Tag: California

California, located on the west coast of the United States, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and significant economic influence. From the sun-kissed beaches of Southern California to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, the state offers a range of natural beauty. The state is home to iconic cities like Los Angeles, known for Hollywood and the entertainment industry, and San Francisco, famous for its tech innovation and the Golden Gate Bridge. The state’s economy is one of the largest in the world, driven by sectors such as technology, agriculture, entertainment, and tourism. With its rich cultural diversity and pioneering spirit, California continues to be a land of opportunity and innovation.

Camp 4

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Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.
Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.

Camp 4 Campground, located in the heart of Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet elevation, is a historic and iconic campground in Yosemite National Park, renowned as a mecca for rock climbers and a budget-friendly option for adventurers. With 35 shared tent-only sites accommodating up to six people each, Camp 4 operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, with a lottery system during peak season (May 22–September 30). Its compact, walk-in layout and communal atmosphere set it apart from the reservation-based Upper, Lower, and North Pines campgrounds. Situated near Yosemite Falls, Camp 4 offers a unique blend of history, affordability, and proximity to the valley’s iconic landmarks, though its lack of privacy and limited amenities may not suit everyone. Below is a detailed review of its setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a vivid description of the Yosemite Valley floor.

Description of Yosemite Valley Floor

Yosemite Valley, the stunning backdrop for Camp 4, is a glacial-carved wonder stretching roughly 7 miles long and 1 mile wide at 4,000 feet elevation. Framed by towering granite cliffs, the valley floor is a breathtaking tapestry of natural beauty. The Merced River winds gently through its center, reflecting the surrounding peaks and adding a serene ambiance. Iconic landmarks define the landscape: Half Dome’s sheer granite face rises dramatically to the east, El Capitan’s massive monolith looms to the west, and Yosemite Falls, one of North America’s tallest waterfalls, cascades with peak flow in spring, its roar audible from Camp 4.

The valley floor blends dense forests of Ponderosa pine, California black oak, and white fir with open meadows like Cooks Meadow, which burst with wildflowers in spring and early summer. These meadows attract wildlife, including mule deer, squirrels, and occasionally black bears, adding to the valley’s allure. Approximately 12 miles of paved bike paths and hiking trails crisscross the flat terrain, ideal for exploration by foot or bike. Landmarks like Glacier Point, accessible by a short drive, offer panoramic views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and the Sierra Nevada. The valley’s beauty shifts with the light—golden hues illuminate the cliffs at sunset, while morning mists create a mystical atmosphere. Summer crowds, however, can congest trails and shuttle stops, especially near Yosemite Village.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

Camp 4 is located on the north side of Yosemite Valley, near the Yosemite Valley Lodge and the base of Yosemite Falls, making it a prime spot for climbers tackling nearby routes like El Capitan and Swan Slab. The campground is reachable via Highway 41 from Fresno, Highway 140 from Merced, or Highway 120 from Manteca, with clear signage guiding visitors to Yosemite Valley. A free shuttle bus stops nearby at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, connecting campers to key attractions like Curry Village, Yosemite Village, and trailheads, reducing the need for driving. The campground is a short walk from the Lower Yosemite Fall trailhead, offering easy access to one of the park’s most popular hikes.

As a walk-in campground, Camp 4 requires campers to park in a shared lot and carry gear a short distance (50–100 yards) to sites. There are no designated wheelchair-accessible sites, and the uneven terrain and lack of paved paths may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Restrooms are accessible, but the campground’s rustic nature limits overall accessibility compared to Upper, Lower, or North Pines.

