dokodemo

Went into Tuscon to get supplies. Washed van right before it dto rain. Tucson seems a little down and out, a lot of closed, weathered motels. Many homeless-looking men wandering around. Found a decent camping shop, natural foods store (Sunflower Market), etc.

Went up to the Saguaro National Park around 4, but they did not have camping after all. They did have some backcountry sites, but they would not let me enter that late since it was seven miles.

I drove 11 miles on to the Colossal Cave Mountain County Park, which, aside from the $3 entry fee, offered free camping. It had terrain similar to Seguaro park... many large seguaro cactus, millions of smaller prickly pears, mesquite shrubs, and legions of spiked plants. Walking was in fact quite treacherous... NOTHING could be touched, and there were really no clear areas. both of my hands are pretty seriously scratched up, and my pants surely have lots of holes now (or at least worn areas waiting to rupture).

A fairly fierce windstorm came as the sun went down, I was starting to wonder how much wind would be required to ruin the poptop. I was about to take it down when the storm subsided. Slept very well at a pleasantly cool 50 degrees. Candle lantern is a favorite, though it feels very dangerous.

Downfall of the park is that I was locked in until 9am, despite my habit of getting up with the sun. After seeing a little more of the city, I've decided I really like Tucson and my first impressions were of a Sunday in the wrong part of town. Its really a beautiful city with so much nearby.