Every nomad dreads getting “The Knock,” whether from law enforcement, private security, or whoever. In almost three years on the road, I’ve been fortunate enough to never get The Knock — until 7:45 this morning.
Fortunately, I’d done nothing wrong and wasn’t in trouble. A ranger was checking up on everyone camped out here and politely informing us of the 14-day limit on staying here. He did ask how I was out here alone with three vehicles. I explained that the 4Runner was Melissa’s, who is visiting family, and we’ll all be gone within the 14-day limit. He checked my ID, asked if I had any questions, and moved on to check out Matty, and then the camper at a nearby intersection.
While I would’ve preferred this to have happened later than 7:45 am when I was barely awake, I have no problem with this encounter. He was doing his job, I was legal, and everything was fine. There are plenty of people who overstay the 14-day limit. That can ruin it for those of us who comply with the law, so he’ll be catching anyone staying too long. Finally, checking IDs will reveal anyone with warrants, which helps keep the riff-raff out. I still need some coffee to kick-start my brain, but I’m certainly awake now after waking up to an encounter with law enforcement, even though I wasn’t in trouble.
Smokey Da Van 