Maybe its just me but it seems there is a lot of complaining about the campgrounds out at TRF. Yes I know its not prefect, I have been camping there for 10 years and yes it has changed drastically. But most of us still go and camp. There has to be reasons you still go camp. So lets hear it, what keeps you coming back to the camp?
For me it is my fairmily and a great social area. I love going from camp to camp seeing all my friends and meeting new ones. Not to mention it saves me a very long drive home or to my family's house in south Houston.
And please, can we try to keep this tread a positive one?
I have a great time at camp. We have mutual goals and that is to visit as many camps as possible each night.
Depending on the weekend I will either walk around until up to 3am. I never stop meeting new friends and generally having a blast.
I've been camping for about 8-9 years and for me it has pretty much gotten better each and every year.
There were exceptions of course like times when the heat or cold were breaking records but that's camping.
Looking forward to our next walkabout Bunnyfur! You're just about the only one I know who walks more than I do lol.
*and drinks about half my rum on the way...*
I, for one, have never had a bad experence at camp. I hear the horror stories and i look to see problems but none, other than a few drunken kids, ever come up. The times that i've crashed down in the "negitives", i've only run into good people wanting to have a good time. With the exception of one azzhat, that decided that he had right to run his generator right next to a PR tent and got all hostile when asked to move his crap a few feet farther away, everyone seems to respect the clan's boundries and don't raise a fuss. I know that kids being kids can cause more than a few problems but hasn't it been that way for the last 30 some odd years? ??? Some of those "kids" from back then are Rennies today :o. I'm not trying to stir up a do-do storm but if someone undesirable plops down next to you, give them a "howdy" and politely let them know that they are in clan territory and hint at how things are. This can head off problems later, after booze and "whatever" kick in. If you're not with a clan, it sometimes helps to get to know your neighbor...
Just my two bits. :)
I truly enjoy camping at faire. It is so nice to be able to spend a day at faire and continue that experience after the gates have closed for the day. It's nice to be able to talk about the adventures you had that day and visit with everyone. There are some days when you won't see someone in particular at all inside the gates but you know you can find that person at camp and catch up.
My wife and I have been camping at TRF since 2001 - About as long most others here. For us its about getting away from the modern day world for a just a couple of days. Pitching together a camp with friends that have become a true family to us. I personally enjoy when those who are on walk about stop by and pull up a chair on our deck and sit and talk awhile.
Having camped at TRF for ten years now, we've gotten to know the lay of the land and where the trouble areas are and what to avoid. Those who have posted before me all camp on the same side of the lot as we do. That would be the "Less likely to run into a$$hats" side. (See map in the Who, When, Where thread). On our side of the grounds it is rare that a mind altered gen Y will wander into camp. We see them pass by on the road but they usually keep on traveling.
For me, its about setting up the deck, each year a new accessory to add. Its about the glow of the tikis and camp fires as we sit out under the stars and drink our favorite adult beverages while laughing about frost angels from the year past. Waking up to crisp air (in November) and huddling around the fire while we munch on muffins and orange juice, waiting for the sun to come out and thaw our bones. I enjoy the camaraderie from neighboring clans and the fun events that each host each year (e.g. Un-Queenly at Chaos, our closest neighbor). The campgrounds are even more inviting when the voices begin to settle and throughout the grounds you can hear the mixed sound of various drums being played. Mostly coming from Valhalla (o: The campgrounds are a great place to catch up with those who you only get to see in passing within the gates, as everyone is being pulled in different directions. But out in camp its time to sit back and relax and recount the adventures of the day.
All in all, being at camp is about being apart of a greater community of fine people who love what you love. They come from all walks, but they all share a love for the magic, wonder, beauty and imagination (sometimes, just for the bewbs) that the ren faire makes possible. And in short, that is why I camp at TRF.
;D
Hear, hear! What he said! ;D ;)
Scally and I love camping at TRF! It's what we consider to be our "home" Faire, even though it's 500 miles away... and that's because of the Fairemily we've found down there! And that has all happened in the campgrounds, and because of the people we've met here in the forums. We plan out trips down there with such enthusiasm, and if something keeps us away, it's heartbreaking, because we know that as much as we will miss being at Faire, we will miss the camping even more...
