to drive, right?!? :P ;D
Our plan was to leave early Friday morning, but after your responses, I think we might just head that way after Michelle gets off of work on Thursday if it's going to be open. I want to get there as early as possible this time, but I didn't want to end up sitting at the gate camping out in my truck alone.
Anyway, thanks for your responses, and we will definitely see you all pirate weekend for our first trip, and then again for celtic christmas to close out the year. We're usually a fairly introverted group, and I'd like that to change this year. I'll be bringing out a few bottles of homemade mead (plum and habanero) so if you guys happen to notice my huge red beard, come say hi! Maybe there will still be some samples!
Woot!
Salutations to a brother meadmaker!
I won't make it to the grounds until Saturday morning this weekend, but I may try to get some visits in Saturday night.
I'll be out carousing on AHE for sure tho.
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 11:53:45 AM
Woot!
Salutations to a brother meadmaker!
I won't make it to the grounds until Saturday morning this weekend, but I may try to get some visits in Saturday night.
I'll be out carousing on AHE for sure tho.
Huzzah for home brewers! I like to look at it as turning procrastination into an artform.
Fun Fact:
'Mazer' is slang for 'one who makes mead'
Not so fun Fact:
Unfortunately I won't be there this weekend or all hallows eve, we are going oct 21-23 and nov 24-27. Sadly, we will miss one another by one week.
Actually, I am working the shoppe every weekend except for closing, so I will be there on Oct 21-23.
I'm also heading down early that friday, since I took the day off for concert recovery :)
I've only experimented a little with flavors, tho that is totally on deck for 2012.
Hmmm...
Now I'm thinking that next year, we should pick a weekend to do a homebrew gathering...
Mead, beer, and loki...
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 06:53:05 AM
Laird Nasty & I are the land grabbers for McShuggenah and we plan to be in line by 9am Thurday morning, for AHE... :o 8)
*I only take vacation once a year and this is it!* :)
I only hope that 3 cases of beer and 25 bottles of loki will be enough...
That might just be enough to get you thru the wait in line. But what do you plan on drinking once you are in camp?
Laird(s), I will be sorely disappointed if there is no Loki left come AHE's Friday afternoon...
I may have to drown my sorrow in PBR and Boone's Farm.
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 12:13:24 PM
Actually, I am working the shoppe every weekend except for closing, so I will be there on Oct 21-23.
I'm also heading down early that friday, since I took the day off for concert recovery :)
I've only experimented a little with flavors, tho that is totally on deck for 2012.
Hmmm...
Now I'm thinking that next year, we should pick a weekend to do a homebrew gathering...
Mead, beer, and loki...
Well then! What shoppe are you working at? We'll stop in and see ya.
Also...about the brewing weekend....
I'm IN!!!!
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 02:03:45 PM
Laird(s), I will be sorely disappointed if there is no Loki left come AHE's Friday afternoon...
I may have to drown my sorrow in PBR and Boone's Farm.
There should be enough... step up to the Loki Gas Pump.
*Yes, i did say gas pump* ;D
haha. full service Loki gas pump? :D
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 02:23:16 PM
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 02:03:45 PM
Laird(s), I will be sorely disappointed if there is no Loki left come AHE's Friday afternoon...
I may have to drown my sorrow in PBR and Boone's Farm.
There should be enough... step up to the Loki Gas Pump.
*Yes, i did say gas pump* ;D
wOOOHOOOO *runs right up* and yes i said run :D
Laird Nasty will be sporting his Loki bandoleer... 36 shots of lovingly crafted loki... ;)
Quote from: Riot on October 13, 2011, 02:39:11 PM
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 02:23:16 PM
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 02:03:45 PM
Laird(s), I will be sorely disappointed if there is no Loki left come AHE's Friday afternoon...
I may have to drown my sorrow in PBR and Boone's Farm.
There should be enough... step up to the Loki Gas Pump.
*Yes, i did say gas pump* ;D
wOOOHOOOO *runs right up* and yes i said run :D
Shouldn't that be *wiggles her butt*??? It might be more effective than running...just sayin'
But Fraser... can't you just sort of... stash a bottle of the chocolate, just for me? Please? (best pouty, lip quivering, melty eyed look...ever)
Quote from: LadyJessica on October 13, 2011, 03:21:57 PM
Quote from: Riot on October 13, 2011, 02:39:11 PM
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 13, 2011, 02:23:16 PM
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 02:03:45 PM
Laird(s), I will be sorely disappointed if there is no Loki left come AHE's Friday afternoon...
I may have to drown my sorrow in PBR and Boone's Farm.
There should be enough... step up to the Loki Gas Pump.
*Yes, i did say gas pump* ;D
wOOOHOOOO *runs right up* and yes i said run :D
Shouldn't that be *wiggles her butt*??? It might be more effective than running...just sayin'
ok ok ok...
Woohoooo *runs right up and shakes her booty*
Quote from: xed on October 13, 2011, 02:12:18 PM
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 12:13:24 PM
Actually, I am working the shoppe every weekend except for closing, so I will be there on Oct 21-23.
I'm also heading down early that friday, since I took the day off for concert recovery :)
I've only experimented a little with flavors, tho that is totally on deck for 2012.
Hmmm...
Now I'm thinking that next year, we should pick a weekend to do a homebrew gathering...
Mead, beer, and loki...
Well then! What shoppe are you working at? We'll stop in and see ya.
Also...about the brewing weekend....
I'm IN!!!!
I'm at shop 156 - Mask Parade.
We're directly across the lane from the Prince of Wales pub.
I'll be around the camping areas on that Friday evening, but I'm pretty much stuck in the shop all day Saturday.
Due to me trying to get the house sold, we only put together 1 batch of straight mead this year.
I'm always open to critiques and new ideas/techniques.
Do you allow "Topping Off" at aforementioned pump..... ;D
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 03:51:25 PM
Quote from: xed on October 13, 2011, 02:12:18 PM
Quote from: Strange on October 13, 2011, 12:13:24 PM
Actually, I am working the shoppe every weekend except for closing, so I will be there on Oct 21-23.
I'm also heading down early that friday, since I took the day off for concert recovery :)
I've only experimented a little with flavors, tho that is totally on deck for 2012.
Hmmm...
Now I'm thinking that next year, we should pick a weekend to do a homebrew gathering...
Mead, beer, and loki...
Well then! What shoppe are you working at? We'll stop in and see ya.
Also...about the brewing weekend....
I'm IN!!!!
I'm at shop 156 - Mask Parade.
We're directly across the lane from the Prince of Wales pub.
I'll be around the camping areas on that Friday evening, but I'm pretty much stuck in the shop all day Saturday.
Due to me trying to get the house sold, we only put together 1 batch of straight mead this year.
I'm always open to critiques and new ideas/techniques.
Strange, I would love to try that mead. I all be around Highland Fling if you still have any left.
I usually have some left late in the season.
Our packaging is pretty distinctive, so we don't just give tons of it away.
At least, not yet.
If we can ever go commercial, that will be a whole other situation.
I'm sure this is a really dumb question, but is there anywhere to shower if you camp at Faire?
You can get a portable shower that you hang from a tree. I've seen them around with portable stalls and whatnot, but no, there is no place to shower at the campgrounds. My girlfriend brings several packs of moisty wipes that do the trick well enough, and I also found some soapy pads in the camping dept at wal mart that look like you could maybe pour a little water on them and wash up.
Also, if you need the port-a-potties, get there before the sun goes down or sit at your own risk........
See, the idea is to get so hammered that you don't realise how badly you stink.
I jest....no, but really.
Hmm well my Wife lands in Wichita late Thursday night/Early Friday morning, so this is going to be rough it looks like. Anyone mind holding a spot for us so we can actually try and get some sleep before the 10 hour drive? Rum/Beer/Etc can and will be provided as thanks ;D
Edit: sorry forgot to mention this will be AHE weekend. We really would like to camp but not sure we can without someone helping out a little bit :)
baby wipes or sink wash (one bucket of water to use for soaping one bucket of water to use for rinsing) or know someone with an RV...
