Exploring Dunes Near Ocean Volunteer Site

rswfire explores a dunes and forest environment approximately two miles from the ocean while volunteering at what appears to be a park or recreation area. He expresses strong resonance with the location and considers ways to extend his stay beyond normal volunteer limits, including asking about management unit coverage on Monday. He navigates challenging terrain while being cautious about healing core muscles from a previous injury, expressing concern about long-term disability. The exploration reveals expansive dune systems that he finds impressive and suitable for vehicle access.

Driving South for Adult Store and Oregon Dunes Exploration

rswfire drives south to Coos Bay to visit an adult store, purchasing toys with limited funds ($200 remaining). He interacts with the store proprietor who mentions a downstairs area where people have sex legally. After shopping, he obtains a National Forest pass in Reedsport and inquires about volunteer opportunities. He explores the John Dellenback Dunes Trail, hiking through forest that transitions to sand dunes. The trail leads toward the ocean but he turns back due to low phone battery (30%) and lack of preparation. He observes the campground, noting its primitive sites and peaceful atmosphere. During the dune hike, he reflects on a childhood memory of getting lost in sand dunes in Michigan. He encounters wildlife and observes a tree sapling growing alone in the dunes, which he describes as sovereign and self-sufficient.

Hiking Trail After Work Day

rswfire completes a work day and hikes the Eel Lake Trail to reach 10,000 steps. He discusses financial pressures including upcoming insurance payments ($500), RV and Jeep payments that he's keeping current but will go late again soon. He mentions having hamburger meat for dinner and needing to expand meal options. Plans for his two days off include cleaning the RV, potentially visiting the beach, and exploring northern areas including a lighthouse. He reflects on using a steam cleaner at work and feeling less resistant to the task once he started. He describes the local dune geography and considers timing for exploring different coastal areas while stationed at his current location versus the next campground in February.

Coastal Exploration with Friend John

rswfire spends a day exploring the Oregon coast with John, a volunteer friend. They visit multiple locations including Winchester Bay, Umpqua Lighthouse, and South Jetty County Park. The transmission documents their activities: observing a double rainbow, visiting a crab dock where John explains crabbing operations and crab pot markers, walking on jetties, exploring beaches, and watching ocean waves. rswfire expresses deep connection to the ocean and mentions upcoming departure plans to head south to Nevada, then Kentucky, with plans to return in autumn. Throughout the day, they engage in casual conversation about local wildlife (ducks, seals, birds), lighthouse operations, oyster farming, and dune recreation. rswfire notes this will be among his final days in the area and repeatedly expresses how much he will miss the ocean. The transmission captures a relaxed day of coastal tourism and friendship.

Walking to Ocean Through Oregon Dunes

rswfire takes a walk to the ocean after a 12-hour day, describing it as a week of controlled chaos. He walks through Siltcoos dunes on the Oregon coast, noting the area is empty except for him. The walk involves climbing a steep dune to reach the ocean. He describes the terrain - ATVs go to the right, hiking trail and river to the left. Upon reaching the ocean, he greets it directly and walks along the waves toward a river, commenting on the wave patterns. Throughout the walk, he makes repeated vocalizations of 'heat' and mentions few footprints from other visitors that day.

Morning Reflection on RV Slide and Adaptation Philosophy

rswfire records a morning transmission from his RV, making his bed in the alcove created by his broken slide that has been inoperative for eight months. He explains that volunteers at the park have been gossiping about his sleeping situation and trying to solve his 'problems,' but he clarifies that he prefers the slide retracted for efficiency and stability reasons. The broken slide created additional storage space above, which he values. He describes his sleeping setup using three bed toppers and considers getting a kid-sized mattress, though his mother told him they're the same size as adult mattresses. He's currently sleeping on his back due to fresh piercings in his ears and eyebrow. rswfire explains his adaptation philosophy - focusing on removing inefficiency rather than maximizing comfort, which differs from most people's approach. He recounts an encounter from the previous day while walking to the lake in the rain, where a man followed him for half a mile, approached him at the dock, but could only manage a tiny 'hi' before continuing on. rswfire reflects on ongoing sinus issues since January, theorizing they may be related to the dunes region where he's been volunteering. He mentions this is his last day of volunteer work for the week and expresses curiosity about whether leaving the dunes area will resolve his sinus problems.

