After four days of the same campground, we pack up to leave. The camp host, Richard, and his girlfriend have stopped in a few times every day to visit. They come by today to say goodbye and scratch Moe’s head one last time.
We head to Linton, but this time we turn left and head north on Route 83, which will first bring us to Hazelton. In 2022, when I left Nancy in Mandan at Fort Lincoln State Park, I crossed the Missouri River into Bismarck and rode to Hazelton to spend the night in the city park. Today, we stop at the same gas station/ cafe where I stopped in 2022 for dinner to bring to the campsite. Memories. I go into the store for ice for the coolers and ice cream for me. Nancy fills the gas tank; I also come out with some Dr. Peppers for the road.
We cross the Trans-Am route to head north into new territory.
The four-hour drive ends at the state campground on Devils Lake. It is early, mid-afternoon. We get to our site and set up camp. Nancy and Moe drive to the water to see the birds. I stay to set up the hammock and tent.
It is hot, 100°, and this site has many trees for shade. I take advantage of the foliage blocking the sun. Nancy and Moe come back as the sun settles below the tree line. We sit in the screen tent until 10 p.m. and begin the process, getting ready for bed.