And about the port-a-privy if you can snag a packet of the seat covers from an office then do so and take them with you EVERY time.
and toilet paper- after about Saturday afternoon, there is no toilet paper
We just set up camp. Very cool out tonigt. Fire circle has been reworked nicely.
The privs down at our end never ran out of tp last year, even during AHE... but then, there's not 500-1000 people using them down there, either, I guess. I always bring a few extra rolls, though... just in case!
I usually just bring my own bathroom with attached shower, bed, a/c & heat, and kitchen. :)
But not everyone HAS a portable house, you know... :P
Quote from: Glaodian on October 14, 2011, 01:40:50 AM
I usually just bring my own bathroom with attached shower, bed, a/c & heat, and kitchen. :)
<------jealous
Quote from: April Marie on October 14, 2011, 09:51:58 PM
Quote from: Glaodian on October 14, 2011, 01:40:50 AM
I usually just bring my own bathroom with attached shower, bed, a/c & heat, and kitchen. :)
<------jealous
He's such a braggart... :P :D
I am willing to share with certain women with chocolate cover toes. ;) ;D
Ooooh... I have those!!! Well, I could have, anyway... ;) :D
I do tend to be just a bit... ticklish, however. :o
Quote from: Glaodian on October 14, 2011, 10:24:14 PM
I am willing to share with certain women with chocolate cover toes. ;) ;D
well damn that leaves me out. not a fan of anything on my toes. lol
Make the rave stop!!!
Quote from: FaeHollow on October 15, 2011, 10:22:22 PM
Make the rave stop!!!
I would if I were there. Fraser, have they opened up the shooting range yet at TRF? :o
It was bad last night. We limped out to Patrons looking for the camps (couldn't find squat, we really need banners listed next to each camp on the map so we know what to look for) and it looked and sounded like the results of a backseat indiscretion between a redneck rave and inner-city thugfest. Then again, I was walking on a double knee blowout, so I was cranky as hell to start with :)
Yikes.
I think all the groups need to just start blaring bagpipes super loud until the rest of the music is turned down/off or the people playing said music get fed up and leave.
I have nearly 4000 albums, I am sure I could find something in my music collection that would annoy pretty much anyone within a 200 yard radius. Just need someone to loan me the industrial quality face melting audio system.
It's like someone said NO FIRE so they came in and brought their lasers .... and the music was so loud. I understand it isn't a quiet area... but as loud as it was past 11 pm is stupid. I think security should have had to go over there and tell them to tune it down a little... not stop completely... of course if security went over there and really looked they would be able to attack everyone who was on drugs at the rave. You do need a ticket to get into camping this year but the ravers were buying 8 tickets and running them over to the people driving in to get them in...so most of them didn't attend the faire. I just know on Friday night you could hear the rave in participants so loud that people were going to the camp wardens and complaining that it was BACKSTAGE... even though it wasn't.
I thought about calling opening weekend on the group near us. Will security make them turn it down if they get enough complaints?
What if the first clan that got there blew up and printed this picture. Attach it to stakes. Pick the farthest spot in the campground and post them. Then there would be an _sshat area for all these idiots.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y4vcLdi1vpk/TpxO_chf6RI/AAAAAAABsQc/4i-Xf9HMuMA/s420/asshat.jpg)
I do honestly think that to enter the camping area you should have to check in all members of your party, pay the camping fee required, show the tickets for Faire entrance for every member of the party. If the member does not have a Faire ticket they have to purchase one at that time to be allowed to enter. The tickets should be scanned at that time to not allow people to give the ticket to someone else. A band on the wrist issued at that time to each member. The TRF beefeaters can then cut the band off when you enter the gate. If you are attending both days you are issued two different color bands. These bands are put on you at the entrance when the ticket is scanned. If security finds someone without a band that person can either pay the full admittance fee at that time or they can leave.
This is Renaissance FAIRE camping. It is not a KOA.
Then no participant could come visit with their friends.
Quote from: Lady Laura on October 17, 2011, 10:30:57 AM
I thought about calling opening weekend on the group near us. Will security make them turn it down if they get enough complaints?
Hopefully the powers to be are reading some of this and deciding on what actions to take. I know that TRF administrators check these forums from time to time.
By participant do you mean vendors and cast? That is easily fixed with a band or badge.
The problem is no one wants these people that just come to party and don't even visit the faire. No one wants to be at all inconvenienced to get rid of them though. You can't have it both ways. There is an issue here. Camping is the last bastion at this Faire of wildness. Wildness is fine. Either accept it and don't get angry about it or fix it. You can't blare music on my street until 4am with a light show. Precinct 4 Constables will come by and shut you down. Why there? You have people there that are not even supporting the faire. They are keeping you awake all night and then while you go to the faire they are stealing your stuff. Why put up with that?
I don't camp any longer due to this. If I want someone to steal my stuff, keep me awake all night, try to attack my wife, make my kids sit in fear in the tent then who truly is the _SSHAT? The tweekers or me as the husband and father I am supposed to be. It seems that currently they have all the rights and the patrons and lovers of the faire have none. You tell me where this has gone wrong.
Plus King George wants all my family money anyway. Why else would there be G rated Family Sundays (brought to you by Coca-Cola). If enough people gripe that are going to spend money IN his faire who's side will he take. Then how does he get rid of the tweekers? He opens the gates to the campground to law enforcement and DEA agents (of which he has many friends) and cleans up the campgrounds. Now you as a loyal TRF patron have to spend your weekend with Texas Rangers and DEA agents watching everything you do just to get rid of a few that should of not been there anyway.
I do think if security got enough complaints they would turn it down. The attitude I kept running into was " oh it is just the bs you have to deal with in the campground... It will always happen" well if everyone is annoyed by it and finds security and complains something will get taken care of. These idiots need to go find a warehouse somewhere and stop using faire as their playground... Nothing will ever change if people remain passive.
Quote from: MrHyde on October 17, 2011, 10:58:21 AM
What if the first clan that got there blew up and printed this picture. Attach it to stakes. Pick the farthest spot in the campground and post them. Then there would be an _sshat area for all these idiots.
I do honestly think that to enter the camping area you should have to check in all members of your party, pay the camping fee required, show the tickets for Faire entrance for every member of the party. If the member does not have a Faire ticket they have to purchase one at that time to be allowed to enter. The tickets should be scanned at that time to not allow people to give the ticket to someone else. A band on the wrist issued at that time to each member. The TRF beefeaters can then cut the band off when you enter the gate. If you are attending both days you are issued two different color bands. These bands are put on you at the entrance when the ticket is scanned. If security finds someone without a band that person can either pay the full admittance fee at that time or they can leave.
This is Renaissance FAIRE camping. It is not a KOA.
With all respect, that isn't money nor manpower that King George will spend on camping, or barcodes, or wrist bands or any of that. And to be honest, if it gets that bad, I'm just not going to come back. If the ravers spend their money to get in the campgrounds, he'll be happy, as long as the money is made.
I don't like people being horribly loud just like the rest of us but be realistic. At the end of the day, this is a business and while we do have people from management on the boards now, who will take notice of what we're saying, the number one priority is making sure that any people, no matter mundane, patron, playtron, raver, drunk idiots, etc, come through the gates.
Quote from: MrHyde on October 17, 2011, 11:11:12 AM
By participant do you mean vendors and cast? That is easily fixed with a band or badge.
However as it is they make it pretty difficult for the participants to visit friends in the campground. They would never give them wristbands just so they so see friends. They don't like them coming into Patron's as it "affects the magic of faire".
Quote from: FaeHollow on October 17, 2011, 11:11:40 AM
I do think if security got enough complaints they would turn it down. The attitude I kept running into was " oh it is just the bs you have to deal with in the campground... It will always happen" well if everyone is annoyed by it and finds security and complains something will get taken care of. These idiots need to go find a warehouse somewhere and stop using faire as their playground... Nothing will ever change if people remain passive.
While I want to agree with you on the fact that if people remain passive, nothing will ever change- people have been anything BUT passive for years, and while their has been minor change, there hasn't been anything substantial. People have been furious, have spoke up, and what do people have to show for it?
A new camping fee and losing of the patrol officers we trusted? Hm, it solved some but not much.
