Vernal Vacation, Part 1 - Steinaker

A "vacation to Vernal"? I know, doesn't sound that exotic. But with the Vernal temple, a State Campground, hikes through Dinosaur lands, and a sandy beach, there was enough to fill the time. It isn't a place we'd go again, but we had fun while there. A good weekend. Split into four parts because, yes, I took the camera along and captured several shots.

First up, the campground. Having a choice between Red Fleet and Steinaker, we opted for Steinaker. A local's opinion said it was more secluded than Red Fleet's open parking lot with numbered stalls (which it did turn out to be, when we drove quickly by it on our way out). Both lined reservoir waters and boasted of open air under Dinoland's sky.

Our spot, #14, at Steinaker was alright. It was set apart a bit from the others, but being right on the campground's roadway made for a less than private firepit. Right across the roadway was a shallow inlet of the reservoir. Although Matt said it made him think of the Bayou where a crocodile would come crawling out of, it was perfect for the girls to wade around in. We didn't let Tyler wander over there so freely, but he was pretty content to watch from afar as long as a popcan was in hand.

After a quick dinner, we headed around the backside of the reservoir with Matt's tacklebox and fishing poles in hand. The setting was picturesque and I smiled as they all gathered around to see what bait would be used. But with loud voices, Paige snagging the line twice in the first two tries, and Tyler throwing any and all rocks into the water, we were less than successful. Certainly no peaceful fishing trip. I told Matt that maybe taking a girl one-on-one would prove more relaxing. He's still not sold on the idea.

Returning to the campsite for the night, we sat mesmerized by the fire. We got the kids down one at a time. First, exhausted Tyler. Once out, he did well in the portacrib. Next, Paige. She surprisingly asked to go to bed! Then, Meg. Not so easy. She is a night owl and takes hours to sleep anywhere. The hushed "go to sleep now" time of camping is no fun, but it could have been much worse.