Re: Summer accommodation in Chama

Russo Loco Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Hi, Jerry -
>
> In the REALLY olden days (early & mid-sixties), I
> recall sleeping outdoors on the north end of town
> on the west side of the highway in a campground
> maintained as a public service by the local Lions
> or Elks club - roughly across from where the Rio
> Chama campground is now located. No showers,
> but we took turns working the pump handle while
> the others sponged off.
>
> On the plus side, Kelly's cafe was still going
> strong - and Vera's mild chili would keep you warm
> all night ...  
>
> - Russo

We made two trips to the Narrow Gauge in the first year of operation,
1971. On the second one my brother and two of our friends went "El Cheapo" and we stayed mostly at the "Kelly's Campground". It was located at the bend of Highway 17 just at the end of mainstreet before the RR crossing on the left side. Not much there as I recall. We had two "Explorer" type boyscout tents. I remember one night some nasty growling outside the tent, either a coyote, dog, or wolf!!! We had two motorcycles with us that we hauled in an open u-haul trailer. Tried going into Osier one day on soft road, and boy was that an adventure.
Anyway Kelly's Campground is likely the place you were during your camping days Russ!!! It was FREE as I recall. We had some nice campfires, but after a few nights we stayed at the Wye Motel for showers and a soft bed. Had my first "Coors" that night with some rather spicy Mexican food!!
Greg Scholl