There are a growing number of people who love the faire and have spent many a year walking through its lanes, giving their money, that have just decided enough is enough and have long since stopped attending because they just weren't being heard.
It's not just the other campers, patrons, and participants that are being disturbed and robbed of their sleep. I don't even stay on site anymore, I stay with some friends that live nearby - about a mile and a half from the campground. And from INSIDE the house, I could hear the music loudly enough that it kept me up into the wee hours on Friday night... and on Saturday night, I could hear it as well, but sheer exhaustion and a mild overdose of benadryl knocked me out.
What does this mean? It means that there are entire neighborhoods of people who are being disturbed in their HOMES. And unlike us, they have NOT made any choices to be involved in TRF in any way... No, they are minding their own business, going about their lives, and having the peace that they are entitled to in their own homes disrupted. I would be VERY surprised if there were not complaints from local residents.
I am afraid that at some point, someone will decide to take things into their own hands & do security's job for them. Then there will be an incident. Guess which party, or parties, will be thrown out of camp & maybe get a complimentary ride to county?
Quote from: ravic on October 17, 2011, 11:35:30 AM
I am afraid that at some point, someone will decide to take things into their own hands & do security's job for them. Then there will be an incident. Guess which party, or parties, will be thrown out of camp & maybe get a complimentary ride to county?
That exactly what I think is going to happen... and I don't think many are far from it..
I'd like to think that many of us on this forum are level headed and prefer to b!tch and moan to our little groups than to actually organize against the undesirables. It will be a very bad day for everyone if the rennie's at large organize against them though.
It really isn't a good idea, as those that try to stop it will be the ones getting in trouble or worse getting hurt. I've just heard enough about it to know I don't think many are far from trying to do soemthing about it.
Maybe as a group, we should get together on this. And submit something in writting to the powers in charge.
Just a thought.
The trick is finding a "something" that is legal, avoids bloodshed, but repulses the undesirables so much that they refuse to ever come back. Wheres Breandan's creative mind when you need it (o:
KP, agreed. However, the people that read this & similar boards, level-headed or not, is a very small percentage of the actual ren population.
Where's that claymore picture Fraser posted awhile back? Sorry, just daydreaming a little.
If you haven't done so already, go to the texrenfest.com website and click the 'contact us' link, and submit a complaint. Seriously, if you have a complaint, communicate it DIRECTLY. A bunch of people bitching and complaining on a board that is occasionally looked at by Terre is one thing. A SLEW of DIRECT communication about the exact nature of the problem and how it affected your TRF experience is another thing entirely, and far more quantifiable.
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on October 17, 2011, 12:20:54 PM
The trick is finding a "something" that is legal, avoids bloodshed, but repulses the undesirables so much that they refuse to ever come back. Wheres Breandan's creative mind when you need it (o:
Working on it. Unfortunately, it's going to take me pulling several grand out of my keester for the license renewals, training and licensure as bodyguard for the handful of people I trust enough to legally put my butt on the line for, some serious legalese on paper to make local LE happy and keep George the hell out of it, and insurance. however, by next year we should have a well-trained, licensed, legal, insured and squared away group able to at least protect the people in the camps. Shutting the idiots up is on faire's end, not much we can do about that, but I want to A) head off any vigilantism, B ) make sure that the people are protected from any assaults or the like, and C) establish "don't screw around here, you will wind up in cuffs in 0.003 seconds" zones where people can have fun in peace and safety. However, this is a bandaid solution, not a long-term or overall one, especially since we will effectively be operating pro-bono for the camps and losing a metric butt-tonne of money in overhead.
Overall, faire needs a serious security overhaul. On an average night out there I witness a dozen B or C misdemeanors and between one and three felonies that get ignored, and I'm just out there to have fun with friends, I'm not on duty. I will let that statement speak for itself, however I have a
very strong professional opinion of the security situation out there. That being said, having worked at faire for twenty years I can guaran-damn-tee you there is no way George will EVER pry open the budget enough to increase security staff, private or off-duty LEO, so the campers are pretty much left to fend for themselves unless something explodes. Terre might be able to do something about it within the budget he has, but he's stretched pretty thin as it is, so I'm not holding my breath. No fault of his, that lies directly at Mr. Coulam's feet.
Quote from: Breandan on October 17, 2011, 01:52:43 PM
unless something explodes.
Which is what we want to avoid entirely. It's been pointed out here before, the camp ground is not where the faire makes its profits. One big snafu that gives the faire a black eye and the whole thing will most likely get shut down.
Then we can all use this thread to talk about the days when we used to be able to camp out at TRF and how great it was before the dark days of the battle that ended it all; In the long long ago; aka, the before-time (o:
On the other hand, that opens an opportunity for an entrepreneur to start up a private campground near by.
Quote from: Glaodian on October 17, 2011, 12:20:44 PM
Maybe as a group, we should get together on this. And submit something in writting to the powers in charge.
Just a thought.
Particularly if you can talk real numbers.
How many people camp w/ McLot, or McShug, or PR, or Valhalla?
If we can get agreement that from most/all of the groups, and let TRF know you're representing hundreds of REPEAT campers/patrons, then you may get their attention.
Sherwood gets it, big time, not just how to run camping, but how important and valuable of customers/allies the camping clans can be. Terre is rumoured to be taking cues from Sherwood, so this is not news to TRF management, but there's a difference in situation, size and internal politics/control that make it a lot more difficult there.
Flash bangs wrapped in flechettes... Dragons Breath shotgun rounds... punji sticks...trip snares... some of that stuff that Victor Charlie used to cook up, back in the day...
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 17, 2011, 03:06:42 PM
Flash bangs wrapped in flechettes... Dragons Breath shotgun rounds... punji sticks...trip snares... some of that stuff that Victor Charlie used to cook up, back in the day...
I was waiting on your response. ;D
Deer season starts soon. Maybe we can put out signs directing the ravers to the nearest lease?
Give them xmas reindeer hats...
Party In The Woods! Here's your glow stick antlers!
Hmm all this talk of ravers is really having my Wife and I thinking about our plans to camp on AHE. Between not even knowing if we are going to be able to get a spot and then having to deal with these buffoons, might just use the shuttle service.
I cant say for this last weekend but as from my experiences from opening weekend it was really tame. I only saw one group of ravers and really they were pretty laid back. Maybe I missed something but I think the lack of fire kept them to a minimum. Really I'm only out there to see my friends and have a place to sleep between fair days and don't pay much attention to the idiots. If someone, raver or rennie, gives me trouble I just walk away or call security.
By the way. The camp was trashed pretty bad today. We were the last people to leave the grounds so we saw what was left behind, truly sad. While some at least stuffed trash into bags, they did not take it to the set up trash cans next to the porta johns(that were very clean all weekend, hand sanitizer FTW). We had made friends with the only group that camped within 20 feet of us. Yes they stayed up late getting toasted but made sure any outside girls were taken back where they came from. Awesome. when morning came, that place was trashed. If we try to camp clean then breaking down and heading out is easier. It will also cost less time and money to clean up the grounds. Seriously, established groups that are well known left camp in a way that I would not want to be associated with.
While I have heard horror stories for the last couple of years, I have to say that I always have a wonderful time. My hubby and I camp AHE and closing every year and have never had anything happen. Azchris, please remember that while people on this forum get annoyed with the raver problem every year, there is a reason that they come back, they still have a great time with good friends. Otherwise they wouldn't bother complaining about it and they would just stop camping.
I want to encourage everyone to add good points about camping, not just complain about the ravers. We have to remember that there are new people on these forums that are considering camping for the first time. While I agree they need to be warned of areas to avoid, never being alone etc., we shouldn't scare them off either.
EVERYONE PLEASE OFFER UP A BALANCED VIEW OF CAMP AND REMEMBER WHY WE LOVE TO CAMP AT TRF!
We are camping almost 2miles from the patrons campground and Friday night was just awful. Quiet time starts at 10 pm where we are, but at 11:00 the music started. A neighbor set off to find out who was making all of that racket. We were shocked to find out it was so far away. It must have been torturous for those closer.
My neighbor called the police who I know showed up because they drove right past me. Finally the music stopped and we all got some sleep.
I'm thankful it didn't go on all night. I might have lost my last shred of sanity.