Amenities

Each of Camp 4’s 35 sites includes a fire ring with grill, a shared bear-proof food storage locker (33”D x 45”W x 18”H), and access to picnic tables in communal areas. The campground provides flush toilets and drinking water but lacks showers, laundry facilities, or hook-ups for RVs, as it is tent-only. Showers are available at Curry Village or Housekeeping Camp, a 15–20-minute walk or short shuttle ride away. A general store, restaurants, and an activities desk at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village meet additional needs, such as groceries or tour bookings. A free dump station is available near Upper Pines, about a mile away, though irrelevant for Camp 4’s tent-only setup.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

Camp 4’s sites are arranged in a compact, walk-in layout within a forested area of Ponderosa pines, offering shade but minimal privacy. Sites are shared, with up to six people per site, often strangers, fostering a communal, social atmosphere. “It’s like a climber’s hostel—expect to make friends,” noted a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2021). Sites are closely spaced, with little separation between tents, and noise from neighboring campers or nearby Yosemite Falls can be noticeable. Some sites near the perimeter offer slightly more space, but the overall layout prioritizes efficiency over seclusion. The campground’s historic vibe, with boulder-strewn grounds and climbing gear strewn about, adds to its unique charm.

RV and Tent Camping

Camp 4 is exclusively for tent camping, with no RV or trailer accommodations. Each site allows up to six people, with gear carried from the parking lot to the site. The parking lot accommodates two vehicles per site, with overflow parking available nearby at Yosemite Valley Lodge. Generator use is irrelevant, as the campground caters to a low-tech, tent-based experience.

Reservation and Cost

Camp 4 operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, with a daily lottery system during peak season (May 22–September 30). From 8:30 AM, campers register at the kiosk for a lottery drawn at 9:00 AM, assigning sites for that day. The cost is $6 per person per night, making it one of Yosemite’s most affordable options. Outside peak season, sites are first-come, first-served without a lottery, but arriving early (by 6–7 AM) is essential, as spots fill quickly. “We lined up at 5:30 AM and still barely got a site,” reported a camper (Yelp, 2025). A waitlist is available at the kiosk for cancellations, but patience is required. The campground remains open in winter, with fewer sites available due to snow.

Activities and Attractions

Camp 4’s location is a climber’s paradise, with bouldering opportunities and climbing routes like Swan Slab and Glacier Point Apron nearby. The Lower Yosemite Fall trail, a 1-mile roundtrip, is a short walk away, and trails to Upper Yosemite Fall (7.2 miles roundtrip) and Glacier Point are accessible by foot or shuttle. The valley’s 12 miles of paved bike paths make cycling a popular way to explore, with rentals available at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village. Rafting on the Merced River is an option in summer, and ranger-led programs, including climbing talks and naturalist walks, are offered nearby. Yosemite Village, a short shuttle ride away, houses a museum, art center, and visitor center. The campground’s historic significance—listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its role in climbing culture—adds a unique draw, with climbers often sharing stories around communal fire rings.

Wildlife and Safety

Yosemite Valley is rich with wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and raccoons, requiring strict food storage protocols. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in shared bear-proof lockers, not vehicles or tents, to prevent bear encounters. “Bears are active here—don’t skip the lockers,” warned a camper (Campendium, 2023). Rangers enforce compliance with citations, and bear sightings are common, especially at night. Trash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters, and recycling stations support the park’s zero-landfill goal. The 4,000-foot elevation may affect those sensitive to altitude, and weather ranges from warm summers (70–90°F) to cold spring and fall nights (30–50°F), with snow possible in winter. Check forecasts, as rain or early snow can impact tent camping.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Location: Campers love Camp 4’s proximity to Yosemite Falls and climbing routes. “It’s a climber’s dream—steps from bouldering and trails,” said a reviewer (Hipcamp, June 2025).
  • Affordability: At $6 per person per night, it’s a budget-friendly option. “Cheapest way to stay in the valley,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2021).
  • Community: The shared-site setup fosters a unique social vibe. “Met amazing climbers from all over the world,” shared a reviewer (Yelp, 2025).
  • Scenery: The forested setting and views of Yosemite Falls are highlights. “Falling asleep to the sound of the falls is unreal,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).

