Book Additions and Corrections

Editors Note: We receive much of this information from others by mail, email, or in person. We haven't confirmed most of it ourselves. We like to add the names of the sources of the information we receive, if you don't want your name mentioned be sure to tell us in any email you send.

Ferries - Page 48

 

December 15, 2007 Reader Report - Have just taken ferry from La Paz to Topolobambo. The ferry is ex Stena lines from Europe and very nice. Wanted to go to Mazatlan, but quoted 12,500 pesos for 28 ft motorhome! More than a semi trailer, according to advertised prices. This run is 6,240 pesos for the rig and 710 pesos per person, which includes meal and drink. Friends in 19ft van paid 3,110 pesos. Buying ticket was long process, we were at office in line-up at 9am, didn't get tickets til 11. Then went and parked in loading area. What a fiasco, the ramp was so steep, many of the semi trailers were unable to get up, they were supposed to reverse!  Loading had started before we got there, and continued for several hours. Scheduled departure time 3pm, 1/2 hour later we left. Supposed to be 5hr trip, it was well past 11pm before we were unloaded. Driver only allowed to vehicle deck, so trying to link up afterwards a nightmare as no designated pick up area. One good thing, we were allowed/encouraged to stay in terminal parking area overnight. Suggest people allow lots more time than we are accustomed to in US/Canada, nothing moves efficiently in the whole process.

 

Low Sulphur Diesel - Page 48

 

December 28, 2007 - Last we heard this reader was in Catemaco (well into Mexico). He's driving a new model diesel and says no problems. Here's his take on the low sulphur diesel problem. As for ourselves, we don't have a clue so do your research and make your own decision. Also, don't forget to check with your manufacturer about warranty issues.

 

There's still no ulsd fuel anywhere south of the border towns with the USA but a search of the major diesel forums like dieselplace.com, and the rv.net forum on Mexico, will find a number of owners who have taken their 2007 and 2008 model trucks into Mexico, including us.

As predicted by ALL of the scientific studies, the emissions system does NOT get destroyed by the use of Mexican diesel. The regeneration cycles which clean the DPF (diesel particulate filter) tend to be a bit smokey as the extra sulfur is burned off, but otherwise everything operates normally. All of the scientific testing indicates that it takes at least 40,000 miles on higher sulfur fuel to cause any measurable changes to the DPF. You can find links to these scientific test at dieselplace.com in the Fourth Generation LMM engine section.

The reason it is illegal to use fuel with higher than 15ppm in the USA is because the higher sulfur fuels produce emissions which exceed the allowable limits. The rule has almost nothing to do with longevity of the DPF.

The highest number of miles on a new truck using Mexican diesel I have been able to find is an owner in the Baja who has done more than 8000 miles on a new Dodge fitted with the DPF.

Bottom line - it is extremely unlikely that any harm will be done to one of the new truck engines by a trip into Mexico. As of this posting there is not a single example to be found on any diesel forum of someone who had a problem using the higher sulfur fuel.

 

October 31, 2007 Update - I know for certain that Pemex is working like crazy at the refinery level to get the new fuel out to the stations. All diesel truck engine manufacturers in Mexico now specify ULSD and sales of new commercial trucks are way down. Good thing the manufacturers had an inventory of earlier Moderate Sulfur engines. One of the criteria that Pemex specified for the news release and advertising of ULSD at the station level is for "enough" of the new fuel to flush out all of the old fuel from station tanks to insure that anything dispensed at the pump will not violate whatever specifications the new fuel is meant to meet. I helped my dad run a large gas station back in the seventies. It did a lot of volume yet it took more than six months before the new unleaded gasoline flushed out the heretofore leaded regular bulk tank! At least that is what the California Emission Control headquarters told us. - Courtesy of David Eidell

 

October 25, 2007 Update - We've been receiving some questions about the availability of low sulphur diesel in Mexico. As you probably know all diesel-engined vehicles sold in the US and Canada, beginning with the 2007 model year, require the use of low sulphur diesel. I've questioned reps of major manufacturers and they tell me that any use of higher sulphur fuels will cause a breakdown within very few miles, and also probably void the engine warranty. Almost all diesel sold for vehicles in the US and Canada is now OK for those 2007 vehicles. I asked David Eidell, a long-time Mexico traveler and also the operator of Flores de Las Peñas RV Park near Ixtapa (page 161 of the third edition) to look into this and here's what he found:

I intercepted the following breve from Petroleos Mexicanos with more information about the possibilities of actually seeing ultra-low sulfur diesel in the near (rather than far) future:

Ok Guys, here you go... the memo (resumed and translated, if you want to read the full note, in spanish, go to: http://www.apartados.hacienda.gob.mx/novedades/espanol/docs/comunicado_095_2006.pdf):

On January 30th, 2006, the Secretary for the Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), published in the Federal Official Diary, the "Specifications for fossil fuels for the protection of the environment", in which are stated the new requirements Pemex will have to comply with, in order to produce and commercialized the fuels and diesel that are sell throughout our country.

The new Premium Ultra Low Sulfur, should have an average of 30 millions per part of sulfur (30 ppm), while the new Pemex Diesel Ultra Low Sulfur will have a maximum of 15 ppm.

These new norms and specifications, are the result of a revision process that started in May of 2002, and in which the private, public and academic sectors participated.

It must be noted that Pemex began to delivered the Premium fuel with the required specifications on October 2006. The quality required should be gradually met, due to the actual existence of fuel in the Gas Station's tanks, with a high content of Sulfur.

Regarding Diesel Ultra Low Sulfur (Diesel UBA), it's introduction began on October 2006, in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua. In January 2007 in will be extensive throughout the Northern part of Mexico and then to the rest of the country.

Editor's note - the following is Dave's analysis:

We should be reminded that in Mexico we only have two kinds of Diesel... Regular diesel and Marine diesel... that is it... while in the States the are several ones, each with different quality and quantities of sulfur.

This is a little confusing, but all-in-all I believe that it (the letter) is trying to tell us that the company had reforulated its diesel to "low sulfur" and now it is in the process of converting to ultra low sulfur diesel.

Most of the gasolineras have banners announcing that premium gasoline is "UBA" and they have been around for perhaps the last eight months.

But none of the stations that I have encountered so far have a banner declaring a new diesel fuel.

I will keep current on this and hopefully we will hear of a new diesel before it becomes "old news".

Saludos!
David

Editor's further note: Sounds to us like Pemex started producing and delivering diesel with 30 ppm of sulphur in October 2006. Hope that's right but we haven't been able to confirm it for sure. We'd appreciate a note from anyone with further information. If you have a diesel vehicle you should check with the manufacturer to see what its fuel requirements are. You might consider skipping Mexico this year unless you can be sure that diesel meeting your vehicle's specifications is available.

 

Fuel Prices - Page 48

 

November 4, 2007 Reader Report- Magna sin (regular gas) is 7.01 pesos per liter and diesel is 5.93 pesos per liter or $2.45 and $2.08 US, respectively/gallon at rate of 10.8pesos/ US dollar. - Courtesy of Bruce and Linda DesChamps

Editor's Note: Prices will be higher within 20 km or so of the US border.

Maps - Page 55

November 8, 2005 - In our discussion of the best maps to use while traveling in Mexico we mention World Wide Books and Maps in Seattle as a good source for the Guia Roji por las Carreteras de México road atlas. We neglected to give their order number and website address. Here they are: 206 634-3453 and www.worldwidebooksandmaps.com

 

Baja Peninsula Tourist Card Procedures - Page 70

 

While researching our the third edition of our book Camping Mexico's Baja we found that procedures for tourist cards on the Baja have changed. Most importantly, it is no longer possible to get Tourist Cards at the Migracion office in Ensenada, it must be done at the border. Also, tourist cards are required for all visits to the Baja (in theory even very short term visits) except San Felipe and the Sonora Free Zone. Here is the information about tourist cards on the Baja from the new book:

 

You must have a Tourist Card if you are going to travel on the Baja except in Puerto Peñasco, Golfo de Santa Clara, or San Felipe. These are obtained at the Migración office at the border or from agents in the U.S., notably Discover Baja or Vagabundos del Mar. To get your card you must present identification in the form of your passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate and a picture I.D. like your driver's license. The card is issued for a set length of time, you should be asked how long you plan to be in Mexico. Make sure to get a card giving you enough time for unexpected extensions. There is a fee of 210 pesos (about $19 U.S.) per person for the card. If you are getting the card at the border the money is not collected at the Migración office. Instead you take it to a bank and pay there. Sometimes there is a bank at the crossing, at other times you'll have to visit a bank in town. The card is validated by a stamp at the bank. If you are buying your card from an agent in the US you pay when you get it, but you still must get the card stamped when you cross the border at the Migración office there.

 

Note that if you are in Mexico for less than seven days you do not have to pay for the tourist card. Note also that you are required to turn in the card when you cross the border heading north.

 

A word of warning is in order. The borders are very crowded and it can be difficult to find a place to park while you go inside to get your tourist cards. Many people find it easier to spend the night near the border the day before going into Mexico. They walk across the border from the US, get their cards, and then come back into the US. That way they can drive across the next day with no stop. It is no longer possible to get cards in Ensenada or at the border between Baja California and Baja California Sur near Guerrero Negro as in prior years. However, you will be checked to make sure you have one at the checkpoint at that location.

The towns of Puerto Peñasco and Golfo de Santa Clara fall within the Sonora free zone. Neither tourist cards nor vehicle permits are required for visiting these places. Cards and permits are not required for visits to San Felipe either. 

See also the warning about passport stamps below.

 

People Documentation - Page 70

 

March 31, 2007 Update - The plot thickens. Today we departed Mexico at the Santa Teresa crossing just west of El Paso. We found a sign (in English) posted which read as follows:

 

Read duties and obligations on back of your Migratory Form (FMN, FMVC or FMT Permit).

The migratory Form has a $237.00 pesos fee and has to be paid in any bank in Mexico, please read list in the back of the Migratory Form (Permit).

The Migratory Form has to be returned IN PERSON to any Mexican Immigration Office (not to the Consulate), right when you are leaving the country and before the expiration date.

Avoid fines, make sure that the officer stamps your passport when issuing and when canceling (returning) your permit.

If you got a Migratory Permit previously and you lost it, you don't have it with you and/or your passport shows lack of a stamp out, you won't be able to get a new one unless you get a Comparecencia por Perdita de Documentos, (loss of Federal Documents Report) from the Averiguaciones Previas Office (police department).