It's the little cloud of dust that puffs up when we hit the gravel road as we turn in, and the sight of tents popping up here and there while driving through, all the way to the back where the clan area is, where we know there are warm, wonderful hugs waiting (and likely something hot from Zaubon's kitchen, as well!)... and the smell of the campfires, the greetings, more hugs, camp set-up (usually with a bit of happy volunteer help), excited brewers offering new Loki flavors to everyone, finally getting to sit and chat for a bit before dusk, and then first walkabout... And THEN the real greetings begin!!! Seeing everyone you've been talking to all year, and trying to get in as many hugs and chats as you can, while making sure you're not missing anyone, or leaving anyone out... trying to figure out where everyone is, and how to get to all the camps you need to visit, texting or calling everyone to see if they've made it in safely, and arranging places to meet... and laughing, talking and hugging until my cheeks ache and my arms are limp... and then just a little bit more, until I fall into bed, exhausted and ecstatic, ready to do it all again in the morning, PLUS Faire!!! There there is the knowledge that you still have the entire weekend to fill in exactly the same way... :D
There is NOTHING like TRF camping... and I wouldn't give it up for the WORLD!!!
I've been camping at TRF for eight years or so from the area near the Celtic Rogues to the PR area. the biggest problem was one year some idoit ran a 30 year old generator that was not only loud but backfired every 15 or 20 minutes all night both Friday and Sat.. Did come back to camp once to find a drunk sleeping in my tent but since the blond in the next tent told me I could join her in her tent I don't count that one as a negative. For the most part camping has been very positive and I've meet many great people in the camp grounds and have enjoyed walk abouts, being asked to join different clans for a drink and a bit to eat and just a good time.
Lady Rosaline thank you so much for starting this thread! It is so nice to read why everyone loves TRF camping. I especially love what Rani and KP said and I agree completely.
One of the guys in our clan has said , if it wasn't for the camping he wouldnt' go to TRF. He has trouble walking with his back so walking around TRF can be hard on him, BUT he loves the comradery when it comes to being around the camp fire at night.
I have to say dispite the rain, the cold, the mud, and winds we still manage to have some sort of fun every year in camp.
One of my favorite memories of camp was the 2nd year I went. We were sitting around the fire and realized we ran out of mead. We went to get more and found it was locked in a car trunk. Problem was the guy with the key had wandered off to visit other camps and we had no clue where he was. All at once we called out together his name "DUFF!" in the hopes of finding him. No such luck, but it did attract other people's attention who thought our camp was a happening one, and brought jello shots as a peace offering. To this day we say calling out his name makes Jello shots appear. ;D
This is a great thread.
And Lady Stitch, that's a great story. :)
Quote from: KiltedPrivateer on October 18, 2011, 10:08:45 AM
For me, its about setting up the deck, each year a new accessory to add. Its about the glow of the tikis and camp fires as we sit out under the stars and drink our favorite adult beverages while laughing about frost angels from the year past. Waking up to crisp air (in November) and huddling around the fire while we munch on muffins and orange juice, waiting for the sun to come out and thaw our bones. I enjoy the camaraderie from neighboring clans and the fun events that each host each year (e.g. Un-Queenly at Chaos, our closest neighbor). The campgrounds are even more inviting when the voices begin to settle and throughout the grounds you can hear the mixed sound of various drums being played.
Couldn't have said it better myself. Like Rani, Michelle and I live hundreds of miles away (closer to another faire, honestly, lol) but we consider this faire our home. We've been camping for about 4 years now, and our camp is modest, but we excitedly look around ALL YEAR for new stuff to bring with us (too bad our tiki torches for this year got foiled by the burn ban >:(). We have no lasting contacts with any clans or individuals (maybe this year), and it is still a great time. We have gone on countless trips shopping in the past few weeks, 'just to be sure we have everything.'