Quote from: azchris on October 17, 2011, 07:57:52 PM
Hmm all this talk of ravers is really having my Wife and I thinking about our plans to camp on AHE. Between not even knowing if we are going to be able to get a spot and then having to deal with these buffoons, might just use the shuttle service.
Don't let this deter you and your wife from camping. While there are a few issues with 'dull knives in the drawer' at camp it is still a very fun experience!
I could not hear anything on Saturday night. I assumed that everything had quieted down, but maybe I was so exhausted that I slept right through it.
I always have a good time at the camp grounds. We are a small group of 4 usually and other than the occasional goob walking through, we don't get bothered.
We haven't been camping out there for very long, but we've never had any problems, and only witnessed the occasional lost, stumbling drunk wandering about looking for home. We don't camp in "party central", though, and it's always seems to get pretty quiet around 1-2am, when everyone starts looking for a nice warm fire to hang out around (maybe not this year, though). I think if you want to camp where all the "action" is, then you take the bad with the good. But it's easy to walk over that way and visit for a bit, and then head for the outskirts later on when it gets to be a bit much.
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on October 18, 2011, 01:37:55 AM
We haven't been camping out there for very long, but we've never had any problems, and only witnessed the occasional lost, stumbling drunk wandering about looking for home. We don't camp in "party central", though, and it's always seems to get pretty quiet around 1-2am, when everyone starts looking for a nice warm fire to hang out around (maybe not this year, though). I think if you want to camp where all the "action" is, then you take the bad with the good. But it's easy to walk over that way and visit for a bit, and then head for the outskirts later on when it gets to be a bit much.
+1
Wondering where everyone is camping and where we should set up camp. Master Dorian and I will be there this weekend but the people we know from up here that is going are talking about setting up with a bunch of people I do not know and would not want my 2 year old around. They are also talking about partying all night. We do not mind hanging out till 2 but I don't know if Dorian needs to camp near them.
Hmm ok we have talked it over and have decided to give camping a chance. I know honestly both of us would feel a bit better if we were able to camp with a group of like minded people, any chance any of the clans/groups here has room for one more tent AHE weekend?
I have a challenge for those who are in the "everything is fine" camp- convince ME, the man who spent his last year camping out there having to haul two underage drunken girls I found passed out on the ground half-naked to the authorities, and helped prevent a rape of a woman who was slipped something... and then carried HER back to her tent with her boyfriend's help, all in one night- that after the assaults on first weekend and the belligerent drunks I ran into last weekend (not to mention the blasting rap music) that I should bring my family, including my pregnant wife and 19-month-old, and camp there. I can be convinced, but it will take some work. It is a hell of a commitment for us, since we have to pony up the money for an RV to go (see aforementioned pregnant wife and toddler), and I would prefer to camp with friends.
PR... the crazies and the dedicated drunks usually give that part of the campground a pass, mostly because they just don't make it that far from where all the lights and the noise are, but also because they just don't even know it exists. So, it's the much more mellow partiers who just want to hang at camp, or go on walkabout for a while before coming back to crash. There's also the fact that you can kick into the donation jar and eat Zaubon's cooking Friday and Saturday night, and breakfasts, as well, so that's less stress on you AND Tiff... The camp is family friendly, and filled with people you already know... and right across the street from other people you already know... and only a few rows over from other people you already know... and surrounded by a whole bunch of other people who are generally fun and easy to get to know! Oh, and Fi would undoubtedly be spoiled rotten the whole time... and surrounded by cooing women and girls who are all too happy to make a fuss over someone else's baby... until it's time to change her. ;D LOL
There... not as difficult a sell as you were hoping, huh? :P :D
I am not saying that the camp grounds are perfect but it is not south central LA like it is being made out to be. If you are smart about what you do, where you go, and who you hang out with then you will be safe! All I wanted to point out is that there is a reason we go back and camp every year. There are wonderful aspects about camp and a great time to be had. But beyond that I am not going to spend anymore time trying to convince you, either you want to come have a good time with friends or you don't it is up to you.
Breandan, it's all about where you camp. I have camped all over the campgrounds in my time there and have found that the area we are in now is pretty tame. Rani is right, if you want to camp with PR feel to join us. The worst we have had to deal with there was a jerkwad with a loud generator and a drunk girl who got lost and caused an hour long walkabout trying to find her home (which was about 20 feet from our camp).
The whole row 0 area is fairly mellow and close to the gates. If you don't want to camp with PR, then I suggest row zero anyway just pull in to the back area where several other RVs and motorhomes already pull in and you will find camp to be fun again.
*and ignore the rum drunk guy. That's just me and apparently I am a harmless fuzzball.*
We used to camp on the west side of the large area, just inside the road (and pretty close, but not TOO close to the porta-potties). However, in the past few seasons, it seems we ended up in Raver Central towards the end of the evening. In this same area a few years ago, my friend brought his RV, and we rented a generator for the weekend. However, the 'gennie' was taken sometime in the wee hours of Sunday morning (it was out of gas, so it wasn't running; if it was, we might've been able to catch the perps in the act). Expensive lesson learned: a chain and padlock would've been a good idea.
Now we camp along the treeline in the southwest corner of the grounds, across the ditches. Much less noise, and it's so remote that a person would have to REALLY want to go out of their way, altering their course just to walk through our campsite.
We'll probably set up camp there this year as well. Except for the generator incident, we always have a great time, and I look forward to going back each year to camp!
Quote from: batninja on October 19, 2011, 07:41:49 AM
We used to camp on the west side of the large area, just inside the road (and pretty close, but not TOO close to the porta-potties). However, in the past few seasons, it seems we ended up in Raver Central towards the end of the evening. In this same area a few years ago, my friend brought his RV, and we rented a generator for the weekend. However, the 'gennie' was taken sometime in the wee hours of Sunday morning (it was out of gas, so it wasn't running; if it was, we might've been able to catch the perps in the act). Expensive lesson learned: a chain and padlock would've been a good idea.
Now we camp along the treeline in the southwest corner of the grounds, across the ditches. Much less noise, and it's so remote that a person would have to REALLY want to go out of their way, altering their course just to walk through our campsite.
We'll probably set up camp there this year as well. Except for the generator incident, we always have a great time, and I look forward to going back each year to camp!
Yeah we have a nice sized chain and a padlock and it is chained to the frame of the camper. Ours is so quiet though even with it running, if we were sleeping we probably wouldn't hear it still.
I don't want to jinx it, but it has been nice down in our spot at 11b under the two trees. It is noisy at times, but I do not go out there expecting the silence of a deep woods camping expedition. Occasional drunk might stop by and in the last 4 years only 2 instances of what people are calling "ravers" have stopped by asking for "extra beer".
The one time I did walk up to the fire circle...yeah.
I camped Row 10 this year, pretty far up from my normal row....I was right next to that giant rave party going on all weekend before the cops busted it up Saturday night...Really? I mean, giant strobe lights and DJ Reaver? Luckily the police saw all the drugs out in the open and bam....shut down. Idjits. I have nothing against ravers as people, but as a party group....Our camp and Thorin, who was luckily our neighbor, we came up with some choice ideas for them if they show later...
What were those Mouse? I must have scurried off by the time those were discussed.
While I absolutely do not feel that it is my responsibility to "convice" anyone that they should do anything; I feel like I should comment here.
We look forward all year to camping, too. It's a ton of fun. The first year we went, we ended up right next to the rave, but since then, with the help of my brain, I have been able to set camp far enough away to not be TOO bothered by it.
I've already said how nice it would be to have a renaissance campground to match the faire, but that's another story.
I would also like to point out the fact that there is a quiet family camping site, which, judging only by the name, sounds like the perfect place to bring a family who wants it quiet.
All of that being said, we USUALLY set up our tents with our back to the woods, where no one has any business walking through our camp. We do get visitors, some of which I allow to stay, and some of which are asked/told to leave.
I'm not sure what 'PR' is exactly, but I think that area is pretty close to where we usually camp. Maybe we'll look around a bit more this weekend instead of setting up camp immediately, hopefully we'll be able to find some of you.
EDIT: Ok, I just Realised that there was a map on the who when where thread; We usually camp along the treeline around either 1-D or 6-C. I think.