Exploring Dunes and Planning Health Support

rswfire explores a dune area near a lake that leads to a small forest, noting the eventual path to the ocean. He describes being at this location for two months and outlines his health improvement efforts, including purchasing various powders (turmeric, maca root, whey), frozen chicken breast, and planning to cook with a Ninja food processor. He expresses deep satisfaction with his current life while acknowledging restlessness about aging. He reflects on wishing he had this lifestyle 20 years ago and not wanting to get older. He calculates his upcoming birthday timeline - turning 48 in about 2 months, then 49 the following year when he returns to this location. He plans to stay at this park for three months (February, March, April) to be present when dune season ends. The transmission concludes with his commitment to supporting his health because he wants this lifestyle to continue indefinitely.

Morning Routine and Jeep Ducking at Campground

rswfire begins his morning by removing window reflectors as temperatures drop to 81 degrees. He identifies issues with his bed platform causing uneven support and discusses caring for his new ear piercings as an integrated part of his identity. After getting coffee and breakfast from a gas station, he initiates a "Jeep ducking deployment protocol" - walking through the crowded Labor Day weekend campground with a bag of rubber ducks to place on Jeeps. He explores the campground loops, discovers an unexpected trail leading to water with boats, and successfully finds one Jeep to duck. Throughout the transmission, he observes the busy camping culture with multiple families, tents, and children playing.

Observing Seals on Ocean Sandbar

rswfire and a companion observe a group of seals on a sandbar near the ocean. They discuss the seals' behavior, noting how the animals initially scanned them before returning to the beach, with one acting as a sentinel that jumped into the water when they approached. The conversation covers the location (a sandbar rather than the Silkus River), tidal patterns, and speculation about why the seals chose this location over their usual river hangout - possibly due to crowds of people and pelicans at the Silkus River. The speaker expresses amazement at witnessing this rare scene and mentions taking video footage.

Searching for Solitude at Gold Beach Coast

rswfire arrives in Gold Beach, Oregon, seeking an isolated spot to spend time alone. He encounters a Jeep with only one rubber duck and decides to add another duck from his collection, asking a food trailer worker if the vehicle belongs to her before placing it. After expressing frustration with crowds and difficulty finding solitude, he locates a secluded parking spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean. He walks down to explore what appears to be a park area with warning signs about sneaker waves and cliff edges. The terrain proves challenging to navigate down to the beach level. He observes the dramatic coastal landscape, including large rock formations and wind-sculpted trees that remind him of giant bonsai. While exploring, he encounters a white Jeep and decides to place a white duck on it. The owner, a woman, thanks him for the duck. He notices Trump stickers on her vehicle but still gives her the duck, expressing conflicted feelings about the political difference while maintaining his duck-giving practice.

Morning Walk and Lake Exploration at Campground

rswfire begins a morning walk to explore the campground facilities, checking for shower houses and dumpsters. He mentions his ear piercings are healing after a month, with one ready for a hoop. The weather is 51°F, which he finds comfortable. He discovers the campground lacks shower facilities and notes the high cost of $42 per night for camping. He explores the area, finding restrooms, a payment kiosk, and a lost cat poster from July. He walks to the lake/reservoir area, discovering the water level is low and he can walk on the exposed lake floor. The experience feels cinematic to him, reminiscent of the TV show Lost. He finds an impressive large sand sculpture of a fish made by someone unknown. The morning is quiet and still, with the sun beginning to rise. He spends extended time walking along the water's edge, drawn naturally toward a peninsula, appreciating the solitude and 50-degree weather he hopes is common in the Pacific Northwest.