It's been said, but the campgrounds give you a place to still enjoy the atmosphere of the faire, even after it closes. It's a way to escape the constant light pollution present in our daily lives...I swear, there are more stars in the sky at the campground than anywhere else in the world. No concerns about work or rent; a few days a year to really get away from it all.
Everyone's got their gripes about everything, even things that we love. Ultimately, though, you'll see us all there every year.
We love camping out at Faire every year - in fact, it's one of the most anticipated things we do all year. We're about 3-3.5 hours away, and we've pretty much decided after camping the last 6-7 years that if we're going to TRF, we're camping.
I have to admit, I was feeling kinda bummed gearing up for this season. After thieves made off with all my Renfest gear during an April apartment break-IN, and a break-UP with the girlfriend in August, I just wasn't 'feeling it', you know?
But as TRF gives me a break from the real world, if only for the weekend I'm there, there is no way I'm letting a few of life's stumbling blocks get in my way. I AM going, and I AM camping. Phooey. :P
My criticisms aside, if it wasn't for the camping clans and such I wouldn't be out there. All of the clans take care of their own, create a form of surrogate extended family, and are the primary reason I go to TRF these days. Trust me, even from my grumpy butt, you will find a great deal of praise for them :)
KP Rani & others, Thank you so much for reminding me exactly why i love camping at TRF. Such an experience you can get no where else. The friends, the stars, the excitement in the air for having waited all year long and finally getting to yell "Hey everybody, we're at FAIRE!!" I will be very wary this weekend, but so excited to be back, i enjoy it way too much to let a few poopoo heads keep me away.
Well, if anyone wants to swing by 11b area on Barbarian weekend, feel free. We dont have a big group of folks, but we will watch out for those around us.
Ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" ?
I was that child.
These people have supported me and helped raise me. And yep, I'm still kind of a kid...though not as much of a kid as I was when I first came 'round here. ;) I would not be who I am had it not been for the people who showed me kindness, corrupted my slightly 'normal' world, and took care of me when I needed it most.
If ever an adolescent could want to be surrounded by a diverse, open, and accepting hoard of people who come from all walks of life, this would be the place. Instead of teaching them about how DIFFERENT people are, they are taught despite the differences, these people still find a common place, can still connect, and exist together.
Camping and the magic that comes with taking that first turn after passing the guard shack, knowing that the minute I jump out of my truck, I'm too excited to figure out who I want to go and see and get a big hug from. Everything else in life disappears, for a weekend, there isn't stress or worry. Just a calm and truly content feeling.
That's what camping is for me. Fairmily and real content, and reminder of the blessings that are many of you reading this.
...alright, sappy stuff over. Carry on! ;D
Quote from: eloquentXI on October 21, 2011, 11:49:24 AM
Ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" ?
I was that child.
These people have supported me and helped raise me. And yep, I'm still kind of a kid...though not as much of a kid as I was when I first came 'round here. ;) I would not be who I am had it not been for the people who showed me kindness, corrupted my slightly 'normal' world, and took care of me when I needed it most.
If ever an adolescent could want to be surrounded by a diverse, open, and accepting hoard of people who come from all walks of life, this would be the place. Instead of teaching them about how DIFFERENT people are, they are taught despite the differences, these people still find a common place, can still connect, and exist together.
Camping and the magic that comes with taking that first turn after passing the guard shack, knowing that the minute I jump out of my truck, I'm too excited to figure out who I want to go and see and get a big hug from. Everything else in life disappears, for a weekend, there isn't stress or worry. Just a calm and truly content feeling.
That's what camping is for me. Fairmily and real content, and reminder of the blessings that are many of you reading this.
...alright, sappy stuff over. Carry on! ;D
Yeah and I say I better be one of the people getting a hug :P Is it sad you live an hour away, and I'm getting to see you 4 hours from here :P
Quote from: eloquentXI on October 21, 2011, 11:49:24 AM
Ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" ?
I was that child.
