We’re aiming for a first-come “campground” on the beach a few miles away from Carpinteria for the weekend. It’s the closest place that should have a spot available during Griffin’s birthday. We figure that getting there pretty early on Thursday should ensure we get a spot.

Ashley’s eager to start heading that way so we’re closer for a quick trip on Thursday morning, so we pack up and head out. Up and over the mountains we drive, stopping at a rest area for lunch. There’s a bit of cell signal there, so we’re able to check messages finally. On we head, and find ourselves in urban sprawl. Hmm… there’s no where we can spend the night wild camping. We call and check with the rangers about the nearby National Forest, but no dispersed camping allowed.

On we head to the county beach. It’s basically paid parallel parking, but there’s enough room for us and the trailer and it’s wide enough for the awning and room to spare. 10′ out our front door is a row of boulders that drop down to the beach and ocean. We’re about 50′ away from the water’s edge.

I make supper while Ashley plans out the trip and fills out the permit application for the John Muir Trail.