In our departure from Phoenix we ventured just a short drive over the mountains to the east to Roosevelt Lake in the heart of Tonto National Forest. We stumbled along the lake until we found Windy Hill campground, run by the National Forest Service. The campgrounds run by the National Forest usually do not have hookups but the sites are very large and located in beautiful natural settings. This is one of the largest campgrounds on the lake with over 340 sites and sits across the road from the Tonto National Monument.
First of all Roosevelt Lake is a beautiful setting, the campground is rarely full at this time of year and the weather was warm and sunny. I can't think of a more peaceful setting yet this trip. On our second day we went to the monument to climb the steep hillside. We toured the lower of the cliff dwellings, inhabited the Salado people almost 700 years ago. As we walked into the dwelling, Gary noticed a number of bees around the cave entrance. The ranger on duty was considering closing the dwellings as we left. It seems that the bees are africanized and very aggressive to people near their hives surrounding the cave. It was nice to actually walk through the dwellings as many of these cliff dwellings have been closed off to traffic. We were ready to climb to the upper dwellings but this is only permitted with a guide and appointment. The views from the dwelling of the lake and campground below were amazing.
Today we headed for Roper Lake State Park and for the first time, took Blue out of his carrier to ride on my lap. He was very happy to be out of confinement and after a few struggles to move around the rig, he settled down and napped the remaining 1/2 hour drive. That is very good for a first timer, he continues impress us.
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