Xed... PR = Phoenix Risen clan... just a bunch of fun loving, friendly rennies, we are. ;)
Sounds like a good time, but according to the who when where thread, none of you will be out this weekend?
I don't think anyone from Phoenix Risen will be out at the campgrounds this weekend. Most of are planning for our big invasion AHE so are skipping this one to get ready.
There may be a few that make it out still, just nothing official this weekend.
*Mostly I am trying to store up enough rum to make it through AHE*
So since we aren't part of any of the clans, were would you all recommend trying to set up camp to avoid the crazies and enjoy more mature company?
check out the who when where thread, its got a map of the campgrounds. Basically, around the bottom (closer to the faire, go figure) is where the ravers aren't. If you set your camp in the middle of the campgrounds, prepare to be in the middle of everything.
I'll point out again - That though "Quiet Family Camping" sounds inviting, It sits right on the tracks of what we affectionately call the iron dragon. It rolls through at about 1am and 4am. I will also point out that it has to be about a mile from the gates of faire. If anything, the two camps should be reversed, but I'm not about to go on that campaign.
No, inferring that anyone who does not appreciate techno music at all hours, or loud generators, or obnoxious looped up teens, should just move over to quiet family camping, is basically saying, punish the responsible people by putting them a mile away from everyone else, next to a railroad.
[Note: All distances exaggerated while making a point]
Colman-style fueled cooking is that ok or not?
Coleman stye cooking and lanterns are allowed at least the last time I check the restrictions posted
Awesome cause I would like to be able to cook some food for my little one this weekend.
another ? to put out there does anyone have a microwave that I could use to heat up some food for the baby too?
Opening weekend the restriction was PROPANE fueled only grills & stoves. I would say check with faire before hauling a bunch of coleman stuff that isn't propane-fueled, just in case.
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on October 20, 2011, 11:40:18 AM
No, inferring that anyone who does not appreciate techno music at all hours, or loud generators, or obnoxious looped up teens, should just move over to quiet family camping, is basically saying, punish the responsible people by putting them a mile away from everyone else, next to a railroad.
[Note: All distances exaggerated while making a point]
I never said anyone who doesnt like ravers should move to family camping. The point that I was attempting to make is that it is not anyone elses responsibility to convince (the royal) you that he/she should camp anywhere/at all. There are places to camp that are away from the ravers, if you want to. If you DON'T want to put forth the effort to camp someplace where you won't be bothered, you are better off not going in the first place.
The things we deal with at camp are annoying at times, but there is always a silver lining if you WANT to look for it.
Quote from: xed on October 20, 2011, 01:18:22 PM
I never said anyone who doesnt like ravers should move to family camping. The point that I was attempting to make is that it is not anyone elses responsibility to convince (the royal) you that he/she should camp anywhere/at all. There are places to camp that are away from the ravers, if you want to. If you DON'T want to put forth the effort to camp someplace where you won't be bothered, you are better off not going in the first place.
The things we deal with at camp are annoying at times, but there is always a silver lining if you WANT to look for it.
There was nowhere that was not affected by the loud music on Saturday night. Participants and shop owners that sleep in their shops were kept awake by that music. The real question is why do the "ravers" feel the need to camp out at TRF? Most likely because it's the only place that hasn't kicked them out yet. If they tried to pull that crap at a KOA or a state or national park they'd be shut down, thrown out, or arrested. It all comes down to common decency and respect for others. If they want to stay up and party all night fine, but doing so at the expense of others is plain wrong.
I've found that earplugs when sleeping go a long way. Interestingly enough, I could still hear the 'thump-thump-thump' of the REAL drums at the fire circle over the raver music on their cheap car speakers.
I slept like a baby. :)
The music was heard for up to two miles away, which means that neighborhoods that have no part of TRF where affected.
Checking the TRF FB page there seems to be a company DJ? that's been advertising huge partys at the campgrounds. TRF says they are aware and on top of it....
Quote from: ravic on October 20, 2011, 01:57:19 PM
The music was heard for up to two miles away, which means that neighborhoods that have no part of TRF where affected.
Not to mention that in the twenty years I have worked at faire, I have only run into these problems over the last five or so. It's not about the parties, it's about camping with my friends and NOT having to get into a use of force where I have to hand a cuffed jackass over to local LEOs because he came into OUR camp and assaulted people. I have a pregnant wife and kid, if I am going to camp it is going to be with my friends, not the backside of nowhere. If I feel that the environment is too dangerous for my family- which I am still up in the air on- then I will not camp there, period. The campground is not some inner-city hellhole, and I wouldn't even attend TRF at all if it were that bad, but it is a HELL of a lot worse than it was for the first decade and some change that I have been out there. My challenge was both to see where the safe spots are this year, and to give a wake-up call to the utopian-minded.
When I voice my concerns, I am not talking out of my keester or bytching and whining pointlessly here. In the last few years I have broken up several fights, fended off aggressive drunks looking to start fights with innocent campers, intervened in two attempted rapes, literally carried several drunken/drugged women I found lying by the fire circle or in dark corners of the camp to the officers out there, or to their camps if I knew them, bandaged up one stab wound, tended to three victims of alcohol poisoning, carried a drugged and half-conscious woman back into patrons with her boyfriend's help, and- along with Fraser and a few others- scared off several potential thieves who were casing camps. I have had to hand over or point out and ID a half-dozen punks to the LEOs over the past few years, and it is getting damned frustrating. I come to faire to relax, not work. Those who say "I've never seen or had anything happen to me, I don't see what the big deal is" are- intentionally or not- flippantly dismissing those of us who HAVE had issues out there, often repeatedly. Its great that those folks have dodged the bullet, but a lot of others haven't. Please do not denigrate our experiences simply because you have been lucky and not endured them yourselves.
I have also been vocal about the solutions- increase security and actually make them do their jobs, fire any of the mooching LEOs that are soaking up ED pay and sitting on their butts, file a complaint with their department, and replace them with someone who actually wants to be there and earn their keep. Move the fire circle to a more detached and easily-monitored location, away from the campers. Have an excessive noise curfew kick in around 2300-midnight, and actually enforce it. I want the LEOs to be proactive in patrols, not reactive, and when someone comes to them with an issue for them to have some iota of professionalism and not sit on their overpaid butts saying something like "That's just faire, deal with it." Likewise, as in the case of opening weekend this year, when you see four men wrestling to pin down a naked drug-crazed assailant who has assaulted a half dozen men, women and children and bitten several of them, GET OFF YOUR @#$%*ING ARSE AND DO YOUR JOB! I still cannot BELIEVE that officer just sat there letting civilians engage in a use of force while he looked on. People like him are the kind of officers I hate working with.
Counterpoint to the bad, however, I freely admit there is some good- the camping clans do their best to keep things orderly, and take care of each other. For those lucky enough to belong to one, you have a cadre of friends who are- for me at least- 90% of why I still go to TRF these days. They are not immune to the predations of asshattery, but they do their best to keep each other safe. I voice my concerns because they are the things that need to be fixed. It is not all doom-and-gloom out there, and I don't want it to continue any downward trends that would take it to that level. Hence why I am raising hell about it- to encourage Terre to put pressure where he can to get solutions in place.
I can understand your frustration, Brother and i'm not trying to be flipant about the troubles. You've been out there a lot longer than i have and seen a hellva lot more than i. I'm not sure why some of the clans, that have families with them, camp so close to the Fire Circle. It's a magnet to the trashed and being trashed they'll stomp right through whatever camp is in their way. My first year, I couldn't relax because of all the border jumpers... escorted at least 20 out of McLot. None were surly but a 6'4" scowling Scot, with a Blackthorn in hand, tended to moderate ones attitude. I'm glad that my friends in McShuggenah decided to take in a pair of strays... nice and quiet and only one malcontent, last year, that scurried off when i swung up my Trench Hawk and yelled " WHO MESSING WITH MEGAN!!" :o
*no one messes with my fairemily * >:(
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 20, 2011, 04:47:02 PM
I can understand your frustration, Brother and i'm not trying to be flipant about the troubles. You've been out there a lot longer than i have and seen a hellva lot more than i. I'm not sure why some of the clans, that have families with them, camp so close to the Fire Circle. It's a magnet to the trashed and being trashed they'll stomp right through whatever camp is in their way. My first year, I couldn't relax because of all the border jumpers... escorted at least 20 out of McLot. None were surly but a 6'4" scowling Scot, with a Blackthorn in hand, tended to moderate ones attitude. I'm glad that my friends in McShuggenah decided to take in a pair of strays... nice and quiet and only one malcontent, last year, that scurried off when i swung up my Trench Hawk and yelled " WHO MESSING WITH MEGAN!!" :o
*no one messes with my fairemily * >:(
I remember that..
