Chapter 5: Selecting your Location

Where do you want to go with your vehicle? Knowing your options is a good place to start. You may have ordinances locally that prevent you from putting such a vehicle in place by the river. Other locations allow it but only for a set period of time.

There can be locations where fishing isn’t allowed so that can hinder your ability to catch food to eat. Others don’t allow fires due to the risk and that may play a role in where you would like to go. There are areas that are far too crowded for someone that would like to have some seclusion with this type of set up.

Maybe you don’t want to stay local with your vehicle by the river, and that is an option too. However, you need to investigate what you can and can’t do at given areas so that you don’t get run off by local law enforcement for violating the laws. You don’t want to end up with a fine or a court date involved for not paying attention to these established rules and laws.

Always park your vehicle above the highest water line for the river. Flash flooding can occur very rapidly and you need to make sure your vehicle will be out of harms way should it occur. Don’t make the assumption that you would have the time to move it!

Weather conditions certainly need to be a factor to consider for location. Some areas around the river can easily get into the triple digits in the summer months. Inside of the vehicle, it can be too hot and you don’t want to rely on the generator all the time. Other locations are just too bitter cold for winter outdoor living by the river so you need to look at that.

Find a location with temperatures that are moderate for the time of year you plan to be there. If you are going to be living in the vehicle by the river for a period of time then you need to look at the seasonal changes that could influence your decision. Areas of high wind, hail, or tornado risk really shouldn’t be places you consider. They are far too dangerous should such a storm come through there.

You definitely want to try to find a level spot that is also dry (if possible) where you will park your vehicle. Carry with you several blocks of wood and when you select that location, slide them behind the front tires and in front of the back tires. This will prevent your vehicle from slipping and rolling.

Chapter 6 Conclusion >