These people have supported me and helped raise me. And yep, I'm still kind of a kid...though not as much of a kid as I was when I first came 'round here. ;) I would not be who I am had it not been for the people who showed me kindness, corrupted my slightly 'normal' world, and took care of me when I needed it most.
If ever an adolescent could want to be surrounded by a diverse, open, and accepting hoard of people who come from all walks of life, this would be the place. Instead of teaching them about how DIFFERENT people are, they are taught despite the differences, these people still find a common place, can still connect, and exist together.
Camping and the magic that comes with taking that first turn after passing the guard shack, knowing that the minute I jump out of my truck, I'm too excited to figure out who I want to go and see and get a big hug from. Everything else in life disappears, for a weekend, there isn't stress or worry. Just a calm and truly content feeling.
That's what camping is for me. Fairmily and real content, and reminder of the blessings that are many of you reading this.
...alright, sappy stuff over. Carry on! ;D
That's really sweet though. I am putting in a request for a hug when I see you as well. Provided that you're okay with hugging 4'11 ladies... :)
Quote from: maeven on October 21, 2011, 12:52:25 PM
Quote from: eloquentXI on October 21, 2011, 11:49:24 AM
Ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" ?
I was that child.
These people have supported me and helped raise me. And yep, I'm still kind of a kid...though not as much of a kid as I was when I first came 'round here. ;) I would not be who I am had it not been for the people who showed me kindness, corrupted my slightly 'normal' world, and took care of me when I needed it most.
If ever an adolescent could want to be surrounded by a diverse, open, and accepting hoard of people who come from all walks of life, this would be the place. Instead of teaching them about how DIFFERENT people are, they are taught despite the differences, these people still find a common place, can still connect, and exist together.
Camping and the magic that comes with taking that first turn after passing the guard shack, knowing that the minute I jump out of my truck, I'm too excited to figure out who I want to go and see and get a big hug from. Everything else in life disappears, for a weekend, there isn't stress or worry. Just a calm and truly content feeling.
That's what camping is for me. Fairmily and real content, and reminder of the blessings that are many of you reading this.
...alright, sappy stuff over. Carry on! ;D
That's really sweet though. I am putting in a request for a hug when I see you as well. Provided that you're okay with hugging 4'11 ladies... :)
4'11" are the perfect height. Fun-sized AND they were made for the perfect face-cleavage-hug. :- ;)
;D ^^^LIKE^^^ ;D
Quote from: maeven on October 21, 2011, 12:52:25 PM
Quote from: eloquentXI on October 21, 2011, 11:49:24 AM
Ever heard the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" ?
I was that child.
These people have supported me and helped raise me. And yep, I'm still kind of a kid...though not as much of a kid as I was when I first came 'round here. ;) I would not be who I am had it not been for the people who showed me kindness, corrupted my slightly 'normal' world, and took care of me when I needed it most.
If ever an adolescent could want to be surrounded by a diverse, open, and accepting hoard of people who come from all walks of life, this would be the place. Instead of teaching them about how DIFFERENT people are, they are taught despite the differences, these people still find a common place, can still connect, and exist together.
Camping and the magic that comes with taking that first turn after passing the guard shack, knowing that the minute I jump out of my truck, I'm too excited to figure out who I want to go and see and get a big hug from. Everything else in life disappears, for a weekend, there isn't stress or worry. Just a calm and truly content feeling.
That's what camping is for me. Fairmily and real content, and reminder of the blessings that are many of you reading this.
...alright, sappy stuff over. Carry on! ;D
That's really sweet though. I am putting in a request for a hug when I see you as well. Provided that you're okay with hugging 4'11 ladies... :)
I want one of those 4'11" hugs as well... ;D ;D ;D
Done and done for the both of ya's! :) LOL
Quote from: maeven on October 23, 2011, 08:36:56 PM
Done and done for the both of ya's! :) LOL
(sniff, sniff) :'(
Long distance hug for Rani too, of course! :)
Gonna miss you out there this weekend. *sniff sniff* :'(
Well... I haz a phone, you know! (wink, wink, nudge, nudge)
It's fun to get calls from Faire!