Negatives

  • Crowding and Noise: The shared sites and compact layout mean zero privacy. “You’re basically camping on top of strangers,” complained a camper (The Dyrt, 2020). Noise from climbers or Yosemite Falls can disrupt sleep.
  • No Reservations: The first-come, first-served system is stressful. “Waiting in line at 5 AM for the lottery is brutal,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2023).
  • Limited Amenities: No showers or laundry on-site and shared lockers can be inconvenient. “You’re roughing it here,” said a camper (Yirono
  • Bear Activity: Frequent bear visits require vigilance. “A bear got into a neighbor’s tent—use the lockers!” warned a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2021).

Tips for Campers

  • Arrive Early: Line up by 5–6 AM for the lottery or off-season first-come, first-served sites, especially in summer. Bring a warm drink for the wait.
  • Pack Light: Walk-in sites require carrying gear, so minimize heavy equipment. A cart or backpack is helpful.
  • Bear Safety: Store all scented items in shared lockers and consider a padlock for security. Never leave food unattended.
  • Bring Bikes: Bikes are ideal for navigating the valley’s paved paths. “Biking saved us from crowded shuttles,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
  • Plan for Weather: Pack for variable weather, including rain gear and warm layers for cool nights, especially in spring, fall, or winter.
  • Embrace the Vibe: Be prepared for a social, communal experience. Bring earplugs for noise and a friendly attitude for shared sites.

Overall Experience

Camp 4 Campground offers a unique, budget-friendly Yosemite experience steeped in climbing history and communal spirit. Its location near Yosemite Falls and climbing routes, combined with stunning valley views, makes it a favorite for adventurers willing to embrace its rustic, social setup. The lack of privacy, limited amenities, and competitive site acquisition are drawbacks, but the affordability and vibrant atmosphere make up for it for many. “It’s not for everyone, but it’s the heart of Yosemite’s climbing culture,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2021). With early arrivals, bear safety diligence, and an open mindset, Camp 4 delivers an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Sources: Recreation.gov, Yosemite.com, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Yelp, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, Campendium, PerfectCamp, CampsitePhotos.com

White Wolf Campground

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Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.
Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the National Parks system.

White Wolf Campground, nestled in the Yosemite High Country at 8,000 feet elevation along Tioga Road, is a serene, seasonal campground in Yosemite National Park, offering 74 single-family sites for tents, RVs, and trailers up to 27 feet, and four walk-in tent-only sites. Open approximately from early July to early September (weather permitting), it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations available, making early arrival critical. Surrounded by lodgepole pines, meadows, and granite outcrops, the campground provides a peaceful retreat near White Wolf Meadow and trailheads to Lukens Lake and Harden Lake. Its remote location, about 1–1.5 hours from Yosemite Valley and 20 miles from Tuolumne Meadows, offers solitude and access to high-country trails, but the lack of amenities like showers and the high elevation require preparation. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of the Yosemite High Country.

Description of the Yosemite High Country

The Yosemite High Country, encompassing areas along Tioga Road and Tuolumne Meadows at elevations of 8,000–10,000 feet, is a subalpine paradise of granite domes, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes, offering a stark contrast to the bustling Yosemite Valley. This region features expansive landscapes like Tuolumne Meadows, dotted with wildflowers in summer, and iconic formations such as Lembert Dome, Cathedral Peak, and Mount Dana. The Tuolumne River winds through, creating serene spots for wading or fishing, while lakes like Tenaya, Elizabeth, and Cathedral shimmer against rugged Sierra Nevada peaks. Trails like the John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and shorter hikes to North Dome or Gaylor Lakes provide breathtaking vistas of the High Sierra and distant glimpses of Half Dome.