Exploring Oregon Dunes Trail to Ocean

rswfire explores the Oregon Dunes area on foot, searching for trails to reach the ocean from Siltcous campground. He navigates using trail maps and GPS, discovering multiple campgrounds including Wax Myrtle (closed) and Driftwood 2. The exploration reveals the area sits on sand dunes with nature growing on top. **Key observations:** Car campers using tents as decoys to meet camping requirements, volunteers doing maintenance work, and his own financial constraints after selling solar equipment to avoid losing his home. He reflects on failed volunteer plans due to "unethical people" but maintains no regret about necessary decisions. **Beach discovery:** Successfully reaches Siltcous Beach after climbing dunes, observes ocean fishermen (initially mistaken for surfers), and explores south along the beach to where a river meets the ocean. Notes the rich natural environment combining forest, river, ocean, beach, sand dunes, and expresses strong appreciation for coastal living despite financial limitations. **Technical details:** Records using phone in natural mode, mentions headphone cable issues, plans to use GPS tracking for exploration mapping, and identifies need for trail mix and better power solutions for off-grid living.

Scouting Horsefall Campground Volunteer Position

rswfire travels 40 miles south from his current location near Florence to scout Horsefall Campground, where he will volunteer as a host in one week. He drives along Highway 101, passing through familiar locations including Reedsport, Winchester Bay, Tuckman (his first volunteer site), and Lakeside (where his PO box is located). Upon arriving at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, he explores the off-grid campground which operates as a parking lot-style setup rather than traditional campsites. He meets the current volunteer host, describing him as having "a bit of an attitude" but navigable. The campground serves primarily ATV/dune buggy enthusiasts and operates with only basic amenities. rswfire discovers there are two possible volunteer positions - one at the main campground (a small loop next to restrooms) and potentially one at the beach area. He explores the beach access, walking trails, and checking out Blue Bill Lake. Despite the unconventional camping setup and different demographic (noting Trump flags and ATV culture), he expresses commitment to embracing the experience. Technical issues with his phone shutting off interrupt filming multiple times. He reflects on Highway 101 being "the bridge of my life" and expresses amazement at his current lifestyle compared to a year ago. The visit concludes with him planning to adapt to this very different volunteer environment while maintaining his authentic self.

Beach Walk with Seals and Life Planning

rswfire walks along the Oregon coast, spotting seals and describing them as "squirrels of the ocean." He walks for miles past dune access roads, considering whether to turn around. He discusses his summer plans to volunteer at campgrounds in the dunes and explore the coast, mentioning he's only made it to Newport so far. He talks about recently joining Facebook dating and being surprised by the range of interest from men aged 25-70. A conversation with someone from Vancouver, Canada led him to discover a large body of water on maps that he wants to explore, possibly extending his travels to Washington and Canada. He sits on driftwood to rest, observing children's elaborate beach forts made from sticks and debris near the entrance. He updated YouTube video descriptions earlier and reflects on the gray but pleasant day after showering following work at campgrounds.

Daily Tasks and Travel Planning

rswfire describes completing daily maintenance tasks including laundry, suntanning, cleaning fire pits, and paperwork. He collected gravel from a work center to level his fire pit area. He spoke with his boss about volunteering in the dunes from May through September, with plans to explore Oregon and Washington's Highway 101 from October through March. He discusses needing to resolve his RV situation by converting to a smaller trailer under 2,000 lbs that his Jeep can tow, mentioning a Forest River toy hauler he previously considered. The transmission ends with him showing his campfire setup and fire pit area, noting the challenge of collecting heavy logs from other campgrounds.

Scouting Oregon Coastal Campgrounds

rswfire drives through Oregon national forest roads exploring campgrounds while reflecting on societal collapse and place-based identity. He visits multiple locations including a closed recreation site, Cape Blanco campground, and Humbug Mountain State Park. At each location, he evaluates site quality, privacy levels, amenities like dump stations and shower houses, and proximity to coast and mountains. He documents specific site numbers, notes neighbor noise issues at his current location, and assesses which sites would accommodate his RV. The transmission includes observations about Oregon campground design, seasonal closures, and coastal geography including lighthouses and fog-covered mountains.

