We’re a group of a dozen travelers. Most arrived a day early on Wednesday, August 6th. First timers were Robin Petrovsky (AZ), Steve and Sao Kastel (NV), Dave Christiansen (NV), and James Langley (AL). Jim and Nancy Murphy (AZ) last visited Wind Cave campout in 2019. Other members ambled in on Thursday and Friday: Desse Johnson (IA), Chuck Ribideaux (MN), and James Stewart (CO). At a young 90 years of age, Jim Poitra from Chadron, Nebraska rode in for a visit with all of us on Friday. We had one guest who joined us, Barry First, that we made welcome and tried to recruit into IBMC. He was riding the country from Baltimore, MD with tent and gear. Most all made the usual attractions in South Dakota: Rushmore, Sturgis, Wind Cave tours, Hill City scenic train ride, Needles Highway, Custer Park. A large herd of bison were observed by some of the lucky while riding. Though no campfires were allowed, warm weather and our circle of camp chairs provided the necessary ingredients for catching up and telling new stories each night. As Chuck tried to setup his tent on Thursday, a slight wind almost sent his tent into the creek and over the hill. It took about 4 people to lasso and restrain his escapee. Another camp experience was James (Langley’s’) camp trailer which tried to oust him out of bed at 6am. Much to his alarm and surprise the trailer tongue went air borne. Robin and Carla Sartwell (AZ), first on the scene, took quick action to stabilize the malfunctioning tent trailer. A group lunch was held at Maria’s in the town of Custer on Saturday. Many epicurean menu items were devoured. It was a delight to see our friends again. Some of us only see each other once a year at this campout. Join us next year, same place, same loop B but, a week later. Keep on riding!
By Carla Sartwell, host