The High Country’s cooler climate (daytime highs of 60–80°F, dropping to 30–50°F at night) and thinner air offer crisp, clean air and exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife abounds, including black bears, marmots, pikas, Clark’s nutcrackers, and rare bighorn sheep at higher elevations. The area’s remoteness—about 1.5 hours from Yosemite Valley—ensures fewer crowds, though Tioga Road closes from November to May or June due to snow, limiting access. With its alpine beauty, granite expanses, and tranquil meadows, the High Country embodies Yosemite’s wild, untouched essence, perfect for hikers, climbers, and those seeking solitude.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

White Wolf Campground is located off Tioga Road (Highway 120), approximately 45 miles (1–1.5 hours) northeast of Yosemite Valley and 20 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows. From Lee Vining, take Highway 120 west for 30 miles past the Tioga Pass Entrance Station; from Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat Road to Tioga Road, then continue 14 miles past Crane Flat to the campground entrance on the left. The access road is a short, paved spur suitable for vehicles up to 27 feet, but larger RVs may struggle with tight turns and tree cover. The campground is near White Wolf Lodge (temporarily closed in 2025 for renovations), which historically offered cabins and dining.

The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, with no designated wheelchair-accessible sites, though some sites near vault toilets are relatively flat. The rocky terrain and high elevation may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water; campers must filter, boil, or treat water from nearby creeks or bring their own (1 gallon per person per day recommended). No cell service is available, and the nearest amenities are at Tuolumne Meadows Store (20 miles) or Crane Flat (14 miles). A seasonal shuttle connects to Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley, but most campers drive. Check-in is at the entrance kiosk, and sites must appear occupied (e.g., with a tent or chair) to hold them.

Amenities

Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (45”W x 33”D x 18”H). Vault toilets are provided, but there are no flush toilets, potable water, showers, or laundry facilities. “Bring a filter for creek water—none on-site,” advised a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). The nearest dump station is at Tuolumne Meadows Campground (20 miles) or Upper Pines in Yosemite Valley (45 miles). No electric, water, or sewer hook-ups are available. The Tuolumne Meadows Store, 20 miles away, sells groceries, firewood, and supplies, while Crane Flat offers gas and a small store. Trash and recycling collection are provided, with bear-proof dumpsters to protect wildlife. The campground is generator-free, ensuring a quiet atmosphere.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

White Wolf Campground is organized into a single loop with sites nestled among lodgepole pines, granite boulders, and small meadows near White Wolf Meadow. The four walk-in tent sites (50–100 feet from parking) offer the most seclusion, while drive-in sites vary in privacy. Sites like 1–10 near the entrance are closer to the road, while those deeper in the loop (e.g., 50–74) are more private, with tree cover and meadow views. “Site 68 was tucked away with great shade and meadow access,” noted a camper (CampsitePhotos.com, 2023). The compact layout means some sites are close together, but the forested setting and low site count (compared to Tuolumne Meadows’ 304 sites) enhance tranquility. The nearby creek adds a soothing ambiance, though it may dry up by late summer.

RV and Tent Camping

The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers up to 27 feet, with most sites limited to 24 feet due to narrow roads and tree cover. All vehicles must stay on paved or cleared areas, and pop-outs or awnings may not fit at smaller sites. Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking near the entrance. The four walk-in sites are tent-only, requiring a short carry from the parking lot. “Our 25-foot RV barely fit site 20—check dimensions carefully,” warned a camper (Campendium, 2024). The generator-free policy preserves the peaceful setting, and campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions apply (check NPS.gov). The high elevation and wildlife, like deer or marmots, add to the rustic charm.

Reservation and Cost

White Wolf operates on a first-come, first-served basis from early July to early September, with no reservations available. Sites cost $30 per night, payable by cash, credit card, or check at the kiosk (cash or check only if the ranger is unavailable). Arrive by 7–8 AM to secure a spot, as the campground often fills by mid-morning in peak season. “We got in line at 6:30 AM and barely got a site,” reported a camper (Hipcamp, 2024). A park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days) is separate, and day-use reservations may be required to enter Yosemite from June 15 to August 15, 2025, between 6 AM and 4 PM. The campground closes from September to July due to snow and Tioga Road closures.