If an untimely opened stamp on Migratory Form (Permit) has to be closed (or returned), a fine of $50.87 pesos has to be paid for each day that got overdue.

Don't get confused, when you cancel the car permit (in its case), you are not canceling the migratory permit, the migratory permit has to be canceled in the Mexican immigration offices.

 

Although the language is a little hard to follow it is apparent that passport stamps are now being used to control the issuance and collection of visas. We've been expecting that the system would eventually be in place to make sure people turn in their visas when leaving Mexico, now it apparently is. Unfortunately, the process is still somewhat confusing and officials are sometimes trying to claim that stamps should be in your passport even though they were not always available in the past. Our advice is to make sure you get your passport stamped when entering Mexico, turn in your paid visa form when you leave, and get a Salida stamp in your passport to prove you've done so. Note that although we have returned our visas religiously over the years we still had some entry stamps in our passport without matching exit stamps. The Migración officer, this time, was not concerned about that and did not give us any problems.

 

March 2, 2007 Update - Although we have never had this happen to us we are beginning to hear reports from others. Sometimes, when you enter Mexico by RV, your passport gets stamped with an entry stamp at the Migracion office. If so you must make sure that you get it stamped again when you leave. Some people have recently been threatened with fines for not doing this. In at least one case significant legal fees were incurred in getting a proposed fine reduced.

 

Vehicle Documentation - Page 71

 

October 20, 2007 Reader Report - Many readers have been having problems with the new 10-year vehicle import permits. The question is - what happens if you sell the vehicle while outside Mexico? Mexican border officials would not accept paperwork showing that the vehicle was sold and travelers were not being allowed to take the new vehicle into Mexico because computer records showed they already had one in the country. Here's the first report we've received of a successful resolution of the problem, also a link to a PDF format form that you can download and print out for your own use if you too have this problem.

 

If you recall, I had a problem, with the cancellation of my Mexican vehicle import permit.  I unexpectedly sold my car in Colorado in between visits to Mexico and did not surrender the permit.  This same difficulty will probably start to happen to many RVers with the new 10-year permit when they sell their rigs.

I got, over time, four different versions of a new Mexican government form to request cancellation of the permit without presenting the vehicle.  A copy of the form that worked for me is attached; for my own use, I had it translated into English and that version is also attached.

I finally got the new cancellation form to work.  After filling out the "Imported or Exported Definitively" section of the form, I mailed it with the following additional items to the address in Mexico City given on the form:

- The original importation form (from which the hologram was peeled)
- The original hologram
- A notarized letter (in this case from a US auto dealer) indicating that car was sold in the US
- A photocopy of the bill of sale
- A photocopy of my US drivers license
- A photocopy of my passport
- A photocopy of a recent utility bill to document my current address

Of course, I made photocopies of everything I sent and sent the envelope via registered mail.  I don't know if all of these precautions were necessary, but sending everything listed above was advice I got at the border.

By the way, I tried to submit all of the above at two border stations (Nogales and Pharr) and neither would accept them.  Both stations told me I had to send the form the Mexico City.

After two months, I got an official "Certificate of Return" indicating the permit was canceled.  I haven't yet tried to import another vehicle, but I don't think I will have any problems.

I hope you can spread the word and distribute the form.

Here's the form. Click here and it will upload to your computer. You'll need Adobe Acrobat to do it. Then print it out. Note that there are two pages. One is in English, the other in Spanish. You'll want to file only the Spanish form, but the English translation should help you fill it out.

 

June 3, 2007 Reader Report - We have been traveling to Mexico for some time with a truck and trailer that are owned by our business. I write a letter on company letter head giving myself permission to enter Mexico with the rig; this has always been accepted after some discussion with the customs officials. Last year we crossed at Columbia near Laredo with no problem, this year at the same crossing we were informed that the letter is no longer acceptable. In future only a registration showing the driver as owner would be accepted. After 2 hours of discussion with various officials, I signed the ownerships over to myself and was issued a Vehicle Import Permit.

We were also issued a 10 Year permit for the trailer, but if you come back the following year with a different unit you will not be issued a new permit until the old one is returned. In other words plan ahead, if you have a 10 year permit for one trailer turn it in at the border if you are coming back with a new one. - Courtesy of Bob Berman
 

December 19, 2006 Update - Since Mexican border officials started giving RVs 10-year permits last year many of us have wondered what would happen if the rig was sold between visits to Mexico. Here's one reader's experience:

We encountered a situation with our 10 year hologram that we received last year that perhaps others should be aware of. We sold our MH when we returned and kept the hologram, and paper work. When we arrived this year at the border with our new MH we were not allowed to put the MH in my husbands name as the sold unit was in his name and they only allow one motorhome in one persons name although you can have an additional car as a second vehicle in the same name now. The Mexicans insisted that we must return with the old unit and have them remove the hologram even though we had our invoice showing that it had been traded and the old hologram with us. This is a circumstance that the Mexicans had not anticipated with the 10 year permits that many North Americans do not
keep a vehicle 10 years. Fortunately the MH was in both our names and I was allowed to put it in my name. As it stands we have one permit on the new unit good for 10 years and 9 years left on the other before we may have to deal with not turning it in, but I don't know what will happen if the new owner of our old unit tries to come to Mexico. We haven't decided how to
address the issue but will contact the consulates when we return to Canada.
Our advice is if you are contemplating selling your unit and it has a 10 year permit to turn it in when you leave and keep the receipt and to make certain that all vehicles are in both names so that you have some flexibility. - M. Wiltshire

 

Editor's Note: We agree that it would be a good idea to turn in that hologram at the border if you're planning to sell the motorhome during the coming year. On another note - the reader states that one driver is allowed to bring in both a motorhome and a tow car. This is not always true. For example, at Nogales we've received reports that some travelers are allowed two vehicles and others have been turned down. At most other crossings only one vehicle per driver's license is being allowed. The policy is definitely not being uniformly applied.

 

December 5, 2005 Update - We received a pleasant shock when we crossed the border at Nogales on November 30. Motorhomes were being issued 10 year vehicle permits. The cost was 530.64 pesos or about $50.50 US. The girl at the Banjercito said that new rules went into effect three days before. This apparently does not affect pickups since we (in a pickup camper) could only get the normal 6-month permit for a price of 318.38 pesos or about $30.30 US. We'll have to see what they do with fifth-wheels. Let us know. Also, we were told that as part of the new rules one driver can now bring in two motor vehicles. That means single RV motorhome drivers can now bring in a tow vehicle. This is all new and seems almost too good to be true, let us know what happens when you come in. Send us an email using the link at the left or to rollinghomes@pocketmail.com.

 

Coming Back Into the U.S. - Page 75

 

March 4, 2007 Update - We have been receiving requests for information from folks who have heard that they must leave Mexico at the same crossing they used when entering. This is not true, you can enter and leave at any crossing with a Migracion office. If you need to give up your vehicle hologram you must make sure it's a crossing with an Banjercito office.

See the warning about stamps in your passport under People Documentation - Page 70 above.

 

Chula Vista, California / Tijuana, Baja California Border Crossing - Page 77

 

It is no longer possible to get Tourist Cards at the Migración office in Ensenada. See the write-up above under Page 70.

 

Tecate Border Crossing - Page 79

 

June 7, 2007 Update - It has been reported to us that the Banjercito has been removed from the

crossing at Tecate. That means you can't get rid of your vehicle hologram here any more. This is only a problem for travelers who have been on the mainland since Baja travelers are not required to get them. It now appears that the best place to get rid of holograms is the Calexico East/Mexicali II crossing just east of Mexicali. They have a new Banjercito although it seems to be open only during normal business hours.

 

December 13, 2005 Update - The Tecate border crossing has changed. The crossing is now about 2 miles east of town.  From the town square go east on the old Mex 2 to get there. The US-side lanes for rigs heading into the US are very tight for big rigs, there has apparently been a lot of damage to big rigs trying to pass through it. Exercise caution.

 

Mexicali Border Crossings - Page 80

 

June 7, 2007 Update - The Calexico East/Mexicali II crossing now has a Banjercito so it is possible to get vehicle paperwork heading south and get rid of holograms when heading north. Hours seem to be limited to normal business hours. 

 

Nogales Crossing - Page 84

 

December 28, 2007 Update - The downtown Nogales gate (also known as Garita #1 or the Deconcini Gate) is not open for RVs northbound. It's very crowded and the RV lane on the far right has been converted to an electronic FAST lane for commuters. Don't attempt this gate in an RV, you'll be turnd back by the U.S. border inspectors. - Courtesy of MOISHEH and ROCMOC

 

January 26, 2006 Update - The Nogales Mariposa gate is now open on Sundays for RVs. This is the crossing that is west of town and that is accessible from the south using the toll bypass. It's the best crossing for big rigs since you don't have to drive through Nogales. It was formerly closed on Sundays.

 

Naco Crossing - Page 85

February 8, 2007 Update - We have received the following reader report. If this is a permanent situation it means that Naco is no longer an option for entering and leaving Mexico since the Banjercito is necessary for issuing vehicle papers and turning in holograms. Note, however, that the Douglas crossing is nearby.

 

We re-entered the States through Naco.  We found that the Banjercito had closed there on or about the week of February 01, 2007.  As a result we drove on to Douglas to return our vehicle permits.  Just another little adventure that we ended up enjoying as the RV park between Naco and Douglas was cheap, $14, and the people that run it are super friendly. - Courtesy of  Bob and Louise Horner

 

Columbus, NM / Palomas, Chihuahua Crossing - Page 87

 

November 9, 2007 Update -The border crossing at Columbus, NM/Palomas is really easy. We were surprised to see the Migracion official scan our passports and receive data back about us, a system he said is the same as in the U.S. The only copies we needed were one each of the vehicle registrations and of the new tourist permits. We received a 10-year import permit for the fifth wheel, and put our stickers on vehicles ourselves. - Courtesy of Gigi and Chuck Taylor

 

Santa Teresa Crossing - Page 88

 

April 1, 2007 Update - The Santa Teresa crossing is now even easier for RV crossings back into the US. There is now a special lane on the right as you near the border for turning in your auto import permit. They'll let you park near the exit to this lane so you can walk over to the Migración office to turn in your tourist card and get your passport exit stamp. Another improvement is the toll road that leaves the north/south Mex 45 near Km 331 and leads directly to the crossing so you don't have to go anywhere near Ciudad Juarez and you don't have to go through the Km 30 checkpoint on Mex 45. Tolls are as follows: Autos and Pickups - 41 pesos; 2 Axles - 103 pesos; 3 Axles - 128 pesos; 4 Axles - 154 pesos; 5 Axles - 206 pesos, 6 Axles - 229 pesos; 7 Axles - 249 pesos; 8 Axles - 270 pesos; 9 Axles - 319 pesos. You can also reach the crossing by continuing north on Mex 45 to about Km 350 and then traveling east on Mex 2 to the road up to Santa Teresa. This way you would avoid the tolls although you would have to pass through the Km 30 checkpoint and travel through the outskirts of Cd. Juarez. 

