TaB tent use in the Southwest during winter

Sharon_is_SAM

We are planning a winter trip (Feb - March) to the Southwest (Big Bend NP, New Mexico and Arizona).  I know it can be windy.   DH and I wonder if we will be able to use our PaHaQue side tent very much.  What do you think?

WayneW

We made a trip in mid-April this year to Chaco Canyon, NM and Hovenweep, UT and it blew a lot!  We never did use our pop-up clam shelter or EZ-up canopy. 

I don’t know if earlier in the year would make a difference, but April was very windy. Also, those 2 places are fairly high elevation and it was nice during the day but temps dropped as soon as the sun went down. I think it got down to the high 20s. But it was a dry cold. 

Binghi

Beware of the wind in Big Bend. I’ve lost a tent there even with wind ties secured with big-time stakes. The force of the wind tore the ties off the tent. Sometimes the wind kicks up unannounced in the middle of the night for 2 to 3 hours, then disappears. I would pack up the PaHaQue at bedtime.

Sharon_is_SAM

Good advice @Binghi.  We have discussed using a sun shelter that is easy to breakdown instead of the tent.  Someone suggested using the TaB as a wind screen to protect the tent.  That may be helpful, but no guarantee.

johnfconway

Can't speak for Big Bend, but traditional wind season in SW NM is mid-March, April and beginning of May. If tent is relatively easy up and down, you should be able to get good use from it.

Recently added to our checklist is foldable pruning saw and small loppers. If you disperse camp where shade is from junipers, you may need to do some discreet trimming to avoid losing your fan lid. Even small diameter juniper branches are tough. Trimming with pocket knife blade promotes cursing.

johnfconway

Even if Chiricahua National Monument is on your list, best ever no hookups campground is at the SE end of the Chiricahuas.  Sunny Flats is it's name. Enter through Portal, AZ. If you have time, the South Fork Cave Creek trail is outstanding. There will be Birders (and, of course, birds)!

RVMike

Sharon, it all depends on the weather patern, of course.  I've had many enjoyable days boondocking at Quartzsite in the winter. On the other hand, I remember the wind blowing for days at a time and we had to stay inside.  Once, we drove up to Laughlin and hung out in the casino while the wind blew outside. After a few days we went back to Q, and it was still windy.

Sharon_is_SAM

Thanks all!  I guess we’ll be prepared for most anything.

Binghi

You picked the right time to visit the desert SW - early before it heats up. We’re planning a Baja CA trip for Feb and Mar.