Activities and Attractions

White Wolf Campground is a gateway to High Country adventures. The Lukens Lake Trail (1.6 miles roundtrip) and Harden Lake Trail (5.6 miles roundtrip) start at the campground, offering meadow and lake views with moderate climbs. The Ten Lakes Trail (12.6 miles roundtrip) and May Lake Trail (2.5 miles roundtrip), accessible via short drives, provide stunning alpine scenery. Tuolumne Meadows, 20 miles east, offers trails like Cathedral Lakes (7 miles) and Elizabeth Lake (4.8 miles), plus swimming at Tenaya Lake. Glacier Point, 32 miles away, offers panoramic views of Half Dome. The nearby White Wolf Meadow is ideal for wildflower viewing in July. Ranger-led programs, like stargazing and geology talks, are available at Tuolumne Meadows, and Yosemite Valley (1.5 hours) offers trails like the Mist Trail and rafting on the Merced River (seasonal).

Wildlife and Safety

The High Country hosts black bears, marmots, deer, pikas, and Clark’s nutcrackers. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof lockers to prevent bear encounters; bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite. “Bears visited our site at 2 AM—lockers are a must!” warned a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024). Rangers enforce compliance with citations, and bear-proof dumpsters are provided. The 8,000-foot elevation may cause altitude sickness, so hydrate and rest upon arrival. Weather ranges from warm days (60–80°F) to cold nights (30–50°F), with thunderstorms possible in July and August. “A storm hit fast—our rainfly saved us,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). Tioga Road closes from November to May/June due to snow. Bring warm layers, rain gear, and a water filter, as no potable water is available.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

  • Scenic Beauty: The forested meadow setting is a highlight. “Waking up to pines and granite was pure magic,” said a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2024).
  • Trail Access: Nearby hikes are praised. “Lukens Lake trail from camp was a gem,” noted a camper (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Less crowded than valley campgrounds. “So peaceful compared to Upper Pines,” shared a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2024).
  • Wildlife: Sightings of marmots and deer add charm. “A pika darted across our site—so cute!” said a camper (CampsitePhotos.com, 2023).

Negatives

  • No Reservations: The first-come, first-served system is stressful. “Lining up at 6 AM was brutal,” complained a camper (Campendium, 2024).
  • No Potable Water: The lack of drinking water frustrates some. “Filtering creek water was a chore,” noted a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2024).
  • Vault Toilets: Primitive facilities deter some. “No showers or flush toilets—come prepared,” warned a camper (Hipcamp, 2024).
  • Bear Activity: Frequent bear visits require vigilance. “Bears were active nightly—use lockers,” advised a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2024).

Tips for Campers

  • Arrive Early: Arrive by 7 AM for first-come, first-served sites, especially in July–August. Bring a warm drink for the wait.
  • Bring Water: Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day and a reliable water filter, as creek water may be low in August.
  • Bear Safety: Store all scented items in bear lockers and use a padlock. Never leave food unattended.
  • Weather Prep: Pack for cold nights and potential thunderstorms. A tarp or rainfly is essential for July–August.
  • Acclimatize: Rest upon arrival to adjust to the 8,000-foot elevation. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Explore Nearby: Hike Lukens Lake or drive to Tuolumne Meadows (20 miles) for more trails and scenic views.

Overall Experience

White Wolf Campground offers a tranquil, high-country camping experience in Yosemite, with its lodgepole pine setting and proximity to meadows and trails like Lukens Lake providing a peaceful escape from Yosemite Valley’s crowds. Its remote location and first-come, first-served system appeal to spontaneous adventurers, though the lack of potable water, showers, and reservations requires careful planning. “White Wolf is Yosemite’s hidden treasure—quiet and wild,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2024). With early arrival, water and bear safety preparations, and gear for high-altitude weather, White Wolf Campground delivers an unforgettable immersion in the Yosemite High Country’s alpine splendor.

Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, CampsitePhotos.com, Yosemite.com, Campendium, ParkRangerJohn.com

John Peters “Johnny” Ringo

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Johnny Ringo was an American gunfighter and outlaw most commonly associated with the infamous happenings in Tombstone, Arizona. He was often portrayed as the hired gun of the Clanton faction, an antagonist to Doc Holiday, and could be responsible for the kill of Morgan Earp. Although not formally educated, he supposedly quoted Shakespeare and cultivate an image of the refined gunman. Although in Tombstone at the time, and quarreled with Doc Holiday, he did not participate in the gunfight or every mince more than words with Holiday.