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 20, 2011, 04:47:02 PM
I can understand your frustration, Brother and i'm not trying to be flipant about the troubles. You've been out there a lot longer than i have and seen a hellva lot more than i. I'm not sure why some of the clans, that have families with them, camp so close to the Fire Circle. It's a magnet to the trashed and being trashed they'll stomp right through whatever camp is in their way. My first year, I couldn't relax because of all the border jumpers... escorted at least 20 out of McLot. None were surly but a 6'4" scowling Scot, with a Blackthorn in hand, tended to moderate ones attitude. I'm glad that my friends in McShuggenah decided to take in a pair of strays... nice and quiet and only one malcontent, last year, that scurried off when i swung up my Trench Hawk and yelled " WHO MESSING WITH MEGAN!!" :o
*no one messes with my fairemily * >:(
The a$$hat didn't leave when I said that he needed to because I didn't want him there. He was giving me the creeps and he wasn't backing off when I was being obviously protectant of Katy...
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 20, 2011, 04:47:02 PM
I can understand your frustration, Brother and i'm not trying to be flipant about the troubles. You've been out there a lot longer than i have and seen a hellva lot more than i. I'm not sure why some of the clans, that have families with them, camp so close to the Fire Circle. It's a magnet to the trashed and being trashed they'll stomp right through whatever camp is in their way. My first year, I couldn't relax because of all the border jumpers... escorted at least 20 out of McLot. None were surly but a 6'4" scowling Scot, with a Blackthorn in hand, tended to moderate ones attitude. I'm glad that my friends in McShuggenah decided to take in a pair of strays... nice and quiet and only one malcontent, last year, that scurried off when i swung up my Trench Hawk and yelled " WHO MESSING WITH MEGAN!!" :o
*no one messes with my fairemily * >:(
Maybe I can bring a mortar tube with me when I camp with PR in November. Then you can be my forward observer. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Glaodian on October 20, 2011, 06:55:10 PM
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on October 20, 2011, 04:47:02 PM
I can understand your frustration, Brother and i'm not trying to be flipant about the troubles. You've been out there a lot longer than i have and seen a hellva lot more than i. I'm not sure why some of the clans, that have families with them, camp so close to the Fire Circle. It's a magnet to the trashed and being trashed they'll stomp right through whatever camp is in their way. My first year, I couldn't relax because of all the border jumpers... escorted at least 20 out of McLot. None were surly but a 6'4" scowling Scot, with a Blackthorn in hand, tended to moderate ones attitude. I'm glad that my friends in McShuggenah decided to take in a pair of strays... nice and quiet and only one malcontent, last year, that scurried off when i swung up my Trench Hawk and yelled " WHO MESSING WITH MEGAN!!" :o
*no one messes with my fairemily * >:(
Maybe I can bring a mortar tube with me when I camp with PR in November. Then you can be my forward observer. ;D ;D ;D
Hey, no fireworks in camp!!! ::) :D
No fire required. Just hang....and drop. ;D
Quote from: Glaodian on October 20, 2011, 07:01:24 PM
No fire required. Just hang....and drop. ;D
Yeah, see... the problem comes from the fire on the OTHER end... when it HITS!!! They tend to frown on death and dismemberment on the grounds (somewhat unfortunately, at times). :-\
Quote from: Fenster on October 20, 2011, 02:55:19 PM
Checking the TRF FB page there seems to be a company DJ? that's been advertising huge partys at the campgrounds. TRF says they are aware and on top of it....
Here's the link to the DJ that sets up out there link]http://plancast.com/p/7ap3/official-renaissance-festival-dance-dance-field-rave-bedlam]link (http://plancast.com/p/7ap3/official-renaissance-festival-dance-dance-field-rave-bedlam).
Just read this post on facebook:
Friend that just got out there said.
"Officer at the gate said if the ravers show up this weekend, they'll be asked to shut it off or leave."
Huzzah! :D
So glad to hear that security or at least the ones at the gate are aware of the raver issue and it is great they plan to do something about it. But the music was the least of the problem on opening weekend.
Brendan, we were among those assaulted by the naked drug crazed idiot that came into our camp. I thought or hoped we were camped far enough away from trouble. We certainly didn't go looking for it, but it sure found us. We dont mind the normal camp frolic and sounds, had even brought ear plugs in case it did get too loud. Now we will feel that we must be on alert at all times. On the bright side, we are going to try it again this weekend. I hope we are making the right choice. Seriously considering family camp area, away from friends, but will go on walkabout and visit then go back to what we hope will be a safer area. Have you figured out where you will be camping and where do you feel it is safe?
That link made me sick.
Well i know from first weekend the cops were out ALL NIGHT LONG. I doubt there will be any issues hopefully gl everyone.
That is out of hand and I sure hope something gets done about before something really bad happens.
By saying I haven't had any issues, I wasn't downplaying the problem. Simply saying I haven't experienced much other than a few bothersome people that are easily dealt with. I have only been camping out there for 4 years and of that only 1 weekend per season. Statistically, I would expect someone that has been camping near 20 years and multiple times per season to have a laundry list of things they have had to deal with. Mixing crowds of people with booze and little security is a recipe for trouble and I agree LE needs to be more proactive.
It is probably safe to say camping in the path to the fire circle and/or being generally larger groups tend to attract more asshats? People trolling around the grounds see 10-15 people around a fire and walk over thinking "hey, there is a party"...invited or not. Which ruins it for everyone, as I would like to walk around and meet people, but I dont want to be mistaken for one of these people and the more this stuff happens the more likely that will be. I'd rather not have to view anyone that walks up to my camp with suspicion.
As for the mortar tube, if you need an FO, i will volunteer. I loved my job and would like to do it again for a good cause. :D
Quote from: Fenster on October 20, 2011, 07:26:42 PM
Quote from: Fenster on October 20, 2011, 02:55:19 PM
Checking the TRF FB page there seems to be a company DJ? that's been advertising huge partys at the campgrounds. TRF says they are aware and on top of it....
Here's the link to the DJ that sets up out there link]http://plancast.com/p/7ap3/official-renaissance-festival-dance-dance-field-rave-bedlam]link (http://plancast.com/p/7ap3/official-renaissance-festival-dance-dance-field-rave-bedlam).
Here's what I just posted on their site:
To whomever plays their music loud (not just your group): I have been camping out at faire for the past 15 years and I can honestly say that in the past several years I have seen a steady decline in the camping experience. When I first started camping there was NO fire circle and no permanent drum circle. The drum circle moved and wove in and out on different camps, it had a rhythm all its own. If we were asked to quiet down we'd stop drumming and find a different area to drum in, but the circle almost always broke up around 2 am. There may have been a lone drummer playing but the quiet rhythm lulled me to sleep. When the fire/drum circle became permanent the drumming ha d a good beat that you could dance to and, if a little ways away, would once again lull you to sleep. Then the "partiers" came...not necessarily ravers...in fact we used to call them "Frat boys". They were usually college kids, mainly guys, that came out because they heard that the women get naked out by the fire circle. Then they started to play their music too loud but when asked they'd say "Sorry ma'am," and turn it down to the point that only they could hear it. About four years ago another DJ thought he'd bring out his set up, it included large "sails" and colored lights and techno music but even then you could only hear it within the campgrounds itself. When 2 am came around and they were still going, security made them shut down. They didn't come back after the third weekend. Three years ago a "Frat boy" decided it would be funny, in his drunken state, to fill a mini keg with propane and throw is on the bonfire. So you see it's not just you but a culmination of years that have steady gotten the Rennie's ire up. You just happen to have an outlet for some of us to post your frustrations.