 

Columbia Port of Entry, Near Laredo Texas - Page 90

 

5/31/07 Update - We cross at Colombia.  Coming back in April we noticed that they had changed the procedure a bit- you go to the same building as when you entered Mexico, to the tiny immigration office on the north side of the building & turn in your tourist cards, then (this is the new part) you drive back & do a u-turn to put you on the road again, & instead of turning into the building parking lot you pass that entrance & go to a new very tiny white "booth" where they take your import papers & sticker.  Then you are off!  Last year we did all that in the same 1st building.  It was a bit confusing, but once you have done it, it makes sense.  - Information courtesy of Paul and Linda Leonard

 

Editor's Note - This change is designed to help RVers get rid of their vehicle import holograms when leaving Mexico. There's also a new booth now at the Santa Teresa crossing west of El Paso described above. 

 

Pharr International Bridge - Page 92

 

November 11, 2005 Update - To clarify the driving directions change them as follow:

The book now reads: The turn is 4.8 miles  (7.7 km) from where you turned west onto Mex 2.

Change this to read: The turn is 4.8 miles  (7.7 km) from where you turned west onto Mex 2. This is actually a retorno, after heading back east for about 100 yards take the right to follow Hwy. 97 south. - Courtesy of Jim and Louise Cirka

 

El Caracol RV Resort and Ranch, Alamos - Page 108

 

December 14, 2007 Reader Report - Spoke to Dee out at Caracol yesterday.  She has sold “the ranch” but is still living there and doesn’t seem to know what she is going to do so I would have to guess her departure is not imminent.  She said that if someone still wanted to stay there she supposed they could and in fact encouraged us to move out there.  According to her the new owners “have big plans to improve the park”.  But they are not moving down here until spring.  Just my guess now but I would say nothing has changed for this winter – anybody who has stayed there in the past will still be welcome – and newbies too for that matter.  Dee will likely move somewhere – she was talking about either Alamos or San Francisco so that gives her a lot of latitude – and then we will have to check next winter to see what the new owners are doing, if anything

 

November 23, 2007 Reader Report - On Nov.10/07 we found El Caracol RV Resort & Ranch with a closed gate in mid afternoon.It appeared deserted-no RVs or people around. - Courtesy of Sharon and Garry Channell

 

Bahía Kino - Page 110

 

September 29, 2006 Reader Update -

 The road is finished now and in good shape. Driving time from Hermosillo to Kino has been reduced considerably. It is still a two lane road but for the most part there are now wide shoulders. What is interesting is that the locals seem to be somewhat reluctant to pull over on these when one is trying to pass, which can be a bit frustrating when there is a lot of traffic coming the other way. - Marianne and Al Jamieson

 

November 19, 2005 Update - They're upgrading the road out to Kino Bay. Here's a message from a reader that was dated 11/9/05:

 

Just returned from short visit to Bahia Kino. Boy oh boy, hadn't seen such bad roads in a long time. At least 20 to 25 kms under constructing at all times till April 2006. Suggest you ask in Hermosillo what detour you can take, it's that bad in places. Coming down to San Carlos, the manager at our camping drew us a detailed map on how to bypass the construction going south. About 45 kms longer ,but worth it. The detour will change from week to week as the work progresses. When this road is finished it'll be great travelling there, almost 4 lanes all the way. - Rene Turgeon

 

Caverna Del Seri Trailer Park, Kino Bay - Page 111

February 19, 2007 Update - Caverna Del Seri Trailer Park is no more and has been bulldozed. - Courtesy of Tony and Loraine Leeming

 

Hotel Saro, Kino Bay - Page 114

February 19, 2007 Update - Hotel Saro RV park is closed. - Courtesy of Tony and Loraine Leeming

 

La Playa RV Resort, Kino Bay - Page 115

 

February 19, 2007 Update - We are at La Playa RV Park right now and can report that most of the sites are for full timers and about 11 are available for overnighters. The hot tub is finished and is lovely. - Courtesy of Tony and Loraine Leeming.

 

Centro Recreativo Los Cascabeles, Culiacán - Page 117

January 12, 2006 Update - The Centro appears to be closed for the season. Here's an update from some readers:

 

We tried to stop this week at Centro Recreativo Las Cascables south of Culiacan.  They are closed for remodeling for 5 months.  After some discussion, they agreed to allow us in for just one night after 6pm when the workers and construction equipment was gone. - Dave Ewoldt and Dianne Parott

 

RV Park de El Fuerte in El Fuerte, Sinaloa - Page 119

 

January 31, 2007 Report From Owner - I no longer have WiFi service in the park. Please delete the WiFi icon, for my park, from the next printing of your book.
Thanks, Bill Trimble, RV Park de El Fuerte, Toll Free US & Canada 01 866 830-0239, CASA: 01152 698 893-1138, FAX 01152 698 893-1456, E-MAIL: billtrimble@prodigy.net.mx, DOVE: http://www.rvmex.com/Wing-Shooting.htm, TOUR: http://www.rvmex.com/Copper_Canyon_Tour.htm, RV PARK: www.rvmex.com

December 15, 2007 Reader Report - At El Fuerte rv park Bill is charging $25 or 275 pesos. Washrooms were in bad shape. Jejenes (black flies) were really bad. Laundry was locked, quoted $2 for wash and same for dry.

 

Hotel Bugambillias in El Fuerte, Sinaloa - Page 120

 

December 15, 2007 - After heavy rains the central area was really muddy. However, Trini the owner was very helpful, we had use of motel room for toilet and shower, and cost was 150 pesos with electric hookup. She did a load of laundry for us for 50 pesos. Also we could use the motel's outdoor patio area with chairs and table. She has plans to add more sites and put in concrete patios, but needs more paying clients to accomplish this. She has lots of storage area, and I understood she wouldn't charge to leave rigs there while away on train trip if no hookup. Her new phone/fax is 01 6988 931553. Her cell 044 6981 061343 . For those who like to fish or hunt, her husband offers guide services. No English spoken.

 

Sonora RV Park, Hermosillo, Sonora - Page 125

 

January 31, 2008 Update - We recently received an email from Fausto Garcia, owner of the Sonora RV Park in Hermosillo. As readers have previosly reported he now has 15 full-hookup sites. He offers free WiFi and has a website with information at www.sonorarv.com . Sr. Garcia says that he invites RVers traveling south to stop and pick up free information brochures about Sonora and other destinations.

 

December 19, 2007 Reader Report - The Sonora RV Park, Hermosillo now has 15 back-in full hook-up sites (30 amp) suitable for any size rig, two electric only, a dump station, and free wi-fi as well as plenty of dry camping. Heading south there are several signs announcing the park, but no signs that are easy to see for those heading northward.

 

November 1, 2007 Reader Report - Crossed early at Nogales and spent 10/25/07 at Sonora RV Park just north of Hermosillo (between Km. 7 & 8 on Hwy.15). The park now has 15 all new FHU back-in spaces for any size rig. Good 30 amp electic and good water pressure in a secure facility. Lots of room for dry camping. Rest room but still no shower. Owner speaks English. $20 per night, $400 per mo.

 

December 27, 2006 Update - Hermosillo has long needed an RV park, and now it has one. It's a convenient stopping place if you're headed south along Mex 15 since it's near the half-way point between the border and San Carlos/Guaymas. Also, Hermosillo is an interesting destination in it's own right. The name of the campground is the Sonora RV Park. Heading south it's on the right between Km 7 and 8 just north of Hermosillo off Mex 15 with easy access from the highway and a good sign. There are five back-in full hookup sites suitable for any size rig. There is also a lot of room for dry camping. The campground has a restroom but no shower. There is a putting green out front. GPS Location is N 29° 8’ 59” W 110° 54’ 37”.

 

Mr. Moro Hotel and RV Resort, Sinaloa - Page 125

 

June 1, 2007 Update - In the book our instructions for reaching Mr Moro leave Mex 15 some distance to the north of Guasave. If you are heading south after leaving the park there's a route which will take you to Mex 15 at a point south of Guasave. You could also use this route to reach Mr. Moro if you are coming from the south. Here's a description of the route from Mr. Moro outbound:

 

In the small town of Cubilete after leaving Las Glorias there is a flashing light at a 'T' intersection. Also at the 'T' is a large Tecate sign and a small Pemex station. If you are coming from Las Glorias:
1. - 0.0 miles: Turn right toward Tamazula (signed).
2. - 3.2 miles: unmarked topes in small village.
3. - Pemex #5567 on left after entering Tamazula.
4. - 5.2 miles: Turn right at street before plaza (plaza on your left after turning).
5. - Go to stop sign, approx. 2 blocks, and turn left.
6. - 5.5 miles: road bends to right then to left.
7. - 6.1 miles: At stop sign, turn right to Casa Blanca (signed). To left is Guasave.
8. - Lots of large trees overhanging roadway in Casa Blanca.
9. - 7.8 miles: Turn left at stop sign on paved road. (going straight is a dirt road).
10. - 8.0 miles: Unsigned intersection: Bear left (n-e) NOT hard right, s-e.
11. - You are on the road to intersecting 15D but you will go through some more small villages.
12. - 12.5 miles: Entering El Pitahayal with lots of topes
13. - 15.8 miles: Entering Ejido Las Cruces.
14. - 17.0 miles: Right turn and you're on 15D; the 136 km marker is on your right w/in 100 yards or so.
15. - 19.4 miles: Pay station at 132 km.
16. - Northbound to take the reverse of this trip: be in the left lane to cross 15D at the 136 km
intersection.