John Peters "Johnny" Ringo ( May 3, 1850 – July 13, 1882 )
John Peters “Johnny” Ringo ( May 3, 1850 – July 13, 1882 )

John Peters “Johnny” Ringo is born May 3, 1850 to Martin and Mary Peters Ringo in Greens Fork, Indiana. On July 30, 1864, when Johnny was 14, his family was relocation from Wyoming to California. While en route, Martin Ringo, Johnny’s father was killed when he stepped off their wagon holding a shotgun, which accidentally discharged. The head wound was gruesome and the family if forced to bury him on a hillside next to the trail. On their arrival in California, the family settled in San Jose.

Mason County War

In 1869, Johnny aged 19, left San Jose and moved to Mason County, Texas. While in Texas be befriended a former Texas Ranger Scott Cooley, who was the adoptive son of Rancher Tim Williamson. Williamson is arrested by a hostile mob and killed by Peter “Bad Man” Bader on May 13th, 1875. Following, Ringo and Colley rage a war of terror of those they felt guilty to Williamson’s murder. This became locally know as the “Hoodoo War” or the “Mason County Ware”.

On August 19th, 1875, Scott Cooley and Ringo killed Charley Bader when they mistook him for his brother Pete. The two men are jailed for the murder in Burnet, Texas, but soon escaped.

The Mason County War is over in November 1876 with about a dozen lives lost.

Ringo in Tombstone

Johnny found his way to Tombstone in the winter of 1880. He had a reputation of a bad temper and an alcoholic. He becomes associated with the Cochise County Cowboys alongs with the Clanton’s and may have participated in some of their “activities”. Ringo did not participate in the famous gunfight, however, on January 17th, 1882, he and Doc Holiday traded words and almost had a gunfight before both men were arrested.

Ringo was a fine man any way you look at him. Physically, intellectually, morally. He was six feet tall, rather slim in build, although broad-shouldered, medium fair as to complexion with gray-blue eyes and light brown hair. His face was somewhat long. He was what might be called an attractive man. His attitude toward all women was gentlemanly. He must have been a gentleman born. Sometimes I noticed something wistful about him, as if his thoughts were far away on something sad. He would say, ‘Oh, well,’ and sigh. Then he would smile, but his smiles were always sad. There was something in his life that only he, himself, knew about …. He was always neat, clean, well dressed, showed that he took good care of himself. He never boasted of his deeds, good or bad, a trait I have always liked in men. John…was a loyal friend. And he was noble, for he never fought anyone except face to face. Every time I think of him, my eyes fill with tears.

Mary Katherine Horony Cummings – Big Nose Kate

Following the attacks on Virgil and Morgan Earp, Wyatt Earp blamed Ringo for the ambush and murder of Morgan on March 18th, 1882. Morgans death prompted a “vendetta” ride which sees Wyatt hunting those whom he blamed for Morgan’s death. March 20th, 1882, Wyatt killed Frank Stillwell in Tucson, Arizona. Following, Johnny Ringo is deputized into a possse to search for the Wyatt and Holiday, although they never find them.

Mysterious Death

During Tombstone’s Fourth of July festivities, Ringo drank heavily. Two days letter he left Tombstone with several bottles of liquor. On July 8th, Deputy Billy Breakenridge ran into Ringo at Dial’s Ranch in the South Pass of the Dragoon Mountains. During this encounter “Ringo was very drunk, reeling in the saddle.” He encouraged Ringo to follow him back to the Goodrich Ranch. But, “he was drunk and stubborn and went on his way. I think this was the last time he was seen alive.”

At about 3pm on July 13, ranch hands at a nearby ranch heard a shot.