You say that your music was not loud after 2 am and that there were others that had music louder...did you ever take into consideration that their music may have been louder to try to drown you out? You say that you got to see people out at the campgrounds that you haven't seen in ages...did you stop to think that the same thing is happening all around you? That this may be the only time that some people see each other and it may have not been easy for them to hold a conversation. You say that you did not bring the drugs but you do have to be aware that your "unforgettable night full of lights, love, and BASS!!!" will usually attract that type of crowd. I personally was not their but I have friends that live within two or three miles of the faire and let me tell you they COULD hear the music, it may not have been coming from your set up but you were at least a small part of it. While you may think you turned it down I hate to tell you that a normal voice can and will travel out in the countryside, increase that to a speaker fueled bass and it will travel for a good long ways. I enjoy camping! I only see some of my friends the one weekend I get to camp out there. I would love to hear some drums at night but only those fueled by human hands not pumped up and amplified by a generator and speaker. You say that we should show you some respect and come and meet you before we hate. I'm not hating but asking kindly to see if you can't have a gathering that won't cause my friends to have seizures from your lights (I have a few friends that are epileptic) , to get your bass through the work of your own two hands.
we use to use a product made out of skunk spray to hide our scent during deer hunting you only used a drop or two the stuff was amazing strong. Think that maybe a balloon full of the mixture of water and the whole bottle of skunk spray thrown into their midst might get their attention enough for them to turn the noise level down a little bit?
Except that once they're gone, the smell will still be there... and if there's a breeze, no telling which direction it may waft. :o
Balloons full of tomatoe juice for afterwards? You could always load it into water pistols and walk around spraying them. Oh god we did that one hunting season when we got to drunk Sat night in those days you couldn't hunt on Sunday blue laws you know so Sat after hunting was drinking night. Funny now not so much so then.
If you would like the DJ to stop it is rather easy. Terre.... have the TRF legal department draft him an invoice for hosting an event in the TRF campgrounds on those evenings. Advise him in the letter that accompanies it that further incidents will find him in small claims court for payment of the bill.
Some very good points Lady Jessica. Not sure if that will change their minds, because they seem to be blaming other people already for the loudness, etc. Sadly the actions of a few selfish people are making it hard for all the others to enjoy themselves peacefully. Don't get me wrong, i like to party too, just not in ways that infringe on someone else's party. I am betting if security succeeds in taking away the exceedingly loud music maybe the drug crazed people wont find it such an attractive venue?
I don't understand what gives someone the right to advertise a "rave" on private property without the permission of the owners of said property. If something was to happen, which is seems more and more likely it will, TRF I assume would be legally liable. You would think mgmt would want to put the kabash on this sort of stuff in a hurry.
when in doubt, bagpipe 'em :D
I wrote to them:
I am a participant and I heard the music on faire site Friday until 4 in the morning. A friend who is also a participant was staying with friends 2 miles from camp and she heard the music until 4 in the morning. I was at patrons camp until 11 on sat. night and heard the music getting so loud I finally headed back to participants camp. The roar was quieter than Friday but I still could hear it slightly at my camp. Point is... Alright patrons camp was irritated... So what like you say they can just "gtfo" but participants have to get up and create the magic of faire for you like minded fun loving people to enjoy... Without us there would be no faire. Take THAT into consideration. We cannot "gtfo" because we are faire. The magic happens because we show up. Blasting your party so loud that we cannot sleep is very inconsiderate and maybe you didn't know that we were bothered... But we were. End if story. And another point, your music could be heard 2 miles from camp... There are people that live in their own houses 2 miles from faire... Do you suggest they "gtfo" as well? As for blasting the "haters" away next season... Good luck. And, might I add, the general manager has been informed of not only the rave but of your attitudes. You can bet he is not happy and measures are already being put in place to prevent your wild all nighters from continuing. You think you are in the majority... But keep this up and you will see how overwhelming the majority really is... And it sure ain't the people on your side of the fence.
I also sent a note to TRF management informing them of the "official" TRF rave, including mentioning the fact that they are on private property without permission or permits, which creates a liability risk for faire if anything should happen. Methinks TRF's legal department is going to be a wee bit busy soon :) One could hope, anyway.
Quote from: crashbot on October 20, 2011, 11:36:26 PM
I don't understand what gives someone the right to advertise a "rave" on private property without the permission of the owners of said property. If something was to happen, which is seems more and more likely it will, TRF I assume would be legally liable. You would think mgmt would want to put the kabash on this sort of stuff in a hurry.
TRF on FB said they are aware and dealing with the problem. I do not think they were aware until this week of that DJ advertising and setting up his rave. I think they will shut it down, as security has said, since I agree it brings up all kinds of legal issues.
Terre sent me an email stating that they are aware of the DJ and the gathering and are handling it. Huzzah to Terre!
Quote from: Breandan on October 21, 2011, 10:53:16 AM
Terre sent me an email stating that they are aware of the DJ and the gathering and are handling it. Huzzah to Terre!
Yes, he seems to really be listening to complaints and concerns.
Also Huzzah to the people for taking a stand and not waiting for others to do so.
Wow...something is actually getting done about this stuff...
....
....finally.
Thank you Terre and everyone at TRF for listening to us and caring about what we're saying!
Ditto That Meggers.
A lot of people were not happy with Terre coming in and I must admit I was nervous about TRF being run by a new guy. Terre has so far convinced me that he has the best interest of both the faire and the more serious rennies in mind with what he has done thus far. He has done some things that I may not like (staff cuts) but when you look at the total picture I think he is doing pretty well. He definitely has shown that he listens to us "little people" and that in and of itself means a lot to me.
*Rum toast to ya Terre. I'm sure there will be more stuff we need to complain about later for ya.*
I love that we have a GM that is very present. Even if I don't continue working faire it us good to know Trf management is listening.
Glad to hear that actions are at least being discussed.
As to this self styled DJ.....well to me that is proof positive that some are using the cheaper prices and the grounds to stage their own venues. Obviously not sanctioned, licensed or approved by TRF. Just another example of someone using the privilege of a venues kindnesses (having camping at ALL, due to the extra expenses and insurance, etc ) to exploit their own pursuits.
Rave shows and Renaissance....no brainer. Those have nothing to do with each other. And I have to cringe at using the word Ravers, as the few I know have more sense and respect than that to push their styles into another genre just to have their events on someone else's dime.
I hope I am right in believing it will NOT come to a death or major bust to have this malarky come to an end, as I believe all those involved know precisely just how much that kind of bad press will devastate their reputations. And I also believe they can do some things to fix this issue rather than take the easy route of closing the camps. Things CAN be fixed. It HAS gone too far and will likely take the level of stormtrooper actions to weed out the undesirables and people are going to be peeved off. But when the dust clears, things will likely be more enjoyable for all who came to actually attend. At least that is what I believe. :)
Lord Dragon & all, stormtrooper action is exactly what happened this weekend. There was a MAJOR police prescence all throughout the campground. They were patrolling all the gravel roads on atv's and walking all throughout the campsites. It may have seemed a bit much for some, but the ravers were not to be heard or seen that i could tell. And we didn't camp in the family area either. We were with friends and were able to enjoy ourselves and not have to put up with anyone trying to force their music or crazed drug antics on us. We heard only music made by human hands on real live instruments and voices. It was so nice. It was what fair camping should be. Huzzah for positive change.
Huzzah! ;D
IMO this weekend will be the true test. Hopefully it will be a great weekend! Me and the wifes Anniversary and i am wearing Part of my greenman garb and so is my son. Lets have a great time folks!
Camp was good but so cold once the sun went down. Researching the best price on patio heaters. I've wanted one for our house and well now.... we need one for camp lol.