- Courtesy of Bruce and Linda Des Champs

 

Punta Vista RV Park, Santa Ana, Sonora - Page 127

 

Novemer 5, 2007 Update - The Punta Vista is open all year.

 

May 6, 2007 Update - Edgar and Anna, proprietors of the Punta Vista, now have an email address for reservations - edgaryana-s.a.mex@hotmail.com

 

Mazatlán, Sinaloa - Page 129

 

June 1, 2007 Update - El Quelite is an interesting day trip if you're spending some time in Mazatlán:

From Mazatlán drive north on the free road. At the intersection near Km 13 where the road goes west to the northern Mazatlán playas and campgrounds is a small sign pointing east for  "El Quelite 27 km". We went there for lunch and the town is delightful. It's about 2 miles east of the free road; clean; English spoken many places; nice little church; diagonally across from the church is a restaurant (entrance off the cross street), good food & wonderful patio seating. Another eatery further in town also has a good reputation. - Courtesy of Bruce and Linda Des Champs

 

Mazatlán, Sinaloa - Page 129

 

June 1, 2007 Update - Going north on the pay road out of Mazatlan: there is now an off ramp so one can go west on the road to " Mazatlan playa junction"; p. 130, to get to Escondida/Las Jaibas. - Courtesy of Bruce and Linda Des Champs
.
Editor's Note: In the book we say that there is no access to this road which access the northern Mazatlán campgrounds from the toll road. Now there is. It's an easy route to reach the northern campgrounds if you're in Mazatlán or arriving into town from the south. Here's another good tip for accessing these northern Mazatlán campgrounds from the same folks:

 

Also, in Mazatlán, the road next to Gigante, de la Marina, will take you out to the northern campgrounds and avoids the traffic along the Golden Zone. You end up just north of the bridge over the waterway. - Courtesy of Bruce and Linda Des Champs

 

Las Jaibas, Mazatlán- Page 132

 

2/6/06 Reader Update:

Staying for a week at Las Jaibas in Mazatlan.  We have WiFi here, in our own rig, for an extra 100 pesos per week , well worth it to me. We are in a 40 ft. motorhome, with a toad.  At Las Jaibas, the rate quoted to us (and the rate posted) was 190 pesos daily or 1100 pesos weekly, and 100 pesos a week for WiFi.  The spaces in the back would be a better fit for us (fewer trees), but WiFi doesn't reach all the way to the back so we are crowded in with our neighbors up front.  The water pressure is indeed GREAT, we actually have to use our pressure regulator for the first time in Mexico.  The voltage is on the high side, so late at night, when everyone powers off appliances, it rises just enough for our EMS box to switch off (133 volts or more), then drops around 8 am as the residents begin their coffeemakers and our EMS box allows the power back into our rig. - Courtesy of Laurie Brown and Odel King

 

12/12/05 Update - There's a new trailer park in Mazatlán called Las Jaibas. Here's some a message from some readers who visited the park last week:

Checked out the new, open park.  The man running it said you spoke to him in
the spring.   Here's the info just in case.
Las Jaibas, just to the south of Playa Escondida.  $18 daily, 150 weekly,
350 monthly.  66 spaces, 15 amp plugs, he says 30 amp wires, with plugs on
their way down from the states.  Some pull throughs, rest back in.  Nice
restrooms, unisex, 2 toilets, 2 showers, large water heater.  Claims to have
great water pressure, city water, large tinaco with pump.  Still all dirt,
plans on adding gravel and more trees to supplement the coco palms.  Wants
internet hookup.  e-mail address is   lasjaibas_trpk@hotmail.com - Jane Hogle and Ray Talley (Talley Ho)

 

Editor's Note - We also visited this campground early in December. It's very promising with a good manager and sites that will (almost) take 40-footers with some crowding. Unfortunately, the designers seem to have based their work on the other campgrounds in town - the sites should be longer and wider. Still, we think it's going to be a popular RV park for those who will fit. Plans are already afoot to expand the park. The website is www.trailerparklasjaibas.com, local cell telephone number for Sr. Ismael González Cornejo, the manager, is 988-1374.

 

Trailer Park La Posta, Mazatlán - Page 132

 

June 15, 2007 Update - Looks like it finally happened. We're hearing from many sources that La Posta is not going to open next season. Looks like the land sale finally went through.

December 5, 2005 Update - We visited the La Posta a few days ago and found it still open. Rosita says the sale may still go through some day, but until then the campground is open. The place is looking good since they've torn down the chain link fence that was dividing the park and even done some work on the electrical connections on the back sites.

 

Bungalows and Trailer Park Playa Escondida, Mazatlán- Page 135

 

November 10, 2007 Update - It is now certain that the Playa Escondida is closed. Here's one of many recent reader reports:

 

Playa Escondida Trailer Park will not open this year. In fact it is probably a thing of the past as they have already torn down the bungalows across the street and are starting a condo complex. It is almost impossible to find sites here since La Posta and Las Canoas are also closed. The new park at Punta Cerritos is far from being finished and the other parks have their permanents that have already reserved the sites. - Courtesy of Duane and Peggy Burden

Punta Cerritos, Mazatlán - Page 137

 

November 11, 2007 Update - There is a new park under construction in Mazatlán called Punta Cerritos. We understand that it will be an arrangement like the former Las Canoas - a semi-private park with individuals holding long-term leases. As at Las Canoas it might be possible to arrange a shorter term arrangement, we'll have to see how things work out. It's apparently going to be a pretty nice place and is located at the far northern end of Cerritos. For readers of our book that would be north of RV Park Paraiso on the map on Page 137 of the Third Edition.

 

Other Mazatlán Camping Possibilities - Page 137 

 

Celestino Gasca Parks (descriptions follow this introduction):

There are two new RV parks (now three as of 12/2007) about 46 miles (75 km) north of Mazatlán along the coast. The parks are near each other, only .7 mile separates them. Both are off the same coastal loop. Access is from the toll road at either Km 78 or Km 75. There is some dispute between the parks about which is the better route to reach the area and there are even a sign or two suggesting that one road is better than the other. Each park would like you to take the route that passes them first.

 

The Km 78 Exit is the main exit for the area and good from either direction. It is marked for the town of Celestino Gasca (or Gazca). Driving southbound you exit just before the overpass and head west on the paved road. Northbound there’s an exit before the overpass which leads you around and over to head west on the paved road. You’ll pass through the little village of Celestino Gasca and .6 mile (1 km) after leaving the toll road reach a level crossing over railroad tracks. Just beyond the road turns to dirt and makes a 90° left. There’s a big flat empty dirt lot on your right where you can easily park and unhook your tow car if you want to take a look at what’s ahead. Continuing south there’s a dry arroyo which was fine for any rig when we visited. In wet weather it might be a problem in some rigs . You’ll come to the gate for Villa Celeste at .9 mile (1.5 km) from the 90° turn, in another .7 mile (1.1 km) you’ll see the gate for the Celestino RV Park on your right.

The Km 75 exit is not as good for getting on or off the toll road, but it crosses no significant arroyos. Heading south on the toll road the exit is just south of an overpass. There is no formal offramp but you can pull off onto a dirt side road which is marked with an RV park sign, the exit was fine for any rig when we visited. Northbound you exit just before an overpass. The route up and around to go across the one-lane overpass would be tight and difficult for big rigs because the turn is sharp and the road narrow and rough. You should look for yourself before trying it. It might be best to go north until you can reverse course and take the southbound exit. If you do exit northbound you cross the overpass and then go left to join the dirt road going south on the west side of the highway which will put you at the point where southbound traffic exits. The dirt road heads west through a small village (Rosenda Nebla) until it meets the railroad (on a raised grade here) then turns right until it can pass under a railroad trestle.  Just beyond turn right. You’ll pass the Celestino at 1.2 mile (1.9 km) from the toll road, Villa Celeste is just beyond at 1.9 mile (3.1 km). As one RVers wrote to us: “this road is nothing to brag about as it is rough in places, rutted in others and is all dirt and it requires a 150º turn when getting back on the highway.” Still, RVers are using it and having no real problems.

If you are traveling the free road between Culiacán and Mazatlán you can still get to these campgrounds and you can do it without paying a toll.  From the free (Libre) Mex 15 half way between Mazatlán and Culiacán at Km 105 some 62 miles (100 km) south of Culiacán and 62 miles (100 km)  north of Mazatlán take the road west to La Cruz. After about 13 miles you can get on the toll highway headed south at about Km 89. You can reach the campground exits at Km 78 and 75 without passing a toll booth. See our Road Log for November 29, 2006 from Las Glorias to Celestino Gasca which follows this free road route. The section you are interested in starts at Mile 186.7 of the road log.

 

Coming from Mazatlán in the south there's a toll between the city and Celestina Gasca. It is possible to leave Mazatlán on the free road and then access the toll road just north of this toll station. Here is  a description of the route from a reader:

 

About 35 km north of the El Quelite/free road intersection (at approx. km72) is a turnoff westward to Estacion Dimas located on the pay road, 14 miles away. This road is very nice and only has two sets of Dolly Parton topes in the first town you come to. Good road but tricky to get onto the pay road northbound (to get to Villa Celestino/Celestino Gasca). As you approach the bridge over the pay road there is a dirt road on the south-east side (left side, before going over the bridge). This is the 'on-ramp' to go northbound on the pay road. It's also the off-ramp for vehicles going east on the road we came in on. This route misses the toll station at Marmol (west of El Quelite). - Courtesy of Bruce and Linda Des Champs

 

Villa Celeste RV Park in Celestino Gasca:

 

The northern most campground in Celestino Gasca is the Villa Celeste. There are 8 back-in spaces to about 40 feet (they would probably find a way to get a 45-footer in too) back from the water. These have full hookups with 15-amp outlets. At the beach end of the property are another 5 spaces for smaller rigs. There is a nice swimming pool, a palapa-covered lounge area, a great beach out front, Wi-Fi internet (there is a charge), and a washer and dryer. Restrooms have hot showers. Several folks have reported to us that the management here is extremely friendly and helpful. They’re a young Mexican couple and speak excellent English. The price is $17 daily/$103 weekly/$290 monthly. These charges include power. The no-hookup rate is $10 for the beachfront sites. See their website at www.villaceleste.20m.com

 

January 3, 2007 Update - Villa Celeste RV Park and Camping - We visited this park again on November 29, 2006. The park was almost full and facilities had been improved. Hookups are now 30 amp outlets and the five sites near the beach now have hookups. A large-screen TV is now located near the pool area and has satellite programming. Wi-fi is now included in the price and we could pick up the signal with no problem at the far end of the upper sites. The large lot next door is now available for no-hookup camping so even though this is a popular campground you'll probably find room to spend  the night if you want to stop by and take a look. Phone - Inside Mexico: 044 667-150-0152, From US or Canada: 011-52-667-150-0152. GPS Location: N 23° 48' 24", W 106° 52" 48" . Website: www.villacelesteresort.com , Email: villacelesteresort@yahoo.com.mx . Prices: $20 for upper sites, $25 for beach sites. Monthly rate is $300 for upper sites, $350 for beach sites.