On July 14th, 1882, Ringo’s lifeless body is discovered by Teamster James Yoast, Ringo is found dead among “a bunch of five large black jack oaks growing up in a semicircle from one root, and in the center of them was a large flat rock which made a comfortable seat.” 

On discovery, Ringos body is already blacked from the hot Arizona sun.

His feet were wrapped in strips of cloth torn from his undershirt. Ringo had lost his horse with his boots tied to the saddle. The coroner’s report noted that “He had evidently traveled but a short distance in this foot gear.” A bullet hole is found at his right temple and an exit wound at the back of his head. The fatal wound was upward at a 45-degree angle between the right eye and ear. His Colt Single Action Army .45 revolver was still in his right hand with the hammer rested on the empty chamber. A knife cut was found at the base of his scalp, as if “someone had cut it with a knife.” His horse was found eleven days later about 2 miles away with Ringo’s boots still tied to the saddle. 

Despite the later claims by Wyatt Earp to have killed him, or movie depictions of Doc Holiday dispatching him and a show down, it is not difficult to image a very drunk Johnny Ringo committing suicide, after falling off and loosing his horse.

Summary

NameJohn Peters Ringo
Also Know ASJohnny Ringo, Johnny Ringgold
Birth / DeathMay 3, 1850 – July 13, 1882
Cause of DeathSuicide, Cochise County, Ariona
Side armColt Single Action Army .45 revolver
VictimsJames Cheyney – Killed – September 25, 1875 – Mason County, Texas
Charley Bader – Killed – August 19th, 1875 – Mason County, Texas
Louis Hancock – Wounded – December 1879 – Safford Arizona

References

Chuck Yeagers NF-104 Crash Site

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On December 10, 1963, Chuck Yeager, a legendary test pilot, crashed while flying an F-104 Starfighter at Edwards Air Force Base in the Mohave Desert of California. The incident resulted in serious injuries for Yeager and the grounding of the entire NF-104 fleet.

NF-104 Starfighter under rocket propulsion.
NF-104 Starfighter under rocket propulsion.

Background

The NF-104 and F-104 are both variants of the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter aircraft, but they have some significant differences.

The F-104 is a supersonic jet fighter aircraft that was developed in the late 1950s for the United States Air Force (USAF). It was widely used by many countries, including Canada, Italy, Germany, and Japan. The F-104 had a single engine and was designed to be a high-performance interceptor aircraft. It had a maximum speed of Mach 2.2 and was capable of flying at high altitudes.

The NF-104, on the other hand, was a modified version of the F-104 that was used for high-altitude flight training. The “NF” stands for “NASA Flight” because it was used by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for astronaut training. The NF-104 was fitted with a rocket engine that allowed it to climb to higher altitudes than the F-104. The ceiling of the aircraft was supposed to be 125,000 feet. It was also equipped with a reaction control system (RCS) that allowed it to simulate the handling characteristics of a spacecraft.

Overall, the main differences between the F-104 and the NF-104 are that the latter had a rocket engine and RCS, which made it suitable for high-altitude flight training, while the former was a high-performance interceptor aircraft.

Chuck Yeager, on the other hand, was a highly experienced test pilot with a distinguished career. He was the first person to break the sound barrier in level flight, flying the Bell X-1 in 1947. Yeager was also known for his contributions to the development of several other aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre, the F-100 Super Sabre, and the B-58 Hustler.

The Crash

On December 10, 1963, Yeager was conducting a test flight of an NF-104 Starfighter equipped with a rocket engine at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The purpose of the flight was to evaluate the aircraft’s performance at high altitudes and high speeds. Yeager was flying at an altitude of 80,000 feet and a speed of Mach 1.5 when he experienced a loss of control.

According to Yeager’s account of the incident, he had just completed a steep climb to 108,000 feet and was beginning to level off when the aircraft suddenly pitched up and rolled to the left. Yeager attempted to recover the aircraft using the reaction control thrusters on. and applying opposite rudder and aileron, but the NF-104 continued to roll and dive and eventually fell into a flat spin.. Yeager ejected from the aircraft at an altitude of around 8,500 feet and landed safely, but he suffered several injuries, including a broken collarbone, several ribs, a punctured lung and severe burns to his face.

