How do you feel about generators??

[Jim K in PA]

Here's my take on the issue, it may not be popular, but here it is.

If you go camping and can't live without items that require electricity during your trip, then you need to get a site with hook-ups.

If you prefer a primitive site for a more wilderness experience and for the peace and quiet. HELLO!!! I don't see the need or the desire to have a generator.

This notion that if you only run it only during the day and turn it off at night is acceptable, think again. We primitive camp so we can hear the wind blowing through the trees, a nearby stream and the birds singing during the day. I have no problem with the sound of kids playing, they're just being kids. I think stereos and all electrical devises that make noise should be banned in primitive areas.

If you need all this stuff, why primitive camp.

CajunCamper

I second the above.  This is a subject that is not as "subjective" as one might think.  If you must have the devices with power requirements that only a generator can supply (like A/C), then perhaps reconsideration of what "dry" or  "primitive" camping means is in order.  Unless it is a medical emergencey, electricity is not a necessity, it is a luxury.  A/C is about the only thing I can think of that will require a generator for operation.  Everything else can be handled by careful planning, battery supply and use, and solar replenishment.

This is just my opinion, but this is an "express your opinion" kind of thread, and no offense is intended or aimed at those with views different from mine.

[wavery]

Here's my take on the issue, it may not be popular, but here it is.

If you go camping and can't live without items that require electricity during your trip, then you need to get a site with hook-ups.

If you prefer a primitive site for a more wilderness experience and for the peace and quiet. HELLO!!! I don't see the need or the desire to have a generator.

This notion that if you only run it only during the day and turn it off at night is acceptable, think again. We primitive camp so we can hear the wind blowing through the trees, a nearby stream and the birds singing during the day. I have no problem with the sound of kids playing, they're just being kids. I think stereos and all electrical devises that make noise should be banned in primitive areas.

If you need all this stuff, why primitive camp.

CajunCamper

I'm not sure what you are referring to as "Primitive sites" but I would think that they would have "No generator rules" and it shouldn't be an issue.

Ca State CGs have "generator rules" that specifically state "generator running hours". I must assume that you are talking about a different kind of campsite because, by your definition, you would probably choose not to camp there because of the posted rules.

I actually agree with you. I would love to find CG that have "No generator" rules. I would like to have that option as well. I just haven't seen anything like that. So........I choose to camp in places that have posted generator hours and I obey those rules and expect others to do the same. I (and others) have also chosen to put extra $ into respecting the rights of others.

I actually went to one CG where a guy had a huge industrial Arc Welder/Generator (it took up the entire bed of his pick-up truck) that he ran for hours (to watch TV). He ignored my request to turn it off so I went to the camp host. He asked him to turn it off and was ignored as well. The CG host got the Rangers to come in and escort the guy out of the CG. Somewhere, there has to be a balance.