 

Celestino RV Park in Celestion Gasca:

 

The southern campground, the Celestino, is the larger of the parks. It sits on a long parcel of land that fronts on the beach. There are about 29 sites, all are wide back-ins about 45 feet long arranged off the access road running from the gate to the beach. Ten of them have full hookups with 30-amp outlets. Electricity here is metered but the first 5 KWH on the first day are free. Restrooms have hot showers. English is spoken. A young Mexican/American couple owns this campground. The prices here are 100 pesos per day,  600 pesos per week, and 2,000 pesos per week. There is a website for the park at www.celestinorvresort.com .

 

January 4, 2007 Update - Celestino RV Resort - We visited this park again on November 30, 2006. The park was in operation and being prepared for the season. Electricity (30 amps) was being extended to more of the long back-in sites. Phone -  Mazatlan Phone: 669-985-2020; US/Canada Phone: 1-623-742-3832. Website: www.celestinorvresort.com. Email: casabonita15@yahoo.com . GPS Location: N 23° 47' 45, W 106° 52' 32".

 

January 7, 2007 Update - Celestino RV Resort - Email From Owner

Hola,

Sorry I missed you guys this year when you stopped by.

We now have another 5 sites wired to 30 amp metered service(15 wired sites total). 80 % of the park is now graveled .

We do have power and Wifi has been fixed, had to replace LNB as old one was damaged in hurricane.

I am planning on wiring down to the bathrooms before next season (another 17 sites that will be 30 amp Metered service). At this time we do have a few 50 amp sites also.

Things are looking good, all powered sites were full when I left for Mazatlan yesterday and three smaller rigs were near the beach.

Thanks for stopping by and talking with Ken and Debbie.

Thanks, Chris

 

Punta San Miguel RV Park in Celestino Gasca

 

12/30/07 Reader Report - You requested more info about this new park. It opened this past Saturday (we are customers #3). There are 42 sites, 21 per side, 30 amp electric, water and sewer. Website address www.rvsanmiguel.com . There are more details and pictures on our web site http://almcclughan.com/200708mexico.html. The park entry is near the bottom of that page. The park is located on the second lot north of the Celestino RV Park. That's 1.5 miles south of the 90-degree turn when you hit the beach road after coming through the village, the GPS at the gate is 23.79727 N, 106.87685 W. - Courtesy of Al and Suzette McClughan

 

12/24/07 Update - Noe and Esthela, owners of the Villa Celeste, reported to us earlier this month that there is a new RV park in Celestino Gasca. It's owned by a Mexican couple, Miguel and Consuelo Beltran. There are 30 full-hookup back-in sites with 30-amp power. Their website is www.rvsanmiguel.com, email is miguelbeltran@rvsanmiguel.com, phone is 52 669 981-0272. We've requested an email from the owners with information about the park. Nothing yet, so if you visit the new park please send some information about exact location, facilities, prices, and your general impression.

 

Stone Island RV Park, Mazatlán - Page 138

 

November 25, 2007 Reader Report - We are currently camped at Stone Island Rv Park (AKA Tres Amigo's) and are enjoying our time here. The road into the park is graded and we were able to travel it with no problems at all. The park has 15, 30 and 50 amp power and the bathrooms have hot showers. Eighteen sites with half or them beach front. What we did not expect was a town with lots of amenities. We were pleasantly surprised! Lots of beach front restaurants, good market and water taxi's to old Mazatlan marina. It feels like you are worlds away from a large city, but for 10 peso's you can have a round trip visit to the big city. US$ 13.00 off the beach, 15 on the beach plus metered power and wi-fi is available for 10.00 a month. Well worth the drive!!! email to: info@kingdavid.com.mx web page: www.mazinfo.com/rvpark

 

This new RV park is the one listed as Tres Amigos RV Park at Stone Island under Mazatlán Other Camping Possibilities in our third edition. It is now up and operating under the name Stone Island RV Park. The park is located right on the beach on Peninsula La Piedra which is south of Mazatlán on the far side of the harbor. Access to Mazatlán is difficult by road but easy using the small passenger ferry across the harbor. This area is inundated with folks from cruise ships when they are in port.

The campground has 19 sites. The ones on the beach side are pull-ins (for coaches) or back-ins for fifth wheels. The ones back from the beach are back-ins. These are full-hookup sites with paved patios and parking on sand and gravel, they can take any size rig. Electrical outlets are 15 and 30 amp. The campground has restrooms with hot showers and there is a large beachfront restaurant. When we visited (spring 2006) the price was $12 for a beachfront site and $10 for one behind. We expect that rates have gone up this season. Contact info: Office phone - 011 52 669 914 1444 (from US and Canada), Website: www.masinfo.com, look for Visitor, Tres Amigos RV Park. Email: kingdavid@mzt.megared.net.mx .

To reach the campground take the road west toward the airport from Mex 15 some 8 miles south of Mazatlán. In 1.3 miles turn right at the sign for Isla de la Piedra. In another 1.3 mile you'll cross some railroad tracks and in another 3.9 miles reach the end of the paved road. Forge on and in 8.1 more miles you'll be approaching Isla de la Piedra. Watch for electrical wires overhead (and maybe a sign) going left, and follow the road under them for .2 mile to the beach and the RV park. The park is 14.8 miles from Mex 15 including 8.3 miles of rough gravel road. GPS Location: N 23° 11’ 12” W 106° 24’ 10” .

 

El Mirador RV Park and Restaurant, Huatabampito  - Page 139

 

12/12/07 Reader Report - At present, we are the only rig in the park. We arrived on 30 Nov 07.  It was raining, but the road was open. Don't take the cutoff ftrom  Navajoa. Take the west bound road just south of the Navajoa caseta, around KM128. When you reach Hautabampo, turn left at the OXXO store.  There is some construction in 3 or 4 small sections. We made it  through fine. This place is worth the inconvenience. The weather is great. The food is fantastic! (chile rellenos stuffed with marlin)  Power is consistent; 118-122v, 15 &30 amp. And I sent this via the  WiFi... - Courtesy of Mark Friedman

 

12/11/07 - Reader Report - This following reader report may explain whey Enrique isn't seeing as many visitors as he normally does:

 

On Nov 18/07 we traveled thru Hautobampo trying to get to Hautabampito following your guide. The road to Hautabampito is closed for construction and there are no detour signs. We eventually found the correct, and we think only route, to the beach area. Go east past the closed road, go past the school and turn south down the dirt road past the municipal works yard (which is signed), road turns right past the large cemetary and a left turn puts you heading south on dirt road thru the construction. Be careful, some sections are one way. This lasts off and on for about 7 km. and then it is a further 10 km on pavement to El Mirador RV Park. Rate was 180 pesos and that included 2 free drinks. There was only one other rig there at that time. Beach is gorgeous, restaurant is excellent-crab tostados to die for! The only hassle is the mosquitoes at dusk. They are ferocious!
Trailer Park had 3 rows and front row was wiped out by the Sept 07 hurricane. They are actively working on repairs. Great spot, really nice people.

 

12/09/07 - Report from Owner - We received an email yesterday from Enrique Martinez Mondaca, owner of the El Mirador. He is concerned because he's been hearing people say that they hesitated to stop by his park because they have heard he had storm damage. Enrique reports that damage was quickly fixed and that he has 20 full-hookup spaces in service, WiFi internet, and a new restroom. He's also working on other improvements.

 

11/1/07 Reader Report - Unfortunately, a tropical storm (Henrietta?) took out all of the beachfront spaces (about 20) on Sept. 6, 2007.  Owner Enrique says they won't be back in service for this winter.  However, we stayed in the second row (now beachfront) which has 16 side-by-side spaces and there's a third row with 4 more side-by-sides -- all are $15 per night.  Their very nice palapa restaurant/bar is still open for business.            

 

11/26/06 Visit - The El Mirador continues to expand. There are now about 25 spaces here with full hookups. Some can be used as pull-thrus if the park is not full.

 

Hogar de Refugio Infantil Villa Juarez - Page 139

 

10/29/07 Update - We recently received the following letter from Bob Mason about the status of the new orpanage on the grounds of the Colejio del Pacifico near Navojoa.

Hello,Terri and Mike:

I have heard from our mutual friend, Nigel Gow, how he had shared with you about the Hurricane which hit our old orphanage about a month ago,and how the children were temporarily housed in three different places, before they were relocated,more or less together, onto the University campus in Navojoa, where we are building the replacement facility. You kindly visited us there and don't know if you remember, but we now have full hookups for 12 R.V's, and the washroom block is pretty well functional. It's one of the first things our builder, whom you met, Sherwin Goerlitz, will tackle when he gets back to Navojoa later this month.

Meanwhile, the older children are housed in dormitories,supervised by our young German volunteers,while the younger children, along with our Mexican Director, his wife, and our cook, are living in a tiny house in the ejido of Cinco de Junio, about 2 miles further along the Huatabampo Highway from the University. Because of the cost of University cafeteria meals,they are making meals in the little house, and taking them over to the children - an inefficient system, but cost efficient!

You heard how the old place has been declared a Zone of Risk, by the local authorities,no one is allowed to live there, and two German volunteers contracted Typhoid during the attempted recovery of salvageable items, and are now well on the way to complete recovery,back in Germany. We lost most of our supplies, food, clothing, school supplies etc., and much of the furniture was destroyed, along with most of the bedding.

Nigel indicated that you would be willing to post our situation on your web-site, letting people know what happened, and, if anyone were heading past,on Highway 15, and might care to detour, how they might want to bring down some replacement supplies. Again, if they wanted to stay overnight ( or a few nights) and had construction skills which they could put to use, I know Sherwin would be delighted. He needs all the help he can get, and hopes to have the place sufficiently finished, to enable the children to move into the new orphanage at the end of the upcoming "season". Any help you could give in publicizing our need would be greatly appreciated.

