I can ask about renting my scout camp, it has all the qualifications but i know there are usually some lively "spirits" around the fire. The Scouts sort of frown on the "spirits" on their properties.
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I can ask about renting my scout camp, it has all the qualifications but i know there are usually some lively "spirits" around the fire. The Scouts sort of frown on the "spirits" on their properties.
Ranger Joe McAllister from Gathland sent me a very nice MAHHA reference letter to use when looking for a new hang location. This could help us with park administration -- knowing we are a respectful group of leave-no-trace hikers/campers. If anyone wants a copy on letterhead, just PM me.
Here's part of what he said . . .
"Although their group was large, they were very well behaved and ensured that areas they utilized were left in the same condition as when they arrived. In the case of the pavilion it may have been left in better condition.
The Maryland Park Service strongly encourages people to get out and experience the outdoors. This is one of our most important goals. Groups like the MAHHA aid in attracting people to outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. They are also excellent resource in helping educate the pubic on protecting our natural and cultural resources."
:):):)
I know "hiking into" has its appeal to folks. I understand that. But one of the reasons I have not been to Gaitland in a while is that I can't handle the hike. I know it is easy but my mobility issues just get in the way. This is just a vote for a more "car camping" venue. I don't expect my opinion to override the majority. But by the same token, if I don't voice it, it goes unheard.
Aahh thats a cool reference letter thanks for sharing. Anyways in regards to future locations. My only input is any place that allows dogs. I love PGF St Park but dont like the rule against no dogs in the group camp site. So really anywhere that permits dogs.
Thanks for sharing the letter Happy Camper. It is good to when everyone acts like an adult. Thanks for your leadership and superb diplomacy.
It seems to me that alcohol use at MAHHA gatherings has been very subdued, perhaps even minimal, and could be more so if we were a bit more circumspect. It's definitely about hammocks, not a wild party.
Anywhere along the AT we have the problem of a 10 person limit, and we should respect that. The AT gets so much use that it may be more susceptible to the impact of large numbers than other places. (Even hammock campers dig cat holes and leave footprints.)
State parks have regulations. I note that in PA we do not fit the definition of "an organized group", though the nice people at Pine Grove Furnace were either unaware of that or chose to overlook it.
What's left? Private land or National Forests (except for Wilderness areas), perhaps. Look around.
Gathland allowed alcohol at the pavilion if you bought the alcohol permit. Which I suspect pays for a ranger to be on hand during the pavilion event. I never bought the permit because I did not want to encourage more alcohol consumption. Probably not a popular stance to take with some, but it's my experience that bad things happen when alcohol is 'legal' at a large event. And as an organizer, I don't know everyone coming and how they act after a few drinks. It's also my opinion that MAHHA should be about friendship, family friendly, hammocks, and camping, rather than can we have alcohol at the location. I'm always concerned with safety.
We vote on location anyway, so the majority will rule.
I think if we can find a place that meets our size needs, location, trees for hammocks and dogs being allowed we can live without the alcohol. As stated it's about other things we love not a big drinking party.