introduction to 4x4 off road camping

Hi, my name is Fraser, an avid off road explorer and camper.  I've travelled extensively throughout western North America with my camper equipped 4x4, seeking out remote areas, historically significant ghost towns, quiet and serene camping spots.  It's my intention to show the reader the beauty, and assist with helpful advise exploring such areas.

My travel companion and trusty tool is a camper equipped Ford Ranger FX4.  A 2007 model purchased new with factory installed skid plates, a manual five speed gearbox with high and low option and a 4:10 ratio rear axle. The engine is a 4 litre, six cylinder V6 with 208 hp and 210 lbs ft of torque.  In addition, the rear has overrider leaf springs added to a specification of 1700 lbs, ten ply tyres 265 x 75 x 16 assist both ground clearance and reduce the possibility of punctures.  Also added the appropriate tie downs required to insure the camper stays firmly affixed to the truck.

To the camper, weight 800 lbs, I added 12 volt battery, 400 watt inverter, solar panel and link this to the truck.  Running a 20 lb propane tank, it's equipped with a stove, fridge and heater.  I use a MacBook Pro 13 inch computer which is charged by the aforementioned battery / inverter, solar panel and a Yamaha 2000 watt inverter generator.  Purchasing the camper preowned for a customer of mine, it's a Northern Lite, 610 model manufactured in 1996.  As the name suggests, its lightweight and has a length of 6' 10" not including overhead double bunk.  Spending several months each year in the camper it's become a home away from home.  From - 15 in November while hiking in Bryce Canyon to well over 100 degrees F it has stood me well, without a doubt it's my most favourite possession and will hopefully continue as such well into my retirement years.

In future blogs, I will delve into specific trips, add photos of each and try and give helpful tips while adding pictures to enhance the experience to the reader.  To this I add my thanks for reading my blog and allowing me to exercise my joy of writing, thank you for your time and patience.

The above pic shows the exterior, visible is the Yamaha generator  hooked up, whilst on the roof the solar panel is positioned to catch the suns free energy.  As usual, the campsite is free and I'm completely alone, not a sound except for the peaceful chirps of birds and the gentle lapping of the wind driven waves off the lake.

 Interior shot taken from the bunk, stove and Macbook pro plus ample shelving for storage.

 Another view showing the other side, bench seat and overhead storage, in the forefront to the left the propane fridge, hidden behind the hanging bags.

This angle, taken from the rear door allows the viewer a partial view of the bunk and escape hatch above.  My sound system is positioned beside the aforementioned MBPro.  All in all a comfortable hideaway from the elements of nature when needs arise.