Walking Buddy by Ocean, Reflecting on Motorbikes

rswfire walks Buddy (not his dog) along the ocean on a cloudy day. He reflects on never having crossed the ocean and mentions plans to take John to Hawaii by boat if things work out. He observes the summer crowds and notes feeling more closed off since 'honeyman.' He expresses interest in getting a motorbike for highway and dune use, considering how it would fit with his RV setup. Buddy barks at motorbikes but not quads, which rswfire had forgotten about. They are at an ATV-allowed section of beach near where rswfire lives on an ATV campground.

Testing YouTube Return from Oregon Coast

rswfire records at 4:30 AM from a cape on the Oregon coast, contemplating restarting his YouTube channel after watching old videos with a friend the night before. He provides updates on the past month since his "heart opened" - hiking Humbug Mountain and Cape Sebastian, injuring his core, exploring private beaches accessible only by rope, and falling in love with the southern Oregon coast including Brookings, Gold Beach, Port Orford, and Bandon. He describes developing a practice of "tracing waves" at the ocean's edge, sometimes miscalculating and having to run from incoming water. He mentions encounters with seals in rivers and watching "rivers make love to the ocean." He took a 4-hour drive north to Florence to preview his future route, discovering 3 hours of inland driving with no coastline. The transmission includes footage from his Humbug Mountain hike, reaching 1,700 feet elevation, and his descent to a private beach at Cape Sebastian using a rope system. He states he has "fully integrated" himself and warns potential commenters that he will respond harshly to "dumb" comments. He expresses being "more alive than ever" and completely open to possibility, romance, connection, and friendship.

Driving RV to Oregon Coast First Time

rswfire drives his RV from an inland location to the Oregon coast for the first time, documenting the journey through mountains, tunnels, and forests. He stops for fuel at 6 AM, travels through California briefly, and experiences excitement about reaching sea level and seeing the Pacific Ocean. **Key events include:** passing through the Smith River National Recreation Area, driving through redwood forests, navigating GPS confusion, and finally reaching the coast where he can glimpse the ocean through fog. He sets up camp for a planned two-week stay, expressing enthusiasm about exploring the area including hiking, foraging, storm watching, and potentially learning to surf. The transmission captures his first encounter with the ocean environment and his decision to spend winter on the southern Oregon coast before potentially heading north in spring.

Final Ocean Visit Before Departure

rswfire makes a final visit to the ocean at 8 AM before departing a coastal location. He observes fog covering the landscape and reflects on discovering tide pools during his stay. The ocean shows more power than previous days, which he had been requesting. He processes thoughts about societal collapse and questions whether escaping to the forest is the life he wants. A Trump supporter caravan drove through the campground the previous day while he was distributing rubber ducks on Jeeps, reinforcing his observations about societal fragmentation. He concludes that if he's going to die, it would be by the ocean rather than hiding in the forest.

At the Edge of Power: Cape Blanco's Sustained Fury! 🍃

Meeting New Friend at Cape Blanco

rswfire shares two interconnected stories while tending to a sore ear piercing from Kentucky. First, he recounts asking out a seasonal worker (the "gatekeeper") who declined due to timing, noting his own emotional growth in handling rejection. Second, he describes meeting Chad at Cape Blanco beach - initially encountering him while wanting to "play with" the ocean, then reconnecting days later at the lighthouse where Chad sat fearlessly on the cliff edge. They exchanged numbers and have been hiking together frequently. The transmission includes video footage of Chad at Cape Sebastian, showing the submarine-shaped rock formation and ocean waves.

Cape Blanco 🌊

Evening Ocean Walk with Wendy

rswfire walks to the ocean at dusk with his friend Wendy. They observe the approaching nighttime, cloudy sky, and a sliver moon. The ocean has mist and fog on the horizon. They encounter a creek that's too high to cross and need to turn back. rswfire notes they are about a mile out and brought a flashlight for the return hike in darkness. He describes Wendy as a close friend and hiking buddy who will be moving south for the winter to Horseville Beach. The area has bears, mountain lions, and foxes. rswfire mentions this is his first time hiking out to the beach at night rather than driving to a spot.