People can read about the orphanage on our web page:

http://masonsinmexico.homestead.com/orphanage.html and they can read about the new place on Sherwin's : www.haciendanavojoa.com Some of our volunteers have posted pictures of the aftermath, the damage etc.on their Blog, at: www.orfanato-mexico.blogspot.com

I am attaching our summer Newsletter, and the letter I sent to various friends, following the Hurricane, and in which I asked for help. Nigel thought you would be interested - the first is certainly more "upbeat" than is the second.

If you want/need anything further from me, just drop me an e-mail,please.

Best personal wishes,

Bob Mason

11/26/06 Visit - In our book under Other Camping Possibilities for Navajoa we mention the new orphanage and RV park being constructed on the campus of Colejio del Pacifico to the west of Navajoa. The sponsors of the orphanage have decided not to open the campground to travelers, however, they are looking for workers to help construct the orphanage. Full hookup parking is available for these workers. If you are interested they request that you call ahead, talk to Sherwin or Shirley Goerlitz at 642-103-5974 in Mexico (from mid October to the end of April). There's lots more information about the project and how to contact the Goerlitz's year-round by phone or email at www.haciendanavojoa.com  .

 

Escuinapa Toll Road - Page 141

 

12/13/05 Update - The new two lane toll road (cuota) south of Mazatlán now runs for 39 miles from just south of La Union (12 miles south of Mazatlán) to a point about 3 miles south of Escuinapa. The free road is still available. Rates for the toll road are as follows: light vehicles (two axles, no duals) - 67 pesos, extra axles on light vehicles - 33 pesos, buses and trucks with duals and 2 and 3 axles - 117 pesos, trucks with 4 and 5 axles - 172 pesos, trucks with 6 to 9 axles - 213 pesos, extra axles - 58 pesos. That works out to $.42 US per mile for a coach without tag axle and a toad.  Note that if you are bound for Teacapan you should not take the exit marked Escuinapa from the toll road at Km 180. That's a terrible road for big rigs. Instead proceed to the south end of the toll road and backtrack to Escuinapa on the free road. For folks heading to Teacapan on the toll road here are some hints from a reader.

 

Some suggestions on the in-out at Esquinapa.
1-when southbound at the current end of the cuota there is a nice ramp, on the
right that take one about 150 degrees and puts one northbound on the road thru
town. The map does not show this off ramp.
2-when northbound and approaching the current start of the cuota, the free road
is accessed from the right lane and goes over the access road to the cuota. The
map is confusing.
3-when leaving Teacapan and wanting to go north on the cuota we drove south thru
Esquinapa to the end of the cuota road (it blends into the free road). We drove
just far enough south to where we could make a U-turn and get into the left
lane, allowing access to the cuota, northbound. - Bruce and Linda Deschamps
 

Rancho Los Angeles, Teacapán - Page 141

 

January 12, 2007 Update - Rancho Los Angeles has been sold and is closed. However, the same owner owns La Tambora and appears to be making some improvements to that  park which has been virtually unusable for several years. We'll have to wait and see how this turns out.

January 15, 2006 Update - We visited Rancho Los Angeles campground today and found lots of room. Facilities were in good shape, the showers were hot, and the pool was clean. Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta may be getting crowded but Teacapán, just 75 miles south of Mazatlán, and its beaches, still have plenty of room. The correct email address to make reservations or get information about Rancho Los Angeles is mbelen@prodigy.net.mx

 

Villas Onac, Teacapán - Page 142

 

January 13, 2007 Update - We received the following from a reader:

        We arrived at Villas Onac Campground in Teacapan a week ago. Weather
is hot and surroundings as ever, Great!
         Maybe you could let your readers know that the main road into
Teacapan is having major road work done and you cannot go down it. There are
alternate ways to get past the construction.
          Rafael Cano (Owner) has now added another 8 cement spaces. Sewer
pipes are in and the connections for the water and electric, he informs me
should be in by the second week in December 06.  He will then have 20 spaces
total, all on the beach.
           Hope all is well and that you have had a good summer.
                                     Derek and Wenda Porter

 

November 18, 2005 Update - The following is from a reader staying at the new Villas Onac campground near Teacapán:

 

Thought we should drop you a line and let you know how things are
here in Villas Onac.
            We are in the new spot on the beach and it is great! All the
pads and electric are in and the road in is also done. The showers are
working, but the hot water is not on yet, he is waiting for the propane to
get connected. The pool is wonderful and clean (as usual) are he is already
having people arriving, some for just a few days on their way down South.
One fellow from the free beach who winters there every year, has moved in
here because the bugs were too bad over at the free beach. Rafael has the
Wi-Fi working, and I am at the moment, using it from our trailer.

 

Rancho Las Lupitas Trailer Park, Teacapán - Page 142

 

January 14, 2007 Update - We recently visited this campground and found it closed.

 

Playa Las Lupitas, Teacapán - Page 143

 

January 15, 2007 Update - This camping beach is now called Punta Hermosa and a $10 daily fee is now collected at the beach.

 

Raphael's RV Park, Teacapán - Page 143

 

January 31, 2007 Reader Report - We went looking for a quieter campgound and found a new, small RV park just to the north of Isla Paraiso housing development. There's a small, hand lettered sign with "Rapael's RV Park". It's in a grass lot, with space for 4 full hookups and a couple of dry or electric only sites. It seems the owner wants to build there someday but is renting spaces until then. There's a new bathroom with one toilet and cold shower, mostly al-fresco since the walls are about 4' with no roof. The campground had great water pressure and adequate 15 amp power. - Courtesy of Steve and Tommie Clendening

 

Playa Luces Kamping Acapulco Beach - Page 152

 

January 30, 2007 Reader Report -

We are spending the entire winter in Acapulco at Playa Luces Kamping in Pie de
la Cuesta. We discovered this wonderful RV Park last December and find that is
almost the most perfect RV Park we have discovered in Mexico.

Your description of Playa Luces in your book in very outdated. For several
years now they have had 13 front row pull in ocean facing sites all with their
own private mini pools and palapa shades. There are even 2 sites in the second
row with pools. Plans are underway to create several more large sites with
private pools, cement pads, etc. They hope to have a total of 21 large sites
with pools ready for November 2007. There are still 43 additional sites in the
back under the trees, a mix of 15 and 30 AMP sites.
Much work has been done in this park and it is looking very very good. They
have created a happy hour with specially priced drinks and snacks in the mirador
overlooking the ocean to enjoy the gorgeous sunsets.

We see this park growing in leaps and bounds and it is sure to require
reservations within a year or two. They have a new website with many
descriptive photos (click on the photo to enlarge it), www.playaluces.com. The
phone number in your book is no longer valid. The best way to make a
reservation is via email, playaluces@hotmail.com.

There are some changes to other RV parks in Acapulco. Playa Suave will be
closing its doors on April 1. It has been sold and will be turned into a
commercial venture. Diamante RV Park was under water till almost the end of
December but is still booked solid with French Canadians who are starting to
look to Playa Luces, as the conditions have been very poor all season.

Currently Playa Luces is renting for 5000 pesos/month for full hookups including
30AMPs and A/C. The daily rate is 300 pesos, a weekly rate is also available.

- Courtesy of Colin and Contessa Jewall

 

 

Playa Suave - Acapulco - Page 153

 

June 18, 2007 Reader Report - The Playa Suave on p.153 is really closed. - Courtesy of Andre and Caroline Niederberger

 

January 30, 2007 Reader Report -Playa Suave will be closing its doors on April 1. It has been sold and will be turned into a commercial venture. - Courtesy of Colin and Contessa Jewall

 

Alternate Route to Playa Ropa Campgrounds - Zihuatanejo - Page 156

 

February 6, 2008 Reader Report -

We have an easier route into Zihuat that you might want to try. Haven't measured the distances yet so don't want to post it.

Southbound, at the big glorietta (that seems to keep changing color and hiding!)rather than do the 270 turn, keep right on the roundabout and take the lateral,(there is a small sign for the Comercial Mexicana) past the two bus depots. JUST past the second, and BEFORE the large Comercial Mexicana sign, turn right. This takes you past the Comercial Mexicana (on the left). At the T intersection turn right. This takes you to Kyoto Circle rouyndabout, turn Left (ie 270 around) to put you on the La Ropa Road.

IF you miss the turn at the CM, continue on the lateral and turn right at the General Motors Dealer on the right(we had no problem with a 30' widebody and towing). A right when the road ends in a T (a couple of blocks) put you back on track

North Bound, from the main road, (not the lateral) turn left at the first light. This road turns right after a couple of blocks, and you are again heading for the CM and are on the road to the Kyoto Cycle. This road looks narrow from the highway, and may be crowded with parked vehicles, but it is the one used by the semis, and the one we use when leaving, either north or south bound, as the traffic light makes it easy. - Courtesy of Art and Gillian Jackson

Camping Los Cabañas - Zihuatanejo - Page 156

 

February 10, 2008 Reader Report - La Cabanas- the little place for small vans & tents- has closed & the land is for sale. Condos are going up beside it. Condos are actually going up everywhere! - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

Bungalows and Trailer Park Costa Bella - Zihuatanejo - Page 157

 

February 7, 2008 - At Costa Bella they are going to build more accomodations & put in a small pool - that means only 3 RV spaces there for next year. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

El Manglar Trailer Park, Zuhuatanejo - Page 158

 

February 7, 2008 Reader Report - El Manglar has been full since Nov. & continues to turn people away on a daily basis. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

February 7, 2007 - The El Manglar now has now has free Wi-Fi available. - Courtesy of Rudi and Uschi Muller

 

November 29, 2006 Update -

 

Just a word of caution for those coming this way- once you turn right off the La Ropa road (shortly after Casa Tucanes, do NOT go under the yellow arch! This has been posted by me and many others over the last 2-3 years- I always include it when I give directions- but some folks just arrived who did not know about it. Ouch! Hard on the air conditioner! Stay left & drive the WRONG WAY on the short road & merge back to the right immediately after you pass the arch. The meters are posted on the arch, but many don't realize its shortness. Good luck! - Courtesy of Paul and Linda Leonard 

 

February 6, 2006 Reader Update -

 

We are now more or less settled in El Manglar RV park in Zihuatanejo.  They are still developing the park, but many improvements have been made since we were here last year.  The washroom/shower has been  completed, and they have done some landscaping.  There is a very nice footbridge over the swamp to the beach, and they have done a very nice job of some night lighting. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

December 12, 2005 Reader Update - Report received yesterday:

 

We are again in Zihuatanejo, in the El Manglar RV park.  Here is the current
situation.

