 A Native American Scout was wathcing us. With a sudden cancelation of weekend plans the choice was made to shoot south and scout out the location for the 2010 Overland Expo. It turns out we weren’t the only scouts on site! This small Native American was keeping a sharp lookout on the grounds or was sharply secured to the ground, I wasn’t sure which.
 Our first peak at the OX10 site The Amado Territory Ranch was easy to find (it is called “Inn” on the highway signage) and as we entered I noted a large expanse that might be used for camping or vendor display. Either way it was flat, fairly smooth and will be easy for those with mobility issues or chairs to cross.
 Gravel crossing between front area and building The only part that might give pause is the gravel parking area between the expanse out front and the main building. The gravel was well compacted as the distance across isn’t far. Plus the entire complex seems as well setup for accessibility as something that was built in the pre-ADA days can be.
 Very nice main building of the Inn I was a bit concerned when we parked and noticed the beautiful porch and steps. But once we entered and introduced ourselves the staff was super cool about showing off all the accessible features and their willingness to make accommodations.
 Steep but better than nothing. On the side of the porch they have installed a wheelchair ramp and offered to let someone enter through the kitchen if they didn’t wish to travel around the porch to the front door. That is a tasty short cut!
 a way around back  The back patio They have tried to make all the walkways aesthetic yet mobility friendly as a balance. I noticed no harsh edges or drop offs which is nice even for me as an amputee. The outer patio was in the process of setup for a birthday but it was easy to move around and the doors were nice and wide.
 smooth ride up to the steakhouse The onsite steakhouse also had a ramp positioned to access its rear patio and the grounds were well groomed with an eye towards those with mobility issues.
 Make way for the wheelchairs They have even gone so far as to make sure the wheelchair entrance to the garden/walkway/art studios is kept open for chair users. A very nice touch.
I am not sure what the exact plan is for the event other than we will be there without a doubt. The complex is large and I am sure every inch will be needed as the 2010 Overland Expo is sure to be much larger than last year. I did notice an empty field/lot across the road and I can easily see that space being put to use as overflow parking or wild camping!
 Dirt at last Since we were in the area I wanted to check out what else might be of interest to visitors and to stay at a campground close by. On the map I noticed a Smithsonian Observatory and Visitors Center that seemed worth a look. Plus there was a dirt road connection to get us there.
 Visitors Center had big mirrors The visitor’s center is only open Monday through Friday which is too bad as it seems like they have some pretty cool toys inside. There was a sign posted mentioning a night viewing program so maybe we will have a chance to get up there again soon.
 The WAVE had the place all to itself  Flush toliets and easy to get to Right outside the visitor’s center is a nice picnic area with accessible restrooms, tables and a nature path that isn’t too tough to travel.
 rougher dirt is better dirt But dirt was calling to us and the closest campground seemed to be Bog Springs and according to my 2 gps programs and my paper map we could get there by dirt. Who could resist a chance to head into those mountains?
 The Nitto Trail Grapplers grappled well.  The trail got narrow and twisty Even though the way became much more interesting (the Nitto Trail Grapplers loved this V-notch) and the desert fought against the Sportsmobile it was the ever present “Private Property” gates that forced us to turn back. Often times I wonder if it really is private property when there is a road shown on every map I can find but when traveling alone in an area with posted signs referencing smuggling I am not one to force the issue. There was however plenty of Arizona State Trust Land and National Forest to camp on, but in singles, nothing that looked like it could handle more than a couple of rigs in one place.
 The WAVE at Bog Springs  Lots of space to camp We did end up at Bog Springs shortly after dark but the next morning gave us a chance to hike around and check the place out. Many of the 13 sites were wheelchair friendly if not perfectly smooth and the bathroom was in great condition. Please note the bear boxes for food and trash if you plan to stay in the area. We don’t need any becoming a disabled explorer of a bear’s stomach!
 Dirt is always calling our name As the day was young and the dirt was calling we ventured on through Box Canyon to Patagonia Lake...but that is a story for another telling. I will leave you with encouragement to attend Overland Expo 2010 regardless of your mobility ability. If you are disabled come on out and get a ride in the WAVE, check out the gear solutions and meet great people. If you aren’t disabled then come on out and check out all the great vehicles, see the cool gear, and meet great people. And as anyone who travels the back roads and byways can tell you there are plenty of new and interesting things to see. Like this rig just waiting for someone to convert that VW under it to a Synco 4wd!
 Strange but is could be made cool |