Investigation

Chuck Yeagers NF-104 crash site is located in the Mojave Desert
Chuck Yeagers NF104 crashed in the Mojave Desert

Following the crash, the United States Air Force launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident. The investigation revealed that the F-104 had a notoriously difficult flight envelope, with a high stall speed and a tendency to enter a flat spin at high angles of attack. The investigation also revealed that Yeager had been flying with a faulty attitude indicator, which may have contributed to the loss of control.

However, the investigation ultimately concluded that the cause of the crash was pilot error. The investigation found that Yeager had exceeded the aircraft’s design limitations by flying at an altitude and speed that were beyond the F-104’s safe operating range. The investigation also found that Yeager had not received adequate training on the F-104 and had not been briefed on the risks associated with flying the aircraft at high altitudes and speeds.

Consequences

The consequences of the NF-104 crash were significant. The incident highlighted the dangers of flying high-performance aircraft without adequate training and briefing. As a result, the United States Air Force grounded the entire NF-104 fleet until additional training and safety measures could be implemented. The incident also led to changes in the way that test pilots were trained and briefed on new aircraft.

In 1922, the movie Top Gun: Maverick featured a similar incident written into the story of the movie. Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick is attempting to reach a new speed record or Mach 10, when, at high alititude he is forced to bail our of the experimental plane he was piloting.

Crash Location

Chuck Yeager’s NF-104 cam to rest in the Mohave Desert, just west of I-14 and south of California City Blvd.

Summary

NameChuck Yeagers NF-104 Crash Site
LocationMojave Desert, Los Angles County, California
Date of IncidentDecember 10th, 1963
Latitude, Longitude35.1236, -118.1469

References

Goler Wash and Mengel Pass

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Goler Wash and Mengel Pass over a route into Butte Valley from Panamint Valley. Although not technically in Death Valley, this trail is consider part of the area. Trail conditions vary from easy to difficult depending upon recent rainfall, with one section near Mengel pass being difficult.

The route twists and turns through a narrow valley, until it opens a bit into Goler wash itself. There is a short side trip to Baker Ranch and Meyer Ranch which was the one time, although short lived home of Charles Manson and his family prior to their arrest by Inyo County Sheriffs Department in October of 1969. Manson and others were responsible for the famous Tate – La Bianca murders in Los Angeles, California. Mason and his family drove a school bus up to Barker Ranch. The ranch was used as a mining and recreational property before Manson.

Barker Ranch - The building complex was heavily vegetated with trees, with a sparsely planted understory. Note the Manson bus in the left hand side of the image. View northwest, 1969 (DEVA collection). - NPS
Barker Ranch – The building complex was heavily vegetated with trees, with a sparsely planted understory. Note the Manson bus in the left hand side of the image. View northwest, 1969 (DEVA collection). – NPS

Barker Ranch

Barker Ranch is originally built in the 1930s by Bluth and Helen Thomason who were attempting mining operations at the site. They built a small stone building in the 1940’s and a windmill generated electricity. In 1955 the property was purchased by Jim and Arlene Barker. The Barkers expanded the original stone build for Barker family gatherings. In 1969, over the period of two days Charles Manson and his “family” are pursed and arrested. The arresting officer was CHP Officer Jim Jim Pursell.

In 2009, Barker Ranch is destroyed by a fire which tore though the dry wood of the buildings.

Asa Russell "Panamint Russ" in front of the Geologist cabin - Courtesy of Desert Magazine April 1955
Asa Russell “Panamint Russ” in front of the Geologist cabin – Courtesy of Desert Magazine April 1955

Follow the trail up to Megel pass, which offers the explorer access to Butte Valley, Megel’s Cabin, the Geologists Cabin and Russell’s camp.

Futher Reading

Goler Wash and Mengel Pass