Boon- Docking in Winnemucca

Getting There

After leaving Pollock Pines, we made the 268 mile drive to Winnemucca. This was a short pit stop on our way to Twin Falls, ID. The roads were clean, and traffic was nowhere in sight – a traveler’s dream. 

Our Home for Two Nights

We decided to save our money and boon-dock at Water Canyon BLM. It was during the week, so naturally we assumed there would be plenty of open spots. You know what they say when you assume? Anyway, as usual, God saved the last open spot for us. We couldn’t believe how many people were there. 

Pro’s

1. It’s Free

2. Easily defined Camping Spots

3. Has Restrooms, tables, and fire pits

4. Has Trails and a frisbee golf course

5. Beautiful scenery and sunsets

   
   

Con’s

1. Crowded

2. People on ATVs are in and out all day and night

3. A mouse found a way into our trailer, it drove me crazy

Owning our Truck

In Winnemucca, we made the decision to clear our truck payment. The bankers were wonderfully friendly and accommodating, making the process unhurried. With the decline in customer service over time, encountering such positive service remains a pleasant surprise. I believe that when everything goes smoothly and circumstances align favorably, it's a clear indication of God's guiding presence.

Overall Experience

Boon-docking isn't for everyone; sleep disruptions and surprise guests (hello, mouse) come with the territory. Yet, the unparalleled peace amid open nature compensates for these quirks. Our short stop in Winnemucca taught us to embrace the beauty of the unplanned on the road less-traveled, turning a brief pitstop into financial freedom.

Bible Verse 

Genesis 28:11

He came to a certain place and spent the night there, because the sun had set; and he took one of the stones of the place and put it under his head, and lay down in that place. 

Reflection

• God, our creator, knew that we would need rest. I love how boon-docking takes us back to simpler times. Without electricity, we go to sleep when the sun sets and wake up when the sun rises just as God intended. I usually feel restored after boon-docking, without all the distractions of technology.

• I find this to be true with seasons as well. Living in Southern California, I had never really experienced a true winter. After talking to people much wiser than me across the country, they say they use this season for rest. The days are shorter, they stop extra curricular activities, cook more, and play games together with their families after dinner. They catch up on household chores, schoolwork, reading, and rest. I love this idea.

• I know I have spoken on this before, but rest is so incredibly important to our health- physically and mentally. Without proper rest- anxiety, depression, and sickness creep in. Our society looks at rest as weakness, when really our Creator tells us it is a necessity to be strong. 

• Read 1 Kings 19:4-8. I love this passage because it shows the humanity Elijah had through his depression and brokenness. It also shows how the Lord restored him with rest and food. I believe this is SO powerful. 

Let’s Pray

Gracious Father, we express gratitude for the breathtaking sunsets, revealing glimpses of your beauty and encouraging us to unwind. We thank you for the sunrise each morning, serving as a reminder of you and your offering of fresh starts. We praise you for new beginnings and your flawless ways. When I attempt to take control and resolve matters myself, anxiety and overwhelm prevail. May you, in those moments, prompt me to surrender my will to you, trusting that your ways are better than mine. Guide me to embrace and value the gift of rest and nourishment, especially amidst the bustling holiday season.

In Jesus’ Name Amen

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.

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