2nd Annual VAC Spring Rally

Bass Lake/Yosemite, California

April, 2001

Rally Report

- (Click on any of the below images to enlarge) -

Wednesday, April 18th started off the rally with much promise people from 5 states started arriving at the beautiful Bass Lake Lake resort just south of Yosemite National Park in the spring-like weather. The little Bubbles, Caravels and Travelers assembled along one side, the bigger vintage rigs using the large pull-through spots, and the solitude seekers heading up into the sites amongst the trees. All told 51 vintage Airstream trailers would arrive over the next 3 days. When it started sprinkling the first night into the campfire - that was the first omen that Mother Nature had still had surprises in store.

In addition to do it yourself exploration in the area, there were day trips into Yosemite itself. Getting there was often difficult over the passes, but those who made it were treated to a spectacular view of the white coated mountains rising up from the valley floor. Friday brought about an exploration of an underground gold mine that is off-limits to the public, and a trip to the California state gold exhibit in Mariposa (all out of the rain). It was also observed that many trips were being made to restaurants in nearby Oakhurst to escape the increasingly cold and nasty weather. Outdoor socializing was rather limited. Except for the few brave souls noted below at Thursdays' happy hour, most of the 5PM happy hours were spent inside the clubhouse and the big fireplace. Come hell or high water, Airstreamers will find a way to have their Happy/Social Hours!

 

 

And then it happened!! During Friday night the rains stopped drumming on the aluminum roofs and all was quite. To experienced mountain folk, that was bad news, and those who stuck their heads out were greeted to the following sight:

7 inches of snow fell that night. While it dampened some spirits and floors, the sight Saturday morning was gorgeous and stunning. How often does one get to camp in snow? The trailer is usually put away for the winter in such seasons.

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The snowfall created some unique Airstream Rally "Works of Art"

 

 

But snow could not stop the rally or the planned open house later that day! As the snow started melting, people started cleaning up their trailers and setting up their vintage display. Some latecomers who where delayed Friday by the snow were able to get to the site that morning.

 

 

On Saturday, Tom from PerfectPolish.com gave a demonstration of Airstream polishing using Nuvite products. What was impressing the watchers below was that the trailer selected for the demo still had clearcoat on it - and the course grade of polish took it off! A mirror shine was obtained one pass later with a finish grade of polish, and those who hadn't polished their trailers left encouraged and itchy to get started.

 

 

The day ended with a Barbecue supplied by the Fresno County Search and Rescue, and wouldn't you know it, Sunday dawned a beautiful and sunny day. A breakfast was provided by the resort, and as many people left that day to get back to their jobs and reality, many were able to stay, enjoying what turned out to be a wonderful Spring day.

 

Thanks again to John & Rosalyn Skadden for their hosting of the rally and the tour arrangements. The fall rally is planned for the 3 Rivers area near the Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park area. Spaces are limited to 35, and the no vacancy sign may already be out. This demonstrates the need for more smaller rallies throughout the year, so jump in and host a smaller gathering - there will be plenty of takers.