Ranger Review: Leatherman Sidekick at Chilao overflow camping
Campground
We had been driving around the campground loops for more than an hour, and had just about given up, when we say the sign for overflow camping near the exit of the Chilao campground loop. We wish we had know about this set-up sooner! Chilao campground had temporarily converted its "Day use only" areas to overflow camping.
The "sites" still had their own grill, picnic table, and access to an outhouse and water spigot. I spoke to a ranger the next morning and he explained that they have been setting up these overflow sites every weekend since April. Really good to know during the summer months if you can't get to the campground early enough to reserve a normal spot!
The fee is still $12, which you can pay in the morning when the rangers do their rounds. We had grabbed one of the few envelopes from a different loop and left it with money under the windshield wiper of our car.
Product Review
One of the many great things about being a Ranger for The Dyrt is getting to test outdoor products. For this camping trip, I tried out the Leatherman Sidekick. This tool could not have a more appropriate name. I ended up using it almost hourly. Pot to hot to pick up? Use the pliers. Food wrapping to tight to open? Use the knife. Found a walking stick with a few two many branches? Use the saw. You get the picture. The tool is lightweight (7 oz), compact, functional, and made of sturdy material. The product comes with a mini case and a carabiner too. See my video in this review for a demo of the various features. You can read the full product specs on the official Sidekick product page. Tools included:
- Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
- Spring-action Regular Pliers
- Spring-action Wire Cutters
- Wire Stripper
- 2.6 inch Knife (with safety lock)
- Serrated Knife
- 2.6 inch Saw (with safety lock)
- Ruler (1.5 in | 3.8 cm)
- Can Opener
- Bottle Opener
- Wood/Metal File
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Medium Screwdriver
- Small Screwdriver
- Carabiner Accessory
- Hex Bit Driver (on carabiner)
- Another Bottle Opener (on carabiner)
