We could probably write a short novel on our trip to Colonel Denning State Park, as we found quite a few interesting things to do while there. You’ll find this state park near Doubling Gap, PA. For you out-of-towners, it’s about 45 miles west of the Pennsylvania state capital, Harrisburg.
Though we didn’t go swimming, some folks did, but for us, it just wasn’t in the cards. I don’t recall specifically, but I think it may have been a bit cool that weekend. My lovely wife, the Navigator, can clear up any foggy recollections or untruths that I may share. You simply have to contact her to clarify if in doubt.
I think we stayed in site 21. The problem with booking sites in State Parks is that when a person does so online it is next to impossible to determine the terrain of the campground. Hence, our dilemma. I would note here that there are many sites in this campground that are easy to get in and out of, however, ours was not!
Upon arrival, it was clear that this was going to be a challenge for ole Major Airhead as the site was not only on quite a hill, but involved backing downward, and into, a level site that resulted in Hope being on rather level ground, with the Ford being off camber and facing uphill somewhat.
This is where the Equalizer Hitch part comes in, and the lesson we learned that day. We found out quickly that stressors placed upon the sway bars of the Equalizer Hitch when positioned thusly, as our tow vehicle and Hope were, present an extremely difficult task of removing the sway bars from the L-brackets in order to unhitch from the trailer.
I raised the tongue all the way up using Hopes handy-dandy electric jack, but while one sway bar came off rather easily, the other was quite the bear to remove. Trust me when I say it was on there tight! I did eventually get it to come off the L-bracket but it was quite the chore and an extremely stressful experience.
So our recommendation is, when seeing a twisted arrangement whereby the tow vehicle is quite off camber relative to the trailer, and in preparation for unhitching, it may be wise to remove (and also install) the sway bars on level ground prior to backing into your spot. Indeed, upon our departure, we pulled Hope up to the top of the hill in the campground and installed the sway bars up there on level ground. We do try to learn from our mistakes. 🙂
The Equalizer Hitch has performed wonderfully for us. We put over 4,000 miles on it this past summer. I did disassemble the sway bar sockets one time, lubed them as per the Equalizer company’s recommendations, and am always very attentive in terms of torqueing all nuts/bolts on the entire hitch to specifications. I highly recommend carrying the appropriate torque wrenches and sockets along for the ride!
It was the Park Ranger who told us of Pandemonium (1787-1912), the abandoned town up on the hill, and we just had to go up there and check it out. I suggest doing so, and in particular, a visit to the town’s Pioneer Cemetery. We wondered what life was like – oh so long ago – for its inhabitants, as we walked through the cemetery. Amazing and eerie at the same time.
And for those who like to hike, there is a nice trail that leads up to Flat Rock and a wonderful view.
Lastly, we stumbled upon a huge auction back Hidden Valley Rd, being a fundraiser for a local Amish School. I mean a HUGE auction was going on, big party tents, Amish folk all about, food, goods for sale, the works…..it was awesome!
Respectfully,
Major Airhead
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