The shower/bathroom for campers is now complete, water still "cold". Not "his
and hers", the single washroom/shower is spotless, all tile, new fixtures,
complete with toilet paper, soap and paper towels!!!!!  The men's and women's
washrooms for the restaurant are open to campers when the restaurant is open. If
the park is full, a request to Memo, the restaurant owner, to leave them open
all night would be met with favourably.

Thursday they began construction of the bridge linking the restaurant to the
beach over the estuary. So far the two posts at the beach end are in place.

The sites have been leveled--50 truckloads of clean coarse sand were brought in
and  compacted. Still more sand needed to complete the eventual 10 sites,
(currently about 7). A few more trees have been planted against the east wall.
Water lines with double taps are at each site and they have been promised a
connection to the street "manana". They will still need to build the 4 metre
high support for the gravity feed tank. (There is no water pressure during the
day, the tank will fill at night) Currently RV tanks are filled from the tanks
via a pump and hose, using water from the restaurant supply.

They will soon have 30 amp as well as 15 anp outlets at each site (I brought
Edmundo a bunch from Canada), though 30 amps of current will not be available.
He is waiting for the 15A breakers.

Also there is an outdoor "beach sand removal" shower with concrete tiles, behind
the washrooms.

A new entrance gate has been added, and it is closed and locked at night,
campers get a key. Very early arrivals (before 8:45) or very late (after 9:30 to
midnight), will have to get the attention of a camper for access.

The gate is frequently closed but not locked when the restaurant is closed
(before noon, and on Wednesdays). - Courtesy of Art and Gillian Jackson

 

Isla Ixtapa Ferry Landing at Playa Linda, Ixtapa - Page 159

 

November 26, 2007 - Readers report that police are no longer allowing RVers to boondock in this lot. It's probably because there's a new park just up the road, see New Campground North of Playa Linda below.

 

Zihuatanejo - Other Camping Possibilities - Page 160

 

New Fonatur campground north of Playa Linda:

 

February 7, 2008 - The Fonatur park north of Playa Linda is almost full most of the time - a few caravans have also been through. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

May 21, 2007 Update - There is a new campground at the north end of the beach in Ixtapa, it's about a half mile beyond the Isla Ixtapa Ferry Landing at Playa Linda, see page 159 of  the book for directions. When we visited in January 2007 it was not yet open and construction was progressing very slowly, there were hopes that it would be open by Easter. The facility is located next to the beach, but it is surrounded by a chain link fence. There will be many large full-hookup sites and apparently also many dry sites. It was hard to tell how it would turn out.

We just received this update. It appears that the park was uncompleted but open for the holiday:

 

Here is the up-to-date scoop on the new rv park. This was posted on the Zihua message board. (www.zihuatanejo.net/www.board)

Over a year behind schedule without any explanation and poorly designed as a huge paved parking lot without green areas, the still unfinished Playa Linda Trailer Park sat less than half occupied during the peak of Semana Santa while most campers and motor homes preferred using the roadside, public parking areas or the beach instead of paying the trailer park's rates that apparently most visitors consider too expensive.

Motor home rates are MX$330 per day for 2 persons plus MX$30 per day per additional person. Camping rates are MX$80 per day, and children under 12 are free. There are electric and water hook-ups as well as showers, and there is 24-hour security. Whenever it is finished it is also supposed to have a convenience store, a restaurant and a pool. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

And here's another update (5/32/07)

 

We went by the week after Semana Santa & it was no longer open- so apparently it was only open for one week. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

More information about the park that was received in January 2006. As you can see this park has been under construction a long time:

 

A friend who lives in Zihua just sent me the following info about a new RV park at Playa Linda near Ixtapa. Since it is supposed to open in April (Editor's Note: That would have been April 2006), we should be able to check it out pretty well while we are there in Feb & March. Will keep you posted.

According to the director del Desarrollo Ixtapa del Fondo Nacional para el Turismo (FONATUR), el ingeniero Manuel Arce Rodea, by Semana Santa the new trailer park at Playa Linda should be completed and open for use by the public.

The trailer park will have capacity for 72 motor homes and an even greater number of tents. There will be connections for electric, water and drainage in addition to bathrooms, showers, laundry, and cooking grills.

Costs for using the trailer park's facilities have not yet been made public

- Courtesy of Paul and Linda Leonard.

 

Hotel Real de La Palma:

 

February 5,2006 Update - Here's still another new campground in Zihuatanejo's Playa La Ropa area. To reach the area follow the instructions given in the book for Bungalows and Trailer Park Costa Bella or El Manglar Trailer Park. The reader update below is taken from several messages:

 

The correct name of the hotel where the new RV Park is located is Hotel Real De La Palma. If you go through the Arch you have gone too far! Access is via the dirt road just to the right of the road going up the hill. They promise to have a sign up soon.

I stopped in this morning and picked up a brochure and talked to Maria, the receptionist. Some English is spoken (I don't know how much as I was practicing my Spanish!)

Rates: 200 pesos per day, 4000 per month. includes access to beautiful gardens
and clean pool. 30 amps, water and sewer.

Address: Hotel Real De La Palma   Col.La Ropa   Calle 6 Manzana  4 Lote 2  CP
40880  Zihuatanejo, Gro., Mexico

Phone   (755) 554 9096
Fax    (755) 554 9095
e-mail hotelrealdelapalma@prodigy.net.mx

Maria did say that phone was better than e-mail for some reason she didn't explain.

They have 10 sites now, 10 more promised for next year.  Room for big rigs, but
it may be tight to maneuver when the park is full.

So far no gravel or grass, just dirt, but the hotel has a nice pool and garden so I think this will improve soon.

The main Hotel entrance (NOT for RV`s) is  N 17.62518  W 101.54270
the dirt road to the RV park is just before it at N 17.62519  W 10154201

-Above information courtesy of Art and Gillian Jackson

 

Flores de Las Peñas - Page 161

 

10/27/07 - Letter from Manager:

Quite a few campers last year said that they heard rumors that the campground was "usually no vacancy". Last year only one day had the four spaces occupied. We had no occupancies (an empty park) for 30 days 0r more between December and the end of March.

We upgraded our utilities drop four-fold in capacity and now have three of the four sites available with 30 amp receptacles. These sites are wired with eight-gauge AWS wire including earth ground, each protected with a dedicated circuit breaker. The 15 amp receptacles at the sites are on their own breaker. That's the good news about the power---the bad news is we must surcharge a hundred`pesos for each 30 amp connection per day's stay. Thank Mexico's horrendous price of twenty seven cents ( U.S.) per kWh! So a rig connected to 30 amp power is charged 250 pesos per day.

We have converted one of the bungalows to a "Camper's Kitchen" and restroom. This helps to keep the strong aroma of boiling lobster out of the RV.

Saludos!
David

Playa Azul - Other Camping Possibilities - Page 161

 

November 15, 2007 Reader Report - A report from one of our Mexican readers about still another place to the north of Playa Azul. El Faro de Bucerias is off Mex 200 approximatly 60 miles (100 km) south of Tecoman, 100 miles (160 km) north of Playa Azul.

I purchased your book before last summer. My family and I planned to travel to Boca de Iguanas from Toluca. Following Mex 200 along the Michoacan Coast we found a beautiful campsite called " El faro de Bucerias". Facilities included a lot of people who offered places to pitch tents inexpensivly, great food , Restaurant , showers with hot water, WC available too. Very nice place. We spent 4 days for just 1800 pesos (150 USD) including food 3 times per day, rent of the place and hamacas.

You will find the place at the following Lat / Long Lat 18°20'56.33"N, Long 103°30'35.16"W.

Ask for El parador turistico El faro de bucerias , managed by the local community , there you can ask for Hermilda, she is in charge of the place.

Good luck, Oscar G.

May 10, 2007 Update - Here's another camping possibility when heading down the coast south of Melaque but north of Playa Azul. This one's near Km 196. Note the references to Maruata at Km 150 and the new Rancho Buganvalias at Km 100.

 

The second day our destination was to have been Playa Azul, but again we didn't make it.  Big rigs like ours take a long time on curvy roads like Mex. 200.  We probably averaged 25-30 miles per hour.  After 9-1/2 hours, it was 6:30 pm.  I had printed out the info from the woman just opening a campground at KM 196, but we couldn't find it.  No signs, not even a KM 196 sign, so we went on.  Matehuala beach sounded iffy for a big rig.  We were discussing just pulling over somewhere, maybe in one of the small towns which seemed safer than just out on the highway.  Then, like a miracle we spotted a blue and white sign at about KM 100: RV Park and Restaurant.  We pulled off onto the dirt road leading to a very nice place.  There is a huge palapa-style restaurant, restrooms are in, and small palapas along the beach.  They haven't constructed the RV sites yet.  There is going to  be a swimming pool, also under construction.  The senora let us boondock for 80 pesos.  In the morning we bought breakfast, a huge plate of chilaquiles and refried beans, for 25 pesos each.

 

December 19, 2005 Update - If you're headed down the cost south of Melaque it's a long slog between Melaque and the campgrounds at Las Peñas and Playa Azul. Here's a note from two readers about Maruata, a small place to boondock (for a small fee) on the Michoacan coast about 70 miles south of Tecoman and 95 miles north of Playa Azul. It's near the Km 150 marker. You'll find it marked in your Guia Roji atlas. If you use our driving logs take a look at the log from Melaque to Playa Azul dated March 5, 2001. Click here to see it. We didn't note the Maruata turn when driving the route but it would fall in the neighborhood of Mile 144 in the log between Colola and Cachán..

 

I thought I would mention one of our favorite places to stop for the night after Melaque.  Have you visited Maruata?  It is beautiful there.  While there is no RV park (not that we have found anyway), it is a little adventure (a safe one) to boondock for the night next to the beach.  If you visit here, be sure to say hi to Lupe who bakes cinnamon buns in her little palapa house on the beach.  It is behind her place that you would park an RV.  We have always found another VW camper or full sized RV when we have stopped, as well as several tenters.  It's just a really neat place, and we have come to adore Lupe- she is a wonderful lady and has a very hard, but simple, life.

