Q: Are travel trailers allowed at primitive campsites? Not RVs, but an Airstream trailer towed by a 4X4, for example. I am thinking of buying one and would like to know the options I have for taking it to a primitive campsite; I am trying to avoid campgrounds with power and water hookups, as I am trying to have the Airstream be completely self-sufficient (i.e., solar power, catchwater usage, composting toilet, etc.). Thank you for any information you could give me. -- Timothy

A: Well, Timothy, that depends on the primitive campsite.

For those who don't know what a primitive campsite is, it's usually one that offers nothing more than a cleared spot on which camping is allowed. This is the real "roughing it" kind of camping.

But some primitive campsites have compost toilets or other kinds of portable toilets.

Which leads me to proclaim that not all primitive campsites are created equal.

Many primitive campsites are located deep into the woods, where you have to hike at least a few miles to get there. This should be considered backpacking because you would have to carry your tent and all your supplies for miles to your campsite. (And back out again, of course.)

But some primitive campsites are readily accessible to roads, and that's where you could take your trailer, Timothy. Just be sure to turn off your generator during designated quiet times if it makes noise -- this generator thing is a rule in some places. And watch your height and width so you don't harm any tree branches.

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