Port Townsend

Our first trek in the Sprinter was to Port Townsend, WA to meet up with some friends at a HipCamp.   If you aren't familiar with HipCamp, I highly recommend checking it out!  I find it much easier to use than the Washington State Parks websites and it's a great way to explore new areas.   

One our way to PT we stopped at Elandan Gardens in Bremerton.  We always drive by Elandan and say "we'll stop there next time."  This time we finally did!  It was a neat shop but we didn't have time to see the bonsai collection before they closed.  We're still glad we made it though. 

We enjoy visiting Port Townsend for many reasons.  We like walking around Fort Worden, checking out the shops on the main street, and going to the local wineries.  The Wooden Boat Festival is held at PT every year too, and that's always been fun to attend.  When we camp at PT we either stay at Fort Worden or at Shallow Springs Ranch.  This was our third consecutive summer that we've stayed at Shallow Springs Ranch. We like inviting our family and friends to share the space since it's a great property.  The ranch is a short drive away from town, the sites are private, the portable toilets are clean, and there's a hand washing station too.  The hosts, Joseph and Elisa, make it easy to purchase firewood or borrow a hammock.  We always have a relaxing and great time when we camp here.

Below is a list of highlights from our first camping trip in the van. 

• Our camping party for the weekend consisted of our friends Amanda and Ryan and their two dogs, Stevie and Tim

• Josh and I slept in the van for the first time (on an air mattress) 

• Took a long walk on the beach and through the woods at Fort Worden

• Had a late lunch at The Old Whiskey Mill

• Grabbed a table and some wine at Port Townsend Vineyards

• Sat around the fire and ate tasty camp food (breakfast burritos and tacos, mostly!) 

• Joshed set up a Dometic water faucet to wash hands and dishes