The turnoff is to the right, 80KM (50 miles) southeast of the Colima line at Km 150, just south of a big bridge.  You continue straight and cross the runway (if you didn't know it was a runway you wouldn't notice) to a gravel road which will take you through the village.  You continue and cross a small river (large ditch) that usually has no water in it, but if it does, it is very shallow.  You will end up on the beach in front of a little palapa area where Lupe lives and bakes!  She speaks no English, but is a warm, friendly lady who will try to communicate.  She also sells refrescas which you can enjoy in the shade of the palapa- or lounge in a hammock if there are any out- or bring your own.  Be sure to explore the rocks to the right where the sea comes barreling through, and a few feet further is another beach which is a bit calmer than the 1st one.  There is also a lagoon (to the left) where the fishermen keep their boats.  I have read that this area is a turtle sanctuary, but haven't seen anything ourselves. - Courtesy of Linda and Paul Leonard

 

Rancho Buganvilias, La Placita, Michoacan - Page 161

 

December 31, 2007 Reader Report - Arrived here Dec 27, 2008. FREE Wi-Fi. Dec 28th, they upgraded the Wi-Fi to have a stronger signal to reach all of the sites. The Wi-Fi is now $20 USD per month - to cover the cost of the upgrade and has 64-bit security. Sandy and Cynthia are working hard to expand the RVpark. Plans are to add a swimming pool near the palapa. GPS coordinates (at my site) are: 18.511438N 103.583755W or 18 degrees 30 minutes 41.2 seconds North 103 degrees 35 minutes 1.5 seconds West.

 

November 24, 2007 - This season's report from the owners of Rancho Bugavilias:

We wanted to give you a quick update on the ranch. We are open and have several really nice folks staying with us. We have 30 amp power, hot and cold water showers with great water pressure and sewage. We purchased a pump that distributes water just like you are in your home and we have been complemented on it a few times so I thought it might be worth mentioning. We are creating pads as folks arrive and they get exactly what they want. It seems to be working out well but you do have to wait a few days for the pads. Trees and flowers and such are coming but are a little sparse right
now. We are hooked up with our Satellite Broadband Internet and wireless goes throughout the park. The restaurant is open on Friday and Saturday nights with Pollo Asado night on Wednedsays and possibly seafood on Sundays. We are cooking up things like Pumpkin Blossom Chicken with an Red Aztec Mole and Grilled Salmon with a Tomato-Olive Salsa this weekend. Everyone seems to like it! It looks like we will be doing breakfast in the
near future as well.

We hope you are well and thank you so much for your support.

Sandy and Cynthia Coffen
Rancho Buganvilias
www.ranchoresorts.com

May 5, 2007 Update - Here's another report from the ownes of Rancho Bougainvilleas near La Placita:

I do have more information regarding Rancho Buganvilias, a beachfront RV Resort. (We changed the spelling of our name to the Mexican spelling of Buganvilias.) The telephone number has changed as well.
(011-52) 313-327-8101 Intl. (01-313) 327-8101 in Mexico.

We are still in the building phase but our grand opening is October 1, 2007 with 60 sites. All with full hook ups. Most sites are 8 mt. x 16 mt. (24 ft x 48 ft.). We also will have some larger sites that are 8 mt. x 24 mt. (24 ft x 72 ft.). We are planning on having high speed wireless internet but if that comes in late, La Placita, the town just 5 minutes north of us has two internet cafes. We are planning showers and restrooms as well as a restaurant/small grocery store. We will eventually have somewhere in the neighborhood of 150 sites when the
park is complete. We still plan to make each site as private as can be expected using tropical plants and flowers as buffers.

We are located just off Route 200, the Playa Azul to Manzanillo stretch at KM 196. We have a wide pull-off area so it should be very easy for RVers to negotiate. Then you would continue down the road (a nice and firm dirt road) 1 KM make a right and another immediate left
you are there. There will be good signage to show the way. We are located about 3 hours south of Melaque/Barra de Navidad in the state of Michoacan just south of the Colima/Michoacan border and just 5 minutes past La Placita.

Our rates are as follows:
Daily $20 US
Weekly $126 US
Monthly $400 US
Long Term $350 US (long term is 4 months or longer)
 

February 11, 2007 Update - We recently received the following information about a new place to stay between Tecoman and Playa Azul, south of Manzanillo.

 

My husband Sandy and I have relocated to La Placita in Michoacan,  Mexico from Los Angeles, CA and are opening an RV Resort on the beach  in a coconut grove as I am writing this email to you. A lot is  happening here in this state since the new president, Felipe Calderon,  is from Michoacan and has promised to grow the state. An autopista is  going to be built and will connect from Colima's autopista and actually  end here in La Placita. The current road is also being improved.

 We have 8.5 acres on the beach and 8.5 acres on the hill behind as well for a total  of 17 acres, and will open with 50 sites and build more as we can. We  will have full hook-ups and some will have their own septic... others  will have a dump station available. Our vision is to ultimately create  a destination resort with RVers staying for a month or longer. We want to create sites that have a lot of space and privacy. We are also very lucky to have one of the nicest flat walking beaches (about 8 miles long) ... and, of course, the sunsets are outstanding. We will have restaurant, grocery store and laundry as well.

We are located at KM 196 on Mex 200. Our phone number is 011-52-313-327-9151 and our name is Rancho Bougainvilleas. We sure hope to meet you someday and be added to your very fine guide. Please let us know what we need to do to accomplish this.

Thanks very much.

Cynthia and Sandy Coffen
 

A Las Tres Banderas, Bucerias - Page 166

 

February 10, 2007 Update -

 

Somewhat discouraged one late afternoon from finding all campgrounds in the Lo de Marcos and Sayulita areas full, we accidentally stumbled across a relatively new campground, A LAS TRES BANDERAS in Bucerias. There are 11 back-in sites with full hookups (30 amp electrical outlets) on a lovely manicured and shaded lawn. Sites are suitable for most rigs. The campground is walled and gated, other amenities include washrooms, hot water, a washing machine (clothes line outside) and good water pressure. Four fully equipped tents with a shared exterior kitchen are also available.

Address:    31 Estaciones, Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico
Telephone:  (329) 298-1423
Open:       Early November to early April

To get there follow the directions to Las Parotas Country Paradise Gardens Villas and RV Park. LAS TRES BANDERAS is on the left at 31 Estaciones, in front of  the school.

- Courtesy of Daniel LOUIS and Helene GRIMAUD

 

Lo De Marcos Turn-off -Applicable to All Lo De Marcos Campground Descriptions -  Page 172

 

June 7, 2007 Reader Report - The highways department has been working on the main highway by the Lo de Marcos turnoff for the past few weeks. Lots of traffic barriers.

For those going south making a turn into Lo de Marcos from the north - Beware! They've installed an "Alto" cement barrier in the middle of the road leading from Lo de Marcos to the highway. If you're coming from the north, make as wide a turn as you can as there is a building on the corner and its roof extends almost to the road. We used to be able to make a really wide turn onto the Lo de Marcos main street, but the barrier with the Stop sign makes it tough to make a really wide turn. If you're not watching you could lose the side of your motorhome/trailer.

If you're pulling out of Lo de Marcos to go north, also beware. There is now a left hand turn lane, but we've noticed that many cars are using it as a passing lane, so make sure the highway is clear before making your left hand turn. - Courtesy of John and Marilynn Colley

 

El Refugio Trailer Park (Villas y Bungalows Tlaquepaque) - Page 172

 

June 7, 2007 Reader Report -

 

The park put in Wi-Fi this year, and after many problems, its now working pretty well 24/7.

 

Overnighters aren't welcome here - they require rigs to stay for a week, although several people have managed just a 5 day stay.

 

Don't use the email address they advertise as they only seem to look at it once a month.  This email address will get pretty well instantaneous answer:

Elrefugiorvpark@hotmail.com

 

They tell us they're booked solid for next year.  Deposit has increased from $100 US$ per year to $300.  Rates have also increased for 2007/08 but will include Wi-Fi.

 

Pool was supposed to be heated this year, but so far we haven't noticed much difference in the temperature.

 

Pet rules are stringent, and are being enforced.

 

Casa Ron y Rosy, Lo de Marcos - Page 172

 

February 14, 2007 Update - Here's a message we overlooked earlier in the year. We actually received it before posting the January 20 report below and we're posting it in it's entirety because it gives additional information:

 

Thought you might want to add Ron's RV Park in Lo de Marcos to your updates.  It is a new, very clean and friendly park.  Ron speaks fluent English.  They can park about 19 big rigs and have a clean, concrete area with planter strips.  They have showers, swimming pool, laundry facilities, internet in a very secure park.  Turn inland (left) at la Caracol RV Park and right at the first road.  The veggie, propane, water, bread lady trucks come through the park and the people we've met here are very friendly. Ron's e-mail is ronsrv@hotmail.com and the phone is 327-275-0145. - Courtesy of Sue Guldi

 

January 20, 2007 Update - Another new Lo De Marcos park, and this is a nice one, is Casa Ron y Rosy. It's a block back from the water but has a nice new swimming pool. These 30-amp full-hookup sites will take RVs to 40 feet, most are back-ins. Parking is on pavement or gravel. There is a washing machine and also a computer for internet access. To reach the park take the first left after passing the Pretty Sunset (page 173), drive one block inland, and then turn right, the park is just ahead on the left. Address: 11 Av. Coral, Lo de Marcos, Bahia de Banderas, Nayarit, Mexico, CP 63726. Telephone: 327 275-0145. Email: ronrosa57@hotmail.com. GPS Location N 20° 57’ 13” W 105° 21’ 29” .

 

Altarose Rancho RV Park, East of Bucerias - Page 170

 

2/1/08 Update - We recently received notice from the owners of a new RV park outside Bucerias, north of Puerta Vallarta. It's in (or near) Valle de Banderas. The website says: HWY #200 TO MEZCALES AND TURN LEFT AT LIGHTS AND FOLLOW ROAD AND SIGNS TO VALLE DE BANDERAS. GPS: 20° 49'13.39" N, 105° 14'54.43" W. Those directions are a little vague but the GPS should help. Note that Mezcales is betwen Bucerias and Puerto Vallarta. We've requested more info and will post it if it comes. More information is available on the website: www.rvparkmexico.com .

 

Cruz Maria Resort, Lo de Marcos - Page 172

&nbs