Everything was pretty nice in the camp grounds this weekend, Only one really annoying drunk kid 19 or so who said I was lucky he didn't want to get his new axe all bloody, what was really lucky for him was that I've gotten more tolerant in the past 10 years or so instead of taking his new toy away from him and sticking it someplace he would have found really uncomfortable I just laught at him and walked past him. Not one person came up asking for free beer or were to score some drugs, the music was drumming and some horns and it was mostly pleasent if cold walking around the camp grounds. It was annoying that the camop next to us ran their old generator all night but at least it was a steady noise which after a few hours we could ignore. But it does make one wish that beside quiet family camp that they had a no generator section. The fire truck had to tell a couple of camps to put out their fire pit and tiki torchs which you would think everyone should know are not allowed this year. The port-potties were kept clean and stocked and it was nice having large dumpsters set up around camp. All in all looks like mannagement is taking the issues serious and working hard to correct. Good job and thanks to the management
Quick question: I have read several places that the burn ban has been lifted for Montgomery county, has it not been lifted for Grimes (isn't that the county for TRF?)
Doesnt look like it:
http://grimescountyso.org/PublicNotices.htm
http://content.news8austin.com/auscontent/ppv_banners/n8a_frame_create_burnban.htm
I am surprised Montgomery County lifted theirs. They will regret that. Have you seen Lake Conroe lately? I wish I had a picture of what I saw Sunday night. It is about 5-6 feet low right now. Yes that is FEET. Keep in mind that even if Grimes lifts their band it does not mean that TRF will. TRF is on private property.
Great weekend at camp. Reminds me of when we first started camping quite a few years back. Terre has done a phenomenal job. My hat's off to you sir!
Also, there are actual dumpsters next to the porta potties now. Of course, there was a group of arseholes across from us, who after they pulled out of their area Sunday had left fast food bags and smaller stuff on the ground. Really? With a dumpster not 2 car lengths away? Some "people" just weren't raised right!
Quote from: Lady Laura on November 02, 2011, 02:16:53 PM
Great weekend at camp. Reminds me of when we first started camping quite a few years back. Terre has done a phenomenal job. My hat's off to you sir!
Also, there are actual dumpsters next to the porta potties now. Of course, there was a group of arseholes across from us, who after they pulled out of their area Sunday had left fast food bags and smaller stuff on the ground. Really? With a dumpster not 2 car lengths away? Some "people" just weren't raised right!
I wonder if the TRF web site should host before, during, & after photos of the camping areas (with auto license plates visible)? :o ;D
Might encourage
some people to clean up after themselves... ;) :D
Nasty & I made sure we left our site as clean as when we found it... busted glass and all...
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
Uhhhh... guilty!?! :P ;D
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
Midge. ;)
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
awesome Bonny!! It should still be cool enough to gather round the heater at night :)
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
I'll be doing the same thing when I get back Home - Oh, and after I defrost (o:
Quote from: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on November 02, 2011, 05:38:25 PM
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
Midge. ;)
BINGO! :D
Quote from: Valeria Skyye aka AngieP on November 02, 2011, 06:09:29 PM
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
awesome Bonny!! It should still be cool enough to gather round the heater at night :)
Yay!! Hey if y'all have propane, please bring it. The heater holds the 20lb canisters. We only have one ourselves and I am not sure how long that will last.
Actually if any McLot people have propane, please bring one. :)
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on November 02, 2011, 06:56:14 PM
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 04:59:13 PM
Went and bought a patio heater (one of the tall ones) today. Now watch us have a warm spell through Thanksgiving lol. :D
And yes, everything is 'tall' to me lol. I know exactly who is thinking that! :D
I'll be doing the same thing when I get back Home - Oh, and after I defrost (o:
I feel for ya KP! I have been up there in early October and it freaking snowed. No thanks! Can't wait to see y'all again. :)
Bonny, one bottle usually lasts a few days.
Quote from: Glaodian on November 02, 2011, 07:51:09 PM
Bonny, one bottle usually lasts a few days.
Really? Even if it is running constantly, to the very wee hours? Some of our folks don't know what bedtime is lol. :D
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 07:54:14 PM
Quote from: Glaodian on November 02, 2011, 07:51:09 PM
Bonny, one bottle usually lasts a few days.
Really? Even if it is running constantly, to the very wee hours? Some of our folks don't know what bedtime is lol. :D
Wee hours are the best hours, I tend to stay up until about 3.
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 07:54:14 PM
Quote from: Glaodian on November 02, 2011, 07:51:09 PM
Bonny, one bottle usually lasts a few days.
Really? Even if it is running constantly, to the very wee hours? Some of our folks don't know what bedtime is lol. :D
Well I guess it does depend on your run time. They say that one bottle lasts about 10 hours. But I have seen last twice as much as that. So I guess it depends on the heater itself and if you run it at max. 10 hours is for a 40,000 BTU patio heater. So run with that number and do the math as too how long you think you will be using it to figure out how many bottles you will need.
Then during real usage, keep track of how long you do run it and how long the bottles really last.
On a side note, the last one I bought was for my brother-in-law for Christmas. His bottle lasted more than 20 hours. Though it was only 17 degrees out side most of that weekend we were in Dallas with him. Maybe the colder it is, the better chances the propane will condense and run longer. That part I am not sure of. Someone who knows more about gases will have to chime in on that.
Any ways, good luck. I will be looking to stay warm under it during Highland Fling on walkabouts. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: eldatari on November 02, 2011, 08:24:26 PM
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 07:54:14 PM
Quote from: Glaodian on November 02, 2011, 07:51:09 PM
Bonny, one bottle usually lasts a few days.
Really? Even if it is running constantly, to the very wee hours? Some of our folks don't know what bedtime is lol. :D
Wee hours are the best hours, I tend to stay up until about 3.
See what I'm talkin' about lol? :D Eldatari isn't the only night owl in our clan either. :)
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on November 02, 2011, 07:38:03 PM
Yay!! Hey if y'all have propane, please bring it. The heater holds the 20lb canisters. We only have one ourselves and I am not sure how long that will last.
Actually if any McLot people have propane, please bring one. :)
...and you have our canister :)
Actually, I have one sitting in the garage at home. I'll have to be sure it's filled, but we'll toss it in the car for highland.
On the topic of propane, can you get the 1 lb capacity ones and just refill them? I'm planning on using propane but not the bbq size tanks as of right now. I want to find out first so I don't go and earn myself a Darwin Award.
There are adapters to refill them for sale at places like Wal-Mart and Sears. Just do a google search of 1lb propane refill and then narrow it down to someplace close or an on-line provider.
I have not used them so I do not know how easy, safe or convenient it would be.
Edited - just looked up Coleman site and they have a FAQ saying specifically not to refill them, leaks, etc. even though other manufacturers sell refill adapter. Guess it is a judgment call for the user.
Quote from: dreamwalker on November 10, 2011, 02:38:50 AM
On the topic of propane, can you get the 1 lb capacity ones and just refill them? I'm planning on using propane but not the bbq size tanks as of right now. I want to find out first so I don't go and earn myself a Darwin Award.
Why yes, yes you can. Actually, that's going to be a project in 2012 because I HATE throwing those cans out. I am currently hunting for the link I stumbled upon at one point that had a very good tutorial on just how to do it...
Here's the one I was looking for. It's not just how to do it, but he shows how he built a set-up to make the refilling easier. Just be safe doing it!!
http://www.navagear.com/2009/08/27/how-to-refill-disposable-propane-cylinders/
I can tell you by experience it doesn't always work. If the 1lb. canisters are cold it does work better, but again it doesn't always work or you can only put a little bit in there before it stops.
Academy and places like that sell the adapter to refill the little bottles from the big ones. You can also go to Lowes and build yourself one pretty easy too. They do work, but if you watch, you can get 2 bottles from $5 sometimes. So you will have to weigh the fact of cost over safety.
I'd also like to point out that those bottles were never designed for re-use. As nice as it may seem to re-use them in an effort to spare a landfill, those little plungers in the bottle that keep the gas from escaping wear out quickly. Twice now we've run into bottles that had to be left attached to something (mainly a lantern) because they were slowly and quietly leaking. The bottle had to be placed right next to the ear to hear it, but when you did it was unmistakable. Perhaps finding a company that will recycle the steal would be a better option.
As stated before - Be very careful. Pressurized flammable gasses and all. (o:
I thought of that also, just throwing them away seems so wasteful. Perhaps get a little something back by taking them to a recycling yard. I have one near me but have no idea if they'll take them. They would have to be purged out first at least. Thanks everyone so much for weighing in :)