Hello Dear Reader(s)
I wanted to give some handy tips on how to enjoy camping in the Black Rock as I know not everyone has camped at a small event in this unique and harsh environment.
IT GETS DUSTY!
The dust is fine and will make it difficult to breathe. Have a face covering (a scarf and yep, those cloth masks we used during covid still have a use!) You will also want to protect your eyes. Ski goggles and welding goggles are very popular choices.
IT GETS WINDY!
Bring extra stuff to repair your structures as they can collapse!
IT CAN GET MUDDY!
Yes, it does rain in the desert! When it does rain on Black Rock the playa turns to mud. Make sure you have some shoes that can handle it. This year is a wet year in this region and I fully expect it to rain one day during this event. In my experience, Aqua socks work well. I have seen flip-flops break from the weight of the mud.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR FEET!
The alkaline of the Playa can cause a kind of chemical burn on your feet. The best way to prevent this is to wash your skin daily with either vinegar or lemon juice and moisturize with your favorite lotion afterward.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN!
Yes, we have probably all heard this growing up, "Make sure to put on sunscreen!" But on the Black Rock, there are no trees and you have to bring your own shade.
I wear a large-brimmed hat during the hottest part of the day (with a strap to prevent a gust of wind from tearing it off my head.) and arm covers that are common for gardeners.
The ones pictured I got at Work World in Reno, but you can order them online. I am donning a pair of sunglasses (Even my goggles are tinted)
LIGHT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAMP UP AT NIGHT!
Gerlach is known as the "Darkest Town in America" for a reason.
There is no light pollution and for that reason, if you are walking around or do not have lights on at night it is very easy for a person in a vehicle to run you or your camp over. It doesn't take much. From solar garden lights to battery-operated lights, to headlamps; (Bring extra batteries), heck, even those snap-and-shake lights sold around the Fourth of July to wear as bracelets and necklaces.
CARRY A WATER BOTTLE OR DRINK CUP!
Water is life in the desert. Seriously! The dangers of Heat stroke, sunstroke, and dehydration are real and not to be taken lightly. YOU NEED LOTS OF WATER! You need 1.5 GALLONS of Water a day. (more if you are drinking alcohol as that beverage dehydrates you even more)
At the Everywhen many people may decide to share water or other beverages if you look thirsty. It is not a guarantee, nor should it be expected though so you need to be prepared and make sure you bring it yourself.
As Everywhen encourages Leave No Trace and reusability, carrying a reusable cup with you will let you partake in any beverages from coolers that people may or may not choose to share.
It is also good to note that people who bought a meal plan need to bring their own cup for water, plate, bowl, and eating utensils. This not only reduces waste by not having paper plates but also saves on costs.
It is an Everywhen Tradition to have a potluck night! We gather with all the food at sunset on a dedicated night at the Soriee and all enjoy each other's company and culinary offerings. Hence, why having your own eating utensils and plate is a good idea!
TAKE BREAKS AND GO INTO TOWN!
Are you surprised dear reader(s) that I would suggest leaving the event? The Black Rock is one of the harshest places to camp. Everywhen encourages you to go into town for an hour or two and help out the local businesses. Get in the Air Conditioning for a bit and hydrate.
Get a fresh salad at Bruno's. It is okay. They are used to seeing dusty clientele.
Not only that, there are amazing things outside of the permit area to see in the Black Rock Dessert.
Get in your car and explore what this unique location has to offer. We recommend that you do your research on what you would like to visit and plan with GPS tracking so that you may return to your camp before dark.
Driving at night when you are unfamiliar with this location is not recommended. There are always wet spots that will cause your vehicle to get stuck in the mud.
If you do get stuck in the night, you will have to wait for morning to be rescued. No tow trucks will come to get you at night.
ALWAYS CARRY FOOD AND WATER IN YOUR VEHICLE WHEN EXPLORING!
If you have any more questions on how to stay safe in the Black Rock Desert all you need do is ask an Everywhen staff member. It is important to always be prepared for anything that may happen. Bring a few extra supplies than you would when